It’s summertime (in the northern hemisphere) and for crafters, both knitters and crocheters, it’s always crafting time. However, this time the debate is knitting or crocheting, which craft the summer sun beckons. Well, you can always pick up your favorite knitting needles or crochet hooks, but if you’re undecided, we’ve got the guide to help you make your choices. Whether you're a seasoned yarn artist or a curious beginner, let’s explore creative possibilities. So, what is going to be this summer- knitting or crocheting?
Summer Crafting
The shift in weather impacts makers. From yarns (fiber and shades), lightweight patterns, crafting spaces to choices in knitting needles and crochet hooks, the entire crafting mood changes. Lace with aesthetic holes is in trend, colorwork is never out of the picture and it is also the granny square time, exploring endless possibilities with the classic crochet pattern lending itself to various beautiful projects.
It is also known as the outdoor season, so there’s also the factor of portability for outings and vacations and authorization to carry in airplanes. This puts a hold on loose needles, sharp points, and the yarn stash. However, it also opens up opportunities to explore new knitting needles, say for example, the mini interchangeable needles or shorties, innovative crochet hooks such as interchangeable single-ended crochet hooks, handy sets and crafting accessories.
Summer Crafting - Knitting and Crocheting
The crafting world has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years, with social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The COVID-19 pandemic gave plenty of crafting time. Both knitting and crochet have shed their grandmother's hobby image, emerging as cool, contemporary GenZ crafts that appeal to younger generations seeking creative expression and sustainable fashion.
Mindful crafting has become one of the biggest self-care trends worldwide and has many mental and physical health benefits. A daily routine can reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure levels, lower your heart rate, and give the “happy” hormones in your bloodstream a decent boost. According to medical studies, crafts induce a measurable “relaxation response”, quite comparable to the effects of meditation, Tai Chi or yoga. With the start of summer, May, the Month of Mental Health Awareness, it is the perfect time to get started crafting.
While seasoned crafters, confident with their skills of handling knitting needles or crochet hooks or skilled with both, make the choice according to the project, new makers need to refer to our guide on knitting vs crocheting: which craft is better for beginners?
Knitting in summer is favored for garments and it works beautifully for tees, dresses, beach covers, lace shawls and more. Crochet is a summer trend in 2025. Breaking free from traditional doily stereotypes and becoming a fashion statement with crop tops, granny squares totes and more.
While both crafts have their merits, they offer distinctly different experiences. Dive deeper into the subject with knitting vs crocheting.
Factors that help make the choice between knitting and crochet
1. Project Suitability
The crafting choice depends solely on what you are planning to make. Lace patterns, both knitting and crochet, are easy to find and make. Refer to our guide on getting started with lace knitting.
For socks, knitting is a choice for a better fit, while crochet works for a durable design.
2. Yarn Yardage
Suppose this summer crafting, you are on a stash-busting mission, using scraps in more from leftover yarn, choosing the craft form according to yardage. Crochet has a reputation as a yarn-eater in comparison to knitting.
Knitting vs Crocheting in Summer: Which Craft Is Better for Warm Weather?
|
Feature |
Knitting in Summer |
Crocheting in Summer |
|
Best Yarn Types |
Cotton, linen, bamboo, and lightweight blends |
Cotton, raffia, jute, and plant-based yarns |
|
Ideal Summer Projects |
Light lace shawls, lacy tops, tank tops, and summer cardigans |
Market bags, beach cover-ups, sun hats, and mesh tops |
|
Portability |
Slim needles are easy to carry, work well with small WIPs |
Hooks are compact, great for travel and outdoor crafting |
|
Breathability of Finished Items |
Typically produces tighter fabric, depending on the pattern |
Naturally airy and breathable, especially with open stitches |
|
Speed |
Generally slower for larger summer projects |
Often faster, ideal for quick summer accessories |
|
Ease for Beginners |
May take longer to learn tension with warm-weather yarns |
Simpler to master for summer-friendly projects |
|
Hand Comfort in Heat |
Metal needles may get warm; bamboo or wood is recommended |
Ergonomic hooks are available; less strain with open patterns |
|
Creative Flexibility |
Great for structured garments and delicate lace |
Excellent for textured, sculptural designs and accessories |
Celebrate Creativity
Summer isn't about choosing between knitting and crochet, it's about celebrating creativity. With crafting spirits high, the trending punch needle art is also on the rise.
Let the KnitPro collection guide you through. From stainless steel knitting needles of the Mindful Collection to warm color-coded laminated birchwood range of knitting needles and crochet hooks- Dreamz to innovative interchangeable crochet hooks, Oasis and more, there’s everything you need.
