Gone are the days of knitting as primarily a winter activity.
An increase in the quality and quantity of plant yarns and a surge of talented pattern designers means that summer knitting is now trés chic and it’s one trend we can definitely get behind.
Many summer knits recommend 4ply yarns and under. If you’re concerned about the time it takes to knit finer yarns the good news is there is generally less knitting overall so it’s a great way to try out a new yarn and perfect for your summer holiday project (no sweaty lap included).
We’ve updated our blog for 2024 to include a few more patterns we have discovered over the year including some we have made ourselves! So if you’re looking for some summer project inspiration read on.
1. Moonset Tee by Ozetta (XS-5XL)
This is a TNT for us at P.S.C. We love the simple boxy shape and the not-too-high, not-too-low v-neck makes an interesting design detail and is fun to knit. Between us we have now made three Moonset Tees, all in BC Garn LINO but we think it would look equally great in REBORN Denim or BIO BALANCE for a slightly warmer version.
2. Camisole No.9 by My Favourite Things (XS-4XL)
The beauty of this design is in its utter simplicity. The perfect, classic tank but knitted! The edge details around the neck and armhole really elevate this design and give it a luxurious look. The tank is designed to fit closely around the shoulders and bust with a slim (but not skin tight) fit through the body.
We have made one using BIO Balance which proved to be the perfect match for the pattern. The organic cotton gives a lighter summer feeling and the organic wool adds elasticity and structure for the closer fitting design.
3. Scribble Top by Rows Knitwear (XS-4XL)
One of the great things about summer knitting is the ability to create interesting open weave textures. This design cleverly combines a simple, modern silhouette with an intricate looking lace pattern. It is deceptively quick and simple to knit. BC Garn LINO is one of the recommended yarns for this project and we can confirm that it’s an ideal match - having knitted two already!
The pattern is available, along with 15 more stunning designs, in Alice’s new book KNIT | Dynamic Patterns and Techniques for Creative Making.
4. Cumulus Tee by Petite Knit (XS-3XL)
No knitting pattern list is complete without at least one garment from Petite Knit. The Cumulus Tee is as simple as it comes. A modern, no frills t-shirt which really lets the yarn sing. This would look great in any of our 4-ply yarns.
5. Leonie by CocoKnits (S-3XL)
Sheer overtops provide such an easy and elegant way to add texture and dimension to an outfit. This beautifully understated example has a boxy body balanced with slim arms. Lengthen the sleeves for a gorgeous long-sleeve shirt. Recommended for LINO, one of our favourite summer yarns.
6. Pi Camisole No. 2 by Créadio Studio (XXS-3XL)
We love the unique neckline of this simple cami which would be nice and breezy around those armpits in the summer heat. Suitable for any of our 4-ply yarns.
7. Drop Loop Top by Other Loops (XS-XXL)
Another summer top with gorgeous texture. This is an incredibly simple make created by simply knitting a stockinette top from bottom up then dropping stitches when you get to the top. Perfect as something you can easily pick up and put down during a busy time BUT looks a lot more complicated once it’s done.
I got gauge on the recommended needles and am currently knitting this up in Studio Linen.
8. Outline Tee by Jessie Maed (XS-5XL)
Jessie Maed specialises in size inclusive, modern, feminine knitting patterns. We love the subtle design details on this classic tee. Having seen a sample of this knitted up in a shop I can confirm its beauty in person. Suitable for any of our 4ply yarns.
9. Twist Loop Top by Other Loops (XS-XXL)
This is a great way to try out some cable knitting without going all in! Classic and elegant, this would look great in any of our 4-ply yarns. Or for real luxury why not try our Silky Kid held double.
10. Moonless Tank by Jacqueline Cieslak (Finished Bust Circumference 38”- 68”)
Jacqueline specialises in modern, size inclusive knitting patterns. We love the simple shape of this tank which would look equally nice on its own or layered over a dress. Designed for 5ply but provided you get gauge you could make it work with a 4ply yarn.
11. The Montpellier Top by November Knits (1-8)
This is one we made earlier. This versatile top looks good on its own or layered for cooler weather. It is perfectly suited to Dempstah Citizen Wolf Recycled and has become a staple in my wardrobe. A very quick and satisfying make - you can read more about my Montpellier Top here.
12. Inge Top by Spektakelstrik (XS - 3XL)
Another simple and versatile top that can be worn alone or layered. Kathryn knitted this up in Studio Linen which gives it a luxe, slinky drape.
13. Garter Glide Tee by James Watts (XS-5X)
A fun and simple garter stitch tee knit horizontally. Keep it sold or make a colour blocked version. This pattern recommends a plant yarn with good drape so we’d opt for something like Studio Linen, Lino or Reborn.
14. Top Sol by Mochi Knits (XS-XL)
We want to make every design from Mochi Knits but this is the one I’ve bought the pattern for and am just deciding on yarn. I love the tie front details and am always drawn to tops I can also imagine wearing in winter. I’m currently planning on swatching it in Kremke Soul Reborn which I think will hang nicely and look great with denim.
15. Mini Mock Neck Tank by Jessie Maed (XS-5X)
A beautiful, simple tank designed for a close fit in 4ply. This would suit any of our 4ply yarns but if you want a little wool content for extra elasticity we’d go for Bio Balance.
16. Sol Top by Rows Knitwear (XS-4X)
A simple, modern tank with folded straps. The Sol Top was designed with the idea of holding yarns together to create an interesting marled effect. Kathryn made a version by holding two strands of Reborn together with good effect.
The pattern is available, along with 15 more stunning designs, in Alice’s new book KNIT | Dynamic Patterns and Techniques for Creative Making.
BONUS PATTERN
Sophie Scarf by Petite Knit
Hang on that’s not a summer pattern…. Or is it? Knit up in a cotton or linen yarn this is a great little project to use up some scraps or keep your fingers busy on a journey and is a very wearable summer accessory.
Be sure to check out each designer as they all have multiple drool-worthy designs and last but not least… please knit responsibly.
Swatch it, don’t botch it.
There is no need to stick to recommended knitting yarns provided you get gauge and your finished fabric texture works for the design.
Ready to get started? Check out our range of yarns. If you’re not sure on a colour, order a sample (samples ship FREE!).
🖤🤍
1 comment
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