Kaffe Fassett At The Garden Of The Rose

So guess what I did yesterday?

This was a thrilling trip and I was very honoured to recieve an invitation to pop along and meet Kaffe Fassett at The Gardens Of The Rose in Saint Albans, which is not too far from me.

I popped along to cover the event for Love To Knit And Crochet Magazine, with my personal knitting advisor - my mum.

The gardens were sprinkled with Kaffe Quits amidst stunning floral displays

It's always good to have a second opinion on knitting events which is why I always make sure she is with me. That way I make sure to get a balanced view of whatever the event might be. And it's fun for us to do these things together. I owe her the fact that I'm knitting at all.

I had no idea this pretty little gem had been hidden in such a local area - and on one of the hottest days of the year, it was possibly the most beautiful garden I'd ever had the pleasure of visiting.

The press area gathered at the Pavillion near the entrance

 Having worked for Rowan for a good many years before moving on to publishing, it was a lovely opportunity to catch up with some old friends. I was not expecting a glass of fizz and a goody bag with some yummy Rowan Cashmere popped in (this is earmarked for a hat for the fella - it's his colour).

All the excitement was in the tent, where the fashion show was held

The highlight of the trip was the fashion show - telling the story of 30 years of Rowan. The first magazine came out the year I was born, so it has a very special meaning for me. I remember reading the mags and looking at the glossy pictures before I could understant the words.

The fashion show most certainly did not dissapoint. We had great seats and a fabulous view of the stunning garments.

 

It was really sweet as well because the huge crowd (it had to be fully booked, it was rammed in there) all came together when the older garments started coming round - especially the iconic Kaffe designs. All of a sudden we were all reminiscing about where we were the first time we'd seen certain garments, right down to where we were when we bought the magazines.

It was an amazing day which ended with Kaffe planting a Rowan Tree to commemorate the 60th Rowan Magazine (they do a Spring/Summer and an Autumn/Winter each year). Although sadly we couldn't stay for that bit.

If it ever happens again, I wholeheartedly would recommend you attend. I've also since found out that The Society Of The Rose also host as a wedding venue and let me tell you, I can't think of a better backdrop on a nice day for your treasured wedding photographs.

 

The Best Gypsy Caravan To Stay At In The Lake District

This summer, we took a trip to Cartmel for a week of fun and frolics. Even with rainy weather, we were delighted to find that the cost-effective gypsy caravn at The Blue House Bed And Breakfast  we stayed instead in their gypsy caravan which is on-site and a few metres from the house.

I'd booked it as a surprise, secretly really worried that my other half would find it a bit too hipster and girly. There's no electric to the caravan so it's back to basics! I'd spent months keeping it a secret, which was intensely difficult for me. So it was a bit of a gamble when we turned up.

Nuzzled in picturesque countryside, The Blue House is the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway

When we turned up, our friendly driver dropped us at the entrance which is at the back of the property, where the car park is. I was hoping to sneak him in without spotting the caravan, but alas, it was the first thing we saw. I was completely relieved when I turned my head - a big grin was on the mister's face. He was sold.

Owner Tina was wonderful - she let us in early where our previous accomodation had a fairly early check out. Luckily the caravan hadn't been occupied the night before.

He was totally game and we had a very romantic three days with no TV or phones, just each other.

Tina was extremely accomodating, as it happened - I don't drive so lugging a lot of things around on long journeys is not my strong point. She was able to hold on to a couple of parcels filled with goodies which I'd posted up in advance to keep the secret well and truly schtm. This included colouring books, mini novels, a chess set and marshmallows for toasting on the fire pit. Thank you, Tina!

Candles in all shapes and sizes will keep you lit and cosy

We were far from living like animals in there, with a lifetime supply of candles and a plethora of candle holders to keep the place lit, and warm! It was raining for our entire three day stay and far from warm outside, but our conversation, the candles and a glass or two of vino kept us plenty warm inside the caravan.

The bathroom is off inside the house, separate from the double rooms, next to tea and coffee making facilities. It's also where we could charge out electric cigarettes and squeeze a few nibbles into Tina's fridge.

There's just enough room for two chairs and a small table up inside. Which is perfect if you're up for some board games. Even with the candles, we did need our torches though - we packed and brought them with us.

The bed is very warm and comfortable, my fella is about 6 foot 1 and he managed to sleep fine in there. We packed knitted socks and kept ourselves very warm!

At the back of the caravan there is a little hidey hole which we put our beers in to keep them cool. You could keep a suitcase in there if you wanted but we just plonked ours under the bed - it's the perfect spot to tuck things out of the way.

Included in the tiny £60 a night bill, is a delicious home cooked breakfast. In the morning, we sauntered over to the main house where residents of the B and B were staying, there are two double rooms in there. The company was good and the food was delicious.

We were never short of a little canine company

Tina's two dogs made for very pleasant company and were extremely well behaved. We had a disposable barbecue on the go covered in posh sausages one night and they didn't bother us at all.

They did pop by to keep us company from time to time though, and we were very lucky to see their brand new puppies!

Although the location is very much secluded, there is a bus stop a few minutes walk away to get you into Grange-Over-Sands.

And next to the bus stop there's a lovely pub calle The Crown which has some great food in hearty portions. We proudly boast that our best steak ever eaten, was eaten there. And I'm not kidding.

Round the corner is the very exciting Predator Experience which is a fabulous once-in-a-lifetime treat, if you get the chance to go. We did the Walking With Wolves experience and it changed out outlook on these fascinating creatures!

In short, we loved our little trip in the best gypsy caravan. The rain was not aa problem - if anything the pitter patter on the roof made the atmosphere even more romantic, and as city-dwellers, we couldn't do much more to get away from it all.

So if you're agile enough to get up a few steps to hop into bed and you don't mind gettig cosy with you're roommate, I can't recommend this enough. At the price they're asking, you can't afford not to go.

Cider Holder Bag Pattern For Festivals - My New Design

I had great fun with this design because my mini duffel (which doubles as a perfect carrier for a bottle of cider if you're headed to Glastonbury), was the perfect opportunity for me to bash out a design in the round.

My initial design ideas drew from Aztec Inspiration from The British Museum

I'd always wanted to design a Fair Isle pattern in the round, so with an effort to keep this knit quick and seamless, that's what I went for.

It was tricky to find the colours I fancied all within the same range, so shock horror, I ended up turning back to my fond favourites from the Rowan Yarns range. With sturdy Handknit Cotton holding up the structure of the bag, there are flashes of the Anchor Artiste Metallic for a bit of added texture and sparkle.

I'm really pleased with how it came out except the bulkiness of the Handknit Cotton has meant that the drawstring won't pull the opening closed all the way.

Originally this was envirioned as a bag which you could put some cash into, maybe a disposable camera; just something small which you could fill with bits and navigate the crowds at a big festival.

Once I'd seen that it didn't close though, I started to look at the cicumference of the opening more closely - and soon realised that it would be better suited for carrying a bottle of alcohol. I a bottle of wine or cider would fit quite nicely. Hence why I've now decided in myh mind that this really is more of a cider holder bag pattern.

Although I'm allergic to crowds, and therefore would probably never go to a big festival (hats off to you people - I don't know how you do it), I have always wondered how you cart your cans around. Well I suggestg this yearf you ditch them, knit yourself one of these guys instead (or get a very kind knitter friend to do it for you).

You start off at the top of the bag and work downwards, with stranded colourwork in the round (the Fair Isle technique), before swapping down to dpns (double pointed needles) for the base shaping. I'm a lover of technical knits, they just get my juices flowing - so this is a good one if you're a bit like me and like a knit to keep you interested. Get your cider holder bag pattern for instant download.

Introducing - Love To Knit And Crochet Magazine

So I've been saying for ages that I had a bit of news. Well the time has come where I'm safe to blab.

I'm very pleased to announce that I am now writing and designing for Love To Knit And Crochet magazine!

A photo posted by Knitting Network (@knittingnetwork) on Apr 22, 2016 at 8:08am PDT

There's actually been two issues now, they come out at the end of each month and every issue comes with a free gift. We've been making a few videos teaching you how to make them, including the first one which was how to crochet an amigurumi cat;

The top that I'm wearing is one of the knitting patterns from the inside, a multi-textured handknit designed by Pat Menchini that I have 'adopted'. It's so easy to wear and very comfortable. S-wish!

Content Editor @freddiepatmore is looking swish in the multi-textured knit #teepattern from this months issue of #lovetoknitandcrochet magazine. Knit yours now! #knittersofinstagram #knittersofig #knittingpatterns #knitpattern #teeshirts

A video posted by Knitting Network (@knittingnetwork) on May 11, 2016 at 3:12am PDT

Love To Knit And Crochet is aimed at a fresh and modern audience, so it's been great fun linking up with bloggers for interviews. My first was with Ruby of Frank & Olive fame. A fab design house boasting workshop retreats and collaborations with big brands such as Patons.

So thrilled with this, one of my favouritest features I've ever written, a four page #interview with Ruby McGrath of @frankandolive. Grab your copy of #lovetoknitandcrochet, it's a great little mag! Who will it be next month? 😯 #Crochet #crochetersofinstagram @make_it_coats_uk

A photo posted by Frederica Patmore (@freddiepatmore) on Apr 25, 2016 at 12:12pm PDT

Issue 2 landed in shops last Friday, and featured a fun granny square phone cover kit. It's great fun too because so far each freeb kit has come with a colour-coordinated crochet hook and I'm in love with this pink one.

It's a really extra special issue for me this second one, and it sounds completely silly I'm sure but see the crocheted tee on the cover?

You know, the one being modelled by a real-life grown up adult model? That super-easy crochet design is one of MINE and I was squeeing in the office for a good couple of hours at least, when I'd discovered that I'd made the front cover. What an honour!

I never thought I'd say this but I seem to be designing more crochet than knitting these days - weird considering knitting was always the one I was madder about. It's great fun though. These new challenges all feel wonderful.

And what a lovely model!

 

I also had the pleasure of getting to know EmmaKnitted for the interview in this month's issue which was a real honour. She's super nice and has a very distinctive style. Love her pattern detail.

Had an amazing interview with @freddiepatmore for @knittingnetwork #lovetoknitandcrochet magazine this month, I can't thank them enough! ❤️😊Spending my Saturday morning having a read and finishing some crochet 👌 #emmaknitted #emmawright #knittersofinstagram #knittersgonnaknit #knitstagram #knitmagazine #knittingnetwork #yarnaholic #yarnaddict

A photo posted by Emma Wright (@emmaknitted) on May 28, 2016 at 1:51am PDT

Part of the fun of the mag is simply that it uses both knitting and crochet so there's something for everyone, in a wide variety of sizes. Plenty for the total beginner up to much more challenging designs that you can get your teeth into.

It's a very exciting time working with such a refreshing, vibrant team on this new project. I can't wait to see what's around the corner with Teresa Conway at the helm (Previously of C + B).

Teresa (above, right) and I at a press launch for Pompomania, a super-fun book by Christine Leech aka SewYeah

She has more ideas in her head than I'd previously thought possible and I'm greatly looking forward to learning a lot from her.

...and as much as I want to tell you more about what's in the mag, I can't! Go buy one. Don't take my word for it, either - Katherine Lymer has done a great review of our first issue on her blog (thanks, Katherine!).

I'd really like for you to get involved - find the new mag on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Ravelry. If you're a yarn company, a blogger or designer, come say hi. Ideas and feedback always welcome.

I hated the idea of Arm Knitting, but now I love it!!! I show you how

I think Arm Knitting was probably mentioned in the office about a year ago, and I'm pretty sure I screwed up into a big raisiny face at the time.

Arm knitting? What bollocks! Surely no knitter would admit out loud that they have ditched their needles and gone for the gimmick. Surely not.

A photo posted by Covert Craft (@lee.stoffer) on Jan 2, 2016 at 8:49am PST

Previously pooh-poohing the notion to be another social media flash-in-the-pan technique that would come and go, that it would never be taken seriously in the knititng community, I'm now starting to realise I was probably wrong about that.

It came up again recently and I felt it was high time I had a go, even if it didn't go anywhere. If nothing more, I ought to at least learn how to do it. Another string to my bow and soforth.

Playing with it at my desk with my headphones on (bare in mind I work around a lot of journalists who are not knitters), as soon as I built up some speed, I realised I'd attracted a crowd of spectators. They were fascinated!

It was just so massive and so quick, and SO fun. Everyone wanted to see what I was doing.

Having worked out how to do the arm knitting, it's surprisingly easy! Essentially using your arms as needles (well, duh!) and 'knitting' a regular row before working a row in reverse. Arms are big needles, so the thing grows super-quick!

A photo posted by Tammy Kanat (@tammykanat) on Mar 7, 2016 at 1:00am PST

...perfect for HUGE things.

It's all very me anyway, because I knit backwards instead of working purl rows in stocking stitch, something strange which just happenned to me when Learning to knit as a child. Works for me though.

I found the most AMAZING yarn - Premier Yarns in America do this great [and sparkly] stuff called Couture Jazz. I have a secret weakness for anything sparkly. Tinsel included. But this is, y'know, tasteful.

A photo posted by Linds & Chad (@the_gloedes) on Dec 22, 2015 at 8:25pm PST

Obviously, anything super-thick will work. There are plenty of these scarfy yarns around that will be fine - someone on Facebook said earlier that Tiger have started selling something you could use.

So without further stalling, allow me to introduce me introducing the concept of Arm Knitting. Below is a little taster and then the full video is here (it's free, I just can't embed it here!). I warn you now, my hair is doing something almost as crazy as my coffee-fuelled excited self, but enjoy nonetheless!!

Unbelievable! Make this cosy throw in a few minutes - no previous knitting knowledge needed (yes, really!) See the full how-to video here http://ow.ly/Za7Kr
Posted by Knitting Network on Monday, 7 March 2016

In this video I'll show you how to knit a blanket with no knitting experience, in 15 minutes. You should know I did it in 10, but when you do things deliberately on film in a way that's clear to see, it often takes a bit longer. We didn't want to lie, so we said 15. But you could totally do it in 10.

If you've seen the video and fancy having a go, join me and Vicki Walker to Arm Knit your very own snood at the Sewing For Pleasure show at Birmingham NEC from the 17th - 20th March. Anyone can do it and you should leave with a snood to boot! Just what you need in this chilly weather.

I guarantee you'll catch the bug, I sure did!