Knitting institute yarn reviews

SUPREME POSSUM MERINO

Some people may not be too keen on the idea of supporting the cull of possums, however, it is deemed necessary to protect the native forests of New Zealand, where they cause extensive damage to the flora and fauna and have been officially labelled as a pest since 1936. Possum fur is hollow and when spun with merino wool, it produces a hardwearing yarn with superior heat-retaining qualities. The blended yarn is soft and light with a fluffy haze. It resists pilling and doesn’t feel prickly against the skin. Supreme Possum has a tension of 28 sts and 36 rows to 10cm and knitted up to a perfect even tension with a soft shimmer, good elasticity and drape. It is available in eight classic shades and the sample is shown in Cherry Red. Free pattern support can be downloaded from the website. A gentle hand wash and flat drying is recommended.

Composition: 40% possum fur,

50% merino wool, 10% silk

Weight: 50g Length: 210m

Rec needle size: 3-3.25mm RRP: £8.85

Contact: Supreme Possum Merino,

Mall Bungalow, Portsmouth Road, Milford, Godalming GU8 5DS Tel: 01483 608 270

Email: office@possum-wool.com

Website: www.possum-wool.com

BE SWEET SLUBBY MERINO

This hand-spun yarn varies between thick and thin and knits up into a very chunky, textured fabric with a lovely lacy effect. Because of the variation in yarn width, it feels a little awkward to handle at first but grows very quickly on large needles with a tension of 8 sts to 10cm. Slubby Merino is available in the full range of shades that include natural, solid and multicolours and the sample is shown in Orange Fizz. It would make lovely scarves and accessories, or use a small amount in a sweater with another chunky yarn.

Composition: 100% Merino wool

Weight: 100g

Length: 37m

Rec needle size: 15mm

RRP: Approx £12

Contact: Be Sweet,

1315 Bridgeway, Sausalito,

CA 94965, USA

Email: info@besweetproducts.com

Website: www.besweetproducts.com

BERGERE DE FRANCE ORIGIN CACHEMIRE

Cachemire is a luxurious yarn made from the long, silky fleece of the mountain goats in Kashmir. The unique softness of cashmere improves with washing and is a pleasure to wear. Cachemire has a tension of 23 sts and 32 rows to 10cm and knits up evenly with good stitch definition. It is exquisite to handle and soft enough to wear next to the skin. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines. Cachemire is available in eight soft shades and the knitted sample is in Splendeur.

Composition: 90% cashmere, 10% wool

Weight: 50g

Length: 150m

Rec needle size: 3.5mm

RRP: £9.95

Contact: Gordon Leslie,

Bergere de France,

11 White Hart Gardens,

Hartford, Northwich,

Cheshire, CW8 2FA

Tel: 01606 883 149

Email: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com

Website: www.bergeredefrance.com

DROPS DELIGHT

Delight is a colourful, self-striping yarn with a hand-spun texture. Designed for sock knitting, it has a tension of 26 sts and 34 rows to 10cm, but don’t just keep it for socks; it also makes lovely shawls, scarves and wraps. The rich colours blend smoothly into each other forming random stripes and an interesting textured surface. It is available in 14 multicoloured shades and the sample is shown in shade 11. There is pattern support in leaflet form and the designs include socks, shawls and cardigans.

Composition: 75% superwash wool,

25% polyamide

Weight: 50g

Length: 175m

Rec needle size: 2.5mm

RRP: £2.50

Contact: Scandinavian Knitting Design, South Lodge, Wellington Court,

Spencers Wood, Berkshire, RG7 1BN

Tel: 01189 884 226

Email: sales@scandinavianknittingdesign.com

Website: www.scandinavianknittingdesign.com

BE SWEET T-SHIRT

This fabulous yarn is a strip of fabric made from recycled cotton T-shirts. It is very stretchy and knits into a firm, dense fabric that makes excellent knitted bags and belts, or use it mixed with another yarn. There is actually a free pattern on the label for a honeycomb-shaped camera case and one skein will make two cases. T-shirt knits up quickly, with a tension of 9 sts to 10cm and is available in a variety of vibrant colours. It is quite solid and heavy when knitted, so it is unlikely you would want to knit a whole garment, but it is perfect for accessories or homeware.

Composition: cotton/viscose/elastene fibre strips made from recycled T-shirts

Weight: Approx 200g

Length: 50m

Rec needle size: 8mm

RRP: £10

Contact: Be Sweet,

1315 Bridgeway, Sausalito,

CA 94965, USA

Email: info@besweetproducts.com

Website: www.besweetproducts.com

ROWAN BY AMY BUTLER BELLE ORGANIC DK

Organic DK is the second yarn in the new range from Rowan and fabric designer, Amy Butler. The DK weight knits to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm with a lovely even surface. The knitted fabric has a gentle sheen, is soft and light to wear and has good elasticity. The colour range of 16 bright, clear shades includes luscious pinks, summery blues and greens and classic indigo. The sample is shown in shade 04 Persimmon. The supporting pattern book, Amy Butler’s Midwest Modern Knits, contains a unique collection of designs for easy-to-wear garments, accessories and homeware.

Composition: 50% wool, 50% cotton

Weight: 50g

Length: 120m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £5.25

Contact: Rowan Yarns,

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681 881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.knitrowan.com

DROPS NEPAL

Nepal is a luxurious chunky yarn. The combination of wool and alpaca produces a gorgeously soft, hazy fabric that feels firm to handle. The three-stranded yarn gives clear stitch definition and works well with textured stitches and cable. It knits up quickly with a tension of 17 sts and 22 rows to 10cm and there is plenty of pattern support in leaflet form for garments and accessories. It is available in 24 muted colours, including a range of natural shades. The sample is knitted in shade 4434, a soft, heathery mix. Nepal can also be used for felting, forming a strong fabric that is stunningly smooth and would make lovely hats, slippers and bags. Hand wash for non-felted knits or pop in the machine on a warm cycle for felting.

Composition: 65% wool, 35% alpaca

Weight: 50g Length: 75m

Rec needle size: 5mm RRP: £2

Contact: Scandinavian Knitting Design,

South Lodge, Wellington Court,

Spencers Wood, Berkshire RG7 1BN

Tel: 01189 884 226

Email: sales@scandinavianknittingdesign.com

Website: www.scandinavianknittingdesign.com

BERGERE DE FRANCE ORIGIN SOJA

Soja is a twisted cotton that knits up with an interesting texture and soft lustre. The blend of cotton and soy produces a supple fabric that feels cool and soft to wear. It has a tension of 19 sts and 27 rows to 10cm and pattern support is available in the Bergere de France Origin pattern book. The feminine designs include lovely draping sweaters and cardigans. There are eight clear, summery shades in the range and the sample is shown in Corolle.

Composition: 84% cotton, 16% soy

Weight: 50g

Length: 85m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £3.75

Contact: Gordon Leslie, Bergere de France, 11 White Hart Gardens,

Hartford, Northwich,

Cheshire CW8 2FA

Tel: 01606 883 149

Email: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com

Website: www.bergeredefrance.com

CAPRICORN SUPERFINE BRUSHED 4PLY MOHAIR

Mohair is back with a vengeance this autumn, so be prepared! This lovely 4ply version is soft and luxurious to handle, light and fluffy to wear and very warm. The mohair fibre comes from angora goats and is top quality. The brushed mohair contains fine kid mohair, making it extra soft and non-scratchy. It has a tension of 26 sts and 32 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles, and pattern support and knitting kits are available from Capricorn. The colour palette of 40 shades includes a wide range of pastels, vibrant brights, classics and neutrals. The sample is shown in 151 Terracotta.

Composition: 82% mohair, 9% wool, 9% nylon

Weight: 50g

Length: 200m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £8.40 for a two-ball pack.

Contact: Capricorn Yarns, Croys House, Old Bridge Of Urr,

Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway DG7 3EX

Tel: 01556 650 237

Email: alanwithall@aol.com

Website: www.capricorn-mohair.com

RICO DESIGN CREATIVE FILZ

Filz is a light chunky yarn that knits into a warm and soft garment, but is specifically designed for felting. It knits up really quickly with a tension of 11 sts and 17 rows to 10cm and comes in a colour range of 17 bright clear shades. After felting it forms a sturdy fabric that is perfect for bags, hats and slippers. If you don’t want to felt it, just hand wash gently, but for easy felting place in the washing machine on a warm setting.

Composition: 100% merino

Weight: 50g

Length: 50m

Rec needle size: 8mm

RRP: Approximately £2.99

Contact: Stash Fine Yarns

4 Godstall Lane,

Chester CH1 1LN

Tel: 01244 389310

Website: www.celticove.com

PATONS COTTON TWIST

Cotton Twist is an Aran weight yarn that knits up evenly with a slight texture and soft sheen. It is easy to knit, keeps its shape well with good elasticity and is cool and light to wear. Cotton Twist is available in a range of soft pastel shades. The knitted sample is shown in shade 00035. Pattern support is available in booklet by Patons. A summer top takes approximately 12 balls making it excellent value and with a tension of 18 sts and 26 rows it will also knit to most cotton Aran patterns. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

Composition: 55% cotton 45% acrylic

Weight: 50g

Length: 90m

Rec needle size: 5mm

RRP: £1.99

Contact: Rowan Yarns

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.coatscrafts.co.uk

WILD FIRE FIBRES UNICORN LACE

Unicorn Lace is a luxurious lace weight yarn, hand-dyed in softly blended shades. The knitted sample is shown in Purple Lotus and was knitted on 4mm needles. The wool/silk blend is sublime to wear and is perfect for scarves and shawls. Use small needles to obtain a close knitted tension or up to 5mm needles for a lace effect. Limited pattern support is available, but it can also be used with all lace weight patterns. Hand washing is recommended.

Composition: 80% merino 20% silk

Weight: 100g

Length: 1200m

Rec needle size: 2-5mm

RRP: £12

Contact: Brownberry Yarns

42 Bogburn Lane, Coppull Moor,

Lancashire PR7 5JF

Tel: 01257 471349

Website: www.brownberryyarns.co.uk

MANOS DEL URUGUAY LACEWEIGHT

Laceweight is a new superfine 2ply yarn that can be knitted on a range of needle sizes, use small needles to obtain a firm even tension or go up to larger ones for a lacy effect. The luxurious blended yarn comes in a range of 12 shades that include both space dyed and solids, the knitted sample is shown in shade 5003 Fira Fuchsia and was knitted on 4mm needles. There are nine supporting patterns for the yarn and it will knit to standard lace weight designs. Hand washing is recommended.

Composition: 5% cashmere 75% baby alpaca 20% silk

Weight: 50g

Length: 400m

Rec needle size: 2-4mm

RRP: Approximately £11.99

Contact: Artesano Ltd

5-9 Berkeley Avenue, Reading,

Berkshire, RG1 6EL

Tel: 0118 9503350

Email: info@artesanoyarns.co.uk

Website: www.artesanoyarns.co.uk

BE SWEET BAMBINO TAFFY

Bambino Taffy is a soft, slubby cotton blended with bamboo. It knits up with a knobbly texture and feels lovely to wear next to the skin. The suggested tension is 17 sts and 33 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and there is a free pattern for the ‘Sweetie Pie baby hat’ on the ball band. With a bit of adjustment on the needle size you could use it with some cotton Aran patterns too. It knits up into a light textured fabric that hangs well. Bambino Taffy is hand-dyed and spun in South Africa and each colourway has five co-ordinating shades that self-stripe as you knit. The knitted sample is shown in shade 884 Peppermint Stick with colours ranging from red through pinks to cream.

Composition: 70% organically grown cotton 30% bamboo

Weight: 50g

Length: 91m

Rec Needle Size: 4mm

RRP: approximately £8.25

Contact: Be Sweet

1315 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965 USA

Tel: (001) 415 331 9676

Email: info@besweetproducts.com

Website: www.besweetproducts.com

GEDIFRA BARINA

Barina is a lovely textured yarn with a satin shimmer that looks almost metallic. It knits up into a silky, soft fabric that feels cool to wear and has excellent elasticity. It knits to a tension of 18 sts and 25 rows to 10cm and pattern support is available in the Gedifra booklet ‘Moments 218’. A summer sweater will take approximately 13 x 50g balls. It is available in ten shades that include cool greens and sizzling orange. The knitted sample is shown in shade 06216. Machine washable on a cool cycle.

Composition: 60% cotton/40% polyamide

Weight: 50g

Length: 70m

Rec needle size: 5mm

RRP: £4.25

Contact: Gedifra

Rowan Yarns, Green Lane Mill,

Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.gedifra.net

RICO DESIGN CREATIVE COTTON ARAN

A smooth, soft cotton that knits up quickly to a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, which is a standard Aran weight. It forms a firm fabric with an even tension and is very comfortable to wear. Creative Cotton Aran is available in a large choice of 25 colours that include soft pastels, vivid brights and neutrals. The knitted sample is shown in shade 25 Turquoise. Pattern support is available in the Rico magazines and an average sweater takes 11 balls. Machine washable on a cool cycle.

Composition: 100% cotton

Weight: 50g

Length: 85m

Rec needle size: 4-5mm

RRP: £2.80

Contact: Stash Fine Yarns

4 Godstall Lane,

Chester CH1 1LN

Tel: 01244 389310

Website: www.celticove.com

THE LITTLE KNITTING COMPANY CASHMERE/28

A sumptuous Italian cashmere that knits to a perfect, even tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm. It is lovely to handle and soft enough for the most sensitive of skins to wear. The knitted sample is shown in shade Turquoise. There are eight other semi-solid shades in the range that include vivid brights and soft neutrals. Cashmere/28 is hand-dyed by Fyberspates especially for the Little Knitting Company and they will dye specific colours if requested. Hand washing is recommended.

Composition: 100% cashmere

Weight: 60g

Length: 168m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £20.35

Contact: The Little Knitting Company, Manor Green, Stanford in the Vale, Oxfordshire SN7 8LU

Tel: 07980 439 587

Email: ruth@tlkc.co.uk

Website: www.thelittleknittingcompany.co.uk

ROWAN BY AMY BUTLER BELLE ORGANIC ARAN

Rowan has joined forces with Amy Butler, best known for her colourful fabric range, to produce a stunning collection of knitting yarns and designs. Belle Aran is a soft blend of wool and cotton that knits to a tension of 19 sts and 26 rows to 10cm. It forms a beautiful firm fabric with an even tension and a soft lustre. The supporting pattern book ‘Amy Butler’s Midwest Modern Knits’ contains a unique collection of designs for lovely draping garments, accessories and homeware. The gorgeous colour palette consists of 12 clear shades that include vivid pinks, soft blue and rich cream. The knitted sample is shown in 024 Peacock. Hand wash in cool water and dry flat.

Composition: 50% wool 50% cotton

Weight: 50g

Length: 90m

Rec needle size: 4.5mm

RRP: £5.25

Contact: Rowan Yarns

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.knitrowan.com

ROWAN PURELIFE REVIVE

New for spring 2010, Revive is a yarn made completely from recycled items selected for their silk, cotton and viscose content. These are then carded to make a regenerated fibre and then spun into this beautiful high quality yarn. Revive has a lovely crisp cotton texture when knitted, with well-defined stitches and a softly blended colour. There are eight subtle shades in the colour range, all with a fleck to give a tweedy effect to the finished fabric. Revive knits to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows and pattern support can be found in The Purelife Recycled Collection. The patterns include nine designs for women and two for men. Hand washing is recommended.

Composition: 36% recycled silk 36% recycled cotton 25% recycled viscose

Weight: 50g

Length: 125m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £5.50

Contact: Rowan Yarns,

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.knitrowan.com

GEDIFRA JALIA

New for 2010, a two-toned tape yarn that feels like chiffon and knits into a firm but light fabric with a lovely texture and silky shimmer. Jalia has a tension of 14 sts and 20 rows to 10cm and knits up quickly to form a gorgeous fabric. Pattern support is available in the new Gedifra magazine with a stunning collection of designs for ladies. The average garment takes approximately 13 balls. It is available in a range of nine shades that include the soft pastel pink shown in the sample, a rich purple, vibrant green and earthy red. Hand washing is recommended.

Composition: 56% cotton 44% polyamide

Weight: 50g

Length: 55m

Rec needle size: 6-7mm

RRP: £4.50

Contact: Gedifra

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.gedifra.net

RICO ESSENTIALS MERINO DK

A lovely soft, rounded yarn that knits up into a smooth fabric with good elasticity and stitch definition. This is a very fine DK and to obtain the given tension of 22 sts and 28 rows I found it needed the larger sized needles, however smaller needles give a beautiful, even finish. Pattern support is available in Rico Knitting Idea 06. It would also be perfect for baby knits and great blankets and accessories that will machine wash over and over again. Essentials Merino DK is available in 27 classic shades and is a superwash wool that can be machine washed on a gentle cycle.

Composition: 100% merino

Weight: 50g

Length: 120m

Rec needle size: 4-4.5mm

RRP: Approx £3.50

Contact: Abakhan Fabrics, Coast Road, Llanerch-y-Mor, Mostyn,

North Wales CH8 9DX

Email: customerservices@abakhan-onlineshop.co.uk

Website: www.abakhan.co.uk

PATONS LINEN SHADOW

This new yarn for spring 2010 joins the popular Linen Touch launched last year. When knitted up, Linen Shadow has a thin random stripe in a natural shade, that has just a hint of shimmer giving a lovely light effect to the garment. It knits to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and has new pattern support in leaflet and booklet form for ladies’ knits. It will also knit to the Linen Touch patterns and all standard DK patterns. The knitted fabric feels firm and crisp to touch, gentle to wear next to the skin and cool for summer knits. Linen Shadow is available in a palette of six shades that include neutrals and vivid brights. Machine washable on a cool cycle.

Composition: 70% cotton 15% linen 15% acrlic

Weight: 50g

Length: 100m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £2.75

Contact: Patons

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.coatscrafts.co.uk

DEBBIE BLISS ECO BABY

New for spring 2010, Eco Baby is a gorgeous, soft, organic cotton with a silky sheen. It knits to a tension of 25 sts and 34 rows, which is exactly the same as the Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, so it can be used with all the Baby Cashmerino pattern books. There is also pattern support in the new book Eco Baby, with 11 designs for 0-3 year olds. It knits up evenly with clear stitch definition and feels soft and cool against the skin. The colour palette consists of 16 clear shades that include a selection of pinks, blues and greens, a lemon yellow and five neutral shades. The knitted sample is shown in shade 11. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

Composition: 100% organic cotton

Weight: 50g

Length: 125m

Rec needle size: 3.25mm

RRP: £3.95

Contact: Debbie Bliss

Designer Yarns Ltd, Units 8-10 Newbridge Industrial Estate,

Pitt St, Keighley,

West Yorkshire BD21 4PQ

Tel: 01535 664222

Email: enquiries@designeryarns.uk.com

Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

BERGERE DE FRANCE CASCADE

This unusual blend of acrylic and hemp has a soft haze and feels silky smooth against the skin. It knits up evenly, has good elasticity and feels cool to wear. Cascade has a tension of 23 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and pattern support for women and children is available in the Bergere de France spring 2010 magazine. The non-irritable quality and breathability makes it a perfect choice for baby knits and accessories. Cascade comes in a range of seven soft subtle shades and a lovely bright kiwi green. The knitted sample here is shown in Nymphe. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

Composition: 70% acrylic 30% hemp Weight: 50g

Length: 135m

Rec needle size: 3-3.5mm

RRP: £2.89

Contact: Bergere de France

11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford,

Northwich, CW8 2FA

Tel: 07968 536333

Email: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com

Website: www.bergeredefrance.com

BERGERE DE FRANCE FLASH

Flash is a lovely textured yarn that comes in seven jewel bright multicoloured shades. It knits up with a knobbly surface and silky sheen, the variegated shades knitting up as random blocks of colour. Flash has a tension of 22 sts and 32 rows to 10cm. It is easy to knit with and forms a firm fabric that hangs well. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines for women and children and include short cropped cardigans, sleeveless tops and ponchos. The average amount of yarn used for these patterns is approximately six or seven balls. Hand washing is recommended.

Composition: 92% acrylic 8% polyester

Weight: 50g

Length: 110m

Rec needle size: 3-3.5mm

RRP: £2.09

Contact: Bergere de France

11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford,

Northwich CW8 2FA

Tel: 07968 536333

Email: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com

Website: www.bergeredefrance.com

SUBLIME BAMBOO AND PEARLS DK

This exquisite blend of bamboo and pearl-sourced viscose is super soft to knit and wear and has wonderful drape. The pearl element comes from a viscose fibre blended with pearl powder taken from natural pearls raised in rivers and lakes.

This amazing combination produces a yarn that has excellent durability and breathability and feels sensuously smooth against the skin. It knits to a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm with even stitches and a pearly shimmer. Pattern support is available in The Most Chic Sublime Bamboo and Pearls DK book with 16 designs for women and girls. Sublime Bamboo and Pearls is available in nine shades that include vivid brights and soft neutrals. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

Composition: 70% bamboo sourced viscose 30% pearl sourced viscose

Weight: 50g Length: 95m

Rec needle size: 4mm

RRP: £4.55

Contact: Sublime

Flanshaw Lane, Wakefield,

West Yorkshire WF2 9ND

Tel: 01924 369666

Email: contactus@sublimeyarns.com

Website: www.sublimeyarns.com

PATONS MOROCCO

A new textured and multicoloured yarn for summer 2010, the blend of fibres produces a self-striping yarn with a shimmering metallic thread running through it. It knits up quickly to a tension of 19 sts and 28 rows to 10cm and forms a structured garment that is cool to wear and a welcome contrast to the smooth, sleek seasonal yarns. The range of five colours includes the bright Mediterranean shade shown in the knitted sample, a natural shade and two earthy blends. Pattern support is available in a booklet and leaflet form for ladies and children and the designs include simple shrugs, wraps and versatile summer cardigans. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

Composition: 44% cotton 26% polyester 22% polyamide 8% acrylic

Weight: 50g

Length: 87m

Rec needle size: 4.5mm

RRP: £2.50

Contact: Patons

Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth,

West Yorkshire HD9 2DX

Tel: 01484 681881

Email: mail@knitrowan.com

Website: www.coatscrafts.co.uk

THE NATURAL FIBRE COMPANY PURE 50/50 ALPACA AND SHETLAND WOOL 4PLY

COMPOSITION: 50% alpaca/50% pure Shetland wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150-200m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.50mm–3.50mm

RRP: £5

CONTACT: The Natural Fibre Company
Unit B Pipers Court, Pennygillam Industrial Estate, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 7PJ
Tel: 01566 777 635
E-mail: info@blackersheep.co.uk
Website: www.blackerdesigns.co.uk

The Natural Fibre Company launched its online shop last autumn. All the wool used in its products is British and is processed on the Devon/Cornwall border. This yarn knits into a soft, fine fabric with a hint of fluffiness from the alpaca. There is no suggested tension or needle size but it knitted up well on 3.5mm needles and the tension can be adjusted by changing the needle size. There are free patterns available with the yarn and an average sweater takes seven balls. The yarn is available in six natural shades and the sample is shown in Fawn.

SIRDAR COUNTRY STYLE DK

COMPOSITION: 45% acrylic/40% nylon/15% wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 318m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: Approx £3.75

CONTACT: Sirdar Spinning Ltd
Flanshaw Lane, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 231 682
E-mail: consumer@sirdar.co.uk
Website: www.sirdar.co.uk

Country Style is a highly versatile DK yarn that has been around for many seasons, but still proves to be a popular choice for its quality and value. The yarn has recently had a makeover and is now available in 100g balls. It will knit to all standard DK patterns with a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows and there is also pattern support in leaflet form for all the family. It is available in a massive range of 43 shades and the sample is shown in one of the latest additions, 599 Apples. The knitted fabric has a smooth texture and wears well too.

GEDIFRA FIORISTA

COMPOSITION: 88% cotton/12% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 78m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £3.43

CONTACT: Rowan Yarns
Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX
Tel: 01484 681 881
E-mail: mail@knitrowan.com
Website: www.knitrowan.com

Fiorista is a new yarn for spring 2009. It is a chunky, multi-plied yarn that is quick to knit, forming a thick but light fabric with good elasticity and a crisp texture. It has a tension of 17 sts and 24 rows to 10cm and a medium-sized sweater takes around 13 balls. Fiorista is available in six solid shades and eight multicoloured shades. The sample is shown in shade 5307. Pattern support is available in leaflets.

KOLLAGE HALF N HALF

COMPOSITION: 50% milk/50% wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 174 yards

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5mm

RRP: Approximately £10.95

CONTACT: KCG Trading
PO Box 145, Leeds, LS8 2WS, United Kingdom
Tel: 0113 2664651
E-mail: kcgtl2000@hotmail.com
Website: www.kcgtrading.com

Half n Half is a wonderfully soft eco-friendly yarn made from milk and wool. With a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm, it is like a very lightweight DK. It knits into a smooth and even fabric with good stitch definition, which is soft enough to wear next to the skin and doesn’t pill. Single patterns are available for women’s garments and accessories, and it would also be good for baby knits. Half n Half is available in five strong shades, Cobalt, Eggplant, Persimmon, Sangria and Olive (shown in the sample) along with Old Lace, a creamy natural.

BERROCO LOVE IT

COMPOSITION: 58% cotton/38% acrylic/4% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: Approximately £5

CONTACT: Berocco
E-mail: info@berroco.com
Website: www.berroco.com

Love It is a cool, matte cotton/acrylic blend with excellent elasticity. It knits into a firm fabric with well-defined stitches and a soft lustre. With a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, it will knit to all standard Aran-weight patterns. The palette of 23 colours range from soft pastels and sophisticated mid tones to bright, sizzling shades of summer. The sample is shown in 3221 Walnut. A range of patterns in leaflet form is available and includes designs for women and children, plus some accessories. Free patterns may also be downloaded from the Berroco website.

WOOLGANIC KNITTER�S YARN

COMPOSITION: 100% certified organic wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 104m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: Approximately £4.60

CONTACT: Woolganic

E-mail: info@organicwool.com.au
Website: www.organicwool.com.au

This lovely, soft merino wool comes from Australian sheep, but is spun in New Zealand at a mill certified to handle organic fibres. The dyes they use are low-impact and metal-free. The yarn is soft enough to be worn next to the skin without causing irritation, doesn’t pill and can be used for felting projects. It is very even when knitted and has a tension of 22 sts to 10cm. This is similar to a standard DK, so it can be used with most DK patterns. Woolganic is available in 11 clear shades and the sample is shown in Grapefruit Moon. It can also be purchased in 200g hanks of undyed wool if you want to dye your own.

LOTUS YARNS CASHMERE DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Cashmere

WEIGHT: 55g

LENGTH: 182m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25–3.75mm

RRP: Approx £12.75

CONTACT: Crafty Yarn
12 Bitterne Avenue, Tilehurst, Reading, Berkshire, RG31 4SP
Tel: 0118 943 11 44
E-mail: info@crafty-yarn.co.uk
Website: www.crafty-yarn.co.uk

Lotus Cashmere DK is a luxuriously soft and fine DK weight yarn. It knits to a tension of 19-24 sts to 10cm depending on the needles used. I went for the larger size, which gives a perfectly firm and even tension. This is a lovely yarn to handle and is fantastic to wear next to the skin. It comes in a range of 34 luscious shades and the sample is shown in shade 09 Candy Pink. It is made in China, but available through a few UK stockists including Crafty Yarn.

STYLECRAFT BUBBLE

COMPOSITION: 100% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 58m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £2.69

CONTACT: Stylecraft
PO Box 62, Goulbourne Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 1PP
Tel: 01535 609 798
E-mail: info@stylecraftltd.co.uk
Website: www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk

Bubble is a soft, chenille-type yarn that forms a lovely, bobbly texture. It knits up very quickly with a tension of 11 sts and 15 rows to 10cm. Available in a range of colours that include pastel shades and brights, the sample is shown in 2360 Blossom. Pattern support comes in leaflet form with designs for women and children and it is perfect for quick, chunky baby and toddler jackets.

SUBLIME BABY COTTON KAPOK DK

COMPOSITION: 85% cotton/15% kapok

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 116m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.15

CONTACT: Sublime
Flanshaw Lane, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 231 682
E-mail: contactus@sublimeyarns.com
Website: www.sublimeyarns.com

This yarn is an incredibly soft cotton blend that is great for babies and toddlers, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Kapok is a natural fibre that has thermo-regulating qualities. It knits up evenly to a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm, which is standard DK. There is pattern support in The First Little Sublime Baby Cotton Kapok DK Book with 14 gorgeous designs for 0-3 year-olds. Baby Cotton Kapok is available in eight shades that include soft naturals, blue, grey and the soft, pink Fairycake shown in the sample.

OPAL COTTON 2009

COMPOSITION: 38% wool, 32% polyamide, 30% cotton

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 410m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5mm

RRP: Approximately £7.95

CONTACT: Viridian
39 Brislington Hill, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 5BE
Tel: 0117 3005244
E-mail: viridianltd@tiscali.co.uk
Website: www.viridianyarn.com

This lovely sock yarn is made up of a cotton and polyamide blend twisted with superwash virgin wool to form a fine smooth yarn that knits up with a superbly even tension. The cotton element keeps your feet cool and the elasticity provided by the wool keeps the socks in shape. It has a tension of 30 sts to 10cm and will knit to most standard sock patterns, taking just one 100g ball for a pair of socks. The soft, variegated shades form subtle stripes when knitted and come in eight colourways. The knitted sample is shown in shade 2505.

SIRDAR LUXURY SOFT COTTON DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Natural Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 95m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: Approximately £2.60

CONTACT: Sirdar Spinning Ltd
Flanshaw Lane, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 231 682
E-mail: consumer@sirdar.co.uk
Website: www.sirdar.co.uk

This multi-stranded cotton knits up to a matt finish with excellent stitch detail and a superbly soft handle. It has good elasticity and as a natural fibre is perfect for babies and sensitive skins. The tension works out at 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm and it can be used with most standard double knit patterns. There are also leaflets for garments and accessories for women and children. The yarn is available in a comprehensive range of colours that include soft neutrals and vivid summer brights. The sample is shown in shade 674.

KNIT ONE CROCHET TOO TARTELETTE

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 50% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 68m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: Approximately £7.25

CONTACT: Knit One Crochet Too
E-mail: info@knitonecrochettoo.com
Website: www.knitonecrochettoo.com

Tartelette is a silky ribbon yarn that is two tone with a shiny and matt surface giving a lovely textured effect when knitted. The yarn is very elastic to knit with and drapes well with a gorgeously soft sheen. The tension comes out at 16 sts to 10cm and pattern support is available for silky tops, hats, scarves, shrugs and shawls. It is also great to blend this in with another yarn such as mohair for knitting scarves and shawls. Tartelette is available in 23 luscious variegated shades and the sample is shown in shade 731 Abalone.

DEBBIE BLISS CASHMERINO CHUNKY

COMPOSITION: 55% merino wool, 33% microfibre, 12% cashmere

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 65m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £4.55

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 8-10 Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: enquiries@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

Cashmerino Chunky is a luxuriously thick yarn that is exceptionally soft and warm to wear. It knits up quickly and easily to a tension of 14 sts and 22 rows to 10cm and creates a well-structured garment with a soft sheen. It has lovely, clear definition that looks great in plain, textured and cabled stitches. Available in 20 rich shades, the sample is shown in shade 23. Pattern support can be found in Debbie’s books, Luxury Collection, Cashmerino Collection and Out of Town.

FIDDLESTICKS KNITTING ECOKNIT

COMPOSITION: 100% Organic Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5mm

RRP: Approximately £4.20

CONTACT: Angel Yarns
Tel: 0871 288 7358
E-mail: info@angelyarns.com
Website: www.angelyarns.com

Ecoknit is made in Peru and the growth and processing of the cotton has been certified as 100% organic. This lovely, soft cotton knits up into a firm, even fabric that looks great knitted in a lace pattern or textured stitch. It is a multi-plied yarn and a little care needs to be taken to prevent splitting, but this can be solved with blunt-ended needles. The tension given on the ball band is for 21 sts to 10cm. There are five shades, Olive, Sage, Cream, Cinnamon and Coffee (shown in the knitted sample), all created from natural dyes. Pattern support is in leaflet form and includes a lovely lace and cable jumper, shawls and a waistcoat.

GEDIFRA AMARA

COMPOSITION: 80% cotton/20% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £3.18

CONTACT: Rowan Yarns
Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX
Tel: 01484 681 881
E-mail: mail@knitrowan.com
Website: www.knitrowan.com

Amara is a shiny, flat yarn consisting of a core of cotton wrapped with polyamide. The contrast created by the different fibres is just stunning. It knits up into a fabric with a crisp texture and shimmering sparkle, and it is a fabulous yarn for summer tops and accessories. The tension comes out at 19 sts and 24 rows to 10cm and pattern support is available in leaflet form. A medium-sized sweater takes approximately ten 50g balls. Amara is available in a range of 20 clear shades that include sizzling oranges, reds, cool blues and a turquoise. The sample is shown in 3719 Khaki.

PATONS SMOOTHIE DK

COMPOSITION: 100% acrylic

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 200m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: Approximately £2.60

CONTACT: Coats (UK) Ltd
PO Box 22, Lingfield House, McMullen Road, Darlington, Co. Durham, DL1 1YQ
Tel: 01325 394 347
E-mail: ccuk.sales@coats.com
Website: www.coatscrafts.co.uk

This silky yarn looks and feels like a soft cotton with a mercerised sheen. It’s hard to believe it is 100% acrylic! It is much lighter to wear than a double knit cotton and hangs well. With a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows, it will knit to standard DK designs and has pattern support in the Smoothie DK book. Garments include a textured headscarf, a shrug and a bobble rib tunic. Smoothie is available in 18 vivid shades including five print effects and the sample is shown in shade 1093 Lilac.

RICO BABY COTTON SOFT DK

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 50% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5-4mm

RRP: Approximately £2.25

CONTACT: Rico Design GMBH & Co Industriestr.
19-23, 33034 Brakel, Germany
Tel: (+49) 052 72 602-0
E-mail: info@rico-design.de
Website: www.rico-design.de

Baby Cotton Soft DK is a soft cotton blend in eight gentle shades that include white, pink, green and blue. The sample is shown in shade 002. It knits up evenly with good stitch definition and works well for plain or textured knitting. With a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm, it can be used with most standard double knit patterns and there is also pattern support available in the Rico magazines

BLUE SKY ALPACAS HAND SPUN ORGANIC COTTON

COMPOSITION: 100% organic cotton

WEIGHT: 68g

LENGTH: 120m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25-3.75mm

RRP: £12

CONTACT: Blue Sky Alpacas
PO Box 88, Cedar, MN 55011 USA
E-mail: info@blueskyalpacas.com
Website: www.blueskyalpacas.com

This soft and environmentally friendly cotton is hand spun on drop spindles to form a light twist. It knits up well with a hint of texture, a soft lustre and good elasticity. The tension given on the ball band is between 20 and 24 sts and by adjusting the needle size, this can be adapted to knit to standard DK patterns. Hand Spun Organic Cotton is currently only available

in the shade shown in the knitted sample, Natural Cream. Knitting and crochet patterns are available for babies, women and accessories.

ARTISTS PALETTE SOFTEE

COMPOSITION: 100% Superfine Alpaca

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 600m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2-3mm

RRP: £12.50

CONTACT: Artist’s Palette Yarns
29 School Lane, Upton Upon Severn, Worcestershire, WR8 0LQ
Tel: (9am-5pm only) 01684 592 442
E-mail: sales@artistspaletteyarns.co.uk
Website: www.artistspaletteyarns.co.uk

Beautifully soft to the touch, Softee is a heavier weight lace yarn, and makes the most wonderful lace patterns. There is no recommended tension and it can be used with various needle sizes between 3.5 and 5mm to produce different results. It has the cool feel you would expect from alpaca and it takes the dye a little more subtly than other yarns. Available in a standard range of 17 dreamy shades, the sample is shown in S 4768. The yarns are hand painted, and can be custom dyed to your own specification. Artist’s palette source as much of their yarn as possible from British producers, these are then dyed in acid dyes which are very safe to use, non-toxic and have very little impact on the environment. Hand washing is recommended.

BERGERE DE FRANCE ANGEL

COMPOSITION: 44% Polyamide, 32% Acrylic, 24% Mohair

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 275m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5mm

RRP: £1.90

CONTACT: Gordon Leslie
Bergere de France, 11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2FA
Tel/Fax: 01606 883 149
E-mail: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com
Website: www.bergeredefrance.fr

This ultra fine mohair blend is available in ten scrummy shades and the sample is shown in shade Glacon. It has a tension of 28 sts and 35 rows to 10cm and makes beautiful scarves and shawls. An average sized sweater takes seven balls, making it excellent value and pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines for women and children.

BERGERE DE FRANCE TWEEDINE

COMPOSITION: 30% Wool, 70% Acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5mm

RRP: £3.09

CONTACT: Gordon Leslie
Bergere de France, 11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford, Northwich. Cheshire, CW8 2FA
Tel/Fax: 01606 883 149
E-mail: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com
Website: www.bergeredefrance.fr

Tweedine is a lovely soft, lightweight yarn with a tweed effect. It knits to a tension of 24 sts and 30 rows to 10cm with just a hint of texture. Available in a range of 11 earthy tones, the knitted sample is shown in shade Saule. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines and the average sized sweater takes approximately 11 balls.

SCHEEPJES JADE

COMPOSITION: 50% Acrylic, 50% Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 101m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: Approx £3.75

CONTACT: HWS-Markoma B.V. Montageweg
28 3433 NT Nieuwegein, Netherlands
Tel: 0031 030 60 07 040
Fax: 0031 030 60 18 868
E-mail: infonl@hws-markoma.com
Website: www.scheepjeswol.nl

Scheepjes Jade is a super soft, light chunky yarn made in Holland. The rounded, softly spun yarn knits up with a lovely, even tension. With 12 sts and 16 rows to 10cm it grows quickly and is suitable for a number of projects. Each shade has a graduated colour change in natural and colourful bright tones. The sample is shown in shade 362.

LOUISA HARDING CASHMERE DK

COMPOSITION: 55% Merino Wool, 35% Microfiber, 10% Cashmere

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 105m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns Ltd
Units 9-10 Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ,
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

Kashmir is a luxury blend with a lustrous sheen, the yarn consists of a woven chain that knits up into a lightly textured fabric that is soft to handle and comfortable to wear. It knits to a tension of 22 sts to 10cm which is a standard double knit weight so can be used with most DK patterns. There is also pattern support in the Louisa Harding books, Knitting Little Luxuries, and Enchanted Garden. Kashmir is available in 27 shades that range from soft pastels to deep, earthy tones. The sample is shown in shade 06. It washes and wears well, with no pilling.

ARAGON YARNS CLASSIC ROMNEY

COMPOSITION: 100% Pure Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £3.50

CONTACT: Aragon Yarns
Aragon Farm, Sissinghurst, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 2AB
Tel: 01580 714 400
E-mail: woolstore@aragonyarns.co.uk

Aragon Yarns are based in Kent and keep their own flock of Romney sheep, the fleece is sent to the foothills of the Italian Alps where it is washed spun and dyed by artisans with decades of experience, providing a pure and luxurious yarn. Classic Romney is a single twist soft slub yarn that is lovely to handle and knits into a firm fabric with a soft lustre. The tension given is 17 sts and 22 rows to 10cm which produces a warm garment hat is not too heavy to wear. It can also be knitted on 5mm needles, which will produce a standard Aran-weight tension. Knitting kits using the yarn are available direct from Aragon and these include tea cosies, hot water bottle covers, cushion covers and accessories. There is a good selection of 18 strong clear shades available in the range and the sample is shown in shade Heron.

LANG VENICE

COMPOSITION: 10% Cashmere, 90% Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5-5mm

RRP: £4.60

CONTACT: Artyarn
10 High Street, Pointon, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 0LX
Tel: 01529 240 510
E-mail: info@artyarn.co.uk
Website: www.artyarn.co.uk

A luxurious cotton/cashmere blend from Switzerland that knits up quickly with a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, this will also knit to standard Aran patterns. The rounded 16ply yarn knits up evenly with strong stitch definition and a little care is needed not to split the yarn, but blunt-ended needles should solve this problem. Venice is suitable for winter woollies for sensitive skins, with the comfort of cotton and the warmth of cashmere. Available in 17 strong shades,

the sample is shown in 0094.

BERGERE DE FRANCE NATURA

COMPOSITION: 50% Alpaca, 50% Worsted Wool

WEIGHT: 50g Length: 40m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £2.79

CONTACT: Gordon Leslie
Bergere de France, 11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2FA
Tel & Fax: 01606 883149
E-mail: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com

Natura is a fabulous new yarn for Winter 2008. This softly spun chunky yarn knits up quickly with a slub texture into a warm, dense fabric. The tension comes out at 12 sts and 16 rows to 10cm making it a great choice for a project to be completed in a hurry. A medium sized sweater takes approximately 20 balls and pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines. It is available in eight shades that include a creamy natural colour, brown, grey and a lovely plum shade. The sample is shown in Roche.

LOUISA HARDING HULDA

COMPOSITION: 50% Wool, 30% Acrylic, 20% Linen

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £4.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com

Hulda is a lovely, loosely spun chunky yarn. It knits up quickly and evenly into a soft and light garment, with a tension of 14-16 sts to 10cm. The blended fibres produce a very slightly textured knit, with the linen element giving a gentle haze without the itchiness of mohair. It comes in eight strong, clear shades and the sample is shown in shade 02 Duck Egg. Pattern support is available in the new book from Louisa Harding ‘Wildspur’ which features beautifully structured garments and accessories for women.

LOUISA HARDING LA SALUTE QUATTRO

COMPOSITION: 79% Kid Mohair, 21% Nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 105m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

This luxurious mohair blend knits up beautifully with a tension of 20 sts and 28 rows. For a lacier knit, it is also possible to use up to 6mm needles, perfect for wraps and scarves. The variegated yarn comes in eight subtle, blended shades and the sample is shown in shade 05. Pattern support is available in the two Louisa Harding books, Venezia Una Volta and Venezia Felice Mai Dopo.

ROWAN SHIMMER

COMPOSITION: 60% Cupro, 40% Polyester

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 175m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.75-3.25mm

RRP: £3.45

CONTACT: Rowan Yarns
Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX
Tel: 01484 681881
E-mail: mail@knitrowan.com

Shimmer is a fine metallic yarn designed for knitting and crochet. It handles well with good elasticity and is much softer than most metallic yarns so could be worn next to the skin and is very elastic, springing back into shape easily. You need to take care not to split the yarn, while knitting so use blunt ended needles. Shimmer is available in four shades ranging from a very pale silver to black and different needle sizes can be used to vary the tension. Limited pattern support is available in Rowan magazine No. 44, but it can also be used as a substitute for patterns that need the old Rowan Lurex Shimmer. Perfect for that sparkling party top for Christmas or New Year.

ANCHOR ARTISTE METALLIC CROCHET NO.5

COMPOSITION: 80% Viscose, 20% Metalised Polyester

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 100m

REC HOOK SIZE: 2mm

RRP: £3.50

CONTACT: Anchor Metallic Coats (UK) Ltd
PO Box 22, Lingfield House, McMullen Road, Darlington, Co. Durham, DL1 1YQ
Tel: 01325 394 347
E-mail: ccuk.sales@coats.com

This shimmering metallic yarn is intended for crochet but can be knitted with as well. A 2mm crochet hook is recommended on the ball band, but I knitted the sample using 3mm knitting needles, which gave a tension of 32 sts to 10cm. It is easy to use, producing a crisp finish that you would not want to wear next to the skin, but would make great lacy openwork tops in crochet or knitting. It can also be stranded with knitting yarns for a glittery finish. Anchor metallic is available in a range of gold, silver and copper shades and the sample is shown in colour 302.

LORNA'S LACES ANGEL

COMPOSITION: 70% Angora, 30% Lamswool

LENGTH: 50yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £10.50

CONTACT: Lorna’s Laces 4229
North Honore St, Chicago, IL 60613
E-mail: yarn@lornaslace.net
Website: www.lornaslaces.net

This is an exquisitely soft, hazy yarn, that knits up with a beautifully even tension of 20 sts to 10cm. It is hand dyed in 41 clear, solid colours and 73 fabulous multicoloured shades. The sample is shown in shade Whisper. This is the most gorgeous yarn to handle and wear, and is suitable for baby knits, soft shrugs, cardigans, shawls and accessories.

FILATURA DI CROSA VENEZIA

COMPOSITION: 60% Polyamide, 40% Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm

CONTACT: Filatura di Crosa Venezia
Bloomsbury Trading, 42 Royal Oak Gardens, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 2DA
Tel: 01665 606062
E-mail: info@bloomsburytrading.co.uk

A wide ribbon that is half matt and half silky, this yarn knits up into a lovely, textured fabric that is soft and comfortable to wear with a silky shimmer. It is quite chunky when knitted but lightweight on the skin with a tension of 13 sts and 18 rows to 10cm. This is quick to knit and could be run up in a couple of evenings to make a great last minute party top. Venezia is available in eight blended shades that include naturals, pastels and brights, and the sample is shown in shade 22. Pattern support is available in the Filatura di Crosa magazines.

MADEIRA NORA

COMPOSITION: 80% Viscose, 20% Metalised Polyester

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: None

RRP: £2.95

CONTACT: Madeira UK Ltd
12 Hallikeld Close, Barker Business Park, Melmerby, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 5GZ
Tel: 01765 650003
E-mail: info@madeira.co.uk

Nora is a metallic yarn suitable for crochet or knitting. It can be used on its own or stranded with another yarn. It is easy to knit with and surprisingly elastic when knitted. There is no recommended tension on the ball band, but I used 3mm needles, which gives approximately 32 sts to 10cm. It is available in a range of 19 shades that include different tones of gold and silver plus rich purple, green, red and blue. The sample is shown in shade 342. This is an ideal yarn for openwork crochet tops, accessories and embellishments. The crunchy texture would make me want to wear it on top of a shirt though

DEBBIE BLISS PURE SILK

COMPOSITION: 100% Silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £6.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

Pure Silk is a silky smooth, rounded yarn that knits up with very clear stitch definition and it has excellent drape. With a tension of 24 sts and 30 rows to 10cm, it knits up firmly and is available in a range of 24 shimmering colours that include soft duck egg, pale pink, vibrant fuchsia and the stunning turquoise (shade 07) shown in the knitted sample. Pattern support is available in The Pure Silk Collection and Coastlines, both by Debbie Bliss.

ARAUCANIA COPIHUE

COMPOSITION: 100% Superfine Alpaca

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £4.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

Copihue takes its name from the Chilean Bellflower, the national flower of Chile. This amazing vine-like flower can grow up to 10 metres and in the wild is pollinated by hummingbirds. The luxuriously soft, chunky yarn is hand painted in a range of eight unique colourways that include pastel shades and vibrant blends, and the sample is shown in shade PT511. The yarn is made up of a loosely spun cabled twist and is soft and light to handle. Copihue knits to a tension of 14 sts to 10cm and pattern support is available in Winter Jewels by Jane Ellison. Use this lovely yarn for knitting luxurious sweaters and accessories.

RYC PURE SILK DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £10.95

CONTACT: Rowan Yarns
Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX
Tel: 01484 681 881
E-mail: mail@knitrowan.com
Website: www.knitrowan.com

New for autumn 2008, this is a luxurious cabled yarn that knits up well with just a hint of texture. It looks good used with patterned stitches such as cables and moss stitch. With a tension 22 sts and 30 rows it will knit to standard DK patterns and pattern support can also be found in Rowan Classic Winter Gifts, a lovely collection of garments and accessories. Pure Silk DK is available in ten soft, subtle shades that include the neutral tones of Bone, Pumice and Sandstone and the warm pink of shade 159 Tuber Rose shown in the sample.

LOUISA HARDING JASMINE

COMPOSITION: 48% Cotton, 39% Bamboo, 10% Silk, 3% Polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 98m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com

This beautifully soft blended yarn can be worn next to the skin and is perfect for party tops. Jasmine has a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and it will knit to standard DK patterns. Pattern support is also available in Summer Classics. It is available in 12 shades ranging from soft pastel to rich jewel tones, each dusted with a hint of glitz and the sample is shown in shade 4. This yarn feels like a soft cotton and knits up evenly with good stitch definition and elasticity.

LOUISA HARDING GLISTEN

COMPOSITION: 97% Nylon, 3% Polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 85m

REC NEEDLE SIZE : 5mm

RRP: £6.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
strong>Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

This fine, sparkling ribbon yarn knits up quickly and easily with a tension of 20 sts and 28 rows to 10cm. The yarn is made up of a narrow ribbon in blended colours, scattered with tiny pinpricks of sparkle. This knits up into a textured fabric with good elasticity. It is available in ten colourful shades, the sample is shown in shade 18. Pattern support is available in the Louisa Harding book, Venezia Una Volta, Swallowtails and Hummingbirds. It is a perfect yarn for Christmas tops and accessories.

DEBBIE BLISS DONEGAL CHUNKY TWEED

COMPOSITION: 100% Wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £7.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 9-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

This gorgeous, traditional tweed is spun in Ireland and is the perfect choice for cosy winter knits in plain or cabled stitches. With a tension of 12 sts and 18 rows to 10cm, it knits up quickly and effortlessly. Pattern support is available in the Donegal Tweed book and the Luxury Tweed book by Debbie Bliss. Donegal Chunky Tweed is available in 16 stunning shades that include soft, earthy tones and some new, bright vibrant colours for autumn. All the shades have a contrasting tweed fleck and the sample is shown in shade 11.

PATONS SMOOTHIE DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Acrylic

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 200m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £1.99

CONTACT: Coats (UK) Ltd
PO Box 22, Lingfield House, McMullen Road, Darlington, Co. Durham, DL1 1YQ
Tel: 01325 394 347
E-mail: ccuk.sales@coats.com
Website: www.coatscrafts.co.uk

To look at this yarn, it is hard to believe it is acrylic. You can feel that slightly when handling it, but it does look like a crisp, mercerised cotton. Smoothie knits up very evenly into a firm knit with excellent elasticity and good stitch definition, and it is great for textured or plain knitting. This DK-weight yarn is available in a wide selection of 13 solid colours and five print effects. The sample is shown in shade 10 Lime. With a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles, it will knit to all DK patterns and there is also excellent pattern support with designs including shrugs, boleros, cardigans and accessories.

MISSION FALLS 1824 COTTON WHIRL

COMPOSITION: 100% Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 78m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £4.50

CONTACT: Hantex Ltd
Whitehouse Yard, Eaudyke, Friskney, Boston, PE22 8NL
Tel: 01754 820 800
E-mail: sales@hantex.co.uk
Website: www.hantex.co.uk

This great all-year-round Aran weight cotton will knit to all standard Aran weight patterns with a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm. It also comes with full pattern support in the fantastic range of pattern books by Mags Kindis with designs for all the family. It is interchangeable with the wool, so it can be used for any of the 1824 patterns. Cotton Swirl is an easy cotton to work with, knitting up into a lovely textured finish with good drape. The shades are five inspirational, multicoloured blends that include sunset reds, golden wheat field hues and the soft blues and greens of the sample (shade 773 Coastal).

SIRDAR BALMORAL

COMPOSITION: 72% Wool, 25% Alpaca, 3% Silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.90

CONTACT: Sirdar Spinning Ltd
Flanshaw Lane, Alverthorpe, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 371501
E-mail: enquiries@sirdar.co.uk
Website: www.sirdar.co.uk

This is an old classic that has been re-introduced to the Sirdar range. Made from 100% natural fibres, it feels strong and durable and the luxurious blend gives a smooth touch and beautiful drape. It has a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm and will knit to all standard DK patterns. The soft, heathery colour range has a touch of royalty with names like Clarence Pink, Buckingham Blue and Corgi, and the sample is shown in shade 006 Deerstalker. A cool handwash is recommended.

STYLECRAFT SPECIAL TWIRL DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Acrylic

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 196m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £1.99

CONTACT: Stylecraft Ltd
PO Box 62, Goulbourne Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 1PP
Tel: 01535 609798
E-mail: info@stylecraftltd.co.uk
Website: www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk

This is a soft, budget yarn that looks a bit plastic in the ball but actually knits up extremely well, with a good, even tension and no stickiness on the needles. It will knit to all standard DK patterns with a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. Special Twirl DK is available in six shades and the knitted sample is shade 1651 Apple. It is machine washable and can be tumble dried on a cool cycle.

ELLE RUSTICA ULTRA

COMPOSITION: 20% Wool, 80% Premium Acrylic

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6.5mm

RRP: £3.50

CONTACT: RKM Wools
4a Rousehill, Shrewsbury, SY1 1PQ
Tel: 01743 245 623
E-mail: rkm.wools@btconnect.com
Website: www.rkmwools.co.uk

This ultra-chunky yarn knits up really quickly into a thick, warm garment. With a tension of 11 sts and 17 rows to a 10cm square, it is the perfect yarn for a quick project. It is available in six rustic shades that include natural, blue, brown and green shown in the knitted sample (shade 124 Fern). The fleck gives a natural tweedy effect when it is knitted, and it is great for big, chunky jackets and sweaters.

ROWAN PURELIFE ORGANIC WOOL

COMPOSITION: 100% Organic Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.95

CONTACT: Rowan Yarns
Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX
Tel: 01484 681 881
E-mail: mail@knitrowan.com
Website: www.knitrowan.com

Following the successful launch of the Purelife organic cotton this spring, the new addition to the Purelife range is fabulous. It is very soft to handle, looks great in textured stitches, has good elasticity and comes in a range of eight soft, natural shades named after the dyes. These include Parsley, Black Tea and Onion (shown in the sample). With a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm, it will knit to a standard DK tension and there is also pattern support in The Organic Wool Collection, a book of 12 knitted and crocheted designs for women.

ROWAN PURE WOOL ARAN

COMPOSITION: 100% Super Wash Wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 170m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £5.45

CONTACT: Rowan Yarns
Green Lane Mill, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, HD9 2DX
Tel: 01484 681 881
E-mail: mail@knitrowan.com
Website: www.knitrowan.com

This Aran weight yarn replaces the sadly missed Magpie Aran, but has the added benefit of being machine washable. It knits up evenly with clear stitch definition and a firm finish. It is soft to handle and sturdy enough to cope with cold winter weather. Pure Wool Aran comes in a range of 16 subtle shades that include classics like Ivory and Marine and the warm tones of Honey, Ember and Raspberry. The sample is shown in shade 675 Sage. With a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, it will knit to all standard Aran patterns and there is also pattern support in the Rowan Pure Wool Family Collection.

BLUE SKY ALPACAS SKINNY DYED

COMPOSITION: 100% Organically Grown Cotton

WEIGHT: 65g

LENGTH: 137m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.35-3.75mm

RRP: £7.25

CONTACT: Blue Sky Alpacas Inc
PO Box 88, Cedar, MN 55011, USA
E-mail: info@blueskyalpacas.com
Website: www.bluskyalpacas.com

This eco friendly cotton is a soft, rounded yarn with a matt finish. It is lovely to handle and looks good in plain or textured stitches. The tension comes out at 24 sts to 10cm and the yarn will also knit to a double knit tension on 4mm needles. Skinny Dyed is available in 17 gorgeous, clear shades that are created with low impact dyes, and the sample is shown in shade 304 Zinc. Pattern support is available in leaflet form or you can simply adjust the tension and knit with standard DK patterns.

TWILLEYS FREEDOM SPIRIT

COMPOSITION: 100% Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 120m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.99

CONTACT: Thomas Ramsden & Co (Bradford) Ltd
Netherfield Rd, Guiseley, West Yorkshire, LS20 9PD
Tel: 01943 872 264
E-mail: enquiries@tbramsden.co.uk
Website: www.tbramsden.co.uk

This lovely, soft wool is made in England and knits to a standard DK tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles. It is easy to handle and knits up evenly into subtle stripes. The 15 colourways range from soft blends of the same shade, shown in the sample (514 Nature) to the multicoloured shade 507 Essence. There are some great supporting patterns in leaflet form for cardigans, sweaters, shrugs and accessories.

ARAUCANIA RANCO SOLID

COMPOSITION: 75% Wool, 25% Polyamide

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 344m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25mm

RRP: £7.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 8-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

Ranco is named after a lake situated in the South of Chile in one of the most spectacular river and lake systems. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty and the fantastic hand dyed shades of this yarn are inspired by the natural surroundings of the area. Ranco is available in ten earthy shades, which are described as solid, but each one contains a subtle blend of one colour and the sample is shown in 485 Brick. Ranco is essentially a sock yarn and knits to a tension of 30 sts to 10cm. The blend of wool and nylon gives it excellent elasticity and makes it durable enough to withstand the wear and tear, plus there are many other projects it could also be used for.

MISTI ALPACA HANDPAINT SOCK YARN

COMPOSITION: 50% Alpaca, 30% Merino Wool, 10% Silk, 10% Nylon

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 400m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.75mm

RRP: £12

CONTACT: Misti International
PO Box 2532, Glen Ellyn, Illinois, 60138, USA
E-mail: info@mistialpaca.com
Website: www.mistialpaca.com

This luxurious blended sock yarn is fabulously soft to wear, with a warm, fluffy haze from the alpaca creating socks to die for. It knits to a tension of 28 sts and goes on forever with one skein easily providing enough for a pair of socks. It is available in 15 gorgeous hand painted colours that include soft, subtle blends and vibrant splashes of colour. The sample is shown in shade 11 Senta.

ARAUCANIA PATAGONIA

COMPOSITION: 100% Cotton

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £7.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 8-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate,Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

This smooth, chunky and softly textured yarn has a tension of 13 sts to 10cm. It is soft and firm to handle, and perfect for quick projects, making great knitted bags and accessories. Patagonia is available in eight rich, earthy shades that are hand dyed in variegated colours and the sample is shown in shade 204 Orange. Pattern support is available in the in the Araucania Collection books by Jane Ellison.

MIRASOL T'IKA

COMPOSITION:100% Pima Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g Length: 83m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.50

CONTACT: Designer Yarns
Units 8-10, Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664 222
E-mail: alex@designeryarns.uk.com
Website: www.designeryarns.uk.com

This luxuriously soft cotton from Peru is part of the Mirasol Project and a Fairtrade yarn. A portion of the proceeds is dedicated to the funding of a school in Puno in Peru. It has a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows and knits up beautifully into a soft and silky-smooth fabric. T’ika is available in a range of 12 vibrant shades and the sample is knitted in 509 Scarlet Red. Pattern support is available in the Mirasol Collection Book Two by Jane Ellison, it will also knit to a standard DK pattern.

THE FIBRE COMPANY SAVANNAH

COMPOSITION: 50% Merino, 20% Organic Cotton, 15% Linen, 15% Soya

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 145m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £10

CONTACT: Loop
41 Cross Street, Islington, London, N1 2BB
Tel: 020 7288 1160
E-mail: info@loop.gb.com
Website: www.loop.gb.com

This New England company specialises in unique blends of natural fibres and pays special attention to environmentally friendly production methods, such as the use of low-impact dyes and organic yarns where possible. A combination of the above creates an unusual yarn with a twisted ply that knits up into a lovely garment with a softly textured finish. It feels more like cotton than wool and is perfect for sensitive skins. This hand dyed yarn is available in a colour palette of 31 clear and bright shades, and the sample is shown in Apricot. Savannah is similar to a DK weight yarn and has a tension of 24 sts to 10cm. Pattern support is also available.

BERGERE DE FRANCE ZIG ZAG

COMPOSITION: 61% Acrylic, 26% Worsted Wool, 13% Polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g Length: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10cm

RRP: £3.29

CONTACT: Gordon Leslie
11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2FA
Tel/Fax: 01606 883 149
E-mail: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com
Website: www.bergeredefrance.com

This new, textured boucle yarn knits into a soft and very dense fabric. Use a larger needle to cast on loosely, and then change back to the recommended size. The knitted fabric has excellent elasticity and springs back into shape. Zig Zag is available in seven gently blended shades and the sample is shown in Jamaique. Pattern support, is available for short, boxy sweaters and cardigans, and the average garment takes 13 balls. The tension comes out at 13 sts and 23 rows to 10cm using 5mm needles and there are 75 metres to a 50g ball.

SUBLIME ORGANIC MERINO WOOL DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Organic Merino Wool

WEIGHT: 50g Length: 105m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.94

CONTACT: Sirdar Spinning Ltd, Flanshaw Lane, Alverthorpe Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 369 666
E-mail: contactus@sublimeyarns.com

Following the successful launch of their organic cotton, Sublime has come up with this wonderfully soft pure wool. It consists of a loosely spun and rounded fibre, which knits up into perfectly even stitches in spite of the twist looking almost like a hand spun with varying thicknesses. The stitch definition is very clear and the knitted fabric is gorgeously soft to handle and wear. Organic Merino Wool DK has a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm. It is available in a range of soft shades inspired by nature’s colours and the sample is shown in shade 119 Asparagus. Pattern support is available in the Sublime Organic Merino Wool pattern book and it will knit to most standard DK patterns. Hand wash in cool water and dry flat.

SIRDAR BIG SOFTIE

COMPOSITION: 51% Wool, 49% Acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 45m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10mm

RRP: £2.38

CONTACT: Sirdar Spinning Ltd
Flanshaw Lane, Alverthorpe Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 369 666
E-mail: enquiries@sirdar.co.uk

This super chunky yarn is very aptly named. The loosely spun yarn is thick and light and knits up very quickly and easily with a tension of 9 sts and 12 rows to 10cm. This is a great yarn for beginner knitters to create simple chunky sweaters, hats and scarves, and pattern support is available in the Sirdar leaflets. Big Softie is available in a range of soft, subtle tones that echo the softness with names like Blancmange, Marshmallow, Soufflé and Foam, and the sample is shown in shade 037 Teddy. Despite the acrylic element, it feels like a chunky pure wool, but has the advantage of being machine washable on a cool cycle.

SUBLIME CASHMERE MERINO SILK ARAN

COMPOSITION: 75% Extra Fine Merino Aran, 20% Silk, 5% Cashmere

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 86m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £3.95

CONTACT: Sirdar Spinning Ltd
Flanshaw Lane, Alverthorpe Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9ND
Tel: 01924 369 666
E-mail: contactus@sublimeyarns.com

This is an exquisite blend of luxury yarns and the soft, rounded fibre knits up like a classic extra fine merino with perfect stitch definition and a silky sheen. The silk and cashmere provide a luxury element to a very affordable yarn. It is available in 18 subtle shades that include some luscious pinks, lilac and mauve. The sample is shown in shade 105 Treacle. With a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows, it will knit to any standard Aran pattern. Pattern support is also available in The Sublime Aran Hand Knit book.

BERGERE DE FRANCE PLANETE

COMPOSITION: 82% Acrylic, 18% Worsted Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 70m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £2.19

CONTACT: Gordon Leslie
11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2FA
Tel/Fax: 01606 883 149
E-mail: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com
Website: www.bergeredefrance.com

This soft, slightly tweedy looking yarn has a silky shimmer and subtle colour changes. It knits up quickly and evenly with well-defined stitches and is easy to handle. It has a tension of 15 sts and 19 rows to 10cm using 5mm needles. An average sized sweater takes approximately 15 balls and pattern support is available from Bergere de France for garments and accessories. Planete comes in a colour range of eight clear shades and the sample is shown in Gambas.

WENDY ZENA

COMPOSITION: 49% kid mohair, 51% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 500m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £7.00

CONTACT: Loop
41 Cross Street, Islington, London, N1 2BB
Tel: 020 7288 1160
Website: www.loop.gb.com

This exquisite lace-weight blended yarn feels like gossamer to handle. It is very fine but knits to a tension of 19 sts and 17 rows to 10cm, creating a lacy open stitch. It makes wonderful shawls, wraps and throws from just one skein. Available in ten clear and vibrant shades that include wonderful Lime Green, Cherry and a bright apricot. The sample is shown in the shade Summer Sky and this yarn is incredibly good value.

ANCHOR WASH+FILZ-IT!

COMPOSITION: 100% wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 50m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £2.35

CONTACT: Coats Crafts (UK) Ltd
PO Box 22, Lingfield House, McMullen Rd, Darlington, Co. Durham
Tel: 01325 394394
Email: consumer.ccuk@coats.com

This yarn has been designed specifically for felting, enabling the knitter to create high quality felted projects by simply machine washing it at 60 degrees. There is no tension guide on the ball band, but the recommended needle size is 8mm and that gives a tension of 12 sts and 16 rows to 10cm (the sample is shown unfelted). It knits up very quickly and easily with large, clear stitches and it has 19 shades in the colour range. The sample is shown in shade 08. Pattern support comes in three booklets for felted accessories, which include plant pot holders, table mats, jewellery and bags. The stunning patterns are aimed at different ability levels, so you can easily start with a simple project and work up to the more advanced ones.

LANA GROSSA LUXOR

COMPOSITION: 51% merino wool, 49% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £5.50

CONTACT: Lana Grossa
Email: office@lanagrossa.de
Website: www.lanagrossa.com

This soft, shimmering yarn has a unique finish that makes it look almost metallic. Luxor is an easy yarn to handle with a clear stitch definition in either textured or plain stitches. It knits to a tension of 16 sts and 28 rows and an average sized sweater takes approximately seven balls. Pattern support is available in the Lana Grossa magazines. The colour palette has 14 iridescent shades and the knitted sample is shown in shade 13 Turquoise.

DROPS DESIGN SILKE ALPACA

COMPOSITION: 20% silk, 80% baby alpaca

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 60m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £3.75

CONTACT: Scandinavian Knitting Design
South Lodge, Wellington Court, Spencers Wood, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1BN
Tel: 01189 884 226
Email: sales@scandinavianknittingdesign.com
Website: www.scandinavianknittingdesign.com

This exclusive blend is luxuriously soft and can be worn by even the most sensitive skinned. It knits up quickly with a gentle haziness and soft shimmer, and it looks wonderful in structured garments with a soft drape and beautiful fit. Available in 24 muted shades, the sample is shown in shade 7403. Silk Alpaca has a tension of 17 sts and 22 rows. This yarn is also suitable for felting, giving a lovely result for hats and bags.

GARNSTUDIO SAFRAN

COMPOSITION: 100% Egyptian cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 160m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5mm

RRP: £1.85

CONTACT: Scandinavian Knitting Design
South Lodge, Wellington Court, Spencers Wood, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1BN
Tel: 01189 884 226
Email: sales@scandinavianknittingdesign.com
Website: www.scandinavianknittingdesign.com

A popular choice in the Drops range, this lovely, light cotton has good elasticity and a crisp, firm finish. The stitch definition is strong and clear and the knitted fabric feels soft and springy to touch. It has a tension of 23 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and it is available in a fabulous selection of 40 shades, which include every colour you could wish for. The knitted sample is shown in shade 30. There is an extensive collection of patterns for women and children available on the Garnstudio website. Safran is a superb yarn that is easy to knit with, gliding effortlessly along the needle. It is also perfect for crochet projects and is excellent value.

KOLLAGE LUSCIOUS

COMPOSITION: 63% cotton, 37% nylon elastene

WEIGHT: 55g

LENGTH: 185yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5-3.25mm

RRP: £5.85

CONTACT: KCG Trading Ltd
PO Box 145, Leeds, LS8 2WS
Tel: 0113 266 4651
Email: kcgtl2000@hotmail.com
Website: www.kollageyarns.com

This wonderful springy yarn is just perfect for socks, creating a cool and breathable fabric. It knits up really neatly, is sumptuously soft to handle and has a perfectly even stitch definition. The yarn can be used for fitted sweaters and skirts as well as socks, and pattern support is available for women and babies. The needle size can be varied, giving a tension of between 24-32 sts and 36-40 rows to 10cm. Luscious is available in 27 bright, clear, solid tones and 11 variegated shades, and the knitted sample is shown in Rosetta

KOLLAGE CORNTASTIC

COMPOSITION: 100% corn

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 105yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5mm

RRP: £4.55

CONTACT: KCG Trading Ltd
PO Box 145, Leeds, LS8 2WS
Tel: 0113 266 4651
Email: kcgtl2000@hotmail.com
Website: www.kollageyarns.com

This plied yarn has a smooth and rounded finish. It feels like a soft cotton and has a well defined stitch that looks great in moss stitch or cables. It knits to a tension of 22 sts and 24 rows to 10cm. Some pattern support is available with an emphasis on designs for babies as this is the perfect yarn for sensitive skins. Corntastic is available in 22 vibrant shades named after precious and semi-precious stones and the sample is shown in Coral. Machine wash and dry for an easy care yarn.

KOLLAGE CREAMY

COMPOSITION: 80% milk, 20% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 200yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25mm

RRP: £9.85

CONTACT: KCG Trading Ltd
PO Box 145, Leeds, LS8 2WS
Tel: 0113 266 4651
Email: kcgtl2000@hotmail.com
Website: www.kollageyarns.com

Yarns using milk fibre are the latest natural product on the market. Blended with cotton, this superior green yarn is healthy for the skin and wonderfully comfortable to wear. With 28 sts and 36 rows to 10cm, it will knit to the same tension as a standard 4ply cotton. It is lovely to knit with, handling well with a good, even finish and a soft drape that feels like silk. Creamy is available in six fresh shades plus a soft natural shade and the sample is shown in Canopy Green. There is limited pattern support for the yarn, but you can use most 4ply cotton patterns.

BE SWEET BOUCLE MOHAIR

COMPOSITION: 100% baby mohair

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 120yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £10.00

CONTACT: Be Sweet
1315 Bridgeway, Sausalito CA 94965, USA
Email: info@besweetproducts.com
Website: www.besweetproducts.com

This luxuriously soft mohair knits into a warm and thick garment that is beautifully light to wear. The mohair comes from the fleece of Angora goats and has been hand spun and dyed by women in South Africa under a job creation programme, offering job opportunities into an economically depressed rural region. The yarn has large loops at every centimetre that look like angel hair and knit into a wonderful texture. It is a little tricky to cast on with, so avoid very pointed needles which catch in the loops. Once you are past the first couple of rows, it knits up quickly. Boucle Mohair is available in a fantastic range of over 60 solid and 14 hand painted colours in every shade imaginable. The sample is shown in Pistachio. Pattern support is available for garments, accessories and throws, and the tension and needle size can be varied depending on the effect you want to achieve. Use large needles for open, lacy scarves or 6mm needles for a tight, boucle effect.

MIRASOL PERU MISKI

COMPOSITION: 100% baby llama

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £4.95

CONTACT: Designer Yarns Ltd
Units 8-10 Newbridge Industrial Estate, Pitt Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4PQ
Tel: 01535 664222
Fax: 01535 664333
Email: alex@designeryarns.uk.com

The Mirasol project is based on Fair Trade. This guarantees that producers in the developing world get a better deal for their products. This fabulously sumptuous yarn is quick to knit and superb to handle. With a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, it will knit to standard Aran patterns and there is also superb pattern support in The Mirasol Collection Book One by Jane Ellison. Miski is available in ten gorgeous shades and the knitted sample is shown in shade 104.

BIGGAN DESIGN FIRST CROSS MERINO DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Merino

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 105m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.45

CONTACT: Biggan Design Pty Ltd
PO Box 798, Kenmore, QLD 4069, Australia
Email: hd@biggandesign.com
Website: www.biggandesign.com.au

This luxuriously soft merino yarn is produced by Swedish designer Biggan Dups who now lives in Australia. She has created the beautiful harmonised palette of 64 shades to inspire knitters. These shades will always be kept in stock as a standard range. The knitted sample is shown in shade 955 Hot Pink. This wonderful yarn is so soft, you can wear it next to your skin and it has superb elasticity, making it fun and easy to knit with. First Cross Merino DK has a tension of 22 sts and 29 rows using 4mm needles and will knit to all standard DK patterns. It is machine washable on a gentle 30 degree cycle and keeps its shape without pilling.

CHERRY TREE HILL SILKY KIDD

COMPOSITION: 52% silk, 22% Merino, 18% superkid mohair, 8% nylon

WEIGHT: 113.5g

LENGTH: 322yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.75mm

RRP: £4.95

CONTACT: 100 Cherry Tree Hill Lane, Barton, VT 05822, USA
Email: info@cherryyarn.com
Website: www.cherryyarn.com

Silky Kidd is a DK-weight silk and merino yarn with kid mohair, known for its silky softness and luxurious feel. This lustrous blend has a nylon binder to give it strength and is made up of a twist of two strands in different shades, knitting to a tension of 20 sts to 10cm. It makes fabulous shawls and wraps, but it can also be used for sweaters and cardigans and pattern support is available too. There are 33 eye-catching, hand-dyed shades in the range and the knitted sample is shown in Wild Cherry.

TWILLEYS FREEDOM SINCERE ORGANIC COTTON

COMPOSITION: 100% Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 115m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.95

CONTACT: Twilleys Of Stamford
Thomas B Ramsden (Bradford) Ltd, Netherfield Rd, Guiseley, Leeds, LS20 9PD
Tel: 01943 872 264
Email: sales@tbramsden.co.uk

This gorgeous new yarn from Twilley’s which meets the increasing demand for organic products. It is a beautifully natural blend that complies with Global Organic Textile standards, The yarn is soft to handle and knits evenly with good stitch definition. A perfect yarn for summer knits for all the family, it is especially suitable for sensitive skins. The tension comes out at 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm. Sincere Organic Cotton has a palette of 11 soft, subtle shades and the sample is shown in shade 609.

MARKS AND KATTENS BOM-ULL

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 50% wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £2.45

CONTACT: Garnstudio Drops
Scandinavian Knitting Design, South Lodge, Wellington Court, Spencers Wood, Reading
Tel: 01189 884226
Email: sales@scandinavianknittingdesign.com

This classic blend is spun into a lightly textured tube and knits up into a lovely, silky and firm fabric that feels fabulous to wear. It knits to a tension of 20 sts and 27 rows to 10cm. Bom-ull is a blend of natural fibres that can be everything you want at once: soft, light, warm or cool. Available in 15 colourful shades, the sample is shown in shade 1577. Pattern support is available for classic designs and it is machine washable.

STYLECRAFT PURE LUXURY MERINO

COMPOSITION: 100% Merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 119m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.55

CONTACT: Stylecraft Ltd
PO Box 62, Goulbourne St,Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 1PP
Tel: 01535 609 798
Email: info@stylecraftltd.co.uk

This is a rounded yarn that feels lovely to handle, knits evenly with good stitch definition and is luxuriously soft to wear. With a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm, it will knit to all standard DK patterns. It is available in eight subtle shades and the knitted sample is shown in shade 3631 Ivory. The finished garment has excellent drape and is suitable for most projects, particularly baby garments and for those with sensitive skins. Pattern support is available from Stylecraft.

TESS DAWSON MERINO 4PLY

COMPOSITION: 100% Merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 200m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.75-3.25mm

RRP: £2.50

CONTACT: Angel Yarns
Angel House, 77 North St, Portslade, BN41 1DZ
Tel: 0871 288 7358
Website: www,angelyarns.com

This classic superwash wool will knit to all standard 4ply patterns. The tension is 28 sts and 36 rows to 10cm and the sample is shown in shade 04 Teal. Merino 4ply is available in six classic shades of cream, camel, black, teal, cherry and chocolate. This luxurious yarn knits up evenly and, as well as being soft to handle and wear, it is also excellent value.

GARNSTUDIO DROPS LIN

COMPOSITION: 100% linen

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 120m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.35

CONTACT:Scandinavian Knitting Design
South Lodge, Wellington CourtSpencers Wood, Reading
Tel: 01189 884226
Email: sales@scandinavianknittingdesign.com

This lovely linen yarn is extremely durable and the shiny surface and strong inner fibre is comfortable against the skin, becoming softer with wear and forming a fluid shape that gently drapes. The linen adjusts to the body temperature and is cool to wear in hot summer weather. For a neat and crisp finish use the recommended needles which give a tension of 21 sts and 28 rows to 10cm. This is similar to a DK tension and the yarn can be used with standard DK patterns. For a light, lacy effect, use 5mm needles, giving a tension of 17 sts and 22 rows. There are currently only two supporting patterns, but it will knit to other patterns in the Drops Design range. Lin comes in five richly coloured shades, plus black, cream, plus a natural linen shade and the knitted sample is shown in shade 107. It can be machine washed in cold water on a delicate cycle.

STYLECRAFT WONDER SOFT DK

COMPOSITION: 100% acrylic

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 294m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.59

CONTACT: Stylecraft Ltd
PO Box 62, Goulbourne St, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 1PP
Tel: 01535 609 798
Email: info@stylecraftltd.co.uk

Here is a classic yarn that is perfect for baby knits. It is very soft to handle and quick and easy to knit up, with a lovely, even tension of 22 sts and 30 rows, This will knit to all standard DK patterns. Wondersoft is available in eight subtle shades that include the traditional pastel baby colours, denim, white and vanilla. It is machine washable and can be tumble dried.

BERGERE DE FRANCE ESTERELLE

COMPOSITION: 100% Cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5mm

RRP: £3.49

CONTACT: Gordon Leslie
11 White Hart Gardens, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2FA
Tel/Fax: 01606 883 149
Email: gordonjleslie@hotmail.com

This fine mercerised cotton is light to handle and has a lovely, crisp texture with strong stitch definition. It is made up of a twist of six strands, so use blunt knitting needles to avoid splitting it. The tension comes out at 28 sts and 36 rows to 10cm. Esterelle is available in a range of 14 clear shades and the sample is shown in Ocean. A medium-sized ladies garment takes around 11 balls and pattern support can be found in the Bergere de France magazines.

KAUNI "KAUNI EFFECT" YARN

COMPOSITION: 100% pure wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 400m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3mm

RRP: £4.95

Kauni is based in Denmark but the company has the wool spun for them in Estonia and they are now supplying some UK companies. The unique grading of the shades creates fabulous multicoloured knits and each colourway has subtle changes within the ball and is available in a choice of 14 that includes blues, greens, reds and earthy shades of brown. The knitted sample comes from the most spectacular colourway - Rainbow, which changes from green to yellow, orange, red, violet, indigo and blue, a true rainbow stripe. The tension comes out at 23 sts and 36 rows to 10cm using 3mm needles and there are 400m per 100g ball. It feels similar to a Shetland wool and a cool handwash is recommended to soften the yarn before wearing, however, it would also be a great yarn to use for felting. Pattern support is available in traditional Scandinavian designs and it works well knitted up in a simple Fair Isle pattern using just two balls of the rainbow yarn but starting them with a different section of colour to achieve the contrast. An average sized adult garment will take approximately 4 to 5 balls.

BERGERE DE FRANCE MIRAGE

COMPOSITION: 40% cotton, 40% acrylic, 20% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 145m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.35

An interesting yarn made up of plied strands in two shades, twisted with a fine thread in a third shade. This thread is tightly wound around the yarn every few centimetres to form raised bobbles. It is easy to knit with and feels like a crisp cotton. The tension comes out at 23 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. Mirage is available in eight fresh, spring shades and the knitted sample is shown in Plancton. An average sized ladies sweater takes approximately ten balls and pattern support for sleeveless tops, cropped cardigans and boleros is available in the Bergere de France magazines.

BERGERE DE FRANCE COTON FIFTY

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 50% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 140m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5-3mm

RRP: £2.35

This lovely lightweight cotton blend is perfect for cool and lacy summer projects and knits up evenly with good stitch definition and elasticity with a tension of 26 sts and 37 rows to 10cm. Coton Fifty is available in a range of 34 clear, summery shades and the knitted sample is shown in shade Verveine. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France knitting magazines with designs for ladies and children and you will need approximately 13 balls for a ladies sweater and seven balls for an eight-year old child’s sweater.

MAGGI KNITS MAGGI'S LINEN

COMPOSITION: 52% cotton, 48% linen

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 115m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £4.95

One of the lovely range of yarns by Irish knitwear designer, Maggie Jackson, this light linen blend knits up into cool summer garments. It consists of three fine strands of slub-like yarn that produces a light and airy fabric. The suggested tension of 18 sts and 22 rows to 10cm gives a loose, open effect, or for a tighter finish, just use smaller needles. Maggi’s Linen comes in 34 gorgeously clear colours that include natural shades, pastels and vivid brights. The sample is shown in shade 14. There is a superb collection of designer patterns to support the yarn and the unique designs feature layers and textures using cables, moss stitch, bobbles and colour.

MANOS DEL URUGUAY MANOS SILK BLEND

COMPOSITION: 30% silk, 70% extra fine Merino wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 270m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £11

Manos del Uruguay is a non-profit organisation which assembles over 400 artisans in cooperatives scattered throughout the country, bringing economic and social opportunities to rural women. The luxurious blended yarn is hand dyed in large kettles to create a subtle marbled effect in glorious shades. Silk Blend is superbly soft to handle and knits into a soft, silky fabric with excellent stitch definition. It has a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and will knit to most standard double knit patterns. It is available in a range of mouth-watering shades that include subtle blends of a single colour and multicolours. The sample is shown in shade 6958.

SUBLIME SOYA COTTON DK

COMPOSITION: 50% soya, 50% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.75

This is an exquisite mix of soya and cotton blended together to create a natural, breathable yarn with a luxurious drape. This soft, silky yarn has a gentle sheen, is smooth to handle and knits up easily with clear stitch definition. There are 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and it will knit to most standard DK patterns. Pattern support is available in The Luxuriously Exotic Soya Cotton Hand Knit Book, which features 15 designs for girls, boys, women and men in cool styles for summer. Soya Cotton is available in ten earthy shades that take their inspiration from the colours of spices and plants. These range from the soft, natural shade of Flax to the warm, reddish pink tone of Pomegranate. The sample is shown in shade 082 Ginseng.

SUBLIME KID MOHAIR BLEND

COMPOSITION: 60% kid mohair, 35% nylon, 5% extra fine Merino

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 112m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £4.20

This exquisite mohair blend is fantastic to handle, knitting up with a wonderfully even texture surrounded by a gentle haze of kid mohair. The soft and feminine range of eight muted shades include Pistachio, Truffle and Mist (shade 71) shown in the sample. Kid Mohair has a tension of 19 sts and 25 rows to 10cm. This creates a light, airy knit that is irresistibly feminine. Pattern support for women and girls is available in The Very Gorgeous Sublime Kid Mohair book and The Even More Gorgeous Sublime Kid Mohair book.

DEBBIE BLISS PURE SILK

COMPOSITION: 100% silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £6.95

This luxurious yarn is sensual to knit with and silky-soft to handle, gliding effortlessly along the needles and forming a gently draping garment. It comes in a skein that can be quickly wound into a ball and knits to a tension of 24 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. The stunning range of jewel-like shades include ivory and the lovely bright citrus shades of orange, lemon and lime, plus vibrant pinks and four new, subtle shades for 2008 in Duck Egg, Turquoise and two tones of Lilac. The sample is shown in shade 14. Pattern support is available in the Pure Silk Collection and Coastlines, one of the most recent pattern books by Debbie Bliss. This includes patterns for a dress and a pretty yoke detail sweater. Pure Silk can be machine washed on a delicate cycle and is excellent value.

MUENCH YARNS TOUCH ME

COMPOSITION: 72% Rayon microfibre,28% wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: xx

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5-6mm

RRP: £8

This sensual chenille yarn is just begging to be touched. It has a rich, velvety feel and silky sheen, and it knits into the softest and most sumptuous fabric. The tension given on the ball band is 18 sts and 19 rows to 10cm, however, this is a yarn to experiment with. It makes elegant wraps and dramatic evening scarves and you can also try the evening bag pattern in Loop’s Pretty Knits book. The yarn is a tight, rounded strand of microfibre with a wool core which twists a bit when hanging loose but doesn’t make knitting difficult and gives the characteristic 3-dimensional texture of a chenille yarn when knitted up. In spite of the thickness, it doesn’t feel heavy and hangs beautifully. Although the label recommends hand washing, you can put the finished garment in the washing machine on a warm cycle. This will shrink the wool core, but you can pin it back into shape. If you machine wash it, you must also give it a quick whiz in the dryer as this will soften it up as well. The washing/drying process improves the drape dramatically and gives the appearance of vintage velvet fabric. The yarn is available in 46 shades that include pastels, neutrals and vivid brights, and the sample is shown in shade 3544 Mint, a new shade for 2008.

THE KNITTING GODDESS 4PLY CASHMERE

COMPOSITION: 100% Cashmere

WEIGHT: 75g

LENGTH: 560m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: xx

RRP: From £13.99

The Knitting Goddess is Joy McMillan who is based on the Isle of Man and she hand dyes these beautiful yarns herself. 4ply Cashmere is a luxurious lightweight yarn ideal for shawls, lacy scarves or a really special pair of socks. There are around 40 fabulous colourways available and each skein comes in a blend of three shades. The sample is shown in Jade Trio. The yarn takes a bit of patience (and a helping pair of hands) to wind into a ball, but it is worth the effort as it knits into a superbly soft and fine fabric. The Knitting Goddess also supplies sock wool, silks and a cashmere and silk blend. Currently, Joy is selling the yarn through her eBay shop and free supporting patterns for socks, scarves and hats can be downloaded from there, but a new website is now up and running, so check out www.theknittinggoddess.co.uk

FILATURA DI CROSA ZARA PLUS

COMPOSITION: 100% extra fine Merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 70m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5-5.5mm

RRP: £3.60

This is a classic Aran weight merino and the superbly rounded yarn knits up with a very even tension and excellent stitch definition. It has great elasticity and looks fantastic in plain stocking stitch or a variety of textured stitches. There are 36 clear shades that range from creamy white and pastel pink to vibrant fuchsias and berry red, and the sample is shown in shade 438, a rich teal. Zara Plus is a superwash wool and can be machine washed on a cool wool cycle with no danger of pilling or felting. Exciting designs are available in the Filatura di Crosa magazines.

BERGERE DE FRANCE OPAL PICTURE

COMPOSITION: 75% superwash wool, 25% polyamide

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 425m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.25mm

RRP: £6.89

This multicoloured sock yarn knits into a random striped pattern. The inspiration for the colours come from the bold abstract paintings by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and they form a bold and graphic design across the stripes. It is available in eight vibrant multicoloured shades and the sample is shown in Labrinthe. It has a tension of 32 sts and 41 rows to 10cm and pattern support is available in leaflet form and a magazine. A long pair of socks takes just one ball, a child’s sweater two to three balls and an adult sweater approximately five balls.

KAALUND RELISH

COMPOSITION: 100% wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £10.50

This unique yarn is produced by the Australian-based family company Kaalund, which has been producing high quality yarns for over ten years. The yarns are dyed in rich colours inspired by the diversity of the Australian landscape and they bring together the earthy tones of the desert, freshness of plants and deep blue of the ocean. The sample is shown in Wisteria and the ten shades available in the range include natural, the electric blue of Bower Bird and deep red and pink tones of Poinsettia. Some pattern support is available in leaflet form, mostly for scarves and shawls and a very cute and simple toddler’s sweater. The wool is similar to a slub yarn, varying from thick to thin and it is very soft to handle. It knits up quickly and the tension comes out at 13 sts and 15 rows to 10cm. A gentle handwash and flat drying is recommended.

SOUTH WEST TRADING COMPANY TERRA

COMPOSITION: 50% bamboo, 50% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.75mm

RRP: £4.50

Made in China, this new summer weight blend is cool and comfortable to handle and wear. It is made up of a twist of matte and silky yarn, which gives a lovely shimmer when knitted. The light fabric drapes well when knitted up and makes comfortable summer sweaters, vests and cardigans. Terra comes in a range of 15 subtle shades. The sample is shown in 431 Ivory and pattern support is available in a range of leaflets.

GGH CUMBA

COMPOSITION: 42% wool, 28% alpaca, 30% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.00

This is a lovely light yarn made from a twisted ply with the softness of alpaca and the durability of wool. It is easy to handle and knits up with clear stitch definition. The lightweight feel makes it perfect for spring and cool summer eveningwear. Cumba knits to a tension of 17 sts and 23 rows to 10cm and an average sized ladies garment takes seven balls. The sample is shown in shade 008 Pea Green and the yarn is available in a range of 15 earthy shades. Pattern support can be found in the GGH magazines and hand washing is recommended.

SUBLIME ORGANIC COTTON DK

COMPOSITION: 100% organic cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.11

This is a brand new yarn from Sublime for spring/summer 2008 and, as its name suggests, is entirely natural and untreated, having been grown organically without the use of pesticides in India and gently dyed using environmentally friendly products in Germany. However, if you are usually scared off by the invariably high prices of organic products, this yarn provides excellent value for money. It is a soft cotton with a matt finish and it knits up evenly with good, clear stitch definition. The yarn is available in a range of eight gorgeously subtle colours from a rich cream to a soft, chalky blue and the sample shown is shade 0091. Pattern support is available in the new Sublime book 611 (RRP £4.11), which is packed with relaxed shapes and interesting textures, creating a feel of understated elegance, including patterns for babies, children, men and women. With a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm, it will knit to most standard double knit patterns. Organic Cotton DK can be machine washed on a gentle cycle.

SIRDAR ECO WOOL DK

COMPOSITION: 100% undyed virgin wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.20

Eco wool DK is made from only natural products, giving it true eco status. This is a superb, soft yarn that knits into a smooth and even stitch. The soft spun yarn is very easy to knit with creating a firm fabric. There are 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles. Eco wool is available in five natural shades made from the wool from different breeds of sheep, carefully blended together to create this soft subtle range, the knitted sample is shown in Colour 201 Natural. Full pattern support is available in 'The Eco Wool DK book' with 22 designs for men, women and children. The simple and flattering designs include cable and texture, large collars, oversized berets and directional ribs. The yarn is also perfect for felting and instructions for a felted bag are included in the pattern book. Cool hand wash. There are 100 metres to a 50g ball and the RRP is approximately £3.20 per 50g ball.

HIPKNITS COAST

COMPOSITION: 75% silk, 25% sea cell

WEIGHT: 100g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2 - 3mm needles

RRP: £15

Coast is a silky-smooth lace weight yarn that knits into an elegant and graceful fabric. It knits up evenly on 2-3mm needles and makes lovely fluid scarves and shawls or lightweight summer tops. The Sea Cell content comes from seaweed. This is a breathable yarn that is soft to wear and perfect for sensitive skins. Coast is available in the full range of Hipknits shades or can be dyed to your specific requirements. The sample is shown in shade Sunset. The yarn is also available in a blend of merino wool and sea cell.

ROWAN PURELIFE

COMPOSITION: 100% organic cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 120m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.75mm

RRP: £4.75

This new yarn is made from organic cotton which is grown in an environmentally and socially responsible way without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilisers and even the shades are created with organic plant dyes. Each batch of cotton can be traced back to the certified farm in India where it was grown and the Fair Trade policy means that the farmers are paid a fair price for the cotton. It is a lovely, soft yarn to handle and knits to a standard DK weight with a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows. The eight shades feature a lovely creamy natural as well as soft pinks, apricot, taupe and grey. The sample is shown in shade 985 Lipstick Tree. Pattern support is available in The Organic Cotton Collection, which contains 18 designs by Marie Wallin for men, women and children.

KATIA LINEN

COMPOSITION: 53% cotton, 47% linen

WEIGHT: 50g ball

LENGTH: 112m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.5 - 4mm

RRP: £4

This fabulous blended yarn is cool and light to wear. It is made of three strands twisted together and has just the merest hint of a silky shimmer. It is easy enough to knit with, but I would recommend blunt needles to avoid piercing the strands. With a tension of 22 sts and 29 rows, it is similar to a DK weight and knits into a light garment. Textured stitches emphasise the crisp, linen look and many of the patterns feature cable and moss stitch. Pattern support is available in the Katia magazines. The colour range consists of neutral shades, soft blues and earthy tones, and the knitted sample is shown in shade 8. Linen can be machine washed on a gentle cycle at 30 degrees.

RYC SILK COTTON

COMPOSITION: 53% silk, 47% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £4.65

This luxurious silk blend is brand new for spring 2008 and it has the crisp finish of a raw silk with a soft sheen to it. The knitted fabric drapes beautifully and although quite thick, it feels light to wear. With a tension of 19 sts and 25 rows, it is close to an Aran weight yarn. Pattern support is available in the new Rowan Classic book Summer Delights. The stunning patterns designed by Martin Storey include cabled tops with deep v-necks, a wraparound kimono and a short bolero. The colour palette has the soft natural shades of Fudge and Mink along with Cucumber, a fresh green, and the earthy tones of Paprika and Brick. The sample is shown in shade 684 Reverie.

LANA GROSSA MERINO 2000

COMPOSITION: 100% extrafine merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 160m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3-3.5mm

RRP: £3.95

A soft, fine yarn that is in between a 4ply and DK weight with a tension of 24 sts and 34 rows, this is a tubular yarn that knits up very evenly with strong stitch definition. Described as Cool Wool, it looks great when used for textured stitches and is very gentle to the skin, making it ideal for lightweight family knits. Merino 2000 is a non-felting and non-shrinking yarn that can be machine washed on a cool cycle and it is available in a large range of clear and vibrant shades that cover all tastes. The sample is shown in shade 532. Pattern support is available in leaflet form and the average sweater takes around eight balls.

PATONS VINTAGE

COMPOSITION: 70% Acrylic, 30% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 80m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £2.85

This lovely, crunchy cotton blend knits up into a firm fabric with good elasticity, springing back into shape when stretched. The tension is 18 sts to 27 rows over a 10cm square and it is quick to knit with, creating a good all seasons garment. There are eight multicoloured shades ranging from natural tones to soft pink, green and blue, and when knitted up, these have a stonewashed effect. The knitted sample is shown in shade 07002 Faded. Pattern support is available in leaflet form and Vintage will knit to a standard Aran tension with a little adjustment on the rows.

TESS DAWSON SUPERKID MOHAIR LACE

COMPOSITION: 80% superfine kid mohair, 20% nylon

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 400m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: From 2.5 - 3.25mm

RRP: £4.95

This lace weight yarn is like gossamer to work with and the fine fibre has a soft, fluffy halo and knits into light, floaty garments. I knitted the sample on 3.25mm needles, giving a tension of 26 sts to 10cm. There are just five classic shades in the range, Cream, Black, Teal, Cherry and Chocolate. Hand washing and flat drying is recommended. This yarn goes a long way and is excellent value.

TESS DAWSON BABY ALPACA DK

COMPOSITION: 100% Baby Alpaca

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 94m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.95

This softly spun yarn is not too fluffy, feels silky smooth to touch and has a lustrous sheen. It knits up easily to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. Currently there are no supporting designs but it will knit to most standard DK patterns. The colour range is limited to six shades, Cream, Camel, Black, Teal, Cherry and Chocolate.

BERGERE DE FRANCE CHO'7

COMPOSITION: 65% wool, 35% chlorofibre

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3mm

RRP: £2.75

This wonderful yarn contains chlorofibre which is excellent at absorbing moisture away from the surface of the skin and has an exceptionally high thermal count, making it perfect for socks or light sportswear to keep you warm and cosy on the ski slopes. Cho'7 is available in ten marled shades and 14 solid shades. The sample is shown in Coulis. It is easy to handle, knitting up to an even tension with excellent elasticity. There are 27 sts and 34 rows to 10cm. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines for socks and garments. An average sized sweater takes 11 balls and a short pair of socks takes two balls.

PEAR TREE 100% MERINO WOOL

COMPOSITION: 100% merino wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 100-155m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £12

Produced in Australia from the softest merino wool, this chunky yarn is lovely to knit with, creating a soft and light garment that is luxurious to wear. The 12ply yarn has a tension similar to a standard chunky weight with 16 sts to 10cm. It is available in ten solid colours that include soft pastels, a vibrant orange and red and one multicoloured yarn in soft greens and browns for a camouflage effect. The sample is shown in Blush. This is a beautiful yarn to handle and feels wonderfully soft worn next to the skin. It looks like a hand spun yarn with a gentle slub effect, creating a subtle texture when knitted. Pattern support is available in leaflet form for women, children and accessories.

LOUET GEMS

COMPOSITION: 100% merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g (skeins) and 1lb (cones)

LENGTH: 185 yds and 875 yards

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.75mm

RRP: £5

Louet North America is a small specialist company based in Canada. The yarn is custom spun and dyed especially for them. Louet Gems is spun with a tight twist to minimise pilling and maintain high elasticity. The yarn is then steamed to soften it. It has a tension of 26 sts and 30 rows to 10cm.There are 36 shades in the range and the knitted sample is shown in shade 11 Cherry Red. This lovely yarn knits up evenly with clear stitch definition and it is an excellent yarn for socks, but it can be used for a number of other projects and is also available in the equivalent of a DK, Aran and chunky weights. There are supporting patterns for the yarn and some free patterns can be downloaded from the Louet North America website. Two skeins will make a pair of socks for an adult size. Gems has the advantage of being machine washable and can be tumble dried.

ARAGON YARNS CLASSIC ROMNEY

COMPOSITION: 100% pure Romney wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £3.50

Aragon Yarns is based in Kent and they keep their own flock of Romney sheep. The fleece is sent to the foothills of the Italian Alps where it is washed, spun and dyed by artisans with decades of experience, providing a pure and luxurious yarn. Classic Romney is a single twist soft slub yarn that is lovely to handle and knits into a warm and dense fabric. With a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, it will knit to standard Aran patterns, giving a firm finish for classic cables. Knitting kits using the yarn are available direct from Aragon and these include tea cosies, hot water bottle covers, cushion covers and accessories. There is a good selection of 18 strong, clear shades available in the range and the sample is shown in shade 7 Hellebore.

FILATURA DI CROSA GOLDEN LINE NOBILE

COMPOSITION: 80% wool, 15% cashmere, 5% polyamide

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 60m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £3.90

This is a luxuriously soft Aran weight yarn and the rich blend of wool and cashmere is lightly brushed and twisted with a very fine thread of polyamide in a slightly darker shade, giving the merest hint of a fleck when knitted. The tension comes out at 18 sts and 26 rows to 10cm. It will knit to some standard Aran weight patterns and pattern support is available in the Filatura di Crosa magazines. Nobile is available in 16 subtle shades that range from soft creamy naturals through to pastel pinks, burnt orange, scarlet and black. The sample is shown in shade 2 Rosa.

CRYSTAL PALACE MAIZY

COMPOSITION: 82% corn fibre, 18% elastic nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 188m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2-2.75mm

RRP: £4.70

Here is another sock yarn from Crystal Palace made from a unique blend. The corn fibre feels just like a soft cotton that absorbs any moisture and allows the skin to breathe, this is blended with elastic nylon to keep the sock in perfect shape. The sample I knitted felt great, springing back into shape when stretched, which is perfect for long lasting socks. Maizy has a tension of 28-32 sts to 10cm using 2-2.75mm needles. It is available in 19 print shades (shown in 1009 Neptune) and 17 solid shades that include pastels and neutrals. It can be machine washed on a gentle cycle.

CRYSTAL PALACE PANDA SILK

COMPOSITION: 52% bamboo, 43% superwash merino wool, 5% combed silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 188m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.25-2.75mm

RRP: From £6.25

This luxurious new sock yarn is a real treat to knit and to wear. The bamboo feels silky smooth against the skin, the wool gives warmth and the combed silk adds strength and a soft sheen to the knitting. The sample knitted up perfectly with clear stitch definition and good elasticity, in addition to socks it would make fantastic gloves or even baby garments. It knits to a tension of 28-32 sts to 10cm using 2.25-2.75mm needles and has 188 metres to a 50g ball. Panda Silk is available in ten print shades and fifteen coordinating solid shades that include good basics like black, ecru and coffee, the sample is shown in shade 4001 Periwinkle Tones. It is machine washable on a cool cycle. RRP approximately £6.25 per 50g ball for the plain shades and £6.75 per 50g ball for the print shades

DEBBIE BLISS CASHMERINO CHUNKY

COMPOSITION: 55% merino wool, 33% microfibre, 12% cashmere

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 65m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £4.25

This chunky yarn is pure luxury to wear and handle, soft enough for even the most sensitive skins to wear. Cashmerino Chunky is very fast and easy to knit, so if you want a quick New Year project to fend off the winter chill, look no further. This yarn has a tension of 14 sts and 22 rows to 10cm and it is available in a range of 20 luscious shades. The sample is shown in shade 02, a soft, creamy white. Pattern support is available in the Debbie Bliss pattern books, Simply Soft and The Luxury Collection.

HIPKNITS CLEOPATRA MOHAIR & SILK

COMPOSITION: 80% kid mohair, 20% silk

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 300m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: None specified

RRP: £14

Hipknits is a fantastic source for luxurious yet affordable hand dyed yarns. They sell their own brands of unique hand dyed quality yarns as well as a selection of hand dyed luxury yarn from around the world. Cleopatra Kid Mohair and Silk is a luxurious blend that knits into a lovely light and floaty garment. There is no recommended needle size on the ball band and the needles can be adjusted to create the desired effect. 3mm needles will give an even tension and a denser knit or for a light, lacy shawl or scarf, use 4-5mm needles. The wonderful thing about yarns from Hipknits is the choice of colours. The Cleopatra range is available in 30 standard shades that include variegated tones in soft pastels, vibrant combinations of primary colours and some solid shades, or you can even have the yarn custom dyed to absolutely any colour you want. The sample is shown in shade Seaglass from the standard range.

SUBLIME ANGORA MERINO

COMPOSITION: 80% Extra Fine merino, 20% angora

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 120m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.99

This lovely yarn lives up to its name as it is exquisite to handle and super-soft to wear, with a gentle haze from the angora. It knits up easily with a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm and will knit to most standard double knit patterns. There is pattern support available in The Very Stylish Sublime Angora Merino Book. This contains a fabulous collection of 18 designs for women and children and accessories that include some cosy socks and gloves. Angora Merino is available in a selection of 11 shades that range from soft blues and pinks to a wonderful chilli red. The sample is shown in shade 74 Innocent.

BERGERE DE FRANCE DOUSSINE

COMPOSITION: 50% polyamide, 30% acrlic, 20% pure wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 160m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3-3.5mm needles

RRP: £2.75

This wonderful soft and cuddly yarn has a halo of hazy filaments and it looks and feels just like a luxurious angora blend. With a tension of 24 sts and 30 rows, it knits up reasonably quickly and very evenly to form a warm and cosy garment. Available in 14 soft shades that include pastel pinks and ice green, the sample is shown in shade Diapason. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines and the average garment takes around seven or eight balls.

PATONS WASHED HAZE

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 50% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 120m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.05

This soft blended cotton is lovely to handle and knits to a very even tension that looks great in just plain stocking stitch or texture. An all seasons yarn that is perfect for baby knits, it is machine washable and keeps its shape well. Washed Haze has a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and will knit to most standard double knit designs. There is pattern support in booklets and leaflet form for all the family, including accessories. It is available in 11 clear shades and the sample is shown in 003 Reef.

REGIA DESIGN LINE

COMPOSITION: 75% superwash wool, 25% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 210m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2-3mm needles

RRP: £3.75

Design Line is a new addition to range of sock yarns by Regia. The fabulous colour palette for this new collection has been created by knitwear designer Kaffe Fassett and there are 12 colourways; six in the Mirage series, which features splashes of colour blending together and six in the landscape series, a more defined stripe. Each colour combination is repeated in Mirage or Landscape, so a combination of the two effects can be used in a pair of socks. The sample is shown in shade 4260 Mirage Caribbean. Design Line is a lovely yarn to knit with, forming an even tension with excellent elasticity for the rib section. It has a tension of 30 sts and 42 rows to 10cm. A pair of socks takes two 50g balls. Design line is hardwearing and machine washable, and it could be used for a number of projects other than socks.

REGIA BANNER

COMPOSITION: 75% Pure New Wool, 25% Polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 210m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2-3mm

RRP: £3.50

With the current trend for sock knitting being hugely popular right now, try this wool blend for a hard-wearing and comfortable pair of everyday socks. It knits to a tension of 30 sts and 42 rows to 10cm. When knitted, the variegated shades form wide bands of colour in soft, subtle hues. Banner knits to a lovely even tension with good elasticity that helps to keep the shape well and doesn’t felt with washing or wearing.

DEBBIE BLISS PURE SILK

COMPOSITION: 100% Silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £6.95

This is a superb yarn that creates luxurious and softly structured designs with a hint of texture and it has a tension of 24 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. This rounded yarn is a treat to knit with and sublime to wear next to the skin. It has a range of 20 shades that include soft pastels, vibrant purple and scarlet, and the sample is shown in shade 03 Ivory. Pattern support is available in The Pure Silk Collection, a collection of twelve designs for women featuring sleeveless tops, shrugs and cabled sweaters.

ROWAN KIDSILK NIGHT

COMPOSITION: 67% Super Kid Mohair, 18% Silk, 10% Polyester, 5% Nylon

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 210m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25-5mm

RRP: £7.50

This beautiful mohair blend is so light to handle, it feels like gossamer. The tension of 18-25 sts and 23-34 rows can be varied by using a range of needle sizes, so for a tighter finish use the smaller needles, but for lacy effects go for the largest recommended size. The sample swatch was knitted on 4mm needles. The hint of metallic yarn sparkles through the fluffy haze of mohair to give a unique effect. Kidsilk Night comes in a palette of 11 shades ranging from a soft pink and ivory through to the rich hues of Bronze and Port. The sample is shown in shade 608 Moonlight. Pattern support is available in Rowan Magazines number 40 and 42 and the latest book of designs from Rowan Kidsilk Dream. The average garment takes around five or six balls.

ROWAN ROMANCE

COMPOSITION: 36% Acrylic, 27% Nylon, 26% Mohair, 8% Polyester, 3% Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £4.95

This lovely chunky yarn looks like a strand of very open French knitting and knits into a warm dense fabric with a bright metallic sparkle. Available in ten shades that include soft pastels plus shades of ivory, grey, rich red and deep twilight blue, the sample is shown in 099 Charred. Romance has a tension of 11 sts and 15 rows to 10cm , making it quick to knit up into last minute shrugs and wraps for winter festivities. Pattern support is available in Rowan Magazines 40 and 42.

UK ALPACA BABY ALPACA

COMPOSITION: 75% Baby Alpaca, 25% Ultra Fine Merino

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: xxm

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.75mm

RRP: £5.25

This exquisite yarn is a blend of baby grade UK Alpaca and organically farmed Merino Wool. It is available in the natural shade of Buttermilk or three soft dyed tones, Duck Egg, China Blue and Blush Pink. The sample is shown in China Blue. This is a DK yarn, but different tensions can be achieved by varying the needle sizes. I liked the result from 3.75mm needles which came out at 25 sts and 34 rows to 10cm. Baby Alpaca is made exclusively from the fleeces of alpacas farmed in the UK and is praised for its fine, soft lustre and warm qualities, perfect for a lightweight but warm winter sweater or cardigan. For quick knits use it for cabled or moss stitch scarves.

RARE ESSENTIALS COCOON

COMPOSITION: 70% Superfine Merino, 15% Alpaca, 7.5% Silk, 7.5% Mohair

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.50

Produced in Australia and New Zealand, this lovely yarn is now available in the UK. It’s a soft and luxurious blend that has a tension similar to a double knit yarn with 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. It is easy to knit with, forming clear and even stitches with good definition and will knit to most standard DK patterns. Cocoon is beautifully soft to handle with just a hint of hazy mohair. It is available in eight shades - four luscious fruity colours including Raspberry shown in the sample and four cool shades of blue and green.

COLINETTE TAO

COMPOSITION: 100% Silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 117m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £13.50

Treat yourself to something special with this exquisite silk yarn. Silky smooth to handle, it gently flows from the needles to form a softly draping garment. It has a tension of 24 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and is available in a selection of 14 jewel-like colours, hand dyed with a blend of toning shades that shimmer in the light. The sample is shown in Windfall, a mix of autumn reds and pinks. Nostalgia, Arboretum and Treasure Trove are the three supporting pattern books containing designs for garments and accessories.

BERGERE DE FRANCE SIRENE

COMPOSITION: 100% Polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 190m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5mm

RRP: £3.40

This shiny satin tape knits into a really elegant design with a shimmering metallic gleam that is perfect for slinky sweaters and cardigans that gently hug the body. Sirene knits to a tension 33 sts and 44 rows to 10cm and it is lovely to knit with, producing an even stitch and crisp definition. It is available in seven sparkling shades that include gold, fuchsia pink and the silver grey of Rocher shown in the sample. An average sized long sleeved sweater takes around 12 spools and there are 190m to a 50g spool. Pattern support is available in the Bergere de France magazines and some of the designs use it mixed with another of the Bergere yarns to give an extra dimension.

PEAR TREE 100% MERINO 8PLY

COMPOSITION: 100% Australian Merino Wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 49m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £7.00

Australian company Pear Tree is the distributor of this exclusive yarn. The finest fibres are used in the production process, creating a unique yarn of exceptional quality, making it soft, light, warm and luxurious to wear. The 8ply yarn has a tension similar to an Aran weight with 18 sts to 10cm. It is available in 11 soft shades and the sample is shown in Moss. This is a beautiful yarn to handle and feels wonderfully soft worn next to the skin. It looks like a hand spun yarn with a very slight variation in the fibre, giving a subtle texture when knitted. Pattern support is available in leaflet form for women and children and accessories. Hand wash in cool water. RRP approximately per 100g skein.

COLINETTE MOHAIR

COMPOSITION: 78% Mohair, 13% Wool, 9% Nylon

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 175m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £6.35

A classic from Colinette, this yarn is going through a bit of a revival with the current trend for mohair knits. A strong, fluffy yarn available in the most fantastic range of 72 hand dyed shades with a choice of soft subtle tones or vivid splashes of colour, the sample is shown in shade 23 Slate. Colinette mohair knits to a tension of 18 sts and 25 rows to 10cm using and can be adapted to most standard mohair patterns. It goes on for miles and a basic long-sleeved sweater will take about four skeins. Pattern support can be found in two Colinette pattern books, Scarves and Backstage. Use it on its own or blend with another of Colinette’s amazing yarns.

DEBBIE BLISS PURE CASHMERE

COMPOSITION: 100% Cashmere

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 45m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £9.95

Enjoy the luxurious feel of Cashmere in this Aran weight yarn. It is a very easy yarn to knit with, giving good stitch definition and it feels fabulous to handle. The tension comes out at 18 sts to 25 rows over a 10cm square. If you want to treat someone, this is the perfect yarn for knitting last minute Christmas gifts. There are designs for women and children, plus accessories in the Debbie Bliss pattern book, Pure Silk, or just make up a classic rib scarf or hat for sheer luxury. Available in a range of 12 clear and vibrant shades with the addition of four new pastel colours for autumn 2007, the sample is shown in 06 Lime.

ROWAN KID CLASSIC

COMPOSITION: 70% Lambswool, 26% Kid Mohair, 4% Nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 140m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £4.95

This popular yarn from Rowan comes into its own this season, with the emphasis on soft mohair and alpaca blends, it is used in a number of patterns in the new Rowan Magazine No. 42. Superb to handle and easy to knit with, it has a tension of 18-19 sts and 23-25 rows to 10cm. This lovely yarn makes wonderful shrugs, cosy cardigans, scarves, wraps and shawls. It is soft and light to wear without the tickle that some mohair blends have. There are 20 shades in the colour range and these include four new shades for this autumn. The sample is shown in 847 Cherry Red.

FLEECE ARTIST WOOLIE SILK 3PLY

COMPOSITION: 65% Wool, 35% Silk

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 230m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £11.25

Another luxurious yarn from this wonderful Canadian company is now available from selected UK stockists. This perfect blend is great for socks and is hardwearing yet soft and warm. It actually knits to a double knit tension with 20 sts to 10cm using 4mm needles, so it can be used for almost any project. Woolie Silk knits up smoothly with clear even stitch structure and good elasticity. It is available in Fleece Artist’s full range of fabulous hand-dyed shades that include every colour of the rainbow and Fleece Artist will even create a shade to request if you can’t find what you want. The sample is shown in Cosmic Dawn. It will knit to standard DK patterns and it doesn’t have a dye lot as each skein will vary slightly due to the hand-dyeing process.

SCHOELLER AND STAHL BIG BALL

COMPOSITION: 100% Acrylic

WEIGHT: 200g

LENGTH: 180m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 12mm

RRP: £11.15

This giant doughnut is perfect for one simple project and the 200g ball will easily knit a big, chunky scarf, a child’s jumper or a woman’s sleeveless vest. The idea of having such a large ball is so that the subtle striping of the pattern flows without interruption. It is made up of a twist of multicoloured shades in a very cuddly and soft acrylic and is super-fast to knit with a tension of 7 sts and 9 rows to 10cm. Big Ball is available in five multicoloured shades, the sample is shown in shade 14 Raspberry.

WENDY ALLEGRA

COMPOSITION: 35% Alpaca, 62% Acrylic, 3% Polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 105m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £2.60

This fabulous new yarn from Wendy, Allegra, is a blend of manmade fibres and luxurious alpaca that combine to make a soft, hazy knit. The twisted fibre has a slight slub effect giving a hint of texture to the knitting. This is a versatile, chunky yarn knitted on 5.5mm needles for a tension of 16 sts and 21 rows to 10cm, or use larger needles to create a lacy look. Allegra is available in ten variegated shades in soft pinks, earthy tones of brown and dove grey. The sample is knitted in shade 956 Anastasia. There is a selection of supporting patterns for women including a long-sleeved jumper and a sleeveless tunic.

MISSION FALLS 1824 WOOL TRICOLOURS

COMPOSITION: 100% Merino Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 78m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £5.10

A new addition to the wonderful range of Mission Falls Aran weight yarns, Tricolours are a twist of three different shades that are available in four colourways; Granite, Wildflower, Spice and Surf (shown in the sample). These co-ordinate with the current range of subtle shades. This is a lovely, soft wool that knits to a standard Aran tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm (hence the name 1824). It is an easy yarn to knit with and works equally well for plain stocking stitch or textured and cabled knitting. It is a superwash wool, so it can be machine washed on a delicate cycle and tumble dried on a cool cycle. Pattern support is available in the wonderful range of books by designer Mags Kandis and these include patterns for men, women and children and some wonderful accessories. The latest book, Him and Her, includes six patterns for ladies and six for men.

MAGGIKNITS MERINO CHUNKY

COMPOSITION: 100% Merino Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 60m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6.5mm

RRP: £5.75

Recently launched in the UK, this exciting collection of yarn and patterns by Irish designer Maggie Jackson is sure to be a hit. Merino Chunky is a softly spun yarn that is perfection to knit with. The tension is beautifully even and with 14 sts to 10cm, it is quick to knit. Available in 14 strong, clear shades, the sample is shown in shade 06 Grape. Pattern support is available in a series of books and each stunning design is an absolute work of art and inspirational to all skill levels.

NORO CASHMERE ISLAND

COMPOSITION: 60% Wool, 30% Cashmere, 10% Nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4-4.5mm

RRP: £7.95

This breathtaking new addition to the Noro range is silky to handle and knits up with a lovely, firm texture and clear stitch definition. Soft enough for the most sensitive of skins, it is perfect for structured garments or cosy scarves and wraps. There are five beautiful colourways that knit up into gently blended stripes in subtle shades. It has a tension that is similar to an Aran weight and it is excellent value for such a luxurious yarn. Pattern support can be found in the two new books for autumn, Pure Noro by Jane Ellison and Noro World of Nature Volume 22.

RYC CASHMERE TWEED

COMPOSITION: 90% Cashmere, 10% Silk

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £9.95

Treat yourself with this exquisite blend of luxury fibres. Cashmere Tweed is a pleasure to knit with and sheer luxury to wear. The beautiful soft yarn is light to handle with a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm. It is available in a small range of six subtle shades with a light tweed fleck and the knitted sample is shown in 855 Cambric. Pattern support is available in RYC Classic Tweed, a collection of sumptuous and soft tweedy knits for men and women. This yarn will also knit to standard Aran weight patterns.

PATONS ORIENT

COMPOSITION: 50% Polyamide, 30% Acrylic, 15% Mohair, 5% Wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.95

This new silky yarn for autumn 2007 is slightly textured and is featured in the new booklet from Patons, Crochet Inspirations. Orient is a beautiful, lustrous yarn with a soft, silky sheen in a standard DK weight, knitted to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm. It is available in a range of 12 warm, jewel colours and the sample is shown in shade 04 Old Rose. This rich yarn is perfect for day and eveningwear with soft definition for cables and effects. The range of designs evoke the feeling of winter glamour, including elegant cardigans, fitted polo necks, a fashionable batwing jumper, low v-necks and a pretty lace cardigan with ribbon tie. The average garment costs approximately £24 to knit.

RYC CASHSOFT CHUNKY

COMPOSITION: 57% Wool, 10% Cashmere, 33% Kid Acrylic Microfibre

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £4.45

A new addition to the popular Cashsoft range for autumn 2007, this lovely yarn knits into a firm, structured garment that is silky smooth to touch and wear. The rounded yarn is soft to handle and easy to use, with a tension of 15 sts and 20 rows to 10cm. There are 12 stunning shades and the sample is shown in 705 Heather. Pattern support for men and women is available in the new RYC book Classic Travel.

ROWAN COCOON

COMPOSITION: 80% Merino Wool, 20% Kid Mohair

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 115m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £6.95

This is a wonderfully luxurious blend that knits into a soft and thick garment with well-defined stitches – perfect for stocking stitch or texture. Cocoon is a soft spun yarn that is super-fast to knit on 7mm needles, giving a tension of 14 sts and 16 rows to 10cm. Available in ten natural shades of brown, cream and grey, the sample is shown in shade 807 Tarn. Cocoon is featured in the new Rowan magazine no 42 in ten fabulous designs with an emphasis on texture and unique shaping. The collection includes chunky wraps, shrugs and traditionally inspired cardigans.

SIRDAR HUG

COMPOSITION: 50% Wool, 50% Polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 75m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £3.75

Hug is a softly spun yarn that knits into a warm, chunky garment. It has good yardage, making it feel very lightweight yet cosy to wear. With a tension of 13 sts to 17 rows, it is quick and easy to knit with and has good elasticity. Hug is available in six soft variegated shades and the knitted sample is shown in 174 Calm. There is plenty of pattern support in a super range of patterns for men and women including some easy ones for beginner knitters.

DEBBIE BLISS ALPACA SILK ARAN

COMPOSITION: 80% Baby Alpaca, 20% Silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 65m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £4.95

This sublime mix of alpaca and silk is a treat to knit with and pure luxury to wear. A twisted yarn that knits up quickly and easily with a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, it forms a soft, elastic garment that drapes beautifully. Pattern support for Alpaca Silk Aran is available in the Debbie Bliss pattern books Out of Town, Alpaca Silk and Alpaca Silk Two. It also knits to a standard Aran tension, so can be used for any other Debbie Bliss Aran patterns. There are 22 rich shades that include six new shades for autumn 2007: silver grey, pale lilac, lilac, red, olive and the stunning electric blue shown in the sample.

ADRIAFIL MELODIA

COMPOSITION: 50% wool, 40% Acrylic, 10% Mohair

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 83m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £2.00

Melodia is a soft, light yarn with a small amount of mohair giving it a gentle haze. I found that it was very sticky knitted on plastic needles, but when I changed to bamboo the stitches glided along the needle with no problems. Quick to knit on 7mm needles with a tension of 13 stitches and 18 rows to 10cm, it produced a soft, light fabric. Melodia is available in 16 clear, bright colours. The sample is shown in shade 73 Bordeaux.

ADRIAFIL BABA

COMPOSITION: 100% wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 60m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm - 10mm

RRP: £6.00

Adriafil Baba is a chunky wool, softly spun to give a varying thickness. This creates a lovely texture, similar to a handspun wool which was very quick to knit and soft to touch. Knitted on 9-10mm needles, Baba has a tension of 10 sts and 14 rows to a 10cm square. The knitted sample is shown in shade 61 Bright Multicolour and there are 10 shades ranging from vibrant splashes of colour to soft autumnal tones.

ROWAN SPRAY

COMPOSITION: 60% wool, 40% acrylic

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 80m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10mm

RRP: £7.95

Rowan Spray is a fabulous yarn that feels as if it has been felted and looks as if it has been spray painted. A very smooth, evenly spun yarn,it is perfect for a quick knit on 10mm needles and although it is thick, does not feel too heavy. Pattern support is given in Urban Streets, a book of designs for Rowan Spray. These will appeal especially to younger knitters, with big chunky sweaters, ponchos, bags and scarves. The eight colours range from vibrant paint box colours to soft, subtle shades and the knitted sample is shown in shade 04 Sunset. The tension is 9 sts and 11 rows to a 10cm square using 10mm needles.

FILATI FF FUNKY

COMPOSITION: 60% wool, 40% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm

RRP: £3.25

Filati FF Funky looks very similar to a felted pure wool, soft to handle and quick and easy to knit on 9mm needles with a tension of 11 sts to 10cm. The knitted sample is shown in shade 43 and it is currently available in one other shade, a blend of raspberry pink and cream.

KATIA DIVA

COMPOSITION: 63% wool, 21% acrylic, 16% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

RRP: £5.00

Katia Diva, a blend of , is a boucle type yarn with randomly placed loops. The casting on was actually reasonably easy and I found it knitted up quickly. Just be careful not to catch the loops. - I overcame this by using blunt-ended needles. Available in five multicoloured shades and a plain cream, the sample is shown in shade 6105. An average garment takes around 15 balls of yarn and it can be gently machine washed.

KATIA NORDIC

COMPOSITION: 100% wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 50m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm - 10mm

RRP: £6.20 / £6.95

This is a luxuriously soft, chunky yarn, silky smooth to handle with a very slight sheen to it when knitted. It knits up very evenly with good stitch definition and is quick to knit on 9-10mm needles with a tension of 8.5 sts and 11 rows to 10cm. Use a short end for sewing up as it does dissolve after a lot of stitching, however the knitted yarn is strong and does not break easily. There are 15 shades in the Nordic Plain range and the sample is shown in shade 7. A multicoloured range called Nordic Print is also available with six stunning colour combinations. There are 50m to a 100g hank at approximately £6.20 for Nordic Plain and £6.95 for Nordic Print.

ADRIAFIL SET

COMPOSITION: 94% wool, 6% polyamide

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 30m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm

RRP: £7.00

Adriafil Set is a boucle yarn with huge loops in pure wool. This yarn gives the most fabulous effect, but is not the easiest one to knit with. The cast on row was very slow, but I found it easier going a few rows on. Blunt-ended needles are a definite bonus to avoid catching the loops. Set is very chunky, with a real ‘poodle’ appearance when knitted. I preferred the reverse side of the stocking stitch sample as the loops were more pronounced. Knitted on 9mm needles, it has a tension of 9 sts and 14 rows to 10cm. There are six subtly blended colours in the range and the sample is knitted in shade 55. With only 30m to a 100g ball at £7.00, it does not go far making it fairly pricey, but use it to transform a plain garment by making a textured collar or cuffs.

WENDY MOSAIC

COMPOSITION: 100% courtelle

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm - 6mm

RRP: £2.95

Wendy Mosaic is a chunky yarn that is twisted to give a similar effect to a boucle. Mosaic is very easy to knit with, flowing smoothly on the needles and it is available in a range of vibrant multicoloured and natural shades. The sample is shown in shade 1436. Knitted on 5.5 to 6.5mm needles, it has a tension of 14 sts and 20 rows to 10cm and 100m to a 100g ball. Mosaic is a soft yarn that knits into an easy to wear garment and has a range of supporting pattern leaflets. Excellent value.

LAINES DU NORD COCOTTE

COMPOSITION: 80% wool, 10% viscose, 10% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 58m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm - 10mm

RRP: £3.99

This is a softly spun multicoloured wool, twisted with a narrow silky ribbon in a subtle contrast colour. Knits up beautifully with an even tension and good stitch definition. The silky ribbon shines through giving it a gentle glimmer, lovely for a warm evening shrug or bolero. Knitted on 9-10mm needles, you can complete a project in no time at all. Cocotte is available in 4 subtly blended shades of green, blue, brown and grey. The sample was knitted in shade 58.

SOUTH WEST TRADING COMPANY PAGODA

COMPOSITION: 100% polyester

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6.5mm - 7mm

RRP: £6.99

South West Trading Company Pagoda is a very hairy yarn with a lot of filaments on one fine strand. It is soft and silky to touch with a slight sheen and is reasonably easy to knit with. The yarn was a bit sticky on plastic needles but I found it far easier on bamboo. Knitted on 6.5-7mm needles, it gives a tension of 13 sts and 14 rows to 10cm and grows fairly quickly into a dense but soft fabric. Beginners might find the stitch definition a little tricky as they do tend to become lost in the furriness, but try it out on a scarf as you can make a generous length out of just one ball. Shown in shade 312 Circus Pony, it is available in a total of 12 shades, six multicolour and six solid.

KAALUND RELISH

COMPOSITION: 100% wool

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £10.50

Kaalund Relish is 100% lightly spun chunky wool that is fabulously soft to handle and knits into a warm garment that is not too heavy. The yarn is spun in varying thicknesses, giving a lovely texture when knitted, and it is available in the full range of 34 beautiful shades and the sample is knitted in Mulberries. The recommended needle size is 6mm, but try a larger size for a quick knitted scarf or shawl. With around 90m to a 100g, it is possible to knit a scarf on large needles from just one hank.

KAALUND NIMBUS

COMPOSITION: 96% mohair, 4% nylon

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 135m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £10.95

Australian company Kaalund Yarns produces the most fantastic collection of luxury yarns consisting of wool, silk, mohair and cotton. The yarns are hand dyed in rich shades inspired by the Australian landscape; earthy tones of red, brown and ochre, complemented by vibrant shades of Pacific Blue and Finch. Kaalund Nimbus is a soft, cosy boucle mohair that knits beautifully on bamboo needles. The recommended needle size is 6mm which gives 14 sts to 10cm and produces a lovely dense but soft fabric. It is also possible to knit Nimbus on much larger needles up to 9 or 10mm, resulting in a light and airy knit suitable for scarves and shawls. The colour range is just mouthwatering with 34 blended and multicoloured shades and the knitted sample is shown in Poinsettia.

STYLECRAFT CABARET DOUBLE KNIT

COMPOSITION: 83% polyester, 17% metalised polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 85m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.00

This is a very sparkly yarn that looks a bit like tinsel, consisting of a fine strand with filaments similar to an eyelash type yarn. Cabaret is very easy to knit with, but I found it a bit sticky to handle, however in spite of being a double knit weight, it knits up fairly quickly into a dense fabric. Available in eight rich shades, it is machine washable on a cool wash. The tension comes out at 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and there are 85m to a 50g ball. This would definitely add some sparkle to a Christmas outfit and would make some fabulous accessories.

ANNY BLATT FLEUR

COMPOSITION: 92% wool, 9% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 56m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £10.15

Anny Blatt Fleur is an absolutely amazing textured yarn consisting of a strand of wool encased with a fine polyamide filament, with a little concertina of loops every 8cm or so. The multicoloured nylon thread sparkles through the wool, giving it a glittery effect. When casting on, try not to pull the yarn too tight as this will make the first row much easier to knit. Although knitted on 6mm needles, it is not that quick to knit with as you have to be a little careful not to catch the needle in the loops, but I loved the texture, which is far more apparent on the reverse side of stocking stitch and looks like a mass of tiny flowers. Shown in shade Artichaut 729, Fleur is available in 14 shades. The tension comes out at 13 sts and 20 rows to 10cm with 56m to a 50g ball. This is a very unusual yarn that has quite a high price tag, but used for accessories or combined with a plain yarn, it would produce a fabulous result.

PATONS LUSH

COMPOSITION: 100% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 46m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £3.75

Patons Lush is a fluffy, textured yarn consisting of a fine thread with tufts of yarn every centimetre blended with a fine nylon that shimmers through. When knitted up it resembles a boucle type yarn with bobbles instead of loops giving a lovely thick and bouncy texture. There are four solid shades and four multicoloured shades. The knitted sample is shown in 05 Meadow. Lush is quick and easy to knit with on 8mm needles giving a tension of 11 sts and 15 rows to 10cm and has 46m to a 50g ball. There is a range of supporting patterns that use Lush for whole garments and scarves and as a trim for a plain garment. Lush can be machine-washed on a delicate cycle.

LAINES DU NORD PAPAVERO

COMPOSITION: 46% wool, 44% polyamide, 10% cupro

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 70m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm - 7mm

RRP: £4.95

In Papavero, one strand of multicoloured wool is twisted with a soft, furry yarn and filaments of metallic thread, giving an amazing texture. Luxuriously soft to handle and easy to knit with, it gives an even stitch definition with a soft haze. The needle size can be varied from 4mm up to 6 or 7mm depending on the result you want to achieve. A light, airy scarf or shawl could be quickly knitted on the larger needles. The knitted sample is shown in the multicoloured shade, no 5224, and Papavero is also available in a blend of grey, silver and black.

WENDY CHIC

COMPOSITION: 60% nylon, 30% polyester, 10% metalised polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 80m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £4.25

Chic is a multicoloured yarn consisting of a fine thread with a profusion of silky filaments in iridescent shades, interspersed with metalised filaments that glitter brightly. It’s easy to knit with, forming a light fabric that is ideal for an evening shrug or bolero. The knitted sample is shown in shade 253 Matisse and it is available in a total of six rich shades. Knitted on 4.5mm needles, Chic has a tension of 22 sts and 31 rows to 10cm, with approximately 80m to a 50g ball. Chic can be machine-washed on a cool setting, and supporting pattern leaflets are available.

FILATI FF KRISTHA

COMPOSITION: 90% nylon, 10% cupro

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10mm

RRP: £4.50

This is a fabulous yarn consisting of a wide multi-shade ribbon and a zigzag stitching of metallic thread running along it. It’s very easy to cast on and knit with, but I would recommend using blunt-ended needles to avoid piercing the ribbon and splitting it. Knitted on 10mm needles the tension comes out at 13 sts to 10cm. The colours are just fantastic; jewel bright shades blended together producing a beautiful shimmering effect. It is available in three multicoloured shades, shade 3 Scarlet/Pink, shade 6 Blues and shade 5 Gold/Silver shown in the knitted sample. The unusual texture looks great on its own, but would also mix well with another yarn such as mohair. Pattern support can be found in the Filati FF 2 book by Jane Ellison, from Designer Yarns.

SUNBEAM PARIS MOHAIR SPARKLE

COMPOSITION: 80% mohair, 10% wool, 8% nylon, 2% lurex

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £3.45

This luxuriously soft and fluffy mohair is easy to knit and very light to handle. Made up of a strand of mohair twisted with a metallic thread, it glimmers as it catches the light. It is available in eight subtle shades, two solid shades in black and white and six gently variegated colours that gradually blend into each other, shown in shade 1913 Nice. The tension is 16 sts and 22 rows to 10cm knitted on 5.5mm needles and it will knit to any standard mohair patterns. There are 100m to a 50g ball and this yarn must be hand washed. It is excellent quality and value.

ADRIAFIL GOLD

COMPOSITION: 52% polyester, 48% cupro

WEIGHT: 30g

LENGTH: 25m

RRP: £4.95

This is a very hairy eyelash type yarn with lots of filaments in shades of gold and a clear thread that takes on a lilac glow like an ultra violet light. It feels a bit sticky to touch when you are knitting, but it is reasonably easy to knit with. It knits into quite a thick fabric that may not be particularly comfortable to wear next to the skin, but would make brilliant trims for garments, bags and accessories. In the supporting patterns, it is mainly used with another yarn. Shown in shade 70 Gold, it is available in eight metallic shades of gold, silver and bronze. There are 25m to a 30g ball and the RRP is approximately £4.95 per 25g ball.

HONORWOOD FLOCKS SHETLANDS

COMPOSITION: See below

WEIGHT: See below

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: See below

The Honorwood Flocks Shetlands come from individual producers, Peter and Christine Everett, who keep their own flocks of specialist Sheep and Angora Goats. All the wool and mohair is sourced from their own flocks and sent off to be spun. The beautiful natural shades of the fleeces are evident in the pure wools and the kid mohair is dyed by Christine. Honorwood Pure Shetland is fabulous wool that is a pleasure to knit with, gliding off the needles in a very even tension and good stitch definition. It knits into a warm and hardwearing garment that will last for years. With a tension of 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles, the Shetland will knit to all standard double knit patterns. A gentle hand-wash and flat drying will bring out the true quality and softness of this lovely wool. The knitted sample is shown in Black/Grey marl.

The Jacob sheep have spotted fleeces and these are divided into four different colours; white, silver grey, grey and dark. The sample I knitted is shown in Silver Grey. Like the Shetland, this will knit to all double knit patterns on 4mm needles. This warm and hardwearing yarn is suitable for classic styles.

Honorwood Jacob yarn has an RRP of £2.75 per 50g ball and £5.00 per 100g skein while the Honorwood Shetland black/grey marl’s RRP is £2.50 per 50g ball and £4.50 per 100g skein.

LANA GROSS TENDER

COMPOSITION: 50% wool, 40% polyamide, 10% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 40m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £4.95

This interesting yarn is spun in Italy for the German company Lana Grossa and is newly available in the UK. Tender is a structured yarn consisting of a strand in one shade twisted with a very fine thread in a second shade, interspersed with small tufts giving the appearance of a two colour bouclé when knitted. Tender is very soft to handle and has a lovely matt, velvety look. It is easy and fast to knit with on 7mm needles, giving a tension of 9 sts and 12 rows to a 10cm square. With 40m to a 50g ball an average sized sweater takes approximately 10-12 balls. There are 10 shades available in Tender Bicolore, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant pink. The knitted sample is shown in shade 508. Tender is also available in 17 multicoloured print shades, soft blends of autumn rust and green or wild mixes of cerise, orange and emerald. It is an exciting yarn that is well worth looking out for.

SOUTH WEST TRADING COMPANY KARAOKE

COMPOSITION: 50% soy silk, 50% wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £7.95

Another fabulous blend of fibres, this lovely yarn gives a firm and crisp finish with good stitch definition. Karaoke is available in a range of 20 shades varying from the earthy tones of Cocoa and Forest to the lovely multicoloured shades of Mermaid Mix and jewel-like colours of Fuchsia and Loganberry. The knitted sample is shown in shade 281 Bloom. It has a similar tension to an Aran weight and knits up easily on 4.5mm needles with a tension of 18 sts and 24 rows to 10cm. With a 100m to a 50g ball, an average sized garment will take approximately 10 balls. Karaoke is brilliant for felting and can be used for all kinds of felted projects including stunning bags.

ROWAN SCOTTISH TWEED DOUBLE KNIT

COMPOSITION: 100% pure wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 113m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.95

The colours in this beautiful range of traditional tweed yarns are based on heathery shades inspired by the Scottish landscape with evocative names such as Sea Green, Thatch and Peat. With 16 shades in the double knit range, the knitted sample is shown in shade 008 Herring. Scottish Tweed is also available in 24 shades in a 4ply weight, 12 shades in an Aran weight and 12 shades in a chunky weight. The double knit quality I used for the sample is a lovely yarn to knit with, the tweedy flecks giving a slight texture and making it ideal for warm garments inspired by classic designs. Knitted on 4mm needles, the Double Knit has a tension of 20-22 sts and 28-30 rows, with 113m to a 50g ball. Fabulous pattern support can be found in Shorelines by Di Gilpin and Scottish Island Knits, which is available through Rowan stockists.

ROWAN PLAID

COMPOSITION: 42% merino wool. 30% acrylic fibre, 28% superfine alpaca

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £8.25

This luxuriously soft and chunky yarn has a marled effect when knitted, created from three different coloured strands twisted together. It’s fabulously soft, warm and quick to knit on 8mm needles with a tension of 11-12 stitches and 14-16 rows to a 10cm square. There are 15 shades ranging from the cool natural Seagull and Washed Pebbles to vibrant mixes of Bramble and Hearty. The knitted sample is shown in shade 159 Sea Mist. There is pattern support in The Plaid Collection and other Rowan Magazines 36 and 38. An average sized garment only takes 7 balls, making this yarn is worth every penny for a beautifully chunky garment.

STYLECRAFT SASSY

COMPOSITION: 59% acrylic, 41% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 60m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £2.75

This is something to brighten up a cold winter’s day; a chunky yarn that’s fun to knit with. Made up of a thick strand of woolly fibre with fine silky filaments erupting from it, this is a yarn that would appeal to youngsters or beginner knitters as it is quick and easy to use with an interesting result. Sassy will knit to all standard chunky patterns with a tension of 14 sts and 20 rows to 10cm using 6mm needles. Available in seven glowing shades the colour shown is 1173 Electric Blue. A good value yarn.

STYLECRAFT MARRAKECH

COMPOSITION: 79% nylon, 21% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.35

Stylecraft Marrakech is a double knit yarn with an interesting structure, comprising a strand of yarn in a solid shade with multicoloured short tufts. Marrakech is an easy yarn to knit with, forming a soft, velvety fabric that gently shimmers. The tension comes out at 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and it will knit to any standard double knit pattern. Available in eight rich shades, the knitted sample is shown in shade 1153 Argent. It is machine washable on a cool wash.

LANA GROSSA PEP LUSSO

COMPOSITION: 27% merino, 40% polyamide, 10% viscose, 8% angora, 10% metallic, 5% elite

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm - 7mm

RRP: £4.50

This ultra-soft yarn consists of two strands spun with a fine lurex that twinkles through a furry haze. It is so soft that it feels almost slippery when knitting, sliding effortlessly along the needles. Pep Lusso is very quick to knit on 6-7mm needles with a tension of 13 stitches and 18 rows to 10cm. The resulting fabric is fluid and drapes well. It is available in a total of eight shades; six bright clear colours plus black and white. The knitted sample is shown in shade 1006. There is full pattern support for the yarn in a back issue of the magazine Pep. An added bonus is that it is machine washable on a cool wash.

NORO KOCHORAN

COMPOSITION: 50% wool, 30% angora, 20% silk

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 160m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm - 6mm

RRP: £10.50

Noro Kochoran is another great blend of fibres from the Noro range. This tweedy looking yarn has a soft haze created by the element of angora that knits into a soft, dense fabric. It is very easy to handle, forming even stitches that knit into a lovely, structured garment that is warm and cosy without feeling too thick or chunky. Knitted on 5-6mm needles, Kochoran has a tension of 14 stitches and 20 rows. The colours are just superb with every ball of wool having at least half a dozen different shades in it. One of the great pleasures of working with a Noro yarn is watching the colours evolve as you knit. Available in six shades ranging from a blend of soft browns and camel hues to the brighter tones of turquoise, pink and lilac shown in the knitted sample (shade 12). Pattern support for Kochoran and other Noro yarns can be found in the books Noro Revisited by Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton and Naturally Noro by Jane Ellison. An average size garment takes around 5-6 100g skeins.

KAALUND EXPRESSIONS

COMPOSITION: 100% kid mohair

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 462m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2mm - 6mm

RRP: £12.95

Kaalund Expressions is a finely spun yarn with a gentle haze that makes it feel as soft as silk against the skin and as light as a feather to wear. This exquisite kid mohair is spun and dyed by the Australian company, Kaalund Yarns. Expressions can be knitted on a range of needle sizes ranging from 2mm up to 5 or 6mm for a very lacy effect. For different results, try doubling it up to two strands producing a thicker fabric or mix one strand with another yarn from the Kaalund range such as the Classic 2ply wool or Enchante, the Mulberry Silk 2ply. Expressions is available in the full colour range of 34 vibrant shades. These fabulous blends have wonderful names, such as Tropical Berries, Guava, Bushfire and Pacific to name but a few and Forest Floor is the shade I knitted the sample with. Use it to make lacy scarves and shawls or a luxurious pair of socks. It is exceptional value for such a high quality yarn.

GGH SOFT KID

COMPOSITION: 70% super kid mohair, 25% polyamide, 5% wool

WEIGHT: 25g

LENGTH: 139m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3mm - 4mm

RRP: £4.99

This beautifully soft yarn is made from a very fine knitted tube surrounded by a filmy haze of fibres. Soft Kid has the appearance of being very delicate, but is in fact quite tough and knits like a dream, forming even stitches that glide along the needle effortlessly. Knitted on 3-4mm needles, it has a tension of 18 sts and 25 rows with 139m to a 25g ball. An average garment takes approximately ten balls and pattern support can be found in the Rebecca magazines. Soft Kid is available in a huge selection of 38 shades and the knitted sample is shown in shade 13 Lavender.

BERGERE DE FRANCE SYMPHONIE

COMPOSITION: 51% acrylic, 34% mohair, 15% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 150m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.75

Symphonie is a hardwearing mohair blend that knits evenly with a good stitch definition. When knitted up, it has a fuzzy appearance rather than fluffy as with some mohair blends. Knitted on 4mm needles, it has a tension of 19 sts and 26 rows to 10cm and goes a long way with 150 metres to a 50g ball. An average size women’s garment takes eight balls and there are some exciting and unusual patterns to support the yarn in magazine 132 by Bergere de France. Available in eight vibrant shades, the knitted sample is shown in shade 237 Londonienne.

LAINES DU NORD KIDDY PRINT

COMPOSITION: 80% kid mohair, 20% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 210m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm - 6mm

RRP: £5.75

Laines du Nord Kiddy Print is a luxurious mohair blend, named after its content and not the suitability for children’s garments! This fine, silky-soft yarn can be knitted on 4mm to 6mm needles, creating a light and airy garment. The tension, using 4mm needles, comes out at 19 stitches and 18 rows to 10cm. The yarn is available in the UK in four subtly blended shades and two bright, multicoloured shades; the knitted swatch is shown in shade 5. For pattern support, see Jane Ellison’s book Laines du Nord Simple Knits Book 3. Kiddy Print is just perfect for making the lightest but warmest shawls, wraps and scarves and is so gentle to the skin. A short cardigan takes only four balls.

HERWOOL IRIS

COMPOSITION: 97% special nylon, 3% lurex

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £6.95

Iris is a wide ribbon yarn that shimmers with a mix of jewel bright colours and a fine thread. Sold on the hank, it is one of those yarns that you just want to hang on the wall and look at. My only grumble is that the hank is very tightly wound for such a large bundle of yarn (110 metres) and it was not at all easy to wind into a ball. However, it was well worth persevering with and the knitted swatch had a scrunchy texture and exotic silky sheen. It’s quick and easy to knit with, but do use blunt-ended needles to avoid splitting the ribbon. There is no recommended needle size on the ball band, but I used 8mm needles and these produced a good, firm result with a tension of 14 stitches and 18 rows to 10cm. This is the sort of yarn that inspires creativity. Combine it with different yarns for a unique result or strand it with mohair to give substance and life to flat, coloured mohair. It would be fantastic for all kinds of accessories, such as bags, cushion covers and scarves. It is only available in the one multicoloured shade, but with all those colours, who needs more!

MONDIAL TOCCO

COMPOSITION: 54% microfibre, 25% merino wool, 16% acrylic, 5% kid mohair

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 85m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.50mm

RRP: £2.50

This superbly soft yarn is made in Italy and resembles a fine bouclé with lots of silky filaments. It is very easy to knit with, gliding easily along the needles. When knitted up, Tocco is slightly textured with a fluffy haze and is fabulously smooth and silky to touch, making it suitable for sensitive skins. Available in six shades, the sample is shown in shade 794. Knitted on 5.50mm needles, it grows quickly and has a tension of 16 sts and 22 rows to a 10cm square. An average garment uses approximately 500g, making it excellent value.

JAEGER BABY MERINO 4PLY

COMPOSITION: 100% merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 183m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25mm

RRP: £3.10

Jaeger Baby Merino 4ply is a classic baby yarn that you can’t beat for quality. It is beautifully soft and easy to handle, knitting up with an even tension and good stitch definition. This traditional yarn is available in a range of 14 contemporary colours ranging from gentle pastel shades through to Princess, a vibrant pink, and Red Cheek, a lovely cherry red. The sample is shown in shade 102 Snowdrop. Baby Merino 4ply will knit to any standard 4ply pattern with a tension of 28 sts and 36 rows to a 10cm square using 3.25mm needles. Pattern support can be found in a number of Jaeger books, the most recent being JB29, containing patterns for babies and toddlers. Baby Merino is machine washable on a gentle wool cycle and is also available in a double knit thickness.

BERGERE DE FRANCE PRISME

COMPOSITION: 80% acrylic, 20% polyamide

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £2.95

This is a multicoloured knitted tube that looks like a piece of French knitting. It’s a supersoft yarn that knits up very quickly on 7mm needles, giving a tension of 13 sts and 18 rows to 10cm. Although it is thick, Prisme is incredibly light to handle, making it ideal to make chunky knits for babies and toddlers. Pattern support can be found in the Bergere magazines, a sweater for an eight year-old child takes approximately eight balls. Available in seven vibrant, multicoloured shades that include every colour of the rainbow, the sample was knitted in shade 214 Peinture. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

ROWAN SOFT BABY

COMPOSITION: 50% wool, 30% polyamide, 20% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 250m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £3.95

Rowan Soft Baby is a supersoft baby yarn. The cotton element makes it suitable for sensitive skins and it feels like cotton wool to knit with, producing a warm, cuddly garment that has a soft, felted appearance and is light to wear. Available in six gentle pastel shades, the sample is shown in 02 Angel. Soft Baby is quick to knit on 4.5mm needles, giving a tension of 20 sts and 28 rows to a 10cm square. There is full pattern support in the Rowan book, Little Treasures, which contains a collection of contemporary designs for 0-5 year-olds. Soft Baby is a welcome change to standard 4ply and double knit weights.

PETER PAN DARLING DOUBLE KNITTING

COMPOSITION: 100% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 112m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.45

Peter Pan Darling Double Knitting is a velvety and soft-textured yarn that looks like velour and knits into a fantastically smooth and dense fabric, with the stitches blending into each other. The cast on row is a little sticky but once you get going, it is quick and easy to knit. The resulting garment is lightweight and very gentle to sensitive skins. Available in 10 shades ranging from soft pastels to a deep lavender, the sample is shown in shade 367 Sky Blue. The tension comes out at 16 sts and 31 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and when knitted up, it feels thicker than a double knit but it is very light. Pattern support comes in a series of leaflets for babies up to six years, including hooded jackets, jumpers and accessories. The yarn is machine washable on a gentle cycle and it can also be tumble-dried.

PATONS BABY 3PLY

COMPOSITION: 100% pure wool

WEIGHT: 25g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3mm

RRP: £2.50

Patons Baby 3ply 100% pure wool has been around for years, but simply had to be included. It is just superb for knitting vintage baby patterns and will knit to any standard 3ply pattern. It is an absolute pleasure to knit with and is perfect for light baby vests and shawls. This classic baby yarn is only available in a soft white shade, Snow White, but as a retailer, I still find it worth stocking for customers who want something a little more traditional. Patons Baby knits up beautifully on 3mm needles and is shrink resistant. Also available in a 2ply weight.

ROWAN RYC CASHSOFT BABY DK

COMPOSITION: 57% Extra Fine Merino, 33% microfibre, 10% cashmere

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 130m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.25

Cashsoft Baby DK is a luxury baby yarn with a hint of cashmere that is soft and silky to handle and very gentle, making it suitable for slightly sensitive skins. It knits up smoothly with an even stitch definition and is available in ten beautifully subtle shades that include Chicory, a soft green, and Borage, a faded lavender. The sample is shown in shade 802 Limone. Cashsoft Baby DK is knitted on 4mm needles with a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and it will knit to most standard double knit patterns. Full pattern support can be found in RYC Classic Babies.

STYLECRAFT PEEK-A-BOO

COMPOSITION: 89% acrylic, 11% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 135m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.35

This baby yarn has an unusual texture and consists of a strand of yarn in a solid shade, twisted with a fine, silky thread that is interspersed with small bobbles in different shades. It knits into a soft, scrunchy surface that looks as if it has been sprinkled with hundreds of small and colourful candies. The double knit weight knits easily on 4mm needles. It has a tension of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10cm and will knit to all standard double knit patterns. The knitted sample is shown in shade 6005 Primrose and it is available in a further five soft pastel shades. This yarn goes a long way and is excellent value.

CRYSTAL PALACE SQUIGGLE

COMPOSITION: 50% nylon, 50% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 92m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10mm

RRP: £6.65 (solid shades) / £7.55 (print colours)

This is an incredibly fine yarn with two eyelash filaments and a ‘squiggle’ of yarn coming off it every few centimetres along. In spite of the fine appearance, it grows quickly on large needles. The sample was knitted on 10mm needles and is reasonably easy to knit, but this is not a yarn that you can reach a great speed with. The resulting texture is fabulous and it makes great accessories or trims. Squiggle can be knitted on its own or combined with some of the other Crystal Palace yarns. It can also be added to felting projects, creating a unique texture. It is available in 11 plain shades and 16 jazzy print colours. Here, the sample is shown in 9289 Cool Jazz. As an added bonus for a highly textured novelty yarn, it is machine washable on a cool cycle. Pattern support is available in single leaflets.

CRYSTAL PALACE PARTY

COMPOSITION: 100% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 80m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £5.25

Crystal Palace Party is a lovely, flat ribbon yarn that shimmers with a satiny sheen. The needle size can be varied according to the required effect, but I used 6mm needles, which gave a fairly even yet textured result. Party looks great when knitted with a strand of another yarn in the Crystal Palace range, such as Kid Merino or Squiggle, or it can be knitted on its own for a soft, silky effect. It is easy to work with and the yarn twists slightly as you knit to give a textured effect. Patterns are available in the form of single leaflets and range from scarves to shrugs and cardigans. The yarn is available in ten solid shades and 18 fantastic multicoloured tones, ranging from dreamy pastels to the strong, vibrant colours of Celebration and Turkish Carpet. The knitted sample is shown in shade 413 Nasturtiums.

ROWAN HOLIDAY

COMPOSITION: 56% cotton, 37% viscose, 7% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 42m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10mm

RRP: £4.95

This is an amazing yarn that is made up of a loose knitted tube attached to a braided strand by a piece of netting. It looks like it would catch on the needles whilst knitting, but I found it surprisingly easy to use and on blunt-ended 10mm needles, it was incredibly quick to knit. The resulting swatch was beautifully soft to touch with a good, even stitch definition and this has a slightly fuzzy appearance due to the netting and the sheerest hint of sparkle. Holiday is available in eight beautifully soft, muted tones and the sample is shown in shade 033 Sea Pink. The tension is 12 sts and 16 rows to a 10cm square using 10mm needles and with 42m to a 50g ball, the average garment takes between 10-15 balls. Full pattern support can be found in Tuscan Retreat, one of the Rowan books originally brought out in spring/summer 2006. The designs include big, baggy sweaters, crochet cardigans, sleeveless tops and bags.

ROWAN GLIMMER PRINT

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 50% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8mm

RRP: £5.25

Consisting of a knitted tube that has the appearance of a dyed effect tape yarn, Glimmer Print is quick and easy to knit with on 8mm needles giving a tension of 12 sts and 15 rows to 10cm. In spite of the fairly high acrylic content, the yarn feels like pure cotton without the weight. The sparkling golden highlights add a touch of glamour and look as if they have been individually hand painted in gold leaf. Glimmer Print is available in eight dramatic colours ranging from pastels to a sizzling pink and orange. The sample is shown in 005 Platinum. Pattern support can be found in the new Rowan book, A Midas Touch, which offers a fabulous collection of designs with an emphasis on colour, texture and garments that can be dressed up or down to suit every occasion.

OPAL RODEO

COMPOSITION: 75% wool, 25% polyamide

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 425m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2.5mm

RRP: £6.50

This 4ply sock yarn knits to a tension of 28 sts and 36 rows on 2.5mm needles. As with the other sock yarns, the blend of wool and polyamide makes this a hardwearing yarn that machine washes well. Rodeo is available in a selection of shades that have bold stripes of colour alternating with grey and cream Fair Isle sections. With 425m to a 100g ball, there is sufficient yarn in one ball to knit a pair of socks.

SCHOELLER AND STAHL LIMBO COLOUR PRINT & LIMBO MEXICO

COMPOSITION: 100% Superwash virgin wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.45

Limbo is a beautifully soft double knit yarn that knits to a tension of 23 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles. It can be used with any standard double knit pattern. Limbo is very easy to knit with and glides along the needles, producing a neat and even stitch definition. It is a strong, hardwearing yarn that would be suitable for numerous projects and is machine washable. Single pattern leaflets are available for simple sock and sweater designs. The colours are some of the best in the self-patterning yarn range and come in various combinations that are bright without being garish. Limbo Colour Print is available in four colourways that produce wide stripes in varying shades and the knitted sample is shown in 2574 Eisen.

Limbo Mexiko generates stripes of colour and Fair Isle sections in both bold and subtle shades and is available in a total of 14 colourways. The knitted sample is shown in 2582 Sundown.

REGIA 6PLY SOCK YARN

COMPOSITION: 75% wool, 25% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

RRP: £3.60

Regia 6ply is a thicker version of the sock yarn, again made of 75% wool and 25% polyamide with the same hardwearing qualities, which would make good, chunky socks for sport or walking. The 6ply knits to 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm, a tension that is similar to a standard double knit yarn, so it could be used for a variety of projects and would be great for colourful children’s garments. Shown in shade 5259 Nordic (on the left), it is available in five stripe shades and four jacquard shades. Again when you look at the ball of yarn it looks like any other spray shade, but magically knits into perfect stripes. It has an RRP of approximately £3.60 per 50g ball.

REGIA 4PLY SOCK YARN

COMPOSITION: 75% pure wool, 25% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2mm - 3mm

RRP: £3.60

This hardwearing 4ply yarn is machine washable and does not felt. Designed as a sock yarn, it is perfect for the job. It is easy to knit on 2-3mm needles, producing a good, even tension of 30 sts and 42 rows to 10cm. The colours are bright and clear and come in a variety of self-striping and self-patterning (jacquard) combinations. It is hard to envisage the incredible patterns that are created when you start knitting and I have to say, it does look a great deal better when knitted up than in the ball. The sample is shown in 5269 Las Vegas (on the right.) Regia 4ply is available in a total of four jacquard shades and six striping shades. For traditionalists (and let’s face it, not everyone wants to wear candy stripes to the office), it is also available in four subdued shades of Navy, Mid Grey, Dark Grey and Black.

PATONS FLOWER GARDEN

COMPOSITION: 95% acrylic, 5% acetate

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £3.25

This is a chunky weight yarn that looks and feels just like a soft cotton. It is made up of a multitude of fine filaments twisted with a sophisticated lurex thread and interspersed with small, fuzzy bobbles that resemble mimosa when knitted. Flower Garden has a fabulous texture and is quick to knit, however take care on the first couple of rows not to pierce the strands of yarn; blunt-ended needles will make this easier. The tension comes out at 15 sts and 22 rows to 10cm using 5.5mm needles and there are six shades in the colour palette ranging from warm neutrals to subtle pinks and blues. The knitted sample is shown in shade 3005 Delphinium. Pattern support is available in 10 designs for both women and children in relaxed modern shapes featuring simple wearable sweaters, cardigans and delicate summer tops. Machine washable on a gentle cycle.

MADEIRA NORA, LAME & JABARA

COMPOSITION: See below

WEIGHT: 25g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: See below

RRP: See below

The Madeira brand is usually associated with embroidery threads, however the German based manufacturer also produces a small range of metallic yarns suitable for knitting and crocheting. These fabulous, sparkling yarns are available in three types, Nora (80% Viscose and 20% metalised polyester), Lamé and Jabara (both 65% viscose and 35% metalised polyester). Jabara is the finest with a recommended needle size of 1.5 to 2mm and is more suited to crochet or lace work. It is available in eight shades ranging from an iridescent white through pale gold to pewter and copper. Lamé has a recommended needle size of 2 to 2.50mm needles and is shown in the knitted sample (shade number 424). Lamé is easy to knit with, forming an even tension and the finished swatch is incredibly elastic, retaining its shape when stretched. The texture has a lovely, scrunchy feel to it when knitted on its own, but would work equally well stranded with another yarn to give a glittery effect. Lamé is available in a selection of 16 shades ranging from a soft pink to deep purple, red, navy and green. Nora is the thickest of the three yarns with a recommended needle size of 2.50 to 3mm and has the largest range of 20 shades including silver, gold, orange and lime green. This would also be suitable for knitting or crocheting. All three yarns are washable and have excellent yardage. Pattern support is available for the yarns. The approximate RRP for Jabara is £3.55 per 25g ball, Lamé is £3.40 per 25g ball and Nora £2.80 per 25g ball.

JAEGER ROMA

COMPOSITION: 63% viscose, 22% nylon and 15% angora

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.95

This beautifully soft, rounded yarn has wonderful drape and exceptional stitch definition. It is very easy to knit with, gliding effortlessly along the needles and is silky soft to touch. Roma knits to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles and with 125 metres per 50g ball, it is light and cool to wear. The collection of ten shades range from soft muted gold and blue to the fresh shades of leaf and hollyhock pink, the knitted sample is shown in shade 006 Fern. Full pattern support can be found in the magazine JB40 providing a collection of classic garments.

LANATUS RIO ORO

COMPOSITION: 97% polyamide, 3% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 145m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm - 20mm

RRP: £4.99

This incredibly lightweight yarn is composed of a ladder-like structure, with two fine strands of sparkling yarn joined by ‘rungs’ of silky threads in glowing colours. Although it looks like a nightmare to knit with, it was surprisingly easy. A little care needs to be taken to ensure that both strands are knitted together on each stitch, but this can be overcome by holding the two strands tightly together. The resulting texture in stocking stitch is fabulous. Rio Oro is available in eight jewel-like colourways and the sample is shown in shade 1194. I knitted the sample on 5mm needles, but it is possible to use any needle size between 5 and 20mm depending on the required effect. It is perfect for scarves, but there are also patterns available for light, airy garments.

SWTC TWIZE

COMPOSITION: 100% bamboo

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 110m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.5mm

RRP: £8.99

This amazing yarn from the South West Trading Company is produced from bamboo by processing the bamboo stalks and combing the fibre strands which are then spun into a workable yarn. The soft sheen gives the appearance of a luxuriously soft silk and when knitted it has a beautiful flowing drape. The recommended needle size is 4.5mm which gives a tension of 20 sts and 24 rows to 10cm. The closest equivalent to this would be an Aran weight yarn. I found Twizé very easy to work with and beautifully smooth to handle, working especially well on bamboo needles. It knits up quickly into a medium weight garment that is beautifully cool and gentle to wear next to the skin. There are 11 shades in the colour range, each shade being made up of a blend of three colours giving a tweedy appearance when knitted. The knitted sample is shown in shade 321 Twink and the other colours include naturals and a bright, clear turquoise.

SWTC AMERAH

COMPOSITION: 100% silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 89m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £8.50

The first new yarn from SWTC is Amerah, a fabulous pure silk, made from a knitted tube. When knitted up, it has that wonderful crisp feeling of raw silk and it hangs beautifully. The stitch definition is sharp and clear and looks great in simple stocking stitch or moss stitch. Amerah knits up easily on 4mm needles giving a tension of 20 sts and 16 rows to 10cm. The colour palette consists of ten soft, earthy shades and the knitted sample is shown in 269 Wisteria. There are around 89m per 50g ball and the RRP is around £8.50.

ROWAN RYC NATURAL SILK ARAN

COMPOSITION: 73% viscose, 15% silk, 12% linen

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.50mm

RRP: £4.50

This wonderful Aran weight yarn has a fantastic texture. It knits into a cool and crunchy silk/linen blend with a unique lustre that brings extra dimension to the patterns. The six subtle shades are inspired by the sea, shingle, driftwood and dunes of the English coastline. The knitted sample is shown in shade 461 Flax. Natural Silk Aran is a superb yarn to knit with. In spite of being an Aran weight, it is not too heavy for summer knits and the silky fibres create a unique effect. The yarn knits to a tension of 19 sts and 25 rows to 10cm using 4.50mm needles. Full pattern support can be found in the new book Classic Beach, packed full of patterns in lace, stripes and cable and providing a feast of textures. It is an absolute must for summer knitting and the RRP is £4.50 per 50g ball.

ROWAN RYC LUXURY COTTON DK

COMPOSITION: 50% cotton, 45% viscose, 5% silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 95m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.50

This silky and sophisticated cotton blend is smooth to handle and easy to knit with, giving a lovely drape to the finished fabric. The yarn is made up of four strands twisted together giving a silky sheen when knitted, that is soft and gentle to wear. Available in a palette of ten shades inspired by watercolours ranging from muted pastels to striking mid tones, pattern support can be found in the new book RYC Classic Art. The patterns have a look that is classic and serene; designs for jumpers and cardigans teamed with timeless accessories. The knitted sample is shown in shade 252 Tang. Luxury Cotton knits to a tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles.

SIRDAR LUXURY SOFT COTTON DK

COMPOSITION: 100% natural cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 95m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £2.49

This yarn from Sirdar is a multi-ply yarn, so you need to take a little care not to snag it on the first couple of rows. However, if you love natural fibres but are on a budget, this is excellent value. It is a soft cotton with a natural sheen to it which knits up evenly with good, clear stitch definition. Available in a range of 16 gorgeous chalky colours that include calming neutrals, cool blues and pretty pinks through to the timeless classics of ruby red, vanilla and french navy, the knitted sample is shown in shade 661. Pattern support is available for women, children and babies in single leaflets and books. The designs are suitable for all skill levels with an emphasis on simplicity and uncomplicated knits. With a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles, it will knit to most standard double knit patterns. Luxury soft cotton can be machine washed on a gentle cycle.

BERGERE DE FRANCE ONDINE

COMPOSITION: 57% polyamide, 43% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £3.69

This is a softly textured yarn from French company Bergere. Lightweight to handle, this knits up quickly on 5mm needles giving a tension of 19 sts and 26 rows to 10cm. Ondine is available in a compact range of fresh spring-like colours that include mandarine, lemon and lime. The sample was knitted in 229 Cascade. The yarn is hardwearing and machine washable, making it a good choice for children’s garments. A four-year-old’s sweater takes approximately four balls. There is pattern support for Ondine in the Bergere de France knitting magazines, with garments and accessories for all the family.

FLEECE ARTIST WOOL SLUB

COMPOSITION: 100% wool

WEIGHT: 250g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 12mm - 20mm

RRP: £19.00

Fleece Artist is based in Nova Scotia and produces an exquisite collection of hand-dyed yarns and knitting kits. We have been stocking this lovely range at Kangaroo since Christmas and I am totally hooked. The kits include shawls, throws, jackets, ponchos, hats, socks and felted bags, and use a variety of their yarns in mouthwatering shades. Wool Slub is a softly spun super chunky yarn that is quick and easy to knit with. The varying weights of the yarn give a textured effect when knitted. It is beautifully soft to handle and wear, but tough enough to prevent the yarn from shredding when you are sewing up. The ideal needle size when knitting a garment is 12mm, giving a tension of around 8 sts to 10cm. For knitting scarves or shawls, you could go up to a 15 or 20mm size needle to give a more open effect. Wool Slub is available in 22 multicoloured shades with evocative names such as Sea Storm, Indian Summer and Blue Lagoon (shown in the knitted sample). It is also available in Ebony and Ivory. Most of the Fleece Artist yarns are sold in a 250g skein, which in Wool Slub is a perfect amount for a large scarf, cutting out the problem of having to knit stripes with two balls of yarn in order to blend in different dye batches.

KAALUND ENCHANTE

COMPOSITION: 100% cultivated silk

WEIGHT: 30g

LENGTH: 301m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 2mm - 2.5mm

RRP: £7.95

Light, lacy garments are in all the new summer collections and the beautiful Kaalund Enchante is just perfect for a cool outfit. It is luxuriously soft to wear with a gentle sheen. Enchante is a 2ply yarn, so for a straightforward, even tension use 2 to 2.25mm needles, or for a lacier effect you can go up to 4 or 5mm. To achieve a floaty, cobweb effect, use one strand of yarn and larger needles, or for a thicker knit use two strands of Enchante or combine it with a strand of another yarn from the Kaalund range. It is available in the full collection of vibrant hand dyed shades and the knitted sample is shown in Pacific.

NORO HANA SILK

COMPOSITION: 100% silk

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4.50mm - 5.00mm

RRP: £15.50

Noro Hana Silk is a luxurious yarn made from a tape that is ever so slightly crinkled, giving a fabulous texture when knitted. It is beautiful to handle, gliding easily along the knitting needles and silky smooth to wear against the skin. The recommended needle size is 4.50mm to 5.00mm, giving a tension of around 18/19 sts to 10cm, making it similar to an Aran weight yarn. Hana has a beautiful drape when knitted up and is light and cool to wear. The yarn is available in shades that range from a soft ivory through electric blue to the sizzling pink (shade 59) that I knitted the sample with. If you feel like spoiling yourself, this is the one.

CRYSTAL PALACE LITTLE FLOWERS

COMPOSITION: 66% rayon, 30% nylon, 4% metallic fibre

WEIGHT: 50g

REC NEEDLE SIZE: N/S*

RRP: £6.30

Crystal Palace Yarns is an American supplier of wonderful fibres from all over the world and Hantex has recently become the UK distributor. Little Flowers is a wonderful novelty yarn, consisting of a fine thread interspersed with little tufts that sparkle and shine. This yarn can be knitted on its own to form a dense fabric that feels like a fuzzy velour or mixed a few rows in with another yarn such as the Crystal Palace Kid Merino and the effect is stunning. I found the casting on and first couple of rows a bit slow, however once I got going, I realised it was reasonably easy to knit with. Available in a glittering range of 17 rich shades, the knitted sample is shown in 9757 Ultra Blues. The RRP is around £6.30 for a 50g ball.

NORO GANPI ABAKA TAPE

COMPOSITION: 40% ganpi abaka, 58% rayon, 2% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 225m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25mm - 4.5mm

RRP: £6.50

The Japanese company Noro is well known for its beautiful yarns, which are available in every colour of the rainbow and this summer sees the introduction of some new, lighter weight yarns. Ganpi Abaka Tape is a blend of 40% Ganpi Abaka, 58% Rayon and 2% Nylon. Unless you are an artist or an expert on Japanese printmaking, you may be wondering what on earth that is! Well, it looks and feels as amazing as it sounds. Ganpi is a high quality Japanese art paper that is made from the bark of a Wikstroemia shrub. This has been blended with rayon into a narrow tape that feels slightly papery to touch. The recommended needle size is between 3.25mm and 4.5mm and the larger size gives a slightly lacy effect, feeling crisp and firm. Strand it with a metallic yarn or mohair to give a bit more substance. It is very springy to knit, curling like a fine wire and is very tough with a soft sheen. When knitted up, the tape is lightweight and cool with the scrunchy feel of a linen yarn and would be perfect for sleeveless summer tops. The sample is shown in shade 14, which is one of the solid colours. It is also available in a range of beautiful multicoloured shades. With an amazing length of 225m to a 50g ball, it is incredible value at approximately £6.50 per 50g skein for the solid colours and £7.25 per 50g skein for the multicoloured shades.

ROOSTER ALMERINO ARAN

COMPOSITION:

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 94m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £4.75

Almerino Aran is the same content as the DK, however it looks and feels marginally more like a pure wool. Extra soft to touch and smooth on the skin, it knitted up into a beautifully smooth texture with a tension of 19 sts and 23 rows to a 10cm square. It is available in ten clear shades that include five of the double knit shades and five slightly different ones, such as Brighton Rock, a fabulous sugar pink and Rooster Red shown in the knitted sample. Pattern support is available for both weights in the accompanying pattern book, Rooster 1, which contains 16 knitting and crochet designs for the family at all levels of ability. The designs include hats, scarves, bags, sweaters and a dress pattern.

ROOSTER ALMERINO DK

COMPOSITION: 50% baby alpaca, 50% merino wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 112.5

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £4.75

This brand new Almerino range is is a luxurious blend of 50% baby alpaca and 50% merino wool. The double knit is a super-smooth yarn that knits up easily with excellent stitch definition, giving a soft, luxurious feel when knitted and forming a firm fabric that hangs beautifully. The yarn is available in a range of ten gorgeous colours ranging from the soft pastels of Strawberry Cream and Glace to brighter colours in Smoothie, Gooseberry and Ocean. The knitted sample is shown in shade 207 Gooseberry. Almerino DK knits to a tension of 21 sts and 28 rows to 10cm.

DEBBIE BLISS PURE SILK

COMPOSITION: 100% silk

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 125m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £6.50

The latest addition to the Debbie Bliss range is sheer luxury to handle and work with. This yarn is available in 12 sublime shades that include the soft, cool tones of Ivory, Primrose and Mint, complemented by the sizzling shades of Hot Pink, Sienna and Coral. The sample is shown in shade 06 Mint. Pure Silk is a rounded strand of yarn that is silky-smooth to wear with a lovely soft sheen, suitable for the most sensitive skin and cool enough for summer. It was very easy to knit with, gliding along the needles and it was lovely to feel in my hands. The tension is 24 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and pattern support is available in the new book Pure Silk, a collection of 12 designs ranging from a simple bolero to a cabled jumper with beads.

PRINCESS MIRAH DESIGN BATIK RIBBON YARN

COMPOSITION: See below

WEIGHT: 1oz

LENGTH: 20 yds

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6-6.5mm

RRP: Starts at £3.30

This yarn is produced from batik dyed cotton cut into strips. The fabric is dyed using the traditional batik method of waxing the fabric before immersing it in colour. The fabric is then dried and plunged into boiling water to remove the wax. This process is repeated to achieve the rich depth of colour seen in the fabrics, also making the fabric reversible and pre-shrunk. There are 30 rich and exotic blended colours, reminiscent of clear seas and tropical fish, and I have worked stripes in shades HL10-51 and PW10-834. The ribbon is a soft, fluid cotton with raw edges, available in three widths and the tension is ideal for bags and belts. There are some kits for knitted bags and scarves, but this yarn encourages creativity, so experiment with different textures.

ELLE STRETCH DK

COMPOSITION: 90% acrylic, 10% stretch polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 155m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3.25-4mm

RRP: £2.46

At a glance, this looks like a wool blend and is a rounded yarn that knits into a beautiful elastic fabric and feels like wool to touch with excellent drape. Due to its amazing elasticity, there is a temptation to pull it too tight when knitting, but if you resist this and just let it flow gently between your fingers you will obtain an even tension with just a hint of texture. The knitted garment has a soft, springy touch and is light to wear, making it ideal for all seasons. There are supporting patterns in a selection of designs including fitted garments that really emphasise the content of the yarn as well as loose-fitting, comfortable and casual designs. Stretch DK has a tension of 27 sts and 37 rows to 10cm.

KATIA MARGARITA

COMPOSITION: 59% acrylic, 25% cotton, 16% polyamide

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 78m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5-5.5mm

RRP: £4.35

Margarita mixes 59% acrylic, 25% cotton and 16% polyamide. This interesting, texture consists of a strand of yarn encased in stitching in a different shade that explodes into a tuft of white fibres at random intervals, producing an amazing effect when knitted. It feels like a scrunchy cotton and knits to an Aran weight with a tension of 17 sts and 25 rows to 10cm. It is reasonably easy to knit with and you just need to take a little care not to catch the needles on the tufty bits. Available in a range of seven bright shades, the sample is shown in shade 8 Lilac. Pattern support is in leaflet form and the average summer top takes around seven to ten balls.

KATIA IRINA

COMPOSITION: 50% viscose, 32% cotton, 18% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 95m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £3.45

Irina is a lovely combination of soft matt cotton twisted with a strand of multicoloured viscose that looks and feels like silk. When knitted up, the viscose glimmers in jewel-bright colours. With a tension of 22 sts and 26 rows to 10cm, this yarn is similar to a double knit weight and can be used for standard DK patterns. Available in ten, bright, multicoloured shades, the sample is shown in shade 10 Pink Mix. The combination of matt and silky fibres is fabulous and looks stunning on a textured stitch such as moss stitch.

KATIA INDIA

COMPOSITION: 67% cotton, 30% polyamide, 3% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 85m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5-5.5mm

RRP: £4.55

India is a beautiful, light ribbon yarn with a random sparkle that looks like glitter has been sprinkled on the garment. It is quick and easy to knit on 5 to 5.5mm needles, giving a slightly textured but firm knit. The tension comes out at 17 sts and 23 rows to 10cm but for a lacier effect, it is possible to use larger needles. It is advisable to use needles with a rounded or blunt end to avoid piercing the ribbon while you are knitting. Available in an exciting palette of ten vibrant colours, the sample is shown in shade 10 Lime Green. Katia has some patterns for light summer tops in leaflet form, the average garment taking five or six balls.

ELLE MONET

COMPOSITION: 53% acrylic, 47% polyamide

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 87m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6.5mm

RRP: £4.45

The new yarn from the South African company is a lightweight chunky blend that knits up like a softly textured bouclé. The beautiful colour range has been named after famous artists and this is echoed in the palette of blended shades that capture the light and colours of the Impressionist movement. There are nine multicoloured shades in total and the sample is shown in 278 Pissaro. Monet knits up quickly to a tension of 12 sts and 17 rows to 10cm using 6.5mm needles. Pattern support is available in a series of leaflets for women and children that include a bolero, sweaters and cardigans.

FILATI FF PANACHE

COMPOSITION: 100% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 34m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm

RRP: £3.95

Panache is a beautifully soft and squidgy yarn that is made up of braided strands interspersed with random blocks of tufts creating a unique knitted texture. Tiny little filaments of silk yarn give it an iridescent shimmer. Panache is incredibly pliable and has good elasticity making it easy to handle, producing a very springy garment. With a tension of 10 sts to 10cm using 9mm needles, it knits up very quickly into a thick but light fabric. It is available in two shades, Blue Mix, which is shown in the sample and an exotic mix of fuchsia, scarlet, sienna and taupe. Pattern support is available in the Filati FF Book Two by Jane Ellison.

FILATI FF OSLO

COMPOSITION: 42% wool, 8% acrylic, 50% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 54m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8-9mm

RRP: £3.95

Oslo is a wool fibre twisted with a silky strand, producing a beautifully textured yarn that has alternate felted and silky tufts. The strands shimmer through the fabric when it is knitted up, giving it a lovely glowing appearance. Oslo is easy to knit with and quickly forms a dense and stretchy fabric. Available in three rich shades, the knitted sample is shown in 8096. Pattern support comes in the book Filati FF Two, but it is also an ideal yarn to combine with other types and is excellent for accessories such as cushion covers, bags and scarves.

WENDY KNITIT

COMPOSITION: 50% fine merino, 50% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 20m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3mm

RRP: £4.10

Wendy’s innovative new yarn is amazing and adds a different dimension to knitting. Made of 50% fine merino and 50% acrylic, it is a knitted tape that curls inwards. Instead of passing the strand of tape between the needles to knit in the normal way, you pierce the tape and pull a strand through the stitches already knitted, creating a pretty layer of ruffles. As accessories and textured trims are so popular right now, this is definitely one to try. There are supporting patterns for using Knitit both as a trim and for scarves. The ruffles grow quickly and it is available in a range of five two-tone shades. It takes two balls to make a small scarf and an edging around a bolero takes two to three balls.

WENDY PARTY

COMPOSITION: 75% polyester, 25% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 40m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £3.10

Designed with children’s knits in mind, this is a lovely velvety yarn that is kind to sensitive skins. It is a textured yarn that consists of a furry strand in one main shade sprinkled with coloured bobbles. Available in ten shades ranging from pastel pink and lemon through to a vibrant cherry red, the knitted sample is shown in 553 Pink. With a tension of 10 sts and 18 rows to 10cm, it knits up very quickly. I found it slightly sticky to use on plastic needles but bamboo needles worked fine. There is a range of supporting patterns for children from one to ten years and a sweater for a four-to-six-year size takes an average of six balls.

LAINES DU NORD MODELLA

COMPOSITION: 57% polyamide, 32% viscose, 11% kid mohair

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 45m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 7mm

RRP: £5.25

This fabulous yarn is similar to a bouclé with little loops of silky ribbon coming off a twisted strand. The fluffy haze makes it feel silky smooth to touch and gives a beautifully soft appearance with the viscose ribbon shimmering through. Modella knits up quickly and easily giving a tension of 10 sts and 14 rows to 10cm. It is available in four shades, a blend of lilac and pink, the duck egg blue and green shown in the knitted sample (5121), a vibrant pink/orange and black mix and a blend of black and silver. Pattern support can be found in Laines du Nord Simple Knits Book 3 by Jane Ellison of Designer Yarns.

ADRIAFIL VAN GOGH

COMPOSITION: 34% cotton, 33% acrylic, 24% polyamide, 9% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £2.95

Van Gogh is a multi-stranded, matte cotton yarn twisted with fine strands of acrylic and polyester, creating a silky sheen which is dotted with tiny filaments of yarn that emphasise the texture. The eight shades range from cream and white to a sugar pink and earthy tones of rust, brown and green. The knitted sample is shown in shade 82. It is quick and easy to knit with a tension of 17 sts and 22 rows to 10cm and the finished garment is light and comfortable, making it perfect for daytime summer tops or more glamorous eveningwear.

ADRIAFIL WARHOL

COMPOSITION: 76% acrylic, 24% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £4.95

This unusual 76% acrylic and 24% nylon yarn consists of a fine, narrow braid that looks and feels like cotton interspersed with lengths of white thread dotted with tiny felted pompoms in candy colours. The main colour is available in six shades and the knitted sample is shown in 63. The recommended tension is 17 sts and 24 rows to 10cm, which produces a light and airy garment. If you are knitting in stocking stitch, the reverse side really shows the texture given by the filaments of yarn and the pompoms. The cast on row is a bit sticky but it knits up reasonably quickly from the first few rows.

ADRIAFIL MATISSE

COMPOSITION: 51% viscose, 32% cotton, 17% acrylic

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 90m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5mm

RRP: £3.45

This yarn is made up of fine, creamy, matte fibre twisted together with two strands of silky, multicoloured yarn giving a shimmering tweedy effect when knitted. Matisse is easy to knit with, forming even stitches with good definition for a soft, wearable garment. The tension comes out at 18 sts and 26 rows to 10cm and it is available in a range of six soft shades that are ideal for light summer tops for day or eveningwear. Patterns are available for women and children in back issues of Adriafil magazine.

WENDY MOISELLE

COMPOSITION: 51% acrylic, 40% nylon, 9% wool

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6.5mm

RRP: £2.25

Moiselle consists of a strand of softly spun yarn varying in thickness, twisted with a silky ribbon that gives a lovely textured combination of matt and shiny surfaces when knitted. It is easy to use on 6.5mm needles, giving a tension of 14 sts and 20 rows to 10cm. Moiselle is available in eight shades named after herbs, fruits and spices, the knitted sample is shown in 754 Herb Garden. Pattern support is available in leaflet form for garments and accessories.

WENDY ROXY

COMPOSITION: 59% wool, 30% rayon, 11% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 5.5mm

RRP: £2.95

A very interesting yarn, Wendy's Roxy is made up of a strand of textured wool wrapped with a fine strand of natural coloured yarn that is then twisted with a silky bouclé resulting in a fabulous, randomly textured surface that is soft to wear. Roxy is reasonably easy to knit, especially if you use blunt-ended needles, preventing the point catching in the strands of yarn. The tension of 15 sts and 24 rows to 10 cm using 5.5mm needles is unique to the yarn, so it is advisable to use the recommended patterns or use it for accessories that don’t need a pattern. The lovely collection of eight shades range from the soft pastels of Snow Queen through to the deep, rich autumn hues of Mermaid shown in the knitted sample.

WENDY NARVIK

COMPOSITION: 85% acrylic, 5.5% mohair, 5.5% wool, 4% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 45m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 9mm

RRP: £2.25

Wendy has excelled itself with a superb new autumn collection, the theme being colour, texture, affordability and quality. Narvik is a beautifully soft yarn consisting of 85% acrylic, 5.5% mohair, 5.5% wool and 4% polyester. It is made up of two strands of yarn twisted together and each of the eight shades in the range has a strand of slightly textured yarn in a deep steel blue, twisted with a silky yarn in variegated shades, producing a tweedy effect with a gentle sheen when knitted. Narvik is very easy to knit with, forming a lovely soft and dense fabric that is light to wear. The tension comes out at 10 sts and 14 rows to 10cm using 9mm needles and the eight shades range from the muted green and mauve tones of Arctic to the vivid splash of gold and orange in Polar, shown in the knitted sample.

GEDIFRA FASHION TREND GOLD

COMPOSITION: 49% wool, 48% acrylic, 3% polyester

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 45m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 8-9mm

RRP: £6.95

This is a softly spun blend, with splashes of metallic paint that look as if they have been randomly applied with a paint brush. It is easy to knit, forming a good, even tension with well-defined stitches and feels soft yet firm to handle. The tension is 11 sts and 14 rows to 10cm using 8mm needles, making it grow quickly. Fashion Trend Gold is available in eight soft muted shades, the cool tones being accented with a metallic silver, the earthy tones with gold and the two blue/grey shades with turquoise and purple. The knitted sample is shown in shade 5062.

GEDIFRA SHEELA

COMPOSITION: 48% wool, 48% acrylic, 4% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 30m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 10-12mm

RRP: £5.95

This is a wonderful bouclé yarn with huge woolly loops in multicoloured shades that is reasonably easy to knit with and grows very quickly on 12mm needles with a tension of 7sts and 9 rows to 10cm. The resulting swatch feels soft and light, but warm to wear. Available in a range of vibrant shades, the sample is shown in 4123. Sheela can be knitted on its own or striped with another yarn to add texture. It is perfect for accessories or garment trims, adding exciting collars and cuffs to a plain cardigan or sweater.

GEDIFRA FIOCCO

COMPOSITION: Cotton, nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 85m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £3.95

This amazing yarn is made up of a knitted tube of cotton and a woven mesh of nylon that are twisted together and wrapped in a fine single strand of yarn. When knitted up the mesh sparkles through, giving a gentle frosted appearance. Fiocco is easy to knit with and feels like a thick cotton yarn, forming well-defined stitches with a very even tension. The tension comes out at 17 sts to 10cm using 6mm needles, which puts it between an Aran and chunky weight. Fiocco is available in a range of eight variegated and 14 solid shades in clear, bright colours. The knitted sample is shown in 4076 and pattern support is available in leaflet form.

CRYSTAL PALACE BLIPPITY

COMPOSITION: 100% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 74m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: N/S*

RRP: £5.35

This 100% nylon yarn consists of a knitted tube in a silky yarn that gently glimmers, interspersed with regular lozenge-shaped sections every few centimetres in a matt yarn. When knitted up, the resulting fabric is a lovely textured piece that can be worked on very large needles to give a lacy effect or smaller needles for a closer texture. Blippity can also be stranded with another yarn for a more solid effect. If you knit it stranded with a pure wool and then felt the piece of knitting, the result is stunning - the lozenges sit on the felted fabric like hundreds and thousands. It comes in ten luscious shades and the sample is shown in 403 Fall Herbs. Jet Black and Snow White are also available.

CRYSTAL PALACE POPCORN

COMPOSITION: 100% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 66m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: N/S*

RRP: £7.55

This new novelty yarn is made up of a very fine strand with a big felted bobble every few centimetres. It looks like an absolute nightmare to knit with, but was much easier than I expected. It knits into the most amazing texture that looks like netting strung with beads. Different results can be achieved by adjusting the needle size and I used 6mm needles, which gave a close knit. Popcorn also knits well stranded or striped with another yarn and if knitted with a pure wool, it can be used for felting, which produces a fantastically colourful and textured fabric. There are 12 variegated shades with descriptive names such as Fruit Salad, Strawberries and Lime and Blueberries and Grapes, which is shown in the knitted sample.

CRYSTAL PALACE BEBOP

COMPOSITION: 100% nylon

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 58m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: N/S*

RRP: £5.25

Designed for the creative knitter, BeBop is a fabulous multicoloured yarn that knits into a soft, thick and furry fabric. It is made up of a strand of yarn strung with random felted tufts and sparkling filaments that resemble candy floss. It is easy enough to handle and has a lovely dense and springy feel when knitted up. There are 11 colours available, ranging from the soft pink and green of Roses through to the vibrant shades of Circus as shown in the knitted sample. No recommended needle size is given on the label but I used 6mm needles which gave a close knit. To achieve a looser knit though, use 9 or 10mm for great scarves and wraps.

RYC ALPACA SOFT

COMPOSITION: 50% alpaca, 50% cotton

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 55m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 6mm

RRP: £4.95

Another new RYC product for autumn, this chunky weight yarn is knitted on 6mm needles with a tension of 12 sts and 17 rows to 10cm. Alpaca Soft is a cosy, textured alpaca/wool blend that knits up quickly with minimum effort into a lovely, soft garment. It is super-soft to wear, the cotton element making it a good buy for sensitive skins and beautifully warm too. Pattern support is available in the new brochure, Classic Landscapes, which contains 16 designs by Martin Storey for both men and women. The yarn is available in eight shades that include a deep cherry red, sky blue and rose pink, and the sample is shown in shade 266 Whitewash.

RYC BABY ALPACA DK

COMPOSITION: 100% baby alpaca

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 100m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £5.95

Rowan’s fabulous new 100% Baby Alpaca yarn is one of the latest in the RYC Classic range of luxury fibres. Don’t be confused by the label – it is made from baby alpaca, but it has some very grown up designs and knits into a cool and classic garment. It is a standard DK weight with 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm and has full pattern support in the new brochure, RYC Classic Alpaca with 17 patterns for garments and accessories designed by Martin Storey. Available in five natural shades and five soft and subtle colours, the knitted sample is shown in shade 204 Zinc.

HAND MAIDEN 4PLY SILK CASHMERE

COMPOSITION: 55% silk, 45% cashmere

WEIGHT: 50g

LENGTH: 170m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 4mm

RRP: £18.00

This yarn is a superbly luxurious blend that is silky smooth to handle and fabulous to wear. The tension stated on the label is similar to a double knit with 22 sts to 10cm using 4mm needles and although the yarn looks far too fine for this tension it does knit very evenly. However, I preferred using 3.25mm needles, which gave a firmer finish. Silk Cashmere is also available in 2ply, 8ply and 12ply weights and comes in the full range of 21 shades. The knitted sample is shown in Nova Scotia. Fleece Artist and Hand Maiden also has a range of knitting kits using a selection of the yarns, which includes garments, shawls, throws and felted bags.

HAND MAIDEN RUMPLE

COMPOSITION: 100% silk

WEIGHT: 100g

LENGTH: 300m

REC NEEDLE SIZE: 3mm

RRP: £23.00

Hand Maiden is a range of luxury yarns from Canadian spinners Fleece Artist. These exquisite hand dyed yarns are available in blends of wool, silk and cashmere in the most fantastic range of colours. Rumple is a fine silk bouclé that knits into a softly textured, shimmering garment. It is easy to knit with, forming a softly draping fabric with a tension of 28 sts to 10cm. The yarn is available in the full range of 21 multicoloured shades that vary from the natural tones of Mineral through to the beautifully soft Rose Garden shown in the sample and the bright splash of turquoise and cerise in Dragonfly. This unique yarn is a pleasure to knit with and is excellent value for a luxury yarn.