The VALA top is worked from the top down in a pattern of knit and purl stitches. First, the left strap and chest piece are knitted, then the right strap and chest piece. The two chest pieces are joined at the centre chest, and after additional increases at the sides, stitches are cast on for the back. From here, the body is worked in the round with in- creases along 2 marked side stitches at each side. After the increases, the work is divided at the sides for slits, and the front and back are finished separately. Edges are knitted simultaneously with the patterned surfaces. The straps can be tied behind the neck or fastened with a knot at the small i-cord loops sewn onto the edge of the back. If preefered the straps can also be sewn to the edge of the back. 

(S, M, L)(XL, 2XL, 3XL)
Bust circumference: (75, 83, 91)(99, 107, 115) cm
[(29.5, 32.75, 35.75)(39, 42.25, 45.25) in]
Half bust circumference/measured flat:
(37.5, 41.5, 45.5)(49.5, 53.5, 57.5) cm
[(14.75, 16.25, 18)(19.5, 21, 22.75) in]
Length from underarm to i-cord hem:
+/- (32, 33, 33)(33, 34, 34) cm
[(12.5, 13, 13)(13, 13.5, 13.5) in]
Measurements are after washing.

PURE silk or LAMB yarn
Yarn usage: (100, 100, 150)(150, 200, 200) g / (500, 500, 750)(750, 1000, 1000) m

3 mm, 60-80 cm [US 2.5, 24-32 in] circular needle
2 single 3 mm [US 2.5] double pointed needles or 3 mm, 40 cm [US
2.5, 16 in] circular needle for i-cord
Adjust the needle size if necessary to obtain the right tension.

In knit and purl stitch pattern using 3 mm [US 2.5] needles
10 cm [4 in] = 25 sts
10 cm [4 in] = 38 rows
Make a swatch and measure the tension after washing or blocking it.
Next, determine the size you want to knit. Keep in mind that silk can stretch up to 10% in both length and width when washed.
As a result, the knitted piece will appear smaller while on the needles compared to its final size after washing.

Hand-knitted silk garments must be handled carefully when washed, as the fabric may stretch.

DETERGENT / SOAP
Use mild or neutral detergents with a relatively neutral pH level, preferably those marked for silk care or wool. Do not use heavy-duty detergents or those containing enzymes or bleaches.

WASHING INSTRUCTIONS
By hand: Ensure the water temperature is
steady, lukewarm or around 28°C/82°F. Add a small amount of gentle detergent, submerge your silk garment, and soak it until completely saturated. Rinse two to three times in clean water, ensuring it is the same temperature. Press the
water out of the garment, place it in a washing bag, and spin it in the machine using a gentle to medium spin programme.
By machine: Use a washing machine with a
silk/wool setting and a gentle cycle.

DRYING INSTRUCTIONS
Lay the garment flat on a clean towel and
reshape it as needed. Leave it to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not hang to dry.