The lovely people behind the Sewing for Pleasure, Hobbycrafts and Fashion, Embroidery & Stitch show have asked us to share some exciting details about what's in store next weekend at the NEC in Birmingham... 

"Embrace the handmade trend that is sweeping the nation by visiting Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion, Embroidery & Stitch and Hobbycrafts taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from the 21-24 March. With over 300 exhibitors offering the latest craft inspiration and advice, this is a must-visit for any crafting enthusiast!

"Sewing for Pleasure is a haven for knitting, cross stitch, dressmaking and stitching enthusiasts, offering all the very latest supplies, ideas and innovations in the stitching world. Over 150 exhibitors will be wowing the crowds with irresistible products, expert advice and a chance to get hands-on with demonstrations and activities that will leave you eager to create your own haute couture outfits.

Yesterday our Technical Editor Faye was at the Spring Knitting and Stitching Show at Olympia, so why not join us and knit some bunting?

"This weekend we are working hard at the Spring Knitting and Stitching Show at Olympia, London, running knitted bunting workshops using our free pattern. Yesterday was the first day and went brilliantly, we met some lovely people and hopefully got some new folk hooked on the craft! The classes are free and open for anyone to drop in, there is no need to book in advance and is suitable for those who can just knit and purl.

"Situated in between the fabric stands and the yarn suppliers, our classes supply a welcome break for those who fancy putting their feet up for thirty minutes and knitting a piece of bunting! So far we have seen some young, newbie knitters and some that had been knitting for years, including one lady who could have stood a chance in a speed knitting contest. The pattern is great for those with basic knitting skills and shows how to make eyelets and learn three different types of decreases."

We have a great selection of special offers for you in issue 105, which should be dropping through subscribers' doors any day now. If you buy your copy, it'll be in the shops this Wednesday, 20th March.

For the 'Summer breeze' cardigan pattern on page 12, you can get save 15% on the Rowan Handknit Cotton yarn when you order it from Stash Fine Yarns or call 01244 389310 - quote 'SKM105'. This offer is valid until 16th April 2013.

We've heard from a reader, Laura Moore in Bristol, about a new charity project in need of help from kind crocheters.

Reuben's Retreat (registered Charity Number 1150436) was set up in August 2012, after Reuben suddenly passed away aged 23 months. He suffered from a rare and aggressive cancerous tumour, and since his parents were unable to donate his organs due to the cancer, they have set up a charity in his name.