Table of contents for Christmas 2025 in Simply Knitting

This issue we want to make you and your home sparkle. Chloë Elizabeth Birch's cropped lace jumper with a statement shawl collar is perfect over a shiny satin dress for New Year's parties, while a Lisa Richardson's alpaca-and-sparkle Rowan jumper will have you glittering into the new year. For the home, you'll love our fabulous New Year tea cosy by Tea Cosy Folk and whimsical cottage jar covers that glow with tea lights. We've also included lots of versatile knits that can be enjoyed year-round, so your needles will be busy long after the celebrations end. There's a cute strawberry Fair Isle kids’ jumper, fun kids’ guitar and a red pixie bonnet that make sweet gifts. And make sure you enter our big Scheepjes competition too! Happy knitting! The SK…

STAR LETTER RUPERT THE BEAR I was asked by a neighbour if I could knit a Rupert the Bear for a new baby named Rupert as they couldn't source a bear in the shops. I managed to find a pattern booklet with him in it and this is the result. The pattern was over 30 years old and really fiddly, lots of sewing up. She was really pleased with the results and wanted to pay me for it but I told her to pay it forward, either by doing a kind deed or buying someone in need a coffee. I always think I haven't a lot of spare money to give but if I can use my crafting and people pay it forward it all helps! @ Julie Kearney Your…

TRY A NEW stitch! EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Sirdar Haworth Tweed (DK, 50% wool, 50% nylon, 50g/165m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A set of 4mm circular needles, 80-120cm long, for body A set of 4mm circular needles, 20-30cm, or DPNs for sleeves A set of 3.5mm circular needles, 80-120cm long, for hemline A set of 3.5mm circular needles, 40cm, for neckline 1 stitch marker Stitch holders TENSION 20 sts and 31 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over textured pattern using 4mm needles 20 sts and 29 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 FIND YOUR SIZE SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we've colour-coded…

CONTACT US! Got a question for our experts? Then email us at simplyknitting@ourmedia.co.uk or write to us at Simply Knitting, Our Media, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST Kirstie McLeod Editor Sock knitting fan and all-round knit genius, Kirstie enjoys designing and creating lace, cables and more. Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor Product expert and Fair Isle fanatic, Sophie loves talking about the latest trends and cool colour combos. Cory Sydee Technical Editor Tech expert and knitting super-fan, Cory likes to delve into the toughest of knitting conundrums. Jen Bartlett Technical Editor Stitch expert and technical whizz, Jen tackles the trickiest of knitting problems with ease. QUESTION OF THE MONTH CABLE CALAMITY Q Why do my cables appear loose despite using good technique? Anita Trueman Loose cables usually happen when the stitches…

Soft tweed texture! EASY TO KNIT! YOU WILL NEED DROPS Soft Tweed (DK, 50% wool, 25% alpaca, 25% viscose, 50g/130m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table 3mm circular needles, 40cm and 60cm long 4mm circular needles, 40cm and 60cm long 1 set of 3mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) 1 set of 4mm DPNs Stitch markers Stitch holders TENSION 21 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit Garn Studio at www.garnstudio.com OR YOU COULD TRY… Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Lindehobby www.lindehobby.co.uk LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration and expertise. Visit in person, buy while you're there, and help keep…

GET the LOOK Page 19 Simply knitting loves EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Milla Mia Naturally Soft Aran (100% Merino wool, 50g/80m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 4.5mm needles A pair of 5mm needles 4 lockable stitch markers Stitch holders TENSION 16 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over lace stitch using 5mm needles 19 sts and 28 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over mock rib using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting WHERE TO BUY…

EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO TRY A NEW stitch! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Yarnsmiths Create Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/150m) 3 balls of Sky Blue (5260) A pair of 6mm needles Card for pompoms 5cm wide TENSION 15 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Chart pattern using 6mm needles MEASUREMENTS 23cm wide x 175cm long (91/4x69in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting WHERE TO BUY □ Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk KEY CHART “I love seeing unusual geometric stitch patterns worked up into everyday accessories. This…

Every knitter needs a book that feels like a trusted friend – one that patiently teaches, sparks ideas and nudges you to try something new. ‘The Knitting Stitches Bible’ by Marabout Collectif is just that: an inspiring guide you'll want nearby. From cast-on to confidence This beautifully illustrated book takes you from your first stitches to more adventurous makes. It starts with a clear guide covering the basics: how to cast on, practise ten key stitches (knit, purl, garter, stocking and moss among them), read charts, understand tension and even rescue a dropped stitch. Step-by-step instructions and photographs make tricky techniques easy to follow. Beginners will feel supported, while returning knitters will appreciate the gentle refresher. A treasure trove of stitches Once you're comfortable, the book opens into a stitch…

Charity of the MONTH We spoke to Lorna Robertson, Alzheimer's Society Local Services Manager Southwest Charity name Alzheimer's Society Established 1979 What does Alzheimer's Society do? At Alzheimer's Society we provide vital support to people living with dementia, fund ground-breaking research and campaign to make dementia the priority it should be. There are currently around one million people in the UK living with dementia, and one in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime. We're working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives by giving help to people living with dementia today, and hope for the future. As part of my role as a Local Services Manager, I help to oversee the delivery of our services and support groups to people living with and affected…

EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO QUIRKY HOME knits! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball each of Yarn A Cream (1005) Yarn B Grey (1099) Yarn C Pale Rose (1080 Yarn D Magenta (1084) Yarn E Clematis (1390) Yarn F Merlot (2090) Yarn G Boysenberry (1828) A pair of 4mm needles A pair of 4.5mm needles A pair of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) for i-cord Four jam jars in the following sizes: Extra small 7cm tall, 18cm circumference Small 10cm tall, 23cm circumference Medium 9.5cm tall, 26cm circumference Large 15cm tall, 26cm circumference Four battery operated tealights Small stitch holder TENSION 20 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles 18 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Extra…

EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO Knit for your little maestros! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED King Cole Pricewise DK (100% acrylic, 100g/282m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Amber (3207) Yarn B Chocolate (273) King Cole Dollymix DK 100% acrylic, 25g/73m) 1 ball of each Yarn C Black (048)  Yarn D White (001)  Yarn E Taupe (037) A pair of 3.5mm needles Smooth waste yarn Toy filling Locking stitch markers Bobbins for intarsia Sewing needle TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 41cm (161/4in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Oh Sew…

LAST MINUTE make! EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Matador (1010) Yarn B Toy (1844) Yarn C White (1001) Yarn D Black (1002) A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 4 mm needles Toy stuffing Stiff cardboard, 16cm diameter circle Rice or other weighted filling, 500g TENSION 26 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS 38cm (15in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft on 01484 848435 or www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk OR YOU COULD TRY… Litte Wool Shop 01495 239416 www.littlewoolshop.com Delta Wool Shop www.deltawoolshop.co.uk LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration…

NEW from ROWAN EAT 1978 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Rowan Alpaca Sparkle (chunky, 32% polyester, 23% alpaca, 23% virgin wool, 22% cotton, 50g/95m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 7mm needles A pair of 9mm needles A 7mm circular needle at least 60cm long Stitch holders TENSION 10.5 sts and 14 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 9mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Rowan on 01924 371501 or www.knitrowan.com LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration and expertise. Visit in person, buy while you're there, and help keep your yarn community thriving. Find your local yarn shop on page 80 TIE-BACK JUMPER FRONT…

SCAN HERE… FOR TIPS AND TUTORIALS! Scan this QR code with your phone or tablet camera or via a QR code reader app. CABLE CAST-ON METHOD Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches to your work Make a slip knot. Insert right-hand needle into the stitch as if to knit. Wrap the yarn around the point and pull through, slipping the stitch on to the left-hand needle. Push the point of the right-hand needle between the first and second stitches. Wrap the yarn anti-clockwise around the point of the right-hand needle. Pull the loop out with the right-hand needle, then slip it over the tip of the left-hand needle. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until you have the number of stitches you require. THUMB CAST-ON METHOD A…

Kirstie McLeod Editor “I've knitted lots of things I've been proud of, but I think the projects I've designed for Simply Knitting make me feel the proudest.” Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor “The first project I ever designed that got printed - my ragdoll. That was a very special moment for me.” Cory Sydee Technical Editor “I'm proud of everything I make with needles, yarn and my hands! Particularly proud when I knit with yarn I've spun myself too.” Jen Bartlett Technical Editor “I hand spun hand dyed wool and made a Swallowtail Shawl. The colours came together beautifully.”…

EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO STITCH of the month EASY TO KNIT! YOU WILL NEED Yarnsmiths Merino DK (100% Merino wool, 50g/110m) 2 balls of Sienna Red (3094) A pair of 3mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A pair of 5mm needles Tapestry needle TENSION 36 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Main Pattern using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a medium adult size head Bottom ribbing to top of hood 25cm (9¾in) Back of hood to front ribbing 18cm (7in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 WHERE TO BUY □ Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk “I've recently come back from a quick break in Copenhagen and there were people wearing these pixie bonnets all over the place. I can see why,…

Copenhagen Fibers is Hobbii's new yarn brand, combining luxurious natural fibres with a clean, Scandinavian style. Launched in six versatile ranges, each yarn comes in a curated palette inspired by Copenhagen, inviting knitters to create elegant, modern pieces with a cosy hygge touch. From the airy Baby Alpaca Blend and fluffy Brushed Alpaca to classic Natural Wool, soft Merino options, and delicate Silk Mohair, the collection offers something for every project. With Copenhagen Fibers, knitters can craft pieces that are both stylish and irresistibly cosy. Discover the collection at www.hobbii.co.uk/pages/copenhagen-fibers, Soft luxurious yarns Silk Mohair (200m) £9; Merino (108m) £6; Merino Light (253m) £6; Baby Alpaca Blend (110m) £8; Brushed Alpaca (110m) £8; Natural Wool (91m) £3.95…

EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO Great GIFT IDEA IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino (sportweight, 55% Merino wool, 33% acrylic, 12% cashmere, 50g/125m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 3mm needles 4 stitch markers 2 stitch holders TENSION 25 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 77 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting KEY CHART LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration and expertise. Visit in…

BREW UP FOR 2026! EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED King Cole Pricewise DK (100% acrylic, 100g/282m) 1 ball of Yarn A Black (48) King Cole Big Value DK (100% acrylic, 50g/145m) 1 ball of each Yarn B Yellow (4027) Yarn D Fuchsia (4034) Yarn E Turquoise (4044) Yarn F Sand (4022) Yarn G Platinum (4051) Yarn H French Navy (4043) Yarn J White (4020) King Cole Tinsel Chunky (75% polyester, 25% Lurex, 50g/70m) 1 ball of Yarn C Circus (3470)  A pair of 5.5mm needles A pair of 4mm needles Stitch holder 1 cotton bud Toy filling TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles with DK yarn 14 sts and 23 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5.5mm…

YOU WILL NEED Yeoman Kajam Alpaca (chunky, 25% alpaca, 25% wool, 50% acrylic, 400g/600m) 1 cone of each Autumn Red (5) Hessian (1) A pair of 6.5mm needles Cushion inners, 35x35cm for Red cushion (40x40cm for Hessian cushion) 3 (5) buttons TENSION 19 sts and 23 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4) over st st using 6.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS LN left needle PB place buttonhole RN right needle For a full list see page 77 TOP TIP If you've never added cross stitch to knitted fabric before, it might be a good idea to knit a quick swatch and have a practice before applying it your finished knitted piece. We love TURN to page 20 for great reader stories! FESTIVE CUSHIONS Placing buttonholes (PB) When placing buttonholes, work as folls to make a…

CATCH UP WITH OUR READER KNITS AND STORIES over on page 20 CHILL OUT WITH A CROSSWORD ACROSS: 1 Triumph or achievement (7) 5 Mending technique using needle and thread (7) 9 Number of musketeers? (5) 10 Contract (9) 11 System of rules enforced by authority (3) 12 Cheap and tasteless (5) 13 Permit (5) 14 Sediment at the bottom of a drink (5) 16 Noon (6) 18 Fast horse's pace (6) 19 Aroma (5) 22 Warning signal (5) 24 Burn with hot liquid (5) 26 Polite address or knighted gentleman (3) 27 Exact copy (9) 29 Garlic mayonnaise dip (5) 30 Examine in detail (7) 31 Non-professional (7) DOWN: 1 Resolved or established (7) 2 Gymnastic sideways rotation (9) 3 Occasion or happening (5) 4 Test patch for knitting…

ISSUE 270 DECEMBER Holly and berry jumper Mini tree decorations Tatty Teddy jumper Men's tweedy cardigan Cute penguin trio Snowman ear bud case cover Rudolf pyjama case Penguin jumper and hat set Elf Christmas sack Fair Isle jumper Quick and easy loop stitch tinsel PLUS Furry Friends animal pattern collection BUY IT NOW! RETURN TO THE APP TO BUY BACK ISSUES ISSUE 269 NOVEMBER Colourblock jumper Seed stitch satchel Baby dress & cardigan set Kids’ Santa hat Men's checked jumper Elf teddy Snowman jumper Kids’ festive cardigan Fox scarf Lace and stripes jumper PLUS Christmas Decorations & Festive Gifts pattern books ISSUE 268 OCTOBER Cotton cable jumper Odd socks Kids’ puffin jumper Men's striped jumper Baby hat Folded ovals waistcoat Sawyer Scarecrow Mug hug Kids’ Halloween slippers Sloth plant holder…