Fitted Knits by Stephanie Japel

This is one of our favourite knitting books around at the moment.

Stephanie, of Glampyre Knits fame, has always had a very distinctive style, which shines through in this book.

The designs, whilst all very special, are ultimately, extremely wearable. And with Stephanie's guide to the perfect fit, you can achieve a tailor made finish to your hand knits.

The designs are knitted from the top down, which enables the wearer to try on as they go along and make fit adjustments where necessary. This leap from knitting flat 2-dimensional pieces to a 3-dimensional construction can seem quite daunting at first, but don't be put off - once you get started it all makes perfect sense.

The garments are all photographed well, with good close up photos of the important details. We couldn't pick one favourite garment as there are so many, but we will probably knit 'Textured Tunic with side buttons' on page 103 first of all.

A book to use again and again - one for the collection.

Recycled Snowmen

Click to see larger image

Click to see larger image

These amazing crocheted snowmen were made by Paula and Angela from Blackpool, Lancashire, UK. They are made from recycled carrier bags and have been displayed outside their adjoining hotels.

Paula and Angela are currently working on giant knitted flowers for the same gateposts ready for the NorthWest in Bloom competition which is held each year.

If you are in Blackpool in June remember to look out for them.

Art Viva Hand Crafted Knitting Needles

Experience the joy of knitting with these beautiful, handmade wooden knitting needles. Crafted from Tasmanian Oak that is harvested using sustainable forestry practices, they are sanded until silky smooth, and finished with natural, organic oils featuring Eucalyptus, Tung Nut and Citrus oil ingredients.

The paint used is of a very high quality and is non-toxic and water-based. Each needle is shaped and decorated by hand so every pair is unique. The needles are topped with brightly painted wooden beads in a solid colour with pretty white spots.

The needles are colourful, fun and fantastic to use, and they look beautiful. There are six different colours in the range, each colour denoting a different size including 4mm diameter, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm and the chunky 10mm all in 30cm lengths. The 10mm size is also available in an extra long 38cm length, ideal for chunky knitting.