Like many knitters, I like to knit year round, so I’m always on the lookout for fun small projects to knit during the warmer months – who needs a heavy sweater on your lap in July? Summer knitting is even more fun when you can knit something you can wear right now! I think these beaded wristlets are the perfect summer project – they’re easy and fun to knit, and portable so they can go with you on your summer travels. And when you’re done you’ll have a stunning accessory that you can wear any time of the year.

I chose the Latvian sun symbol to translate into beadwork for these wristlets. Of course the sun is the main feature of summer, but the Latvian version is very flower-like so it seemed especially appropriate to pay tribute to all the lush blooms of the season. The sun symbol has many variations that are used in Latvian textiles, including the famous mittens that are so important in Latvian culture.

Despite their ornate beauty, these wristlets are actually quite easy to knit and are well within the reach of a patient beginner who is willing to knit on small needles. The beads are first strung onto the yarn, and a provisional method on is used to cast on stitches. The wristlets are knit back and forth in garter stitch, and the beads are added following a chart. They are finished with a 3-needle bind off, leaving only a couple of ends to weave in. I have included charts and instructions for two lengths – a shorter cuff version, and a longer wristlet that can peek out from under your sleeve. Both come in one size to fit most adults. Because they are knit in sideways garter stitch, they are very stretchy and comfortable to wear.

Skills required:
• Provisional cast on with crochet chain
• Knit stitch (garter stitch)
• 3-needle bind off
• Stringing beads (instructions given)
• Adding beads (instructions given)

Materials needed (all quantities are for a pair, of course):

• Sock/fingering weight yarn - approx. 80 yards for shorter version and 125 yards for longer. Any reasonably durable yarn will work, but sock yarn is especially suitable. Not much is needed, so you can even use leftovers.
• Size 8/0 seed beads, 904 for both versions. I recommend that you purchase a few extra in case of loss or damage.
• Beading needle and thread, or dental floss threader for stringing beads.