Simply Knitting 68

 The latest issue of Simply Knitting has hit the doormat. As usual I'm not taken with the cover gift, a magnetic pattern marker board set. As someone who rarely feels the need  tick off the pattern as she goes and knits on the move it didn't float my boat (luckily a friend wants it). I'm not much of a knitting gadget person. 

On the other hand next month promises stitch markers, perfect timing as my Ravelry queue is full of lace patterns.

 Meanwhile what else is worth a look this month? There isn't a must knit like last month's Blue Belle by Pat Menchini but there are a few keepers all the same (Ravelry links where available)

Stay Cool from Sirdar is a really versatile spring/summer long line cardigan. A photo spread of SK staff hows how it works on a range of shapes and sizes, it is sized for 32in bust up to 54in. In DK with a deep lace border and mainly stocking stitch it looks straightforward and useful.

Take it easy by Pat Menchini is a classic men's pullover with a rib pattern. Perfect for men who don't want "anything fancy"

Garden Party from Rowan is a handy lace summer cardigan, which would look good without the stripes shown here.

Zip and Zing by Ruth Maddock is labeled a teen knit but is a handy hoodie - I'd never chose lime green and orange though.

The quick knits section contains some interesting purses and a crotchet beach blanket which would also works a throw I think.

There is also a crotchet cotton top, and a sock pattern for subscribers but my crotchet is rusty and sock ain't for me so can't really comment.

Plus a great article on victorian knitting.