Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) is one of the most iconic flowers of Alaska. It’s one of the first plants to appear after forest fires, and in open areas its floral spires form a sea of purple as far as the eye can see. Locals believe that when the last flower at the top of the fireweed spire blooms and dies, summer is officially over. This cute, cropped top is perfect for summer, and is accented by floral lace reminiscent of the fireweed bloom.

I have provided instructions for 8 finished bust sizes: 33”/84cm (36”/91cm) (38”/97cm) (41”/104cm) (44”/112cm) (46”/117cm) (49”/124cm) (52”/132cm). The top should be worn with 2”/5cm+ of positive ease.
Total length of top is 17”/43cm for the smallest 4 sizes, and 19”/48cm for the largest 4 sizes, though length can easily be adjusted shorter or taller when knitting the body.

For a pretty sparkle, beads are added to the center of each flower, though this is optional. A single 24 gram tube of 6/0 glass E beads contains enough beads for any size. Beads are applied using a 0.6mm crochet hook.

Any fingering weight yarn with which gauge can be obtained will work, but wool and wool blends will work best. The top looks best with fairly aggressive blocking on the lace sections; yarns that are mostly synthetic will not hold blocking well.

Share your projects on Instagram with #FireweedTop or @wee_ewe_knits, I love to see your pics ♥️