Best Lightweight Yarns for Spring & Summer Crochet & Knitting Projects
As the weather warms up, the last thing you want is a heavy, fuzzy yarn sitting in your lap. Crochet doesn’t have to be just for fall and winter! Today, I’m sharing the best yarns for summer crochet and knitting projects—including lightweight, breathable fibers like cotton, bamboo, and linen. Plus, I’ll show you my go-to warm weather yarns and what to make with them!
For spring and summer, you’ll want to look for fibers that are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking so your finished projects feel as good as they look. Today, I’m sharing my favorite warm-weather yarns and what projects they work best for!
📌 Looking to make a lightweight summer shawl? Check out this blog post where I share all my best tips!
🎥 Watch the video here!
Best Lightweight Yarns for Spring & Summer Crochet & Knitting Projects
One of the best things about having a knit and crochet hobby is the sheer variety of yarns available. Each fiber has different properties, and some are better suited for warm-weather projects than others.
Here’s a list of fibers that will help you enjoy your craft year-round—without overheating!
Cotton & Cotton Blends
Cotton and cotton blends are soft, breathable, and absorb moisture, making them a go-to choice for warm-weather knitting and crochet.
Great for:
- Dishcloths
- Bags
- Garments
Mercerized Cotton
Mercerized cotton has all the same benefits as regular cotton but with a smoother, more drapey feel.
Great for:
- Garments
- Market bags
- Beach cover-ups
Bamboo & Bamboo Blends
Bamboo fibers are silky, lightweight, and naturally moisture-wicking. They also tend to have a beautiful drape, making them ideal for garments and flowy accessories.
Great for:
- Summer tops
- Drapey shawls
Linen & Linen Blends
Linen starts off feeling crisp, but softens beautifully with wear. It’s a strong, breathable fiber that works great for structured projects.
Great for:
- Flowy garments
- Beach bags
- Summer scarves
Superwash Merino Wool
Wool in the summer? Yes! Superwash merino wool helps regulate temperature and wick moisture away from the body, making it a great option for transitional weather garments.
Great for:
- Lightweight shawls
- Socks
- Layering pieces
Best Yarn Weights for Summer Crochet & Knitting (How to Choose!)
Yarn weight plays a huge role in how breathable or cozy your project feels. Here are the best weights for spring and summer makes:
Fingering & Sport Weight
Best for delicate, lacey projects like shawls and lightweight tops.
DK Weight
A happy medium between a sport weight and a worsted weight – adds structure without the bulk. This yarn is great for absolutely everything but think cardigans, wraps and market bags.
Worsted Weight
Still works in warm weather depending on the project. Worsted weight is my go-to for bags or summer hats. If using for garments or something wearable, open stitches like a mesh or lace patterns work well.
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My Favorite Yarns for Spring and Summer
Now that we know the best fibers and weights, here are some of my favorite go-to yarns for warm-weather projects!
Lily Sugar’n Cream
- 100% cotton, worsted weight
- Sturdy & durable—great for market bags, dishcloths, and outdoor décor like placemats and trivets.
🛍 Shop it here
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
- 100% mercerized cotton, worsted weight (though it feels slightly lighter!)
- Great for market bags, summer tops, and beach cover-ups.
🛍 Shop it here
Loops & Threads Silky Soft
- 100% rayon from bamboo, lightweight (#3 yarn)
- Super drapey, silky, and actually feels cool to the touch!
- I haven’t used this yarn yet, but I’m in the process of designing something fun with it—stay tuned!
🛍 Shop it here
Best Projects to Make with Warm-Weather Yarns
Need inspiration? Here are some great projects for spring and summer!
Shawls & Wraps
Lightweight, breathable, and perfect for layering. I love a good layering piece for transitioning temperatures—whether that’s winter to spring or a hot sunny day to a cooler night.
- Best fibers: Cotton blends, superwash merino wool
- Watercolor Shawl Pattern – Click here!
- Shimmer Crochet Wrap Patter – Click here!
- Check out my shawl guide here.
Market Bags & Totes
Reusable bags are functional, eco-friendly, and fun to make!
- Best fibers: Lily Sugar’n Cream, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
- Boom Roasted Market Bag Pattern – Click here!
- Veggie Stand Market Bag Pattern – Click here!
- Check out more of my favorite market bag patterns here!
Summer Tops & Cover-ups
For warm-weather garments, think soft, flowy, and drapey.
- Best fibers: Bamboo, cotton and linen blends
- Beach Cover-Up by Jenny And Teddy – Click here!
- Topaz Tee by Two of Wands – Click here!
- See some gorgeous summer top ideas here: (Insert link)
Dishcloths
Quick to make & super practical.
- Best fibers: 100% cotton
- Check out my go-to crochet dishcloth patterns here!
- Check out my go-to knitted dishcloth patterns here!
Socks
Yes, socks are great year-round! Wool regulates temperature & wicks away moisture, making it perfect even in warm weather.
- Best fibers: Fingering weight superwash merino wool
- Knitted Heart Socks Pattern – Click here!
Where to Buy the Best Lightweight Yarns for Summer Crochet & Knitting
Wondering where to find these yarns? Here are some of my favorite places to shop.
WeCrochet & Knit Picks
Great for affordable cotton and linen blend yarns.
Michaels & Lion Brand
Easy to find bamboo, cotton and linen blends.
Local Yarn Shops
Beautiful lightweight indie-dyed yarns (often superwash merino wool).
To sum it up…
The best warm-weather yarns are lightweight, breathable fibers like cotton, linen and bamboo. What’s your go-to spring and summer yarn? Let me know in the comments!
Sneak Peek
If you love staying organized, I’m designing a yarn project planner that will be launching next week—stay tuned!
