PLYTogether

From the publishers of PLY and WEFT, comes the first issue of PURL—a new knitting magazine. Issue 1 is, appropriately all about all about beginnings and casting on. You'll find articles and instructions on numerous cast ons, with their benefits and disadvantages explained so you can pick the right one for your project. Need a stretchy cast on for ribbing? Kate Atherley has you covered. What about a double-sided cast on for toe-up socks? Not only does Tanis Lavallée compare four cast on options, but she also has an adorable toe up sock pattern for you to practice with.

Long tail cast on is commonly used, but how much do you know about the structure? Alissa Barton explains what happens during this family of cast ons, while Samantha Brunson and Denise Bayron look at getting just the right amount of tail remaining and making the cast on not too tight, respectively. And Patty Lyons provides tips and tricks for a neater cast on edge for long tail and other cast ons. 

You’ll also find articles that explore the concept of casting on as the start of something, from planning a project from Tina Tse to mindful stretching to prepare for a new project from Liza Laird. You’ll also get a look at historical precursors to knitting from Sara Temme, aka The Textile Anthropologist and a historical look at the names of cast ons from Lisa Toppin. Photo tutorials for all the cast ons in the issue are included. 

This jam-packed issue has so much more inside. Don't miss out on this issue!

WEFT's Autumn issues are all about foundation building, and  focused on this issue focuses on cotton. Cotton is the foundation of many weaving practices. Chances are, if you’re a weaver, you’ve woven with cotton, and probably very recently. This issue is a celebration and exploration of this humble, storied fiber. 

Jane Stafford opens the issue with a beautiful article about how cotton is the building block of her weaving, in all its different incarnations. From there, Issue 6 gets into the basics, including cotton types and differences, cotton counts, and the ins and outs of mercerization. The issue delves into natural dyeing; the differences in how cotton yarns are spun; and how to finish your cotton projects. The writers of WEFT also challenge cotton with an article and experiment that tests what we’ve all heard about this staple in our weaving repertoire. 

And of course, there are gorgeous projects that all feature this versatile yarn. Discover patterns for krokbragd place mats from Angie Parker; a deflected doubleweave table runner from Natalie Drummond and Linda Gettmann; a pi scarf from Marian Stubenitsky; intricate towels from Janet Phillips; a stunning breezy tunic from Michele Belson; a bright blanket from Joanne Hall; and a travel wrap from Sandi Lemons. There’s enough in here to keep you weaving all season!   

Discover how intentional spinning can transform your projects in PLY Magazine's Issue 53: Purpose. By exploring the art and science of spinning with the finished project in mind, fiber artists can create yarns perfectly suited for knitting, crochet, weaving, embroidery, and more.

Issue 53 includes expert articles on selecting fibers, planning yarn construction, sampling techniques, fleece buying, sustainability through upcycling, spinning for weaving and embroidery, and so much more! Don't miss out on beautifully designed knit and crochet patterns, historical perspectives, and practical tips from experienced spinners.

Packed with inspiration and hands on knowledge to help you spin with purpose, PLY Magazine will help you deepen your understanding of yarn design.