What to Knit in the Summer: 6 Free Patterns Perfect for Summer Travel
Looking for ideas on what to knit in the summer? This post is packed with warm-weather favorites from my free knitting pattern library!
I don’t know about you, but when summer rolls around, I start itching to get out of the house and do a little adventuring…with my knitting bag in tow, of course. Whether it’s a road trip with the family, a weekend at the lake, or even just an afternoon in the backyard while the kids run through sprinklers, I’m always looking for what to knit in the summer.
The trick is finding those just-right projects—lightweight yarns, small and portable designs, and patterns that don’t require intense concentration while you’re trying to catch up with your sister-in-law or ride in the car. If you’re wondering what to knit in the summer, keep reading—I’ve got six go-to knits that have earned their place in my travel bag. They’re fun, practical, and perfect for tossing in your purse or beach tote.
Here’s what to knit in the summer when you want to keep your hands busy without breaking a sweat.
1. Judah Socks
Let’s start with my current sock obsession: the Judah Socks. If you’re wondering what to knit in the summer and you’ve never tried sock knitting, now’s your chance! Summer is actually the perfect time to dive in. These socks are small enough that you won’t end up with a lap full of wool on a hot day.
The Judah Socks have a fun yet simple texture that keeps things interesting without requiring constant chart-checking. And the best part? They’re knit in Hobbii Unicorn yarn (Affiliate link)—which is soft and comes in gorgeous colors that practically does the work for you. I’ve knit these on long car rides, in waiting rooms, and even while listening to audiobooks on the lounge chair. They’re just the right kind of project when you’re thinking about what to knit in the summer and want something low-commitment but satisfying.
2. Baby John Hooded Cardigan
Next up: the Baby John Hooded Cardigan. I know what you’re thinking—Amanda, isn’t that a little big for summer travel knitting? But hear me out. This one is knit in pieces, so you’re never holding too much fabric at once. Plus, it uses a cotton blend yarn that feels soft and breezy in your hands: Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (Affiliate link).
If you’re knitting for a new baby or getting a head start on fall gifts, this is a great “slow and steady” summer knit. The hoodie detail is adorable, and the all over stockinette is simple enough for poolside knitting. It’s also one of those projects that gets a lot of compliments when you’re knitting in public. Trust me—people will stop you at the coffee shop to ask what you’re making. So if you’re wondering what to knit in the summer that’s both practical and precious, this cardigan is a top pick.
Baby John Hooded Cardigan Free Pattern
3. Selah Bonnet
Okay, you knew I had to sneak in a baby bonnet. The Selah Bonnet is one of my most beautiful, lightweight designs and such a joy to knit during the warmer months. It’s teeny-tiny (read: ultra-portable), and the cable is subtle but elegant—ideal if you want to knit something with heart but don’t have hours to dedicate to a full-sized project.
This one’s made with KnitPicks Capra (Affiliate link), which is a dream on the hands and surprisingly breathable for a baby project. I’ve knit this one in the car during family vacations, and even in the stands at summer baseball games (knitting moms, you know). If you’re thinking about what to knit in the summer for that next baby shower or newborn gift, this sweet little bonnet is just the thing.
4. Chain Beanie
The Chain Beanie is a summer project with autumn vibes. It uses a unique stitch pattern that’s addicting once you get the hang of it and works up quickly, so you get that instant gratification we all crave. I designed this one to go with the Chain Tee, Chain Bonnet, and Chain Socks—so if you’re planning a travel knitting binge, you can just go down the list!
It’s worked in Berroco Vintage (Affiliate link), which has just the right amount of softness and stretch for a cozy hat, but it doesn’t feel heavy in your hands on hot days. I love bringing this project along when I want a break from stockinette but don’t want to haul out stitch markers and charts. Plus, it’s great airplane knitting. So if you’re making a list of what to knit in the summer on the way to your family reunion, this one should make the cut.
5. Nicolas Headband
The Nicolas Headband is one of those patterns that just makes sense for summer travel. It’s tiny. It’s fast. It uses hardly any yarn. And it’s the perfect palate cleanser between big projects. When you’re planning what to knit in the summer, having a go-to headband pattern in your back pocket is a game-changer.
This one is knit in Premier Stitch Please Superwash (Affiliate link), which handles heat and sweat like a champ. It’s soft, springy, and machine washable—basically the trifecta of summer practicality. I’ve knit this headband on the porch while watching my kids chase bubbles, and I’ve even finished one during a single car trip. It’s a quick, useful, and gift-worthy knit that doesn’t take up space in your suitcase.
6. Cable Crossbody Bag
Last but not least—let’s talk about the Cable Crossbody Bag. If you’re the kind of person who likes to make things you can use while you travel, this one is for you. It’s stylish and sturdy, but the construction is straightforward and relaxing. It’s knit with KnitPicks CotLin (Affiliate link), a cotton-linen blend that’s perfect for summer heat.
The cable detail down the center gives it a handcrafted look without being complicated, and the shape forms as you increase up the sides. There’s even an option to sew in a cloth lining and zipper (don’t worry—I walk you through that too). If you’re thinking about what to knit in the summer that’ll actually come in handy on your adventures, this crossbody bag is a no-brainer. I’ve taken mine to farmer’s markets, road trips, and even church camp.
Cable Crossbody Bag Free Pattern
My Summer Knitting Strategy
If you’re like me, knitting doesn’t stop when the temperatures climb. I just switch gears. I look for lightweight yarns, small projects, and patterns that don’t demand my full attention while the kids yell from the trampoline. I’m always making mental lists of what to knit in the summer, and these six projects keep floating to the top.
Each of these patterns is a little pocket of joy—something that fits into your day, your travel plans, and your knitting bag. Whether you’re finishing a bonnet while sipping iced tea on the porch or knocking out a headband on your flight to a wedding, these are projects that let you keep your hands busy without turning up the heat.
So next time you’re packing your suitcase or planning a weekend getaway, don’t forget to ask yourself: what to knit in the summer? Hopefully this post gave you a few ideas that are just the right fit.
What’s In Your Travel Bag?
Now it’s your turn—what’s your go-to summer knitting project? Do you have a favorite pair of socks to bring along on road trips, or a little cardigan you keep coming back to? I’d love to hear your favorites in the comments!
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use and love.
The post What to Knit in the Summer: 6 Free Patterns Perfect for Summer Travel appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
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