Murat
Because it’s the little things that have the biggest impact…
Letter From Jodie Morgan: Founding Editor
In this issue, there’s knitting history: the resilient women of Sanday, transforming textile waste into luxury knitwear, handmade gifts for a cause and wool takes center stage in building innovation…
Note: If you click a link on this page and make a purchase, I may receive a commission, but at no extra cost to you. Learn More.
Plus, you’ll find…
Heartfelt mittens that make history, bringing warmth & togetherness, the oversized sweater you’ll love and a knitted winter miniature.
A simple, striking shawl, luxurious textures, vibrant Selbu style, effortless slouchy chic and nautical flair.
Versatile warmth, Norwegian stranded charm, a snuggle companion, easy elegance
and a ripple effect.
The power of sequins in everyday knitwear, perfecting the circular cast on, revel in festive cheer and take a u-turn when weaving in ends.
Transforming vintage knits for modern machines, unwrapping a year of yarn adventures, superwash & non-superwash yarns and a knitter’s winter stash stories.
Track your knitting journey in meters, double knitting with impeccable technique
skeins, hanks, and balls… which is which?
Exploring London’s yarn treasure and unspin your way to thinner, handy yarn.
Useful Links: About | Member Support
Publication Schedule
Knitter’s Corner
Question From A Reader
I love getting emails from my readers and every week I pick out the best question and answer it here. So, today’s question is…
“I’m new to knitting and have read about different styles. Can you explain why I might choose English knitting as a beginner?”
Sure, I’d love to help! English knitting, also known as ‘throwing’, is often recommended for beginners because it’s straightforward to learn.
You hold the yarn in your dominant hand, which for many, feels more natural and helps maintain consistent tension. It’s slower than some other methods, but it allows for a strong foundation in the basic stitches.
For more, check out this post.
What style did you start with and why? Join the conversation below!
The Adventures Of Boobah & Friends
A fun new coloring page for your collection.
My youngest son has illustrated another delightful coloring page… This time, Boobah & friends are celebrating New Years Eve! They wish you all the best for 2025.
Click the button below to download it as a PDF so you can print it out and color it in. I’d love to see your finished piece. Leave a comment or contact me!
Useful Knitting Tip
Avoid The Hand-Dyed Stripe Effect
“Hand dyed yarns are beautiful but there are variations in the different hanks. If you knit all from one skein and then the other you might get a noticeable difference in the overall fabric. To avoid this, knit 2 rows from one skein and 2 rows from the other for a more blended effect.”
— Excerpt from the Knitting Habits Success Manual.
Casting On Comedy
I love sharing the fun of our craft and I hope you get a giggle out of this…
Oops! Did I buy yarn again instead of milk?
The Great Knitting Debate
I so enjoy finding out about my readers’ experiences. Please let me know your thoughts in this poll.
You have until the next issue to cast your vote, and there, the results will be revealed!
And now… for last week’s results…
When did you learn to Knit?
- As a child from family: 70%
- As an adult from classes/videos: 20%
- Just recently: 10%
Worthy Of A Spot On Your Bookshelf
Here’s my weekly recommendation for an excellent knitting resource to help you on your knitting journey.
Aran Knitting by Alice Starmore
“Discusses everything about the history and traditions of Aran Knitting with wonderful patterns. People love Alice Starmore’s intricate designs. Detailed patterns for men and women. The cable designs are interesting. You learn the historical elements of Aran.”
— Sourced from my recommended books for your knitting library.
Knitting Through Time
I love finding pieces of art from history showcasing our craft through the ages.
This is an impressionist painting of women knitting during WW1 in Highbridge Park, in Washington Heights, Manhattan, in New York City by George Luks.
The Wisdom Of Words
“Rejoice in small things and they will continue to grow.”
— Slaven Vuji
This Week In Knitting News
Here’s what I’ve found for you…
Knitting History: The Resilient Women Of Sanday
Sandra Towrie once led a knitting group that transformed the quiet Isle of Sanday into a knitting powerhouse. This story took me back to a time when their creations reached festive TV fame in a Christmas special. Sandra’s book captures those years when knitting an essential part of the community’s economy.
Transforming Textile Waste Into Luxury Knitwear
What an inspiring collaboration between iinouiio, Superlove Merino, and OUBAS! They’re turning cutting waste into a beautiful recycled merino wool yarn, fittingly named ReMerino®. This initiative gives new life to pieces that might otherwise be discarded. I love this innovative approach!
Handmade Gifts For A Cause
I love when communities come together with needles and yarn for a good cause. This story shares how local knitters created 115 unique hats for Peterson Elementary’s kindergarteners. What a sweet gesture!
Wool Takes Center Stage In Building Innovation
This article shines a spotlight on a fantastic innovation. Forget fiberglass — wool might be the next big thing in plasterboard!
Heartfelt Mittens That Make History
Dorothy Gallihugh, an 84-year-old knitter from Midland, shared her generous spirit by gifting over a thousand hand-knitted mittens. Isn’t this story heartwarming?
Dorothy’s knitting journey began at age seven, inspired by her great-grandmother.
Bringing Warmth & Togetherness
How heartening is the initiative by Heart of Newhaven to craft a 16ft tall knitted Christmas tree? Based in an old Victorian school building, this community group in Edinburgh unites generations through crafting.
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
Knitting Designs You Can’t Miss…
The Oversized Sweater You’ll Love
The Fisherman’s Rib Sweater by Lia Lykke beautifully blends comfort and style—ideal for those crisp winter days. Knit in the half brioche technique, this sweater oozes texture and coziness! Needles in sizes US 4 and US 9 create the perfect stitch, providing a seamless transition of warmth from neck to hem.
A Knitted Winter Miniature
The charming Winter House is a delightful project that can brighten up any room. It measures 13x15cm, created with two single-pointed needles.
I love that it incorporates simple stitches like garter and English rib, plus a crochet chain for a bit of flair. It’s perfect for a relaxing weekend knit.
A Simple, Striking Shawl
Linnea Ornstein’s Aeria caught my eye right away.
This shawl, worked sideways with short-rows, has an addictive garter stitch charm. Start at the tip, watch the leaves take shape, and revel in the color play.
Luxurious Textures
The Sea Mists Shawl by CathWardKnitsLace, a lacey triangular piece, paired with Estonian stitches, promises a stunning knit. I’m particularly drawn to the choice of laceweight yarn for that extra misty look. I adore details like these!
You’ll need 2.5mm and 3mm circular needles.
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
Vibrant Selbu Style
Ah, the joy of gifting warm hands with Norwegian Mittens for Mimi by Anna Mazzarella! I just love how accessible this project is, even for first-time Norwegian mitten makers. Ideal for gifting or keeping!
Effortless Slouchy Chic
I love a project that offers style and simplicity, and StaceysKnitWits’ Slouchy Beanie ticks both boxes! This beginner-friendly design uses 16″ circulars (6.5mm.)
It’s so adaptable too: resize it with ease.
Nautical Flair
The Men’s Sailing Sweater by Claudia Finlay captures the spirit of maritime adventure while staying snug. The textured twisted rib and traveling cable create a classic yet contemporary look.
Versatile Warmth
The Winter Wish Scarf is a real treat for those looking to dabble in brioche and textured stitches! It’s knit with a luxurious worsted yarn blend.
The suggested US 5 and 6 needles sound perfect for finding that lovely balance between warmth and drape.
Norwegian Stranded Charm
The Eva Pullover from Sandnes Garn offers delightful colorwork, perfect for your knitting repertoire. With its variety in sizes for little ones, from 2 to 12 years, you’ll love bringing tradition with a modern twist to their wardrobes.
A Snuggle Companion
The Fall Cuddler Easy Knit Throw Blanket by Mama In A Stitch is all about warmth and texture. It’s a joy to knit, especially with bulky yarn and US 15 (10 mm) circulars.
Jessica Potasz, the designer, always makes approachable and stylish creations!
Easy Elegance
Florence Miller’s Step by Step Sweater has captivated many with its simple yet stylish design. The relaxed fit and raglan sleeves will make it a favorite in your wardrobe. Use US 7 (4.5 mm) and US 9 (5.5 mm) circular needles for a lovely drape.
A Ripple Effect
I’m loving this wavy chevron scarf by Serpil Çeliktürk. The ripple effect is mesmerizing, achieved using three yarns transitioning in color.
Plus, you only need a size 6 needle.
Insider Knitting Inspiration…
The Power Of Sequins In Everyday Knitwear
Reading Dana’s post about her Sparkle Lento made my day. Isn’t it inspiring to see someone choose such unique yarns?
Knitting these together with size 10 needles, she creates a festive, elegant, everyday sweater. Dana’s excitement about not saving special pieces for special days resonates with me. Why not add a bit of sparkle, even for something casual?
Perfecting The Circular Cast On
Laura Nelkin’s tutorial on the Circular Cast On is just the thing for adventurous knitters aiming to refine their skills.
Whether you’re tackling hats, socks, or small toys, this method is indispensable.
Revel In Festive Cheer
Fruity Knitting’s 150th episode features the incredible Charlotte Stone of Stone Knits. Her new book, “Joyful Colourwork Socks,” offers not just delightful designs but teaches you how to create your own motifs!
Zanete Knits also inspires in this episode, sharing her unique Latvian-inspired creations. A must-watch, as always!
Take A U-Turn When Weaving In Ends
I discovered a fantastic tip over on this Instagram reel by The Spinnacle, who swears by the “U-Turn method” for weaving in ends. It’s all about no puckering or confusion, a wise choice passed down from their grandmother’s 50 years of experience.
Transforming Vintage Knits for Modern Machines
If you’re curious about turning a classic hand-knit design into a machine-friendly version, you’ll love this video from Engineering Knits.
I found this exploration of translating old patterns to modern machines fascinating.
Unwrapping A Year Of Yarn Adventures
I adore how The Spinnacle Yarns is embracing the idea of a personal knitting wrap-up, echoing the Spotify Wrapped trend. How clever!
Superwash & Non-Superwash Yarns
This explaination from This is Knit offers yarn insights that might change your approach forever! Superwash vs. non-superwash. Who knew the choice wasn’t just about laundry? They explore how these yarns impact your knitting projects.
A Knitter’s Winter Stash Stories
Rebecca from Hip Knit Hooray gives us a tour of her winter knitting plans: she’s into split hems and vibrant colorwork. Perfect for starting the new year with fresh knits!
While watching this, you’re sure to find inspiration for your own winter knits!
Track Your Knitting Journey In Meters
The KnitMeter is such a fun concept! It lets you log your knitting, crocheting, or spinning, measuring by the meter, the yard, or even the mile!
Double Knitting With Impeccable Technique
Are you ready to learn to double knit? Norman’s tutorial, as always, is a treasure trove of step-by-step techniques for practicing this technique.
And even if you’re a long-time fan of double knitting, you’ll still discover something!
Skeins, Hanks, and Balls… Which Is Which?
Isn’t knitting terminology a little… chaotic? This blog post humorously bemoans our tendency to lump all yarn put-ups under the label “skein.” I can relate to this!
I’ve had moments in a yarn shop where “skein, hank, or ball” gave me pause. Here’s the playful solution: naming yarn put-ups after delicious pastries! What fun.
Exploring London’s Yarn Treasure
I took a delightful virtual stroll through Beautiful Knitters in London, thanks to this lovely video by work.knits. What a hidden gem!
The colorful displays of yarn drew me in instantly! If you’re like me and love visiting yarn stores wherever you travel, this tour might just spark your wanderlust.
Unspin Your Way to Thinner, Handy Yarn
Curious about crafting thinner yarns from what you already have? This delightful post from TECHknitting has you covered with a clever unspinning technique. Perfect for intricate color work and reducing bulk.
Hope this issue has inspired your next knitting project!
Was this valuable to you? How could I make it more useful for you?
Leave a comment or contact me with what you’d like to see. And as an extra thank you for sending me your feedback, I’ll have a surprise for you… 😀
P.S. This painting of a still life featuring yarn is lovely!
P.P.S Don’t forget to become a VIP member for even more knitting inspiration…
