Review of Knit Now's 2017 British Issue

Image courtesy of Knit Now magazine

As a lover and supporter of British wool and yarn I'm thrilled when Knit Now magazine's annual British issue hits the shops. Editor Kate Heppell, who is also the author of the 'Rainbow Wrap' pattern in the magazine, broadcast live earlier in the week on Facebook to promote issue 70. I took up the magazine's offer of pre-ordering the it with free P&P and it reached me on February 1st, a day before it was due to be stocked in newsagents.

First impressions? Lots of patterns - there are 41 in the issue along with 15 in the Sirdar Family Aran supplement that is packaged with the magazine. There's a fabulous variety of British yarn used in the designs, whether you're after the more budget Wendy and King Cole ranges or want to invest in Louisa Harding's new cashmere lace yarn from her Yarntelier collection.

Sadly for me there is no stand-out 'must knit' pattern in issue 70, although I recognise that designs are a personal choice and I've been entranced by many in past issues of the magazine. The British issue is, however, a great read with the latest news from the knitting industry, the results of the magazine's Knitter of the Year competition, competitions worth the bother of entering (lots of yarn!) and reviews of British yarns to suit all purses.

This month's free gift, the Sirdar Aran booklet, contains traditional cable knit jumpers for men, women and children.

My conclusion? Issue 70 is certainly worth buying to find out about the latest British yarns. It's entertianing and hopefully you'll find a pattern that'll make you want to take a trip to your local yarn shop.