Tip for long-tail cast-on Join two yarn ends with a knot, insert the needle under the knot with strands either side and begin casting on. Once the total number of stitches has been cast on, cut one of

Crochet a cheery blanket in zingy spring colours

Cast on 64 sts using 4.5mm circular needles and Yarn A. Join in the round being careful not to twist the stitches. PM at join. Rnd 1 Knit. Rnd 2 Purl. Repeat the last 2 rnds a further 4 times. Change

■ Any DK yarn in 2 colours ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook Tension is not critical, but it may affect the yarn quantities required For a full list, see page 78 of Simply Crochet magazine What you do with these

MATERIALS Of Caron Simply Soft, 1 170g ball in each of Bone (9703) A, Autumn Maize (0008) B and Taupe (9783) C for Brown version; Cobalt Blue (9784) A, Plum Perfect (9761) B and Sage (9705) C for Blue

Emma Leith’s fabric and yarn combo makes adding detail easy. Pick a floral print and you’re already halfway there! ■ Yarnsmiths Create DK (100% acrylic, 100g/290m), 2 balls of Yarn A Cream (3050), 1 b