Summer might not scream "knitting season" to everyone, but we know better, don’t we? Just because the sun’s out doesn’t mean the needles go down.
Whether you’re lounging in the garden, escaping to the seaside, or hiding indoors with a fan and a Hugo spritz (mine & Ant's new favourite drink), summer knitting has its own special magic — lighter yarns, airy patterns, and all the slow, soothing stitches that make these sunny days feel extra soft.
I’ve gathered a handful of dreamy summer-friendly patterns perfect for travel projects, stash-busting, and making the most of your favourite warm-weather fibres.
Ready your project bag, pour something chilled, and let’s dive into a bit of seasonal stitchy inspiration, shall we?
Summer Secret Crop by Jessie Maed Designs
One of my all-time faves for summer is the Summer Secret Crop by Jessie Maed Designs. I knitted this one up a few years back in a dreamy mini skein bundle from Pigment & Ply, and it quickly became a go-to warm-weather staple. I crossed the back straps on mine for a little extra shape and interest (10/10 would recommend).
Sadly, mine doesn’t fit me anymore, but it’s absolutely on my knit-again list — it’s a super quick, satisfying make that’s actually wearable in the summer heat. Perfect for pairing with floaty skirts, high-waisted jeans, or tossing over a swimsuit. Light, breezy, and a little bit cheeky — just how summer knitting should be.
Perfect yarns for this project: I originally used DK weight, but pattern standard is Fingering weight.
PATTERN: Find the pattern for free through Ravelry
Scotch Broom by Wool & Pine
Next up is the Scotch Broom top by Wool & Pine — and oof, this one is a showstopper! I actually knitted mine to wear to a wedding a couple of years ago, and it made me feel like a floaty woodland fairy in the best way. The stitch pattern on the top section looks super intricate (and okay, it is a bit tricky at first), but once you get into the rhythm — and with the help of Wool & Pine’s super handy video tutorials — it becomes such a joy to knit. I now wear mine as a lightweight cover-up over a simple cami on sunny afternoons. It’s elegant, breezy, and one of those pieces that makes people go, “Wait… you made that?!”
Perfect yarns for this project:
Blackberry & Moonlight in Bio-nylon/BFL Fingering yarn
PATTERN: Find the pattern through the Wool & Pine Website
Ananke by Audrey Borrego
Another summery gem on my favourites list is Ananke by Audrey Borrego. I haven’t had the chance to knit this one myself (yet!), but it’s firmly planted in my Ravelry faves for future making. It’s another strappy little number — perfect for hot weather layering or showing off your handmade wardrobe on summer adventures. The textured detail and clean silhouette make it look both effortless and interesting, and I can just imagine it in a soft, semi-solid hand-dye. One for your warm-weather queue for sure!
Perfect yarns for this project:
Snail's Pace on Bio-nylon/BFL Fingering
PATTERN: Available as a FREE Ravelry download
Posy Tank Top by Along Avec Anna
Next on the list is the Posy Tank Top by Along Avec Anna. Based just down the road in Exeter, I’ve had the joy of sharing a few shows with Anna this year — and let me tell you, her stand is always a dream. While attending The Big Flock earlier this year (just as a yarny civilian for once!), I couldn’t resist treating myself to the Posy Tank pattern. It’s beautifully delicate with the sweetest details — perfect for summer layering or on its own when the sun is shining. Bonus tidbit: it was my mum’s absolute favourite stand at the show, so it’s got the proper seal of approval!
Perfect yarns for this project:
Into the Burrow Bio-nylon/BFL Fingering
PATTERN: Pattern available through their website
I'm So Basic Socks by Summer Lee
While it’s pretty clear I have a soft spot for strappy tops in summer, let’s be honest — socks are the real summer MVP. They’re compact, lightweight, quick to finish, and best of all, they won’t leave you slowly melting under a pile of wool in the heat.
There are loads of beautiful sock patterns out there, but my all-time favourite has to be the good ol’ vanilla sock. At this point, I could knit one in my sleep — no pattern needed!
If you’re new to sock knitting (or just want a solid go-to), I highly recommend the I’m So Basic Socks by Summer Lee. It’s a brilliant beginner-friendly pattern that’ll have you hooked in no time.
Perfect yarns for this project:
Whispered Harvest Sock set on Bio-nylon/BFL Fingering
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