In my knitting-as-a-story sense of a project, there’s a pleasing simplicity to the way that the beginning, middle and end, map so nicely onto swatching, knitting and blocking. 3 critical sections, each of which contributes to the whole, but the first 2 of which tend to get the most attention. So in the interest of balance and completion, today we… Read more →

For the most part, us knitters have plenty to feel good about – our pastime is good for our mental health, it keeps us and our friends warm, it supports sheep, shepherds and hillsides, and it’s spawned a creative scene that’s full of talented designers. But just in case we need reminding of the imperfect nature of the universe, we… Read more →

A few days ago, this came in an email to the shop.. ‘I would love to make the Burgos with the João but I don’t want to use a second laceweight silk yarn, as I don’t do silk and want to keep that wonderful 419 green colour.In theory, would it work to just make it 2 or three sizes larger… Read more →

Is there really a Madonna of the Yarn Winder? Well there’s a painting with that name by Leonardo Da Vinci that shows the Madonna, her naked child and something that looks like a niddy noddy meets drop spindle contraption. It’s had a bit of an adventurous time lately – stolen by robbers disguised as policemen and eventually returned to the… Read more →

This guide first appeared in 2021, since when we have had the good fortune to get even better at our barefoot knitting skills. And given how many new knitters may be travelling with their knitting for the first time this summer, it feels like high time we posted a revised version of the guide.. Socks on the beach, cables in… Read more →

Perhaps when it’s a light weight top which isn’t about keeping you warm? Or when it’s got short sleeves? When it looks nice on its own, not worn over something else? When you want to wear it on a hot day! Now I know what you’re thinking – ‘Here she goes again – banging on about knitting for the summer,… Read more →

‘It’s a just a hat – why do I need 2 different sorts of needles?’ ‘Finally reached the sleeve decreases and now even my 40cm circular is too long. What’s the best way to get to the cuff?’ ‘I want to make my first pair of socks – is it better to use DPNs or a long circular with the… Read more →

‘I’m making a baby blanket, so it’s got to be washable.‘ ‘It’s a sweater for my son. There’s no way he’ll wash it by hand. I need something that will go in the machine.‘ ‘Someone on Instagram said superwash wool is bad. Is that true? It sounds like it should be great.‘ We had to get here eventually.. It’s time… Read more →