Helen Spedding
Operations Editor, The Knitter
As Operations Editor of The Knitter, Helen makes sure that everyone works together to produce the best magazine they can – and that they hit their deadlines! As well as keeping the magazine running smoothly day-to-day, she sources all the latest stories for the news section, writes features, interviews top designers, and checks every word that makes it into print. When she gets a spare minute, Helen enjoys reading knitting books and blogs, and working on her own projects. Her first love is lace, but she’s also on a mission to improve her stranded colourwork so she can cast on more Fair Isle projects from her favourite designers, Kate Davies and Mary Henderson.
Recent articles by Helen Spedding
How to work the Italian cast-off method
This cast-off gives a neat, stretchy edge for your sweater neckbands and toe-up sock cuffs. Here’s our step-by-step guide to this essential technique
Knit a pretty corsage with our free pattern!
Create this floral brooch using Kirstie McLeod’s easy-to-follow knitting pattern
How to work Judy’s Magic Cast-on
Judy Becker’s cast-on technique is essential for toe-up socks. Here’s our step-by-step guide to this brilliant method that every sock knitter should know.
Mend your socks with our guide to darning
Discover how to cover and stabilise any holes in your beloved knitwear with our guide to darning socks.
Cast-on our free sheep knitting pattern for spring!
Create this charming woolly toy using Ann Franklin’s easy-to-follow sheep knitting pattern.
Celebrate the season with our free pumpkin hat knitting pattern and matching booties!
Create this cute Halloween accessory set using Ann Franklin’s easy-to-follow knitting pattern
10 of the cosiest sweater knitting patterns to cast on now
Everyone needs a sweater (or ten!) in their wardrobe, and handknit jumpers are a fabulous way to feel cosy all year round. Take a look at the amazing sweater knitting patterns we've found for you to try..
Cast on our free Easter bunny knitting pattern!
Create a super-snuggly rabbit using Ann Franklin’s Easter bunny knitting pattern.
Cast on our free knitted rose garland pattern
Knit a beautiful rose garland for yourself or a loved one with Ann Franklin’s elegant, easy-to-make pattern
Learn how to work German short rows
This nifty technique is a great alternative to the classic wrap-and-turn short row. Follow our easy-to-understand instructions, which include photos for each stage, and you’re sure to have success!
How to make your own buttons
Searching for the perfect buttons for knitting to finish your project? Helen Spedding shows you how to make them yourself.
Interview with knitting designer Karie Westermann
Known for her exquisite lace patterns and delicate colourwork, Karie is a popular and talented designer. She spoke to Helen Spedding about her work.
10 of the best knitting books
Create your own library of craft classics with our list of the top books every knitter should have on their shelf.
My Inspiration: interview with Kate Gagnon Osborn
Kelbourne Woolens designer and yarn producer Kate Gagnon Osborn creates timeless sweaters and accessories
Meet knitting designer Jared Flood
Discover the story of nature-inspired yarn company Brooklyn Tweed, as we talk to its founder, Jared Flood.
Meet knitting designer Christel Seyfarth
Danish designer Christel Seyfarth looks to the colours of her island home to inspire her vibrant patterns.
How to knit with thrums
You can create super-cosy fabric by incorporating fleece thrums while you knit, as Helen Spedding explains.
My Inspiration: interview with Barb Brown
Canadian designer Barb tells us all about how she looks to the folk traditions of northern and eastern Europe for her intricate patterns
My Inspiration: interview with Emma Vining
We chat with designer Emma Vining about where she finds ideas for her beautiful knitting patterns
My inspiration: interview with Lucy Hague
Lucy Hague is an influential designer who hails from the Orkney Islands. She is most famous for her intricate, Celtic-inspired cable patterns. We talked with Lucy about her knitting life.
How to make no-rinse wool wash
Keep your delicate knits clean and fresh with this recipe for a no-rinse wool wash that you can make at home.
