The Best Fibres for Summer Crafting: Knitting and Crocheting through Warmer Months

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When the temperatures rise and the sun shines brightly, crafting during the summer can feel like a balancing act. You want to stay creative, but you also need to be mindful of the fibres you’re working with to ensure your projects are light, breathable and comfortable for the warmer weather.

Luckily, there’s an array of summer-friendly fibres that are perfect for everything from lightweight garments to breezy accessories and home decor.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best fibres for knitting and crocheting your way through summer, their unique properties and why they’re ideal for staying cool while you knit, crochet or weave during the hottest months of the year.

What Makes a Fibre Summer-Friendly?

Before diving into specific fibres, it’s helpful to understand what qualities make a fibre ideal for summer crafting. The best summer fibres are:

• Breathable: They allow air to flow, keeping you cool even on hot days.

• Lightweight: Heavier fibres can feel stifling in the heat, so summer-friendly options should be light and airy.

• Moisture-Wicking: Fibres that absorb and release moisture keep you feeling fresh and dry.

• Soft and Comfortable: No one wants to wear or craft with itchy, heavy yarn in the summer!

Now, let’s take a closer look at the fibres that check all these boxes.

1. Cotton

Cotton is one of the most popular fibres for summer crafting and for good reason. It’s a natural fibre that’s breathable, lightweight and easy to work with, making it a staple in warm-weather projects.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Cotton is highly absorbent, pulling moisture away from the skin and allowing it to evaporate. It’s also durable and many cotton yarns are machine washable, making it perfect for everyday wear.

• Best Uses: Lightweight tops, market bags, dishcloths, baby clothes and summer accessories.

• Tip: Try mercerised cotton (like our Milo yarn) for added sheen and durability or organic cotton for a soft, eco-friendly choice.

2. Linen

Linen, derived from the flax plant, is another summer favourite. Known for its crisp texture and elegant drape, linen is a timeless choice for breathable and sophisticated summer projects.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Linen is lightweight and moisture-wicking and gets softer with every wash. It’s perfect for projects that need a touch of refinement without sacrificing comfort.

• Best Uses: Summer tops, shawls, beach cover-ups and homewares like placemats or table runners.

• Tip: Don’t be afraid of linen’s slightly stiff feel. It will soften beautifully as you work with it, wear it and wash it.

3. Bamboo

Bamboo yarn is a plant-based fibre known for its silky softness and stunning sheen. It’s a go-to choice for crafters seeking a lightweight, luxurious yarn for summer crafting.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Bamboo is highly breathable, moisture-wicking and naturally antibacterial, making it perfect for warm-weather wear. Its smooth texture feels cool to the touch, adding to its appeal.

• Best Uses: Lightweight cardigans, summer scarves, baby blankets and delicate shawls.

• Tip: Bamboo can be slippery, so use needles or hooks with a little grip to keep your stitches consistent.

Read more about bamboo yarn here.

4. Eucalyptus Yarn

Eucalyptus yarn (a type of lyocell or Tencel) is a relatively new addition to the crafting world, but it’s quickly become a summer staple thanks to its eco-friendly production and luxurious feel.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Eucalyptus yarn is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making it perfect for warm climates. It’s also hypoallergenic and silky smooth, ideal for those with sensitive skin.

• Best Uses: Elegant tops, breezy dresses, baby items and accessories like wraps or scarves.

• Tip: Its subtle sheen and drape make it a great substitute for silk in summer-friendly projects.

Read more about eucalyptus yarn here.

5. Sugarcane Yarn

Sugarcane yarn is another innovative plant-based fibre that’s ideal for summer crafting. Made from sugarcane pulp, this yarn combines sustainability with luxury.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Sugarcane yarn is breathable, silky and moisture-wicking. It’s also incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for crafting projects that feel as good as they look.

• Best Uses: Soft baby clothes, flowy summer tops, reusable bags and delicate shawls.

• Tip: Sugarcane yarn often has a beautiful sheen, adding an elegant touch to your creations.

  
  

Read more about sugarcane yarn here.

6. Hemp

Hemp yarn is a durable, eco-friendly option that’s perfect for summer projects with a rustic touch. Known for its strength and breathability, hemp is a great choice for practical and stylish pieces.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Hemp is naturally cooling, moisture-wicking and incredibly durable. It’s perfect for items that need to withstand wear and tear, like bags or homewares.

• Best Uses: Market totes, placemats, coasters, lightweight tops, and bohemian-inspired projects.

• Tip: Hemp yarn can feel rough at first but will soften beautifully with use and washing.

7. Seaweed yarn

Seaweed yarn is a silky, breathable fibre that brings a touch of luxury to your summer makes. Derived from seaweed and often blended with other plant fibres like eucalyptus, this yarn is soft, lightweight and packed with natural benefits, making it perfect for warm-weather crafting.

• Why It’s Great for Summer: Seaweed yarn is naturally cooling, antibacterial and moisture-absorbent, ideal for garments and accessories worn against the skin during the hotter months. It has a gentle sheen and drape that feels beautifully smooth and refreshing.

• Best Uses: Breezy tops, summer scarves, baby items, spa cloths and elegant layering pieces.

• Tip: Look for blends that include seaweed (like SeaCell) for an eco-conscious, skin-loving fibre that’s as good for you as it is for the planet.

Read more about seaweed yarn here.

Fibres to Potentially Avoid in Summer

While many fibres shine in summer, some are best left for cooler months. Here are a few fibres to consider avoid working with if you feel like you fall out of love with crafting when temperatures rise:

• Wool: Even some lightweight wool can feel too warm and heavy for summer projects. If you love wool, consider working with a wool-cotton or wool-viscose blend.

• Alpaca: While luxuriously soft, alpaca’s insulating properties make it better suited for winter projects.

• Acrylic: This synthetic fibre doesn’t breathe well and can trap heat, making it uncomfortable for warm-weather wear.

Tips for Summer Crafting

1. Choose Lightweight Patterns: Opt for openwork designs, lace, or loose stitches to create breathable projects perfect for summer.

2. Stock Up on Homewares: At Fancy Yarns Australia, summer is our favourite time of the year to refresh our home with hand towels, face washers, placemats, coasters, cushions and more. These quick projects means that our working isn't draping in our lap, reating extra heat during the summer months!

3. Stay Hydrated: Crafting in the heat can be tiring, so make sure to drink plenty of water!

4. Take Breaks: Working with yarn for long periods can make your hands warm, so take regular breaks to stay comfortable.

5. Work with Cool Fibres: Fibres like cotton, bamboo and eucalyptus feel cool to the touch, making crafting more enjoyable in the heat.

   
   

Knitting and Crocheting with Summer-Friendly Fibres

Summer crafting is all about finding the perfect balance between creativity and comfort. By choosing lightweight, breathable and sustainable fibres like cotton, linen, bamboo and sugarcane, you can create beautiful projects that keep you cool and inspired all season long.

At Fancy Yarns Australia, we’re passionate about offering yarns that not only look and feel amazing but also align with your crafting needs, no matter the season. Explore our collection of summer-friendly yarns and start your next warm-weather project today.