The Nova Scotia Tam

The Atlantic coastal plains in Nova Scotia are home to an early summer plant with airy, grass-like stems and a profusion of starry pink flowers. Pink coreopsis (Coreopsis rosea) blooms throughout the summer and early fall, attracting many pollinators including the yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus terricola).

Whether a species is vulnerable (e.g., the yellow-banded bee) or endangered (e.g., the pink coreopsis),human activity is likely to blame. Pink coreopsis is disappearing throughout North America due in part to recreational activities around its watery habitat. The yellow-banded bee, like other species of bees, is diminishing because of pesticide use and human encroachment on its habitat.

MATERIALS

Fiber Natural-colored Shetland, marled gray, 8 oz (227 g). Natural black Shetland, ½ oz (14 g).

Yarn 2-ply DK weight (900 ypp; 12 wpi), 340 yd total. Gray marl (MC) and yellow (CC7), 1 oz (28.5 g), 65 yd each; green (CC1), light blue (CC2), dark blue (CC3), light pink (CC4), dark pink (CC5), and black (CC6), ½ oz (14 g), 35 yd each.

Needles Size 2 (2.75 mm): 16" (40 cm) circular (cir). Size 2½ (3 mm): 16" (40 cm) cir and set of double- pointed (dpn). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Other Supplies Marker (m); tapestry needle; 4 feet (1.2 m) of fine (1 mm) elastic cord.

Gauge 22 sts and 31 rnds = 4" (10 cm) in patt on larger needle, blocked.

Finished Size 18" (45.5 cm) circumference at brim, 33" (84 cm) circumference at widest point, and 9¼" (23.5 cm) tall.