Cast Off: Reef Top

I began knitting Reef in February and loved working on it. By the end of March, it was almost finished - all I had left to do was finish the edging on the neckline and armholes.

As Autumn arrived though, my mind moved to other projects. Knowing I wouldn’t get a chance to wear this top for a few months, I put my almost-finished WIP aside and knit other projects.

Socks, cardigans and cowls came and went from my needles, and Reef lay patiently in a drawer. At the back of my mind, I knew all it would take for me to pull the top out and add the finishing touches was the first breath of warmer air.

And I was right! August often has a few glorious spring-like days, and last weekend the cold departed for a few days as the sun shone and the air was warm. It was lovely, and with a day out to the beach planned I suddenly remembered my neglected project.

I pulled Reef from my drawer and spent a few hours on Saturday finishing it off. The edging around the neck and arms is as simple as picking up stitches and casting them straight off, so it took me no time at all. I’d already blocked the top a few months prior, so all I had to do was darn in a few ends and it was ready to wear.

I really enjoyed wearing this top, and whilst I haven’t had the chance again (it’s just a little too cold again), I know I’ll be wearing this a lot once the hot weather arrives properly. I actually think I may need a few more for my wardrobe.

I’m was amazed at how much faster a garment with no sleeves is to knit! A really great project if you’re after a quick item for your summer wardrobe.

Project Details

Pattern: Reef by Libby Jonson
Yarn: KPC Gossyp 4ply (organic cotton) in Baked Clay

Notes: I added subtle a-line shaping to the waist of my top. I added the shaping into the side seams after the front and back had been joined together, so the shaping begins after the bust.
I also changed the proportion of stocking stitch to the textured hem - I knit in stocking stitch for longer, shortened the hem.

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