Country Weekend Knits (Country Living Magazine) [Paperback]

Published 2010

Fashions come and go, but there are some things that just never go out of style. Country Weekend Knits features a collection of 25 classic patterns that showcase the rich heritage of traditional British knitwear cosy jumpers, chunky cardigans, patterned sweater-vests and lightweight lacy cover-ups that all have a timeless appeal. Divided into four chapters according to origin Gansey', Fair Isle', Aran' and Shetland Lace' the patterns are derived from all corners of the British Isles and includes multicoloured knitting from Fair Isle, lace knitting from the Shetland Isles, textured fishermen's ganseys from Cornwall and the east coat of England and Scotland, and chunky Arans from the Isle of Aran, off the west coat of Ireland. Many of the patterns are based on original designs dating as far back as the eighteenth century, passed down through generations of knitters and reinterpreted in contemporary colourways. The rich textures of the sumptuous yarns, soft natural colours and intricate patterns of these timeless knits instantly conjure up a host of comforting images of country walks across windswept hills, beside crashing surf and through the crisp fallen leaves of autumn, of glowing cheeks beside roaring open fires, tankards of ale and traditional cream teas Whether you're a country soul through and through or an urbanite at heart, you cannot fail to be seduced by the nostalgic appeal of the traditional patterns collected in Country Weekend Knits.

Country Socks: 25 Classic Patterns [Paperback]

Published 2010

Virtually any stitch pattern can be adapted to socks, and the ones featured in Country Socks hail from all over the UK. Patterns include multicoloured designs from Fair Isle, intricate lace knitting and openwork from the Shetlands, textured ganseys from Cornwall, the east coast of England and the Western Isles of Scotland, and chunky cable and Aran patterns from the Isle of Aran. Many of the patterns, including Sanquar and Eriskay, are based on original designs dating as far back as the eighteenth century, passed down through generations of knitters. Traditional patterns have been reinterpreted by a number of leading designer-knitters, including Sasha Kagan, Jamie and Jessie Seaton, Rita Taylor, Sue Turton and Margaret MacInnes. Most of the socks are knitted on 4 double-pointed needles or circular needles from the top down; others are knitted from the toe up; while an intarsia design is knitted on 2 needles, with a seam up the back. The rich textures of the sumptuous yarns and soft natural colourways take their cue from the coastline and countryside rolling hills, woodland paths, autumn leaves, stone walls, heather, fallen logs, fishing boats, sand dunes, driftwood and beach pebbles. With both long and short styles in wool and cotton, there are sock patterns for every occasion to wear with sturdy walking boots, classic tweeds, light summer dresses and cosy pyjamas.