Hello all lovely Fiber artists,
Summer is here, and I couldn't be more excited to share my latest knitting projects with you. Knitting in the warmer months can be just as delightful as cozying up with your needles in Fall and Winter, especially when you choose the right projects and yarns. Let me take you through some of the fun summer knits I've been working on and offer some tips on selecting the best yarns for your summer creations.
Bandanas in Nylon, Cotton, and Recycled Cotton
Bandanas are the perfect accessory for summer! They are lightweight, versatile, and can add a pop of color to any outfit. I've been knitting bandanas using a variety of yarns:
- Nylon: This synthetic fiber is excellent for summer because it's durable, stretchy, and dries quickly. It's perfect for creating bandanas that you can wear to the beach or on a hike. I worked with a Hand dyed Nylon yarn from Lion Brand Yarn. It is not listed anymore on their Website, but click here to see the Nylon they have available.
- Cotton: A classic choice, cotton is breathable and soft against the skin. It's ideal for creating bandanas that are comfortable to wear all day long. Two of my favorite Cotton yarns are from Hobbii and Cotton 24/7 from Lion Brand Yarn.
- Recycled Cotton: Sustainable and eco-friendly, recycled cotton has a slightly different texture but is just as breathable and soft. It’s a great way to create something beautiful while being kind to the environment.
The Bandana Knitting Pattern that I chose to work on this Summer, which is the first Summer that I am making a wide amount of Summer knits for the Local Shop I work at @andcompanyonbank , is The Romanticist's Bandana. You may find the Knitting Pattern on Ravelry.
This has also been a very nice pattern to have on the go, small enough to fit in a Summer Bag and also easy to memorize.
Sweet Pea Cowls in Organic Cotton
One of my favorite summer projects this year is the Sweet Pea Cowl, designed specifically for the warmer months, including Spring and early Fall. I’ve been knitting these cowls in organic cotton lately, which is incredibly soft and breathable. The organic cotton yarn gives the cowl a lovely drape and is perfect for those cool summer evenings. This is a new yarn from Blue Sky Fibers.
Yarn Tip: Organic cotton is a fantastic choice for summer knitting. It’s grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals, making it a healthier option for both the environment and your skin. Look for organic cotton yarns that are soft, smooth, and have a nice twist to ensure your projects come out beautifully.
If you’d like to knit your own Sweet Pea Cowl, you can find the pattern here. This cowl features yarn overs and a pretty texture with slipped stitches, making it a perfect project for intermediate knitters looking for something light and airy to work on this summer.
Tips for Choosing Summer Yarns
When selecting yarns for your summer knitting projects, keep these tips in mind:
- Breathability: Choose yarns that allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and bamboo are excellent choices.
- Lightweight: Opt for lighter weight yarns to create garments and accessories that are comfortable to wear in the heat.
- Moisture-Wicking: Look for yarns that can absorb and wick away moisture, such as cotton and bamboo.
- Sustainability: Consider eco-friendly options like recycled or organic yarns. They’re better for the environment and often provide a unique texture and feel.
I hope you’re as excited about your summer knitting projects as I am with mine! Whether you’re knitting bandanas, or cowls, choosing the right yarn can make all the difference. I'd love to hear about your summer knitting plans and see your creations. Share your projects with me on social media (@yessysdesigns), and don’t forget to tag me when you knit one of my designs!
Happy knitting,
Yessy
P.S. Don’t forget to check out The Sweet Pea Cowl pattern here and start your summer knitting adventure today!
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