Once that’s done you’ll be able to experience the KnittingTours website perfectly.
Who wants to be hauling chunky skeins of yarn to the beach, or melt into a ball of chunky wool? For summer, lighter weight and ply yarns are the way to go. Think breathable, light and organic, for both your hands and the feel of your finished project.
Cotton, linen and bamboo are obvious choices. Silk yarns are self-regulating when it comes to temperature. Breathable and versatile cotton blended with linen or bamboo, make for soft and easy to maintain creations.
Some deeper coloured yarns may have some residue, which could come off on your hands if they are a bit sweaty. We recommend lighter colours. If deeper hues are for you, test a small swatch to ensure it doesn’t stain.
When it comes to needles, circular are a good, portable option and wooden needles are great all-rounders. Just remember your metal needles will heat up in the sun!
Summer is a great time to get creative with smaller projects. Just think of the satisfaction of getting more pieces finished! Easy to carry around, easy to work with on the move and in warmer temperatures.
Tank tops, floaty designs, socks and bags are nice options. The big trend are stylish, lightweight shawls – perfect for those cooler evenings. Now is the time to make use of those lace, brioche and moebius techniques for this more delicate designs!
Another option is to use the time to practice embellishments, such as motifs, beading and embroidery finishes.
Crochet and summer do tend to have a connection. Cute floppy hats, Boho chic and funky bags are high on the list of summer essentials. Lightweight yarn, a crochet hook and your tablet for instructions are so portable! Perfect for flights, long drives and sitting on the beach or by the river.
Kids or grandkids around for the summer break? Time to pass on those skills! Knitting has become bang on trend for younger generations. It teaches creativity, sustainability and individuality. Who knows? You could spark a future knitwear designer, showing at New York Fashion Week or in Milan or Paris!
Our instructors have fabulous patterns and ideas for summer knitting. Many having summer knitting clubs and projects available online. Look on Instagram or Facebook for the latest offerings from your favourite knitwear designers and instructors.
Environment, comfort and keeping refreshed are key to happy summer knitting. Be somewhere you can chill out or switch off. Sounds of nature, or your favourite music if you are travelling are sure to help you. Knit out of direct sunlight, as sweaty, marked projects are not good ones . We also don’t want needles or stitches slipping! Flowing water or waves lapping the shore are perfect for your backdrop and the rhythmic sounds help for a more relaxed knit.
Creative use of everyday objects are great for summer knitting. Our friends at We Are Knitters have used the beach friendly Croc shoe holes for feeding through yarn and acting as a ball holder! Lightweight, brightly coloured project bags are ideal too.
It’s nice to enjoy a glass of summer wine or a cocktail as you knit, but it is important to stay hydrated. Long glass cocktails with loads of ice like Long Island Iced Teas or Mojitos are fun, especially with a straw to keep your hands free. Easy nibbles like grapes or olives are ideal.
Early morning knitting, watching the sunrise and sunset are fabulous options to avoid peak heat – the stunning colours of nature may even inspire your project palettes!
Let us know how you get on with your summer knitting!
