As we finish this issue, the sun is streaming in through the window and we can smell freshly cut grass, leaving us desperate to escape outside. If, like us, you cant even set foot outdoors in the summer without burning, or if you just want to channel a hippy vibe, then you too will be wearing the largest, floppiest sun hat you can find this summer.
We can't wait to customise a '70s inspired straw hat using our new designer Sabina Poonwassie's patterns on page 86. Each of the designs is easily interchangeable, as they simply sit on the hat rather than being attached permanently. No excuses for wearing the same hat two days in a row from now on!
Another exciting new designer this issue is the lovely Stacey Wentford-Hall, the brains behind the wildly popular online Crochet Mood Blanket 2014. Check out her fresh summer cowl project on page 59 and read more about Stacey and her crochet life in our interview with her on page 98.
Also new this month, writer and designer Nicki Trench has found time in her busy schedule to write a regular column for us. Excitingly, she will be sharing her tips and tricks for professional crocheting as well as one of her own patterns each month.
Back by popular demand, we also have a brand new mystery project launching this issue. Designed by Emma Varnam, the only thing we can say about it right now is that it might be a scarf, wrap, stole or even blanket depending on your mood and, having seen the final project, we can testify that it is an absolute stunner! There will be another sneaky peek at the project next month, before the final reveal in issue 56, so you had better get a head start on making the first motifs!