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Solstice Empire is knit in cotton fingering weight yarn for a cool summer top to wear when the temperatures start to soar. With eyelets at the raglan increases, hem and sleeves, along with a loose gauge, this summer top is designed to breathe while letting the breeze in, if you’re lucky enough to have a summer breeze.

The pattern is a series of decreases and increases with vertical darts. No short row darts. Designed as a top down raglan, Solstice Empire will leave you free to move your arms without loads of excess fabric bunched up under the arms.

Abiding by CYC standard measurements, the top is #SizeInclusive and designed for 0-2”/5cm of positive ease. However, you might find that you like a forming fit in the bust, and a size down might suit you. Sample was knitted at 2”/5cm of negative ease.

Sizes:

XS 28-30 (S 32-34, M 36-38, L 40-42, 1X 44-46) 2X 48-50, 3X 52-54, 4X 56-58, 5X 60-62 In between sizes go up one size up for a roomier fit, or size down for a more forming fit.

Yarn Estimates:

490-564 (590-679, 710-817, 850-978, 980-1127) 1040-1196, 1185-1363, 1340-1541, 1510-1737 yards

457-526 (539-620, 649-747, 777-894, 896-1031) 951-1094, 1084-1246, 1225-1409, 1381-1588 meters

Knitting Notions:

• Sz 6US/4mm circular needles with a cable dependent upon your size minus several inches - OR size needed to obtain gauge. If you don’t use the Magic Loop method for sleeves, you will also need DPNs in the same size. Most testers found 7US/4.5mm got them gauge.
• One size smaller than main needles for the neckband
• One size larger than main needles for the body below the empire waist band
• 5 stitch markers
• 2 unique stitch markers
• tape
• darning needle
• waste yarn

Please note: sizes 4X & 5X have not been fully test knit yet. The testers started but due to personal reasons were not able to finish the test at this time. If you are in one of these sizes, and would like to test the pattern, please send me a message.

Thank you to my test knitters who helped bring this pattern to life: Cassie, Ashley, Sharon, Christine, Beth, Stephani, Julia, Leah, and Michelle. I truly appreciate you!