For many knitters, summer brings longer days and more opportunities to enjoy their favourite hobby. However, when temperatures start climbing into the high twenties or beyond, knitting can quickly become less enjoyable.
Large projects can feel heavy on your lap, yarn may not glide through your hands as easily, and even concentrating on your pattern can become more difficult in the heat.
After knitting through several UK heatwaves, we've discovered a few simple ways to make summer knitting much more comfortable.
1. Keep Yourself Cool First
Before thinking about your knitting, make sure you're comfortable.
A fan can make a surprising difference, especially if you're working on a larger project that rests on your lap. Even a gentle breeze can help keep your hands cooler and make longer knitting sessions much more enjoyable.
Many experienced knitters also recommend running your wrists under a cool tap for a minute or two before picking up your knitting again. It can be a simple way to cool your hands and make knitting feel more comfortable during hot weather.
Just as importantly, remember to stay well hydrated, especially during periods of hot weather. It's easy to become absorbed in a knitting project and forget to drink, so keeping a cold drink nearby and taking regular breaks will help you stay comfortable and enjoy your knitting for longer. Just try not to spill it over your knitting!
If the weather becomes uncomfortably hot, don't feel you have to finish "just one more row." Put your knitting down, cool off and come back to it later when the temperature is more comfortable.
2. Choose Smaller Projects
Large blankets and adult garments can become surprisingly warm to knit during hot weather.
Instead, summer is often the perfect time to work on smaller projects such as:
• Baby cardigans
• Hats
• Bootees
• Bonding squares
• Accessories
Smaller projects generate less heat and are often easier to manage on warmer days. If you're looking for something especially worthwhile to knit during the summer months, this can also be an ideal time to create bonding squares, incubator armlets or other small items for neonatal units and baby charities.
⭐ Our Recommendation
If you're looking for smaller summer knitting projects, browse our Baby & Reborn Doll Knitting Patterns collection or take a look at our Free Instant Download Special Care Baby Knitting Patterns if you'd like to knit for neonatal units, hospitals or baby charities.
3. Try Bamboo Knitting Needles
Many knitters find bamboo knitting needles more comfortable to use during hot weather.
Unlike metal needles, bamboo doesn't feel cold when you first pick it up and many people find it provides a comfortable grip during warmer weather. Another advantage is that you don't get the familiar squeaking or sticking sensation that can sometimes happen when warm hands move against metal needles.
Choosing knitting needles is always a matter of personal preference, but if you've never tried bamboo needles, summer can be an excellent time to give them a go.
Some knitters also enjoy working with cotton or cotton-blend yarns during warm weather, as they can feel cooler to handle than some other fibres. Always check that the yarn you choose is suitable for your knitting pattern and produces the correct tension.
4. Keep Your Hands Dry
Warm weather can sometimes make yarn feel sticky and more difficult to work with, especially during longer knitting sessions.
Many knitters find that applying a small amount of baby talcum powder to their hands before they begin knitting helps absorb moisture, allowing the yarn to glide more smoothly through their fingers. Just remember to dust off any excess before picking up your knitting.
As a little bonus, if you're knitting baby clothes, the gentle baby powder fragrance can leave your finished cardigan, romper or baby set smelling beautifully fresh while you're working on it. It somehow seems rather fitting that a handmade outfit for a baby carries that familiar baby scent!
Like many knitting tips, it's a matter of personal preference, but it's one that many knitters swear by during the warmer months.
5. Knit During the Coolest Part of the Day
If possible, try knitting early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature is lower.
Many knitters find they can enjoy longer knitting sessions once the hottest part of the day has passed.
6. Choose Your Knitting Spot Carefully
You don't have to stop knitting just because it's hot—sometimes simply moving to the coolest room in the house can make a big difference.
If possible, close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to help keep the room cooler, and if you're using a fan, position it so that it keeps both you and your knitting comfortable.
7. Don't Worry if Your Progress Slows Down
When temperatures are high, it's perfectly normal to knit more slowly or even take a short break from larger projects.
Knitting should always be enjoyable. If the weather makes your project uncomfortable, there's nothing wrong with putting it aside for a cooler day. Your knitting will still be waiting for you when the temperature drops.
Looking Ahead
Summer can also be a great time to prepare for the cooler months ahead. Completing a few smaller projects now means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy larger blankets, coats and winter knitting once the weather becomes more comfortable.
Need a Little Inspiration?
Whether you're looking for a quick summer project or planning your next baby outfit, our Baby & Reborn Doll Knitting Patterns collection includes designs suitable for every season.
We hope these simple tips help you stay cool, stay comfortable and continue enjoying your knitting, whatever the weather.
