Are you welcoming in snuggly blankets, fluffy socks, hot chocolate and cosy nights in with your crochet hook? We are self-confessed autumn lovers here, because of all of these autumnal delights, so even if it still is a little on the wishful-thinking side, we are always excited by the return of this season! We are sure most yarnaholics will join us in their excitement for more nights in with their woolly goodies, so you are certain to love this month's collection of patterns from your favourite crochet designers!

Plus, UK readers* can get hooking their very own official Hello Kitty blanket tonight with your exclusive blanket pattern card! Made using Stylecraft Special DK, this C2C blanket perfectly captures this favourite character, and will be so impressive worked up and show off on your bed, or why not even bring her into your living room?

*Not available in digital editions or in export editions of the magazine due to licence restrictions.

We've welcomed back Sarah-Jayne of Bella Coco Crochet to model the amazing cover Winter Wonderland Poncho in Sublime Yarns, created by Elisabeth Davis de Herraiz. We love working with Sarah-Jayne, she has such a great insight into crochet, which is why we are also excited to share her top tips for crochet along with the pattern, and her crochet masterclass. No Scandi-inspired collection would be complete without a staple shawl either, which is why Cassie Ward has designed the must-make Scandi Love Shawl using super snuggly wool from West Yorkshire Spinners.

We've taken the Scandi look into the home as well, with some of the most show-stopping blankets we've ever had the pleasure to commission! Start hooking the amazing Menya Blanket in a new supersoft yarn from Hoooked, and if you really want to be blown away by design, Rosina Plane's Norway Spruce Blanket in Sirdar yarn is guaranteed to make you drool!

Of course, it's never too early to start crocheting for Christmas either, which is why I am delighted to welcome back our annual TOFT Christmas collection! Inside your book you will find 12 luxury Christmas patterns to help get you started for the big day this year, and keep an eye out inside this magazine for a few more great gift ideas.

Some other favourite projects this month include this colourful, bright rug in Cygnet Boho Spirit, which is sure to lift any floor to new bright heights, along with a spooooky Halloween Wreath in Cygnet DK! We also have an adorable Flora the Fawn toy in Patons cotton from designer team Beardie & Blondie - such a cutie! Finally, don't miss the fun Reykjavik Jumper in Scheepjes Merino Soft - fun yellows are a winner on little ones!