18 reasons to love colour

1. Because it makes you happy!
There’s no doubt about it, on a grey overcast day, all it takes is a splash of colour to bring a ray of sunshine into your life.

2. The yarn is so pretty!
Deputy Editor Adrienne has a real weakness for pretty yarn and is always buying up random balls just because she can’t resist the shade.  Small one-skein projects are a great way to knit little bursts of colour into your life.

3. Every girl loves to accessorise!
Whether it’s purses, corsages, bags or belts, you can’t beat knitted or crocheted additions for bring a splash of colour to a plain outfit.

4. Brightly coloured beads
Use them to create patterns or bold motifs; they give plain knits a real boost.

5. Socks
A another fabulous chance to use super-striking colourways without overpowering your outfit.

6. Rainbows
Rainbow colours always look a treat and designer Biggan Dupps is a master of her craft. Head to Biggan Designs for vibrant patterns for adults, children and the home.

7. Self-patterning yarn
Even beginners can get that stylish, multi-coloured effect and seamlessly change from one shade to another thanks to clever self-patterning yarns. They look great when knitted up into scarves, socks, arm warmers and more.

8. Multi-coloured skeins
Colinette Yarns has over a hundred fabulous shades, but we just love ‘Popsicle’. Each multi-coloured skein includes hints of apple cubes, cherry pips and yummy chocolate limes.

9. Button embellishments
If you’re looking for a more subtle approach then fastenings are the answer. Jazz up a pretty cardi with funky buttons.

10. Stash yarn
LK Designer Susie Johns loves using colour in her work. “Choose the brightest scraps for a rainbow effect, just make sure all the yarns are the same thickness and weight if you don’t want to give yourself a tension headache.”

11. Crafty colour
Even when we’re not knitting, it is still possible to bring a touch of colour to our craft station. Pretty yet practical, needle bags and cases not only keep your pins neat and tidy, but can come in a striking selection of prints and patterns. www.theknittinggiftshop.co.uk

12. Hand-dyed yarn
There are many amazing yarns but custom-dyed orders and unique colourways are that little bit more magical. www.dyeforyarn.com

13. Bold tones are back in fashion!
This summer is all about the juxtaposition of colours, from funky yellows, oranges and limes, to blues and pinks.

14. Fair Isle
Some patterns were just made to show off colour and detail to their full advantage and Fair Isle knitting is a brilliant example.

15. Garden delights
Summer is on its way and that means garden parties, giving us an excuse to dig out the bunting; the quintessential symbol of outdoor celebrations. Find a selection of free bunting patterns here (http://www.letsknit.co.uk/free-knitting-patterns/category/bunting)

16. The Yarn Palette
A handy guide by Claire Montgomerie (£16.99, A&C Black) – especially for all you newbie knitters – which breaks down all the different fibres on the market.

17. Colour combos
Some colour combinations are a match made in heaven and a Colour and Tone Guide from Sew Easy is a simple way to double check those pairings. Just hold the wheel up against your work, then see which shades best complement your project. For stockist information call 01344 301065.

18. DIY Colours
If you can’t find that elusive ‘perfect’ shade, then why not do it yourself? Dylon has a great range of fabric dyes to enable you to create your own original yarn. www.dylon.co.uk

What colours are you currently working with? Leave a comment to let us know!