http://blog.8pixel.net/ An RSS feed for knitting institute. EN


After successfully sidestepping the hurdle of what on earth one wears to London Fashion Week (surprisingly undressy apart from the obvious one or two leopard print, shoulder pad and hair extension-wearing fashionistas oozing attention deficit and muttering 'photograph me!'), we found ourselves on a train at 7.30am on our way to the very first catwalk show of the day, Paul Costelloe.



I loved the rockabilly edge and the Dolly Parton soundtrack!

Straight after this was the official launch with British Fashion Council chief Harold Tilman and Prime Minister's wife, Sarah Brown, who held a moving minute silence for Alexander McQueen.



One wall was dedicated to the late designer, with people posting moving messages among photographs of his seminal fashion moments.



We grabbed a quick glass of champagne (it's 10am here!) and a bite to eat in the incredibly accommodating press area...



...before heading off to the Caroline Charles catwalk show, all glitzy evening wear and equestrian chic.



Later we visited the Estethica exhibition, housing the ready to wear collections of brands such as Makepiece, Izzy Lane and The North Circular (knitting grannies in attendance at their stand). Ethically sourced and British made is going to be huge this year!

It was such a fun and tiring day, we got a great insight into how Fashion Week works, and can't wait for SS11 in September, Mark Fast and Louise Goldin here I come. And Christoper Kane, Vivienne Westwood, Roland Mouret, Mathew Williamson...




]]> 3/3/2010 3:35:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=192 192
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OoiW5-uA3_E






]]> 3/3/2010 3:29:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=191 191
So here is me in my hat, inspired by Editor Emma and hers.



I started it on Tues night, completing all the rib edging and straight stocking stitch before I ran out of yarn, then got some more and finished it off last night.

Okay, it's a little small for my taste and makes me look like the one in The Monkees who always wore his hat rolled up so it perched on his head, but it's my first hat and I'm pleased with myself. I absolutely love the colour of the yarn I used (Stylecraft Signature Chunky in Peacock) so now I know the basics I am going to alter the pattern slightly to make a bigger woolly hat.

In fact I'm planning it already!]]> 2/11/2010 10:02:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=189 189
As I trudged into work this morning through the hail and sleet (I wish I was kidding) without either umbrella or hat (I was SURE they were in my car) I came across Emma swanning about in a gorgeous new little blue hat, which she had actually just whipped up at the weekend. On closer inspection it is knitted from Knitglobal's amazing luxury alpaca, which if you haven't touched yet you haven't lived, from an Erika Knight pattern I know we have in the office somewhere. Right, I want one.



What, this old thing?



So I have the pattern, I have some Stylecraft Signature chunky in the beautiful Peacock that I am in love with at the moment and I have a relatively appointment free week ahead. It only took Emma an evening and may take me a little more, but hey, if she can do it, so can I!

Watch this space!]]> 2/8/2010 12:55:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=188 188
They are also available printed in colour. If you would like one just let us know, with your full contact details, and we will send it to you.



Apologies all round!]]> 1/29/2010 11:52:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=187 187
Here's a sneak peek at some of the garments featuring in this month's gorgeous gallery from our photo shoot that took place at the amazing Weald and Downland Museum in West Sussex (you wouldn't know it chucked it down all day on the shoot!).

This beautiful bell-sleeved top is from Susan Crawford's A Stitch in Time



Houndstooth never goes out of style



Martin Story knows vintage styles are rocking right now.



Don't miss also in this issue

- We meet American designer Annie Modesitt

- Why we love vintage

- Knit 1 Below technique and vertical stripes jacket

- Holiday, workshop and courses guide 2010

Only in Knitting!]]> 1/15/2010 4:17:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=186 186
The first week back after the lovely Christmas break has been a bit of a funny one, with Sussex under inches of snow and the trusty British public transport system stumped. What is this cold, white stuff? So if the weather is insisting we don't go outside but stay in bed, who are we to argue?

On the other hand, 2010 is going to bring lots of exciting changes to Knitting. We think it is just going to get better and better and we're sure you'll agree, so here's to a fantastic New Year!

Love

The Knitting team]]> 1/8/2010 10:19:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=185 185


It has just come to our attention that the Wendy Paris mohair yarn used for the Luxury Mohair Sweater on the cover of this month’s Knitting (issue 71), has in fact been discontinued. Unfortunately we were not informed that it had actually been discontinued back in March of this year when we ordered the yarn for this project in September nor when we checked it’s availability for when the issue goes on sale (as we do with all yarns for each issue). We were assured they had plenty in stock and there would be no problem.

Obviously this is not now the case and we are doing all we can to find alternative yarns for those who want to knit this lovely wintry sweater. Wendy have suggested that there may be stockists out there who have some of the Paris Mohair left, and to call them on 01943 872264 where they will endeavour to tell you your nearest stockist with the yarn. Alternatively they are suggesting Wendy Allegra as an alternative. 

Sian Brown, the designer of the sweater, has looked into this and has suggested the following yarns as possible substitutes: Rowan Kidsilk Aura, colour Terracotta 772 or Capricorn Chunky in either Terracotta or Rust. Both these fall within the tension range of the Paris Mohair.

I appreciate this is deeply frustrating for those of you who want to knit this, as it is too for us. I hope this early notification helps people and we would like to apologise for the inconvenience this may cause any of you.



Emma Kennedy, Editor

And the Knitting Team]]> 12/2/2009 4:43:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=184 184
As the assistant editor, and a newbie knitter, it seems to be my job to be sent off on random tasks, test driving various things and dutifully writing up my often unintentionally funny adventures. So off I set on Friday morning, into the drizzle with the intention of finding Sue Culligan's cute little yarn shop Kangaroo, in the deepest, darkest Sussex countryside, to partake in a lace, circular knitting workshop held by Debbie Abrahams.

I ended up having a great fun day, not necessarily successful, knitting wise, as I didn't get past round 3 (I'm sure if Debbie hadn't had to keep ripping back my mistakes as shown below I would have been on round 20 by the end of the day but alas it was not to be) but good fun all the same. You can read my full write up in our February issue, in our fantastic 2010 Holidays and Courses Guide, coming soon!



Debbie Abrahams, patiently working away on my unfortunate attempt at lace knitting. Definitely harder than it looks...





Ta da! My finished product of 5 hours hard concentration. Hmm.




]]> 12/2/2009 2:07:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=183 183
OK, the Coca-Cola ads are on TV and the beautiful girl in the M&S ads is slinking around in her underwear while Twiggy is looking fab at 50, it's officially Christmas!

Our aim this month was to combine a love of stylish festive knits with the need for warmth, in one fabulous gallery.

This cute matching set of beanie, scarf and gauntlets makes a great gift set, knit one in every colour for your friends!



You don't have to go down the pashmina route with your strappy dress, turn heads with the Cross Your Heart kimono



For brisk walks in the snow (we can wish!), lunch out or festive shopping trips, be effortlessly stylish with this on-trend military-inspired jacket





PLUS

- Cute Christmas decorations – Hanging doves, Felted star wreath, Festive table runner and place mats set

- Luxury mohair sweater

- Girl's bright winter coat

- Jared Flood, American knit designer and Brooklyn blogger

- New technique: Reversible knitting

- Cable how-to

- FREE CABLE NEEDLES
]]> 11/19/2009 5:06:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=182 182
Our December issue is on sale now, with lots of Winter knits to get you in the mood to curl up by your fireplace (or radiator) and get out the chunky yarn.

This gorgeous pompom sweater, by one of our new designers, will get you feeling wintery warm instantly.



Want to be warm but still stylish? Channel Chanel in this sexy little Sublime number.



Exclusively designed for us by the lovely Louisa Harding, this Frost hat and Skater scarf will make a lovely gift set, if you can bear to part with it.





With lots more fantastic winter knits, plus our amazing free Essential Gift Guide, we have everything you need to kick start Christmas.]]> 10/30/2009 5:19:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=180 180
You can hear Katie talking to Emma, myself and Lauren (Deadly Knitshade) of S&B London here!

http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/

Ooooh, we're famous!]]> 10/19/2009 3:39:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=179 179
Well, Emma and I got exclusively invited up for the official launch of the kit at Fifteen's flagship restaurant on Wednesday, for an evening of fun, food and knitting, held in conjunction with Stitch and Bitch London.

The place was kitted (knitted?) out beautifully with each place set with a small skein of the wool, a set of lovely Subabul wooden knitting needles sourced and provided by The Little Knitting Company (Ruth gave us a pair to take away and they're lovely, as is her gorgeous tiny baby Will, who she brought with her) and some starter patterns.



Can you guess where Emma and I sat?

There was some great food; fennel cooked in chilli, baked figs with blue cheese, crusty salt and rosemary bread and the most delicious (and rich!) chocolate brownies. We may have gone up for seconds...

Then followed an evening of getting to know other knitters, trying out the yarn, chatting about how the idea of the kit came about and occasionally filling our wine glasses.



Say cheeeeeeese

We ended up with the lovely and inspiring Lauren, one of the original Stitchettes, on our table who suggested we all knitted a square and put it together to create a piece of knit grafitti and tag Fifteen, as you can see here!



Lauren in action. I wonder how long it will stay up here?

Sigh, the things we do in the name of work, I tell you it's a tough life...



Katy


]]> 10/16/2009 2:33:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=178 178
Wow the K&S show at Ally Pally was busy this year! I was only up for the Saturday and it was like information overload everywhere I turned.

It was great to see Nicky Epstein again, and her lovely husband. Nicky is always good for a laugh and was telling me about some upcoming books she’s got in production for the coming year.

It was the first time I’ve ever met Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton, who was really nice and interesting, and Erika Knight, who is wickedly funny and incredibly creative.

We saw Rowan’s presentation of new yarns and patterns for SS/10 and throughout the rest of the show picked up all sorts of interesting yarn and goodies to show you in the mag. And the Student Textile Awards this year were the best I’ve ever seen.

We were also incredibly sad to hear about the untimely death of Melody Griffiths, knitting author, editor and designer, who sadly passed away early last week.

We’ll bring you a show write up in the Winter issue, on sale 26 November, with plenty of pics of us schmoozing, and since I was armed with my own camera, anything colourful that caught my eye.

Did you go to the show? Did you see us? Tell us what you thought!

Katy]]> 10/16/2009 2:31:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=177 177


Due to the authors’ own schedules there has been some rescheduling for signings and demonstrations on the Knitting stand G14 at the Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace in a couple of weeks. Not many changes so don’t worry! And on a plus note, we’ve also added Sue Parker, author of Felted Bags to the line-up for Saturday!

New updated and non-changing schedule



Thurs:

10.30am – 11.30am Nicky Epstein

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein



Fri:

10.30am – 11.30am Nicky Epstein

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein

3pm – 4pm Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton



Sat:



10.30am – 11.30am Nicky Epstein

11am – 12pm Sue Parker

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein

3pm – 4pm Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton



Sun:

10.30am – 12pm Nicky Epstein



Hope to see you all there!


]]> 10/1/2009 5:23:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=176 176
It seems everyone is either growing their own veggies or harvesting local fruit at the moment, very ‘make do and mend’. In fact it was Editor Emma K’s allotment we used for the photo shoot for our November issue. Erika Knight told her that knitting and gardening went well together and, judging by our gorgeous gallery, she wasn’t wrong! Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store for you in the November edition, hitting the shelves 1st October.

This stunning scarf had us all oohing and ahhing when it came into the office. It’s super long, super soft and your friends will be super envious!





Exclusively for Knitting, Erika Knight has created this lovely vintage looking little cardigan, perfect for sipping tea in the garden on a sunny afternoon





Brandon Mably has brought his distinctive design skills to Knitting with this exclusive folklore coat that will keep you warm and stylish (Sienna Miller was recently seen in a similar one!)





Plus

- We meet ethical fashion designer Izzy Lane

- Catch up with the latest news from the Mirasol Project

- Give a how-to guide to smocking, included a cute and simple pattern for beaded gauntlets (great xmas presents!)

- Don't miss our stylish men's knits supplement with garments men will actually wear!


]]> 9/28/2009 10:36:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=175 175
http://knittingontopoftheworldknitathon.typepad.com/

A knitter/blogger in America has announced she will be knitting every single one of the 50 patterns in Nicky Epstein's Knitting on Top of the World, one at a time, in order and blogging about it for anyone who wants to follow her journey. Anyone who has seen Nicky's book knows it's not exactly a book of 20 ipod covers, they are challenging knits!

Inspired by the recent film Julie and Julia, starring Meryl Steep and Amy Adams, based on an American writer's decision to cook every singly recipe in Julia Child's seminal cook book in one year, blogging about her adventures as she went, this is the knitting world's version, so keep your eyes peeled for a film version in the future!


]]> 9/22/2009 3:02:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=174 174

Back in the office after a lovely weekend, Katy and I are oohing and aaahing over a bag of gorgeous new yarns acquired – for work needs only, you understand – from Saturday's visit to the I Knit show. We met early Saturday morning to catch the fast train to London armed with Saturday's Guardian and their free copy of 'Jackie' magazine circa 1974. Katy giggled over it, unaware until that moment of its existence, where as I on the other hand remembered the exact issue! How could I forget David Essex clutching a heart of roses?

Arriving at I Knit, we were delighted to see so many familiar faces and enjoyed meeting lots of new ones – many of whom I hope to be featuring in the magazine over the next few months, so keep watching this space.

Tom and Jenny from Artesano showed us some of their lovely new designs and also gave us their brand new yarn 'Silk Embrace', to take away with us. We also met up with Laura 'Purl Princess' Parkinson (and bump!) with her Mum, and Michele Matheson, armed with camera, who will be providing a full write up in our December issue.

We also had a chance to meet Spencer Hannah, co-founder the Herdy Company www.herdy.co.uk and I treated myself to a new office mug. Check out their website to see what they are about.

And so it went on until it was time to take our leave, enjoy a cold glass of wine in the late September sun and hop back on the train – all knitted out!

]]> 9/14/2009 3:37:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=173 173 9/11/2009 12:06:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=172 172 Hi,

The website is finally all set up for you to register your Knitting Events for National Knitting Week 2009.
All you need to do is click on the Events logo and it will take you straight through to the page.
Last year we had a fantastic selection and a huge variety of events. So don't be shy, shout about your plans and let everybody know what you're up to!


]]> 9/3/2009 4:36:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=171 171
Well here I am back at the Knitting base after a rather windswept and rain-drenched long weekend in North Wales but despite the weather, we still had a great time! The husband dragged me out of bed at 4.20am and we set off at the crack of dawn to pick up my sister and her man. We had just zoomed off up the A23 and turned on the radio only to hear the weather report say, "...so there'll be warm, sunny spells across the country with the exception of Wales, where there will be heavy rain over the region." Apart from being slightly breezy, it was fine when we arrived at the campsite though and we had a lovely double pitch in a nice, secluded field. We were blown away by the scenery around us and I've honestly never seen so many sheep!

Highlights of the trip included Sis and I resorting to scouring the clothes in a Woolworths-style shop in the nearby town, trying to find half-decent outfits to wear when the other-halves announced they wanted to go to the pub and watch the football (we'd only bought our scruffy jeans and t-shirts with us), tasty barbeques with local Welsh produce and our very own private nightclub which consisted of our flimsy gazebo, a small battery-operated lantern and our iPods blasting out the tunes through portable speakers.

By Sunday though, the weather had taken its toll and we managed a quick breakfast huddled in the rain before deciding to come home a day early. Needless to say, my cashmere scarf-in-the-making didn't emerge from my knitting bag all weekend. Better luck next time, eh?

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, we're all busy getting the November issue off to print. There are some gorgeous projects in store which will be straight on your must-knit list for autumn. For now though, it's time to grab yourself the October issue. Hip hip hooray, it's out today! ]]> 9/3/2009 10:02:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=170 170
Well at just after 4 on a quiet Friday afternoon, I have officially reached that friday feeling and looking forward to an evening in with the fiance and a glass of wine.

Having been left alone in the office today, apart from one other designer who works on another of our magazines I felt the need to bring myself up to date with the rest of the ladies and let loose my first blog. Having felt left out as the others take on the technical world of blogging I decided a username and password were all I needed to get me going. Oooo the fun you can have when the others are away. I have had to do it all today, answer calls check emails oh and the small matter of work as we are speedily working towards the deadline for our November issue.

With Editor Emma in the Lake District, Deputy Ed Emma off camping down to what looks like a wet weekend camping in Wales and Assistant Katy off, I was left to my own devices. I think I have done all I was supposed to, and I even cleaned the office, not that anyone will probably notice for the amount of yarn around, still its tidy for me.

Still from the Designer of Knitting have a lovely bank holiday weekend, I hear the sun is supposed to shine, so here's to that large glass of wine with the better half and a lovely weekend.

Ooooo I'm now an official blogger!!!

Claire

]]> 8/28/2009 4:07:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=169 169


We like to bring you exclusive patterns, by top designers, that make you feel a little but smug because they won’t be found anywhere else. Erika Knight’s stunning Hacking jacket is just one of these.



This lovely textured cable shrug is designed by Marie Wallin for the Rowan Lima collection to support one of Rowan’s newest yarns, Lima, a baby alpaca/merino wool mix for A/W 09.



This pretty paisley tunic, in the lightest mohair, is elegance, luxury and comfort all rolled into one.





Other great things to look out for in this issue

- Profile on American knitwear designer Teva Durham

- Take it to the streets: knit graffiti feature

- Graduate Fashion Week 2009 roundup

- Short row shaping part 2 and cute camisole pattern

- FREE long length pearly pins



Don't miss it!


]]> 8/27/2009 11:59:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=168 168
Just thought I'd pop on here for five minutes and take a break from our very busy schedule. The reason things are so hectic is because we're working on some very exciting new pages which will make their first appearance in our autumn and winter issues, on sale in a couple of months' time. Yes, that's right, we're glamming things up a bit and giving the contents a revamp for the new season.

I'm not going to spoil the surprises in store, but I can promise you that some real treats are coming up for autumn and winter projects, which you're going to love knitting for everyone's Christmas presents (if you can handle giving them away once you're done). We've got some extremely gorgeous garments planned into the next few months of galleries and our near-future issues will be crammed full of the hottest happenings in the knitting world.

That's all folks, but keep your eyes peeled for the October issue, fresh on the shelves from 3 September. I'm off camping in Wales now with the husband, sister and her other half in what will undoubtedly turn out to be the sequel to Carry On Camping. All together now... "Ooh Matron!"

Have a good Bank Holiday.

Emma W
]]> 8/26/2009 4:09:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=166 166
So here goes.

Yesterday was the first round of judging for the Student Knitted Textile Awards 2009. Although this competition has been up and running since 2001, it was the first year I took my place at the judges table. Feeling slightly nervous in the company of Professor Sandy Black (Professor of Fashion and Textiles, London College of Fashion), designer Erika Knight, Fiona Ross (Senior Lecturer for Fashion Textiles at Bucks New University), and of course Chris Kingdom (UK Hand Knitting Association), I went off to meet everyone for lunch in Brighton, before starting the actual judging process. Having rather rashly offered my house for this to take place in, I suddenly realized it was the summer holidays and it was quite possible I would have three teenage boys skulking around the place. Not quite the slick professional front I wanted to present! However, teenage boys are easy to bribe and we had the place to ourselves.

Having all had a lovely lunch (in possibly the world’s slowest restaurant) we began in earnest at 3.00pm. With a record number of entries – 83 in total! – we got stuck in. The standard was incredibly high, with a very strong emphasis on fashion this year, and whittling down the entries to just 15 was tough. There were a few heated moments along the way, (where a unanimous decision on a couple of entries took a little longer to achieve) and we finally finished, inspired but tired at 8.45pm.

The final 15 entries will be on display at the Knitting and Stitching Show, Alexander palace (8-11 October) so if you are going you MUST visit the student showcase and see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed – it’s going to be fantastic.

It’s official…I’m a blogger!]]> 8/20/2009 2:40:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=165 165


http://www.totalfilm.com/features/10-wonderful-knitted-movie-characters#content


]]> 8/20/2009 11:21:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=164 164


We now have the schedule (subject to leg stretching and tea breaks) for signings/demos by Debbie Bliss, Nicky Epstein and Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton on our stand G14 at the Knitting and Stitching Show, Alexandra Palace Thurs 8th – Sun 11th October 2009.



Thurs:

10am – 11am Nicky Epstein

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein



Fri:

10am – 11am Nicky Epstein

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein

3pm – 4pm Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton



Sat:

10am – 11am Nicky Epstein

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein

3pm – 4pm Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton



Sun:

10am – 11am Nicky Epstein

12pm – 1pm Debbie Bliss

2pm – 3pm Nicky Epstein



They will be signing their latest books, including Debbie's Design it, Knit it, Cornelia's Noro and Nicky's Knitting a Kiss in Every Stitch, which is a world exclusive and won't be available anywhere else until November!



Don't forget, you get a 10% discount on all books at the Knitting/GMC stand at Ally Pally, so bring those sturdy bags (you can also get an additional 10% off all books from our stand with the November issue of Knitting!).


]]> 8/18/2009 4:05:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=163 163
We’re very excited to have the lovely Debbie Bliss, Nicky Epstein and Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton gracing us with their presence, signing their latest books (check out November issue 69 of Knitting for more info) and chatting to readers throughout the weekend, so don’t miss your chance to meet them!

A timetable of their schedule will be up soon to help you plan your fun and frolics so keep checking back.]]> 8/17/2009 5:07:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=162 162






an exclusive Ruffle flower cardigan, designed specially for us by knitwear doyenne Sasha Kagan







and an exclusive twisted drop stitch cardigan from funky Australian designer Jo Sharp







We have also teamed up with Rowan to give you a free Rowan design supplement! 11 patterns for kids to teens, featuring three exclusive patterns for Knitting designed by Sarah Hatton.



Other great things to look for in this issue

- Profile on designer Jo Sharp

- Learn a technique: Short row shaping

- Nicky Epstein interview and exclusive pattern from her latest book

- 2009 – The Year of Natural Fibres



And, of course, as usual read the best product roundups, reviews of the latest knitting must-haves, events and news too.]]> 7/30/2009 11:32:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=161 161




Last night was frantic with last minute knitting, as my friend sewed up the seams on her sewing machine pretty much as I went. I actually can’t wait to give it to my friend for her (super late) birthday/ moving in gift. I’m really quite pleased with myself, and the effort that went into it, which I think she will appreciate. In fact she probably has no idea I’m capable of this kind of knitting. Then again when I came up with the idea, neither did I!

This feeling of accomplishment is quite addictive…what next]]> 6/24/2009 2:23:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=158 158
Having done many features in the mag on intarsia, I didn’t think it would be that hard, I just knew it would need the patience of a saint. I started looking for easy skull and crossbones patterns on the internet – ha, no such thing. They all looked incredibly difficult or like the baddies in an ‘80s computer game. In the end I ended up using the skull of one pattern, the bones of another, printing out some chart paper, superimposing one on top of the other, drawing the chart then basically writing the pattern. I swear, the knitting part was actually the easiest bit.



So here is the front of my cushion cover. Not bad for a first go. Sure, in hindsight it would have been easier to buy her a Captain Jack Sparrow key ring, but really nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment when you set your mind to something and conquer it, especially when you know it is something someone will love. And besides, it makes me feel all pleased with myself, so really I’m just showing off.]]> 6/9/2009 12:51:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=157 157


And just to let you know, I finished my chicken in time for mother’s day and it went down a treat (though it arrived a little flat in the post and my mum had to do a bit of resuscitation to plump him up a bit). Now she reckons he needs a lady friend. Hmmm.

]]> 3/23/2009 4:17:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=156 156
On the other hand I have been excelling at knitted gifts for my nearest and dearest, all going down a treat and with a waiting list as long as my arm. It started with my plan to knit everyone a Christmas present. Well, I didn’t quite manage everyone but I did finish a fabulous wash bag, (waterproof lining and everything!) based on Tina Barrett’s ‘Learn to knit’ duffel bag, for my mum – check it out below. I also made a glamorous glasses case for my Nan, out of Tilli Tomas Rockstar, though unfortunately she couldn’t stop laughing at it on Christmas day because with the velvet lining inside it turned out a little chunkier than I had envisaged. Oh well, you can’t win ‘em all. 



Then we got a Biggan wrist warmers kit in the office, in two shades of purple yarn – the favourite colour of my friend who was finally coming back to England, after a year away in New Zealand. Since she was leaving sunny climes for Cornwall I thought this would be an apt gift and so I launched enthusiastically in to learning how to knit with circular needles (whoever invented the magic cast on method is a genius).

When these were done everyone wanted a pair, and though I have the best intentions (I get bored quite quickly and seduced by new patterns very easily), none have materialised because I came across the most fabulous chickens in Rowan’s Organic Cotton Kids Collection. I had to make one, and thought it would make the perfect ‘thank you’ gift for my friends who threw me a birthday dinner and are enthusiastic chicken keepers themselves. Some people turn up for dinner parties with wine and flowers, I turned up with this…



… but look how cool he is! Now my mum wants one so I’m currently making another, with slight improvements, hopefully in time for Mother’s Day. I know that gives me just under a month, but I need to get my skates on as you never know with me, I may come across something else that takes my fancy before then!]]> 2/26/2009 11:38:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=155 155
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/1/hi/england/7738418.stm]]> 11/21/2008 4:38:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=154 154
Back in September Anna (Sales Exec.) and I traveled up to London, leaving Brighton at some ungodly hour in the morning, to meet Stephanie Pearl-McPhee aka Yarn Harlot at her hotel for an interview before I Knit Day 2008 kicked off. We ended up having a giggle and a chat over coffee for over an hour. It was a pleasure to meet Stephanie, and yes she is as funny and dry in real life as her writing suggests, though she stuck true to form and wouldn’t divulge any future projects to me even though I tried! You can see the interview in our December issue.

We were greeted by a very harried Gerard at the entrance of the Royal Horticultural Hall, where the I Knit event was held. There were lots of people there, stands, fashion shows (which Gerard took a turn in) and even some comedy – though I have to admit, Girl and Dean aren’t my cup of tea comedy wise. It was great to be able to put faces to names and to meet up and coming authors and designers, though we didn’t get to spend all day up there as we had to rush back to Brighton for Emma B’s hen night that started that afternoon (that’s a whole other story, perhaps not to be published online)!

In early October Emma’s wedding was as beautiful a fairytale as we predicted and you can see how fabulous she (and we) looked on the day. The Knitting team doesn’t scrub up too bad does it?

I’m sure you’ll all join me in saying Congratulations and wishing Emma and Andy a lifetime of happiness.


Emma K, Claire, Emma W, Katy, Anna

Since Emma W is off on her honeymoon in romantic Tuscany it was up to me and Emma K to fly the flag for Knitting magazine at the Knitting and Stitching Show at Ally Pally last weekend, which I think we did with a certain style (for example meetings were held in the Champagne bar). Again it was a great chance to meet people I felt like I already knew from phone calls and emails, catch up with people not seen since last year and of course swap gossip. We were also lucky enough to have Nicky Epstein, Debbie Bliss and Erika Knight signing books on our stand. They are all lovely and we can’t wait to see them next time. 

We bumped into Gerard and Craig again (they get everywhere these two) and had a quick catch up – Gerard told us they have about four more books in the pipeline! Craig and I bonded over Morris Minors, him lamenting the fact he doesn’t have one, me lamenting the fact mine seems to have recently died. I also had a quick chat with Domiknitrix, who is tall, gorgeous ad was wearing the tiniest rubber corset whilst still managing to talk, knit and converse in French to Marie-Alice Morisset, the French champion speed knitter. The only hints she would give me about her next book is that she is currently sketching and is focusing on tailoring for specific parts of the body.

Emma and I were also heavily involved in the Knitted Student Textile awards, both being judges (others included Sandy Black, Erika Knight etc) and then helping Chris Kingdom of the UKHKA count up votes for over-all winner and the various categories. The standard was very high this year and you’ll be able to see our coverage of it in the next couple of issues, it’s eye opening. Ally Pally is great fun but man is it tiring!

Phew, so after all that I feel my week in St Tropez at the end of September was well and truly deserved actually.]]> 10/16/2008 2:53:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=153 153


THURSDAY

Nicky Epstein signing/demos (10.30-11.30)

Erika Knight signing/demos (14:00-15:00)

Nicky Epstein (15:00-16:00)



FRIDAY

Nicky Epstein signing/demos (10.30-11.30)

Debbie Bliss signing (12:00-13:00)

Erika Knight signing/demos (14:00-15:00)

Nicky Epstein (15:00-16:00)



SATURDAY

Nicky Epstein signing/demos (10.30-11.30)

Debbie Bliss signing (12:00-13:00)

Erika Knight signing/demos (14:00-15:00)

Nicky Epstein (15:00-16:00)



SUNDAY

Nicky Epstein signing/demos (10.30-11.30)

Erika Knight signing/demos (14:00-15:00)

Nicky Epstein (15:00-16:00)
]]> 10/8/2008 3:57:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=152 152 www.cucumberpatch.co.uk

The Knitting Parlour are happy to offer 10% off Sirdar Eco Wool DK, Sublime Cashmere Merino Silk DK, Mission Falls 1824 Cotton, Sirdar Country Style DK and Sublime Baby Cashmere merino Silk DK. Telephone orders only, 01684 892079 please quote KM56. www.theknittingparlour.co.uk]]> 10/1/2008 11:33:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=151 151 www.first4yarns.co.uk 01547 529111.

Spin a Yarn - 10% off on RYC Baby Alpaca, RYC Cashsoft DK and Debbi Bliss Cashmerino Aran. www.spinayarndevon.co.uk 01626 836206]]> 9/11/2008 4:52:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=150 150 www.theknittingparlour.co.uk

Bourne to Knit are happy to offer 10% off Markoma Ambience Print and Plassard Pichenette. www.bournetoknit.com

Cucumber Patch are happy to offer 10% off Rowan 4ply Soft, Rowan 4ply Cotton and Artesano Inca Cloud. Please visit www.cucumberpatch.co.uk]]> 9/9/2008 10:36:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=149 149
]]> 8/15/2008 12:15:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=148 148
Knitting Parlour are happy to offer 10% off Sirdar Snuggly 4ply, Sublime Kid Mohair, Rowan Milk Cotton DK and Sirdar Country Style DK. Telephone orders only, 01684 892079. www.theknittingparlour.co.uk

Bourne to Knit are happy to offer 10%  off Markoma Ambience Print and Plassard Pichenette. www.bournetoknit.com

Cucumber Patch are happy to offer 10% off Rowan 4ply Soft, Rowan 4ply Cotton and Artesano Inca Cloud. Please visit www.cucumberpatch.co.uk]]> 8/13/2008 9:29:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=147 147 www.cucumberpatch.co.uk or call 01782 862332 and quote KM53.

For the beautiful Sublime Passion flower top on the cover of this issue, Diss wool and craft are offering 10% discount off Sublime Soya cotton DK. Please visit www.disswoolandcrafts.com.

To knit the irresistable Tea Cup Cosy, call Dragon Yarns on 01453 755766 and receive 10% off the Patons Fairytale Colour4me.

For the Fabulous Fruity cushions, Sweet Cupcake jumper and the stunning Yoke Detail Sweater, Fiddlesticks are happy to offer 10% off Debbie Bliss Cotton DK, Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran, and Debbie Bliss Pure Silk. Please contact Fiddlesticks on www.fiddlesticksdevon.co.uk or call 0140 447676.]]> 7/9/2008 9:19:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=146 146
So anyway, here in all its glory is my finished book cover, which I actually finished months ago, and now holds my work diary. It’s a pain to open but I love it none the less.



I am also a fickle knitter (I am learning a lot about my self these days) as I enthusiastically started my funky cushion cover and have, like many before me, ditched it for something cooler and more exciting. I can’t reveal what, as it will hopefully become my mother’s Christmas present and she may read this blog, but I can tell you I have mastered changing colours and it’s in fabulous colours.

It feels like it’s only the start of the summer and already we’re working on our September issue. It’s hard to get into the mindset of what people will be wearing in September when I’m still trying to decide on a new bikini for my holiday to St Tropez (really and truly).

Emma K and Claire got back from a successful shoot in and around Brighton yesterday and we’ve all been ohhhing and ahhhing over the gorgeous pics today. I can tell you now, it’s going to be one of our most beautiful galleries yet. We’ve also just sent our August issue off to print and are really excited about it. We worked so hard with this issue, incorporating 2 new features and can’t wait to hear what you think of it so don’t forget, be vocal on the forums or email me direct, you might end up on the letters page and win a prize!]]> 6/26/2008 12:11:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=145 145 www.iriss.co.uk, or phone 01736 366 568 and quote KM53.

If you were swept away by the nautical cardigan and the fabulous boys knitted hoodie, order your Sirdar DK Soft Cotton and Debbie Bliss Cotton DK from Fiddlesticks and receive 10% discount. Click onto www.fiddlesticksdevon.co.uk or alternatively call 0140447676, quoting KM53.

If you loved Fiona Morris's navy fitted vest, order Wendy Supreme Luxury Cotton DK from Dragon Yarns to receive 10% discount. Telephone orders only, so please call Dragon Yarns on 01453 755 766 and quote KM53.

To knit Flirty Skirty order Sublime Soya Cotton DK from the Knitting Parlour and receive 10% discount. Visit  www.theknittingparlour.co.uk  or call 01684 892 079 and quote KM53.

For the Red Striped jumper in Marks and Kattens, Scandinavian Knitting Design are offering a special offer of £2.10 (RRP £2.35) to all Knitting readers. Visit www.scandinavianknittingdesign.com or call 01189 884 226 and request this special readers offer.

All these offers are availble until 7th August 2008.]]> 6/11/2008 3:20:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=144 144

Knitting Magazine is launching it's fourth National Knitting Week. After last years huge success, once again we are relying on you to make 2008 our best year yet. The dates are October 12th to 19th so get planning!

National Knitting Week, in association with the UKHA, is a true celebration of hand knitting with organized events up and down the country. To have your event listed on this website please fill out this form. Whether you are planning your own event or looking for something in your area to join in with, keep updated with Knitting Magazine and the Knitting Institute.

So be creative and let your imagination run wild. Prepare to knit up a storm and have the ultimate Knitting fun, just remember to keep us posted!]]> 5/27/2008 4:25:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=143 143
Knitting’s new club – Dominique, Emma B, Katy, Anna

In other news Emma K and Claire went off for the day to our photographer’s house for the June photo shoot. Laurel, our photographer lives in a cottage on the Cowdery Estate in West Sussex and yes it is just how you imagine, all rustic charm and beautiful gardens and as our theme for the shoot was ‘summer occasionwear’ the resulting gallery is gorgeous. The June issue comes out 15th May so you’ll be able to see for yourself. The July photo shoot has just taken place too amongst the colourful beach huts of Hove, and as we’re sorting through and choosing our pics, full of sunshine and with a nautical theme, its starting to feel like summer could be on it’s way – another reference to the blog title if you will. If only it would stop raining today.

On a last note, Emma K and I were in attendance at the annual Open House launch party for this year’s Brighton Festival. The Open House tours are when local artists open their houses to the public to view their art and craft work, whether it be painting, jewellery or in Kate Jenkins from Cardigan’s case a whole shop decked out in a knitted garden titled Cardigan in Bloom. As we stationed ourselves near the wine tasting stand we were soon everybody’s friends and a fun night was had by all. The month long Brighton Festival starts on the 2nd May if you happen to be down this way. And if not, Emma is going to the Cardigan In Bloom Private View this weekend so I’m sure we will be bringing you pictures soon.]]> 4/29/2008 5:12:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=142 142 www.angelyarns.com and quote KM50.

For the fabulous 'Classic and Cool' cardi (cover shot) receive 10% discount from Bournetoknit. Click onto www.bournetoknit.com and quote KM50.

For the Sirdar boys Chunky Sweater Bourne to knit are offering a further 10% off Sirdar Click. Click onto www.bournetoknit.com and quote KM50.

If you want to knit Wendys gorgeous short Cardigan this month HCS will give 10% discount. Visit www.hcscrafts.co.uk and quote KM50.

Louisa Harding's beautiful bag project is made all the more beautiful with a 10% discount off Cinnabar Aran from www.first4yarns.co.uk if you quote KM50 while ordering from their website or call 01547 529111.

To knit Emma Varnam's Cheeky monkey jumper, Kangaroo will give you a 10% discount when ordering Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK. Visit www.kangaroo.uk.com Please quote KM50.

Iriss of Penzance are generously offering 10% of Patons Washed Haze Aran for the 'Rosie Throw' . Call 01736 366568 and quote Knitting Magazine.

Offers end 31st May.]]> 4/23/2008 9:15:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=141 141
32 extra pages on top of the magazine is quite a lot of extra work though, especially with myself and Emma B managing to fit a holiday each into March. I spent a week in Cornwall, enduring the worst storms we’ve had this year but enjoying the gastronomic delights of Rick Stein and Jamie Oliver and Emma spent a week up to her knees (literally) in snow in Lapland, leaving Emma K and Claire holding the fort, which they did admirably.

They forgot to mention they’d organised a phone interview between myself and Debbie Macomber, the American author of the Blossom Street knitting series of novels, New York Best seller list and seller of 60 million books, which was interesting when I received a call from her PR company confirming it. But I rose to the challenge and had a lovely long chat with her, which you will be able to read in the August issue.

This month we’re especially proud of our May gallery, having planned a beautiful outside shoot, all late spring/early summer sunshine, only to be rained off at the last minute. Instead Emma K had the great idea of using pretty wallpaper as a back drop and went off to Laura Ashley, returning with rolls of beautiful floral and patterned wallpaper which look with great with our collection. I think it’s our best gallery yet.

We’ve just started on our June issue and Emma K has challenged us beginner/non knitters to take up our needles and tackle a beginner pattern for a simple book cover. Emma B (who is by no means a beginner and is putting the rest of us to shame), Anna (advertising, and definitely a beginner) and myself (not doing too badly) have accepted, chosen our colours and learnt how to cast on. The plan is to kill many birds with one stone. Those of us who are not proficient knitters will learn, we will be able to demonstrate to beginners that learning to knit and read a pattern is not difficult and anyone can do it, and I shall write a witty and humorous account of our journey including the book cover pattern and photographs of our efforts.

In fact I’m off now to start row 6. Slow and steady wins the race remember?]]> 4/1/2008 5:07:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=139 139
Okay, I’m going to begin on a high note, literally. Knitting sales figures are on a steady increase. Our January issue has the highest sales figure of any issue of Knitting ever. We haven’t got all the figures back from February yet but it’s looking pretty good, so we’re obviously doing something right. Thank you for all your feedback and keep it coming!

February was a crazy month. Trying to keep the fact Claire’s boyfriend had secretly booked off Valentine’s Day for her, to whisk her away for the weekend, was nearly impossible. What do we live for, if not for office gossip? Valentine’s Day rolled around and was a relatively sedate affair this year. I missed the only bit of excitement when Emma B received a dozen beautiful red roses from, she assumed, her fiancé. When he denied all knowledge and demanded who they were from we thought Uh-oh. Until he admitted he was kidding. Cruel joke? Yes. Pretty funny? Oh yes.

We’ve snuck a bonus pattern into our April issue for you. Unfortunately we forgot to take it with us for the main gallery photo shoot earlier in the month, so were left in the predicament of a jumper with no one to model it. After a lot of convincing Claire agreed to model it. The office became a make-shift beauty parlour with Emma K doing hair and make-up (as you can see in the photo below) and a few outfit changes. Yes publishing really is glamorous.   



Claire came back from her romantic weekend away flashing a huge great sparkler on her left hand – and we haven’t heard about anything else since! Last week was Emma B and my birthdays (the grand ages of 29 and 26 respectively). To celebrate the birthdays and engagement (and the fact we’d just got April’s issue done and dusted) we decided to grab Anna from advertising sales and go out for dinner in the picturesque town of Lewes we work in. Apparently Lewes is not ready for a whole Knitting team on the loose. I for one don’t believe in celebrating good things half-heartedly and the rest of the team apparently agree as we were asked to keep the noise down in the restaurant, even though we were squeezed into a corner in the basement!

So celebrations aside, I’m really pleased with our March ‘green’ issue and April is looking just as good. Trying to tackle that transitional period of unpredictable weather and temperature around this time of year is notoriously difficult but with a selection of pretty coloured layering pieces I think we managed to get it spot on.]]> 2/26/2008 11:43:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=136 136 Diane Mulholland. Apologies Diane!

]]> 2/25/2008 11:39:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=135 135
Continuing with this issue’s theme of Organic and Natural, we have teamed up with Sublime for this competition. Sublime has just launched its own range of Organic Cotton. It comes in a range of eight beautifully soft colours and would lend itself to a wide spectrum of projects. Maybe you feel inspired by Sirdar’s Cabled Yoke Cardi, or perhaps the simplicity of Rowan’s Morning Glory pattern. If you prefer a home knit, it could be a fabulous throw. The choice is yours. All we ask is for you to think ‘organic’ and let your imagination flow. As with last month’s competition, send your sketched designs to us by 29 March 2008 along with the entry form at the bottom of this blog update. Knitting and Sue Batley-Kyle (Brand Manager for Sublime) will choose three finalists who will then be sent the yarn to knit their completed design. We will be looking for, amongst other things, use of colour, technique and originality of design. However, bear in mind that if the winning design is a garment, it will be photographed on a model, so all finalists will need to knit their piece in a UK size 12 with supporting patterns sized up to 16.

Here are the colours of Organic Cotton DK available for you to choose for use in this competition:

Bone

Borage

Clay

Maize

Nutmeg

Pea Pod

Rice Pudding

Scrumble

First prize is £250 worth of Sublime Yarn, with both second and third prize receiving £50 worth of Sublime Yarn. Click here for a printable entry form which you can cut out and send to us, along with your sketched designs. Good luck!]]> 2/25/2008 9:03:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=134 134
January’s issue arrived in the office today. Sometimes when you’ve pored over each page so many times in the proofing process it’s hard to look at an issue with a critical eye. But as we’ve been up to our eyeballs in trying to get February’s issue done before Christmas (which has been no mean feat, I can tell you!), it was with relief we saw how great it looks. Check out the gorgeous Charcoal cardigan and the outrageous rug by Rachel Johns. So many projects for the New Year! 

February’s issue is nearly finished and it’s looking a very classy affair. Upcoming articles include an interview with Jean McGowan Michael, she of the fabulous knitted lingerie and the gallery pages are wonderfully romantic with a deceptively easy but very decadent looking dressing gown and a chic little black cardi by Sasha Kagan. And of course the much-coveted-everywhere Filitura bell sleeved top on our cover.  

In other news, I’m still recovering from the huge bruise I have on my foot where Emma K was dancing a little too enthusiastically at our work Christmas Party last week and kicked me. Who knew both Emmas could shake it quite like that to be honest. Here is a photo of us looking sophisticated and sober at the start of the night. That was the first glass of champagne. Elvis was definitely in the building that night too, hired as the entertainment. I think the moment Elvis (quite unwisely) decided to straddle Emma K’s chair- mid song - and her expression at this unexpected turn of events will go down in GMC history…  


Emma B, Katy, Emma K

It’s good to see the forum looking a bit more lively these days too, let’s keep it up in 2008. It’s always fascinating to see what you, our readers, think of not just our magazine but all things knitting. If you have a group who are planning epic events in 2008 or are knitting for a worthy cause, or have questions about anything put it in, we check the forum regularly, and who knows, you may end up in the magazine! 

On this note I’m going to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year – Can’t wait to see what you accomplish in 2008!]]> 12/20/2007 10:24:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=131 131
The January issue is shaping up brilliantly. We had great fun choosing a winner from all the fabulous knitted animals sent in for our Noah’s Ark competition. The winning crocodile and pattern is featured in our fun knits this issue. I currently have the pink chameleon sat on my computer and the snake draught excluders got loaned out to the other departments when our heating got switched off the other day.

A big feature in the January issue is new patterns for premature babies. We managed to raise confusion with our photographer though when she asked us about the premature baby ‘bag’ that had been sent to her to photograph. Poor girl, no wonder she was confused, it was a hot water bottle.

We’ve even featured on local radio as Emma B, our deputy editor, without us knowing, emailed the DJ asking to play ‘Fairytale in New York’ (as we had been singing it ever since Emma K, our editor, put it down as her Christmas song for the Ed’s page question) dedicated to the girls at Knitting and because Emma K fancied Shane McGowan. You should have seen her face! Claire, our designer, printed out the words and we had a good sing song- until someone rang up the radio station and berated the DJ for playing a Christmas song too early! We can’t help it, working on issues months ahead sometimes plays havoc with our time scale.

And to wind it up, I’m going to my first knitting workshop tonight at Purl in Brighton. Debbie Smith, the owner, has agreed to take me on, even after I warned her I’ve never even put yarn to needle. I have a feeling this is going to be quite a comedy venture, news of which will crop up often in my blog so keep checking back to follow my progress (or despair?).

Till next time.]]> 11/26/2007 8:55:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=128 128 events page. Check it out and see what is going on near you!

So if you're hosting an event, or know of one that you want to help promote, head over to this page to register and let everyone know.

]]> 10/10/2007 9:40:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=125 125
First, click on the Gallery link in the menu at the top of this page. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be greeted by the gallery index.



From here, you can choose which section of the gallery your pictures should go in: fashion, fun, home, mini or quick. Let’s choose "fashion" as our category, for example. Click on the image or text to access that gallery category.



When the gallery loads, you’ll first see some pictures that other people have uploaded. To start getting yours on there too, click the “UPLD”  (upload)  button on the top right of the gallery box (just below the search box).

A new “Upload File” window should pop up, like this:



Now click on the “Browse” button, and another window will appear, this time giving you the ability to search your computer folders for the picture file you want (but remember: the files can’t be bigger than 500 kilobytes!) When you’ve found it, click “Open” on that window and the file name should appear in the “File” section of the page.

Fill in any other information you want, such as the name you want the picture to have once it’s online, a description of what it is a picture of, your e-mail address, etc. Once you’re finished doing that, click “Upload File.”

It should take a couple of moments, but then it’s done! Once the picture has been processed and checked by us, it will appear in the gallery in no time at all.

Don't forget to stop by the Forum and say hi, too!]]> 9/17/2007 11:37:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=124 124
as part of our National Knitting Week events. Two brand new books, Cover Up with Nicky Epstein and Nicky Epstein's Crochet Flowers, will be available as pre-publication exclusives at the show, and Nicky will be signing copies on the stand. For further details about the show, visit: www.twistedthread.com

]]> 9/10/2007 11:25:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=123 123




Not only that, but we have some beautiful socks by Liz Baxter in Alpaca Select yarn, a stunning off-the-shoulder sweater in Sirdar Blur and the fun Harvest Fruit Basket, complete with little bees! There is also our usual mix of the latest products, trends and styles with top tips and advice too, including this month how to create the perfect buttonhole and Sasha Kagan's crochet flowers. And don't forget our warring columnists' monthly squabble - this time they are disagreeing over cable knitting.

Do you agree with them? Let us know in the readers' poll.]]> 9/3/2007 12:13:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=122 122


1. A fantastic range of products on sale from over 150 unique suppliers

2. Daily fashion shows. Choose from Patons and Rowan's new autumn collection or Junky Styling Ethical Fashion or The College Catwalk - the very best talent emerging from UK fashion courses in 2007. Can't choose? Then come along to the FREE 4pm highlights of the day fashion show.

3. The fabulous fibre work of Suhandan Ozay. As well as being a textile, fashion and accessory designer she is also Head of Textile-Fashion at Dokuz Eylul University Izmir Turkey.

4. Hiroshi Murasi - Master Shibori Dyer. A very very rare opportunity to not only meet Hiroshi Murasi and to see his work but also to take part in a fabulous one-day masterclass. Hiroshi will teach basic shibori techniques using unique dye created from persimmon tannin, Kaki Shibu. Cloth and washi paper will be patterned in shades of brown and strengthened by this special vegetable substance. Only 3 places remaining.

5. A fantastic array of gallery exhibitions from top international textile artists and collections such as Helene Soubeyran, The 62 Group, Primmy and Jessie Chorley, Julie Arkell, Tilleke Schwarz, Jeanette Appleton and Miao Embroidery curated by June Hill.

6. FREE afternoon tea with your favourite stars. Each afternoon at 3.45pm designers such as Susan Ryder and Brandon Mabley will discuss their secrets with you over a cuppa. (free tickets for this event can be collected on the day from The Learning Curve desk).

7. FREE Get Inspired Film Theatre.  Each day there will be 5 film shows starting at 11am. FREE popcorn with the 4pm show! (collect free tickets for this event on the day from The Learning Curve desk).

8. A version of Changing Rooms! Each day Coats Crafts UK will set up a room with basic neutral furnishings and over the course of the day a designer will show you how easy everyday items can be transformed with a little bit of imagination and creativity.

9. The Learning Curve programme. You can join in on any of the 25 different classes being offered each day – ranging from Gold on Canvas to Nifty Necklaces. See the full programme on www.twistedthread.com

10. Stay over at the Hilton and join in the Candlenight Dinner on Thursday 13 September. Call for details on 020 8692 2299.



Doll and creatures from Julie Arkell

]]> 8/31/2007 2:21:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=121 121


I have only been at Knitting for just over a year, during which time Kate has overseen the complete redesign of the magazine, the increase to 13 issues a year and many 'ups and downs' but she has never failed to be cheerful and dedicated to bringing out the best magazine possible.



So thank you Kate, and good luck, we will miss you!







Designer Claire, Deputy Ed Emma, (Ex!) Editor Kate, Advertising Sales

Emma and Assistant Ed Katie at Kate's leaving presentation]]> 8/17/2007 3:32:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=120 120

Sandy Black, Erika Knight and me!

BY KATE TAYLOR, EDITOR OF KNITTING

This year’s National Knitting Week in October promises to be a feast for the senses, with thousands of visitors flocking to The Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace in London to see the brightest and best textiles in the land.

The day before we went to press on our October issue I met up with knitting and crochet designer, author and globe-trotting yarn industry guru Erika Knight, London College of Fashion’s Prof of Fashion & Textile Design & Technology Sandy Black and UK Hand Knitting Association spokeswoman Chris Kingdom. We had the wonderful task of selecting a shortlist from entries to the annual Knitted Textile Student Awards. 74 fashion and textile students and new graduates entered the award this year and we all agreed that the standard has risen over the last few years. The award is sponsored by Knitting magazine, along with the UKHKA and the organisers of the Knitting and Stitching Show. The final winner will be chosen by a panel of experts at the show in London during National Knitting Week.

We feel that this award is exciting for the knitting world because students bring a fresh approach to knitted textiles. With no preconceptions about what knitwear and knitted home accessories should be, they are free to experiment. Themes such as urban decay can lead to fascinating knitted designs replicating peeling paint and rust colours and textures. One student interpreted anatomical drawings in knitting, with fascinating results. Another was inspired by Formula 1 car tyres! Others came up with catwalk-ready knitwear designs or product design prototypes. It's a truly arty approach and one that we applaud and enjoy each year, in the knowledge that if you can't experiment creatively as a student, when can you? Time enough for designing sensible jumpers later! Judges are looking for innovation and skill with both hand and machine knitted textiles.

The October and November issues of Knitting will feature a picture preview of just some of the shortlisted entries that will be winging their way to Chris Kingdom just in time for display at the Knitting and Stitching Shows in Birmingham, London and Harrogate!





Tyres, Samantha Williams, Solihull





Shoes, Liria Pristine, London



Fashion by Rosemary Haddon, Winchester School of Art                                                                                                             



Chiffon & knitting by Hayley Watkinson, University of Central Lancashire                                                                                                                                       ]]> 8/10/2007 10:41:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=119 119
For a look behind the scenes, go here: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=vZPuiWHMLWM.



There are some lovely autumny knits coming up in this issue, such as the Lilith lacy shawl in green Louet Kidlin from Luciana Swannell of Foreign Strand, the Pink Peony cardigan and Hermione hat in Sublime angora and a lovely cream cable-knit cape in RYC luxury cotton DK. Toy fans will be glad to see that there is a very cute hedgehog pattern too.



Speaking of animals, it may be only August but we are already receiving a menagerie of knitted creatures through the post for our Noah's Ark competition for National Knitting Week. The prizes include these lovely Bobbi and Baby Bobbi Bear kits from Blue Sky Alpacas: don't be deceived by the name, these teds are big! So if you haven't yet had a go, there's still time to get knitting.

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It's always great to get feedback from readers, and to see what you are knitting, so please upload or email photos of your favourite FOs and we can publish them on the website for all to see!

Talking of that, I dug out the eternal grey and black cardigan yesterday (I realise now that I started it six months ago - surely that must be a record!). The second sleeve was looking a bit sad and curled up: it must have realised I've been cheating on it with some lovely teal blue Colinette yarn. Still, having played away, I have returned to the safe and familiar - and have posted some pictures below, including a very 'natural' shot of me knitting at work. If only I could do it more often!











It's a horrible grey day here (and not just because of the cardigan) but we're getting very excited about Knitting 41, which will be out on the 9th August. There's a very special wedding supplement with new techniques and very glamorous patterns for your (or someone you know's) Special Day. My mother is very disappointed since mine is a (very, very) long way off but Deputy Ed Emma is getting married next year and had a great time sourcing lovely wedding products and trying on frocks during our shoot. K41 also has a feature on eco knitting, very topical at the moment, including a bag knitted from plastic bags, as well as some really beautiful patterns like the deep V blue jumper in Debbie Bliss cashmerino and Sirdar Blue cowl neck.

One last thing to mention is the first UK official Stitch n Bitch day, sponsored by Knit on the Net. It's Saturday 10th November 2007 at the Royal National Hotel, Bloomsbury, London, and the famous Debbie Stoller will be there! Read more and buy your tickets here: http://www.iknit.org.uk/stitchnbitchday.html



Hope to see you there!]]> 7/26/2007 4:30:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=117 117
We’re all also pretty pleased that www.woollyworkshop.com have started stocking Knit Lite needles. I have received quite a few emails from people asking where to get these in the UK, so it’s great that they have finally come to these shores.

As this is my first blog, I think I should give a shout-out to the ladies of the Stitch ‘n’ Bitch group in Borders, Brighton, who will probably become a permanent fixture on these pages. Let’s hope they stay (relatively) well behaved! One of the girls is currently creating her own knitted Dalek, although despite requests she hasn’t been able to conjure up a knitted David Tennant. Another vital element to the blog (which will probably cause groans from the aforementioned SnB’ers) is my current WIP, a grey and black ‘Go-everywhere, go-with-everything cardigan’ from the Stitch and Bitch Knitter’s Handbook. It’s taken me several months but the end is finally in sight. I started it the same time as Steph Mann (one of our Needles at Dawn columnists) but she crashed at the first hurdle and passed it onto a relative to complete.]]> 6/12/2007 2:24:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=116 116