As someone who's always on the move and gets to experience different seasons throughout the year, I've gotten pretty used to picking different fibers for my crafting projects. Now I'm back in sunny Brazil for the holiday season, and with temperatures hitting 40 degrees Celsius, you can imagine that working with wool, alpaca, or mohair is a no-go!
So, I'm switching gears to lighter, breathable fibers that not only make crafting a breeze but also result in gorgeous, season-appropriate creations. It's a bit of a different ball game compared to working with wool, but I've got some tips up my sleeve that I'm more than happy to share.
Cotton
Cotton is a no-brainer for summer projects. It's light, breathable, and great at soaking up moisture. Plus, with a range of weights and colors to choose from, the possibilities are endless!
Whether you're crafting a delicate lace shawl or a sturdy market bag, cotton's got you covered. Just remember to use thinner needles and keep an eye on the gauge to prevent your fabric from "growing" after blocking.
Our suggestions: Rosários 4’s Lisboa, a 100% mercerized cotton yarn, and For Nature, a 100% organic cotton yarn, both DK-weight.
Linen
Linen, made from the flax plant, is another top pick for the summer. It's durable, breathable, and has a unique crispness that softens beautifully with use. It's perfect for anything from summer tops to dishcloths, and its natural sheen adds a touch of elegance to any project. Keep in mind, though, that linen can be a bit tough on your hands at first. Winding it into a ball a few times should soften it up nicely.
Our suggestions: Rosários 4’s Alfama, a classic DK-weight 100% linen yarn in solid colors, and Marvila, its variegated version.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a fantastic choice for those soft, flowy summer tops or wraps. It's incredibly soft and breathable and drapes beautifully. Plus, it's eco-friendly since bamboo proliferates without the need for pesticides. Just watch out for splitting — sharp needles should do the trick.
Our suggestions: Rosários 4’s Bio Bamboo, a shiny 100% bamboo viscose worsted-weight yarn, and Caravela, its fingering version.
Silk
If you're feeling a bit more luxurious, silk is a great option for summer projects. It's soft, lightweight, and has a beautiful sheen. Plus, it'll keep you cool in the summer heat. Just be aware that it can be a little slippery to work with. Bamboo or wooden needles can help with grip.
Our suggestion: Rosários 4’s Madragoa, a 100% silk fingering-weight yarn in matte colors.
Blends
Lastly, there are a plenty of blends that combine the best properties of different summer fibers. Cotton-linen blends are a great example. They have the breathability and durability of linen, with the softness of cotton. They might feel a bit stiff at first, but a wash and dry should soften them up. Bamboo-cotton blends are another great option that offer excellent drape and softness, though they can split, a tight gauge can help prevent this.
Our suggestions: Rosários 4's Damasco, a 70% cotton and 30% linen blend, and Falésia, a 50% cotton and 50% bamboo blend.
Choosing a summer fiber really depends on your project. If you're making a garment, think about how it'll feel on the skin. If it's a household item, consider its durability and washability.
With the suitable fiber, summer crafting can be a joy, resulting in creations that are as lovely to use as they are to make. As with any project, testing your swatch and adjusting your needle or hook size for the right gauge is key, especially with summer fibers that behave differently than wool. But with a bit of planning and patience, you can enjoy the unique features of these summer fibers and create beautiful, season-appropriate projects.
If you enjoyed this article, make sure to check out more of our suggestions of summer yarns.
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