Summer Trees Top

Summer Trees Top by Gilleoin Finlay – Coull

What is Being Made

The Summer Trees Top is a knitted garment designed as part of the Calanas Collection by independent designer Gilleoin Finlay – Coull for Woolrush Yarns. This top is a versatile piece available in two size options: chest measurements of 102 to 112 cm (40 to 44 inches) with a length of 56 cm (22 inches), or chest measurements of 117 to 127 cm (46 to 50 inches) with a length of 61 cm (24 inches). The design features vertical panels with a rib effect pattern, making it suitable for intermediate-level knitters seeking a structured, refined summer garment.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques to create its distinctive appearance. The construction utilizes stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, combined with rib effect elements that run vertically throughout the garment. The pattern incorporates yarn overs to create textural interest, and uses decrease methods including knit two together (K2TOG) and slip, slip, knit (SSK) techniques to shape the garment. The designer recommends using stitch markers between each pattern repeat to maintain the integrity of the vertical panels during the initial pattern establishment phase, which can be removed once the pattern becomes established. This approach ensures proper alignment of the decorative elements throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (P) – used in combination with knit stitches to create the rib effect
• Knit 2 Together (K2TOG) – a right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK) – a left-leaning decrease created by slipping one stitch, slipping a second stitch, and passing the first slip stitch over the second
• Yarn Over (YORN) – brings yarn to the front of the work to create openwork details and texture
• Stockinette Stitch (st.st) – the primary fabric construction combining knit and purl rows

Materials and Specifications

The Summer Trees Top requires 400 grams (500 grams for the larger size) of DK weight yarn. The designer specifies two yarn options: James C Brett Its Pure Cotton DK or King Cole Subtle Drifter DK, both providing appropriate drape and structure for this summer garment. Knitting needles required are 3.25mm needles for the first size option or 4mm needles for the second size option. The pattern also calls for stitch holders to manage stitches during construction. The tension specifications are critical for proper fit: work at 25 stitches to 10 centimeters over stockinette stitch on 3.25mm needles for the first size, or 22 stitches to 10 centimeters over stockinette stitch on 4mm needles for the second size. This tension-based sizing approach allows the same stitch count to accommodate multiple garment sizes through needle gauge adjustment, with the rib effect panels accommodating variations within each size range.