First August Top

First August Top by Corrine Walcher

What Is Being Made

The First August Top is a lightweight summer knitting project designed by Corrine Walcher. This garment features a fitted silhouette with a deep lace hem at the bottom and wide straps across the shoulders. The top is engineered for warm weather wear and functions as a versatile layering piece suitable for year-round use. Available in six size options ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches in chest circumference, with corresponding length adjustments from 13 to 15 inches from cast-on to underarm.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Dragonfly Fibers Dance Rustic Silk, a 100% silk noil yarn that offers a luxurious hand during the knitting process. The yarn is supplied in 4-ounce skeins with 450 yards per skein. Depending on the size selected, knitters will need 2 to 3 skeins to complete the project. The sample garment in size 44 inches was knit in the colorway Titania and required 160 grams or approximately 630 yards of yarn. The rustic silk construction provides a wonderful weight for creating an airy, breathable summer top.

Needles and Tools

Construction requires a US #5/3.75mm circular needle measuring 32 inches or longer for working the body of the top in the round. Knitters working larger sizes may prefer an even longer needle for comfortable manipulation. Additionally, knitters will need their preferred method for working small circumferences in the round for the straps and upper sections. Stitch markers and waste yarn are required notions to complete the project. Needle size can be adjusted as needed to achieve the specified gauge.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The First August Top employs intermediate-level knitting techniques appropriate for knitters with foundational skills. The primary stitch pattern is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric base. The defining design feature is the deep lace hem, which incorporates lace stitchwork to create an elegant, openwork detail at the bottom of the garment. The top is constructed in the round using circular needles, allowing for seamless construction and a polished finished product. The wide straps are worked as part of the overall construction method.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Knitters should knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project and adjust needle size up or down as needed to match this specification precisely. The pattern provides six distinct size options to accommodate a range of body measurements.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have completed basic projects and are comfortable with techniques such as working in the round, reading stitch patterns, and managing lace stitchwork. The combination of stockinette stitch foundations with lace detailing provides an accessible challenge for developing knitters.

Yarn Weight Specifications

The First August Top is designed for use with 3-ply and 4-ply yarn weights, both of which provide the appropriate drape and structure for this lightweight summer garment. The Dragonfly Fibers Dance Rustic Silk specified in the pattern falls within these weight categories, offering the ideal balance of breathability and wearability for warm-weather layering.