We have five copies of the fabulous new book "Knitting Masterclass" as prizes in our online-only competition. Packed with essential knitting info, and featuring our very own Kirstie McLeod, it covers everything from Reversible Double Knitting to Lace, Steeking to Cables, and Kitchener to Fair Isle.

To enter, fill in the competition form here.

In Simply Knitting issue 95 (July) you’ll find Alan Dart’s adorable Owl and The Pussycat design. Use our easy-to-follow step-by-step guide to increase 1 by knitting into front and back – a key technique in this pattern.

Knitters these days come from all walks of life: male, female, old, young and everything in between. But despite this many life-long knitters have one thing in common – the luxury of growing up with a knitting grandma.

When I was born I only had one grandparent left alive, and while she was fascinating on many subjects, I don’t remember ever seeing her with a pair of knitting needles in her hands. And, I confess, I feel a touch jealous whenever I hear other people reminiscing about being taught to knit or sew by a favourite grandparent. Something about it sounds so cosy and comforting!

Persil Non-Bio and Comfort Pure have tapped into this nostalgia by recruiting a trio of talented  grannies to create online crafting masterclasses where newbie knitters can pick up new skills, give crochet a go or even learn to quilt.