What a year it has been for the UK, with that royal wedding, and now the London Olympics to prepare for. Union Jacks are everywhere, and a sense of national pride is in the air. In this issue we are proud to showcase some of the best British designers and yarn companies. Their innovation and enthusiasm bring us delectable products which are enjoyed by knitters all over the world.

There has been great excitement here at The Knitter HQ as we bring you the first of three designs by Jane Sowerby, author of the iconic book Victorian Lace Today.

What a milestone these patterns are – the first published by Jane in quite a number of years, and the first ever in a magazine outside the US!

The Knitter’s editor Juliet says: “The elegance and harmony Jane brings to her designs makes them a joy to knit.”

In our knitting masterclass Rosee Woodland demonstates how to spin with a drop spindle. We find out how spinner John Arbon and designer Susan Crawford worked together to create a new, thoroughly British yarn, and Meet the people striving to preserve Britain’s unique and diverse sheep breeds.

Also in this issue, look out for Juliet’s husband modelling Judy Furlong’s men’s waistcoat on page 64. She comments: “He is from the Lake District and so is genetically engineered to make knitwear look so rugged and handsome. Not that I am biased, you understand…”

Patterns in The Knitter Issue 37
Gothic shawl – Jane Sowerby’s stunning green and teal Victorian shawl is updated with modern yarns and construction.

Kilda cardi – Sarah Hatton’s cosy cardigan using classic Fair Isle patterns in a muted colour palette

Dulcie top – Amanda Jones’s silk-merino top adorned with pretty shell patterning

Bettine shug – Louisa Harding’s glittering, beaded cover-up

Frances cardigan – Susan Crawford’s 1950s couture inspired fitted, cabled cardigan

Pretty As A Picture wrap – Jacqui Harding’s elegant little wrap combining mohair, lacework and beading

Cockleshell gloves – Belinda Boaden’s gloves knitted using a single skein of luxurious yarn

Craig waistcoat – Judy Furlong’s smart, tailored men’s waistcoat

Faroe socks – Barb Brown’s cosy knee-high socks sporting traditional colourwork motifs

Flower & Check Throw – Si‚n Brown’s rustic blanket in pure Shetland wool

Barn Cat – Susan B. Anderson characterful tabby cat

Snuggly Cardigan – Sirdar’s cheerful bobbled design for little ones

Up to six months after publication, this issue may be available to buy as a back issue by phoning our customer services people on 0844 848 2852, and you can also buy back issues of The Knitter online. After this point you can still buy a digital version of The Knitter Issue 37.