Yoshino Cherry trees are the variety found around Washington DC’s Tidal Basin and other locations. Their iconic images have inspired many, including The Rainey Sisters! Beads are used to recreate the joy and beauty of the blooms. This pretty design harkens spring and the promise that warmer weather is not far off.

The design is created using beads for the blossoms, and stranded knitting for the branches and sky.

Yarn: Fingering weight yarn is used in two colors:

Sun Valley Fibers MCS in Wedgewood (~180 yards) for the sky
Fiberstory FAVE sock in Bramble (~80 yards) for the branches

Note about Sun Valley Yarn Wedgewood This yarn is absolutely gorgeous, tonal, super soft in a classy blue with a gray undertone. Jeanette from Sun Valley Fibers told me that they retired the color but would dye more for people who want to use it for this hat. Contact her at Sun Valley Fibers!! And please do -- she is one of the nicest people I know!

Beads shown in the sample are Dyna-Mites™ seed beads, glass, translucent inside color pink, #6 round. Sold in 40-gram pkg. Approx. 30 gms (~468) beads used. Link to source included in the pattern. Hook sizes are suggested only - use the hook size or bead method that works best for you.

Techniques: The design is charted only. Knitting, knitting through the back loop, purling, adding beads, stranded knitting. You will need to change to dpns to complete the crown shaping.

Instructions are given for two finishes: topknot and Chinese Ball Button.