What to knit when it’s just too hot?
It’s very warm in our corner of the world at the moment, and, worryingly, such extremes are no longer unusual. We knitters must adapt!
While no one is likely to reach for a traditional aran or lopi sweater in a heatwave, don’t give up on knitwear! There many wonderful summer-ready knitting patterns featuring airy lace, relaxed fits and lighter gauge. If the idea of handling wool is too much for sweltering hands, consider silk or linen blends.
Don’t let the weather make you put down the needles! Here are twelve of our favourite patterns to keep you (minimally) covered for summer knitting projects.
1. Scotch Broom by Wool & Pine
This relaxed tee features a lace yoke in an easy-to-master stitch pattern. It works beautifully with hand-dyed yarn – I’d choose Moondance or Mossy. Adapting for your body type is a breeze with customisable length and shoulder options, and an outstanding size range designed to fit 30-70″/ 76-178 cm chests.
Available from Ravelry and Wool and Pine
2. Glaukopis by Mona C. NicLeòid
The draped neckline and waist shaping on this design add instant sophistication. It’s perfectly suited to silk and Tencel yarn blends.
Available from Ravelry
3. Taboo by Boo Knits
Boo Knits is known for intricate lace heirloom pieces, and this pattern is no exception. Pick two deep shades of our Brilliance Lace yarn and add beads for an extra sprinkle of magic!
Available from Ravelry and Create2Thrive
4. Seigaiha Singlet by Yvette Kim
This straightforward camisole has a pretty colourwork detail, inspired by a traditional Japanese pattern symbolising ocean waves. It comes in a good range of sizes (up to US size 3XL).
Available from Ravelry
5. Affinitee by Rebekah Berkompas
An elegant design, constructed as a top-down raglan, largely in stocking/stockinette stitch, making it an ideal travel project. Fits up to 64″/162cm bust.
Available from Quince & Co and Ravelry
6. Mile Forward by Mara Licole
I love the luxury of these lace shorty socks, and the pattern is incredibly reasonably priced at just 2 USD.
Available from Ravelry
7. Twin Bridges Sweater by Rosemary (Romi) Hill
This beautiful draped cardigan with an unusual hem shape makes a great cover-up for summer evenings. Being designed to fit over sleeves, it provides a welcome layer into cooler months. Fits up to US size XXL.
Available from Designs by Romi and Ravelry
8. Gigue Tank Top by Leah Prestamo
There’s something so joyful about this textured tank, with plenty of interest for the avid cable-lover! The gradient version is a delight, but it would also work brilliantly with mottled tonals. Fits bust up 60″/152cm
Available from Ravelry
9. Wilma Shirt by Miriam Walchshäusl
This one has all the hallmarks of a wardrobe staple – clean and simple but with elegant details, including a shaped hem. Again, there is a good size range up to US 3XL.
Available from Ravelry
10. Luminos Tee by yamagara
It’s easy to see why this design became an instant favourite when it was released in 2024. The minimalist, geometric design is both striking and interesting to knit. It’s perfect for showcassing a special variegated skein, and our ‘Shinjuku‘ shade would be a great choice if you want to capture the vibe of the sample.
Available from Ravelry
11. Zartistry Tee by Valentina Bogdanova
A top-town knit with a pretty lace yoke – dress this one up or down! To fit chest sizes 70-150 cm/28-60″.
Available from Ravelry
12. Dormer by Norah Gaughan
Make this one your own by changing the circumference and length and get the fit of your choosing, or add longer cuffs and it becomes a sweater! This is a quick yet satisfying sideways knit in a larger gauge.
Available from Quince & Co. and Ravelry
So, have I convinced you that handknits can be great for summer too? I hope one of these excellent patterns has caught your eye enough to reach for the needles!
