Best Summer Yarns for Knits + Free Patterns You Can Start Today
Find the best summer yarns for knits and explore over 200 free patterns on my blog’s knitting pattern page!
When the temperatures start to rise, I pack away the bulky wool and reach for breathable cottons, silky blends, and soft bamboos. Summer knitting is all about keeping it light, breezy, and fun—whether I’m working on a lacy tee for myself or a dainty little bonnet for a baby shower gift. Over the years, I’ve tested my fair share of yarns, and I definitely have my go-to favorites.
Today, I’m sharing my personal list of the best summer yarns for knits—each one tried, loved, and used in my own designs. I’ve also included the free patterns they’re featured in so you can jump right in. Whether you’re into warm-weather wearables or summer accessories, these yarns deliver softness, stitch definition, and that perfect summery feel. Let’s dive in!
1. KnitPicks Samia (affiliate link) – Silky Soft with a Hint of Shine
I’ve been absolutely swooning over KnitPicks Samia (affiliate link) lately. This yarn is made with mulberry silk and cupro, which makes it incredibly light and breathable—basically the dream combo for summer knits. It drapes like a dream and has a subtle shine that makes even basic stitches feel fancy.
If you want to try it out, the Deborah Tee is a great starting point. This free knitting pattern comes in baby, youth, and adult sizes, and it really shows off the beauty of the yarn. I especially love how the yarn keeps the fabric cool without clinging. It’s been a reader favorite—and I can see why.
Without a doubt, Samia is one of the best summer yarns for knits that feel luxurious and wearable even in the heat.
Youth Deborah Tee Free Pattern
Adult Deborah Tee Free Pattern
2. Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (affiliate link) – Soft, Smooth, and Stretch-Free
Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (affiliate link) has been a staple in my stash for years. It’s a cotton/acrylic blend that knits up so smooth and even, you’d swear your tension improved overnight. Plus, it doesn’t stretch out of shape like 100% cotton sometimes can.
I used this yarn for the Chain Tee, and it was a match made in knitting heaven. The lightweight feel and great stitch definition made it perfect for the unique chain-like stitch pattern featured in the tee. If you’re looking for a yarn that holds up to summer heat and still feels soft against your skin, this is it.
Hands down, Cotton Fair ranks high on my list of the best summer yarns for knits that are practical, affordable, and easy to love.
3. Hobbii Rainbow Bamboo (affiliate link) – Smooth and Gentle for Baby Projects
Let’s talk about Hobbii Rainbow Bamboo (affiliate link). This yarn is one of my top picks for anything soft and baby-friendly. It’s a bamboo-cotton blend that stays cool to the touch and has a gorgeous drape with a subtle sheen.
I used it for the Bethany Pixie Bonnet, and it made the perfect lightweight bonnet. The yarn is gentle against baby skin, easy to wash, and holds up beautifully. Plus, it’s available in a wide range of soft, summery colors that make every project feel just a little bit special and vintage.
If you’re looking for the best summer yarns for knits for baby patterns or delicate accessories, Rainbow Bamboo is a winner.
Bethany Pixie Bonnet Free Pattern
4. KnitPicks CotLin (affiliate link) – Durable and Great for Accessories
CotLin (affiliate link) is one of my go-to yarns for durable summer projects. It’s a cotton and linen blend that softens as you work with it, and it holds its shape beautifully over time. I love using it for accessories like bags and home goods.
One of my favorite projects with CotLin is the Cable Crossbody Bag. The yarn is just structured enough to help the cables pop while still keeping the finished bag lightweight and wearable. It’s the kind of summer knit that’s both practical and fun to show off.
This one’s always on my shortlist of the best summer yarns for knits that need structure without the bulk.
Cable Crossbody Bag Free Pattern
5. KnitPicks Vividie (affiliate link) – Bright, Bouncy, and Perfect for Tees
Looking for something fun and colorful? Meet Vividie (affiliate link) from KnitPicks. This yarn comes in vibrant shades that are perfect for warm-weather wearables. It has a smooth, even texture that makes it great for stockinette, lace, and even lightly textured patterns.
I used Vividie for the Puff Sleeve Tee, which comes in both child and adult sizes. The playful colors and subtle sheen made the whole piece feel like something from a boutique. The puff sleeves really shine in this yarn—and the final result is both lightweight and super flattering.
For bold colors and comfortable wear, Vividie earns its spot as one of the best summer yarns for knits you’ll reach for again and again.
Adult Puff Sleeve Tee Free Pattern
Child Puff Sleeve Tee Free Pattern
6. Lion Brand Coboo (affiliate link) – Lightweight, Flexible, and Easy to Work With
Lion Brand Coboo (affiliate link) has become one of my go-to yarns for warm-weather accessories. It’s a soft cotton/bamboo blend with great drape and a smooth finish—perfect for summer knitting when you want something breathable, washable, and not too heavy on your hands.
I used Coboo for the Peter Purse, a stylish and practical crossbody bag with a center cable panel, make-one shaping on the sides, and an optional cloth lining. The yarn holds its shape surprisingly well for how light it is, and the finished bag has a nice balance of structure and softness. I added a tri-glide buckle and adjustable strap to mine (affiliate links in the blog post), but you can totally keep it simple, too.
If you’re searching for the best summer yarns for knits that work just as well for accessories as they do for garments, Coboo is a solid pick. It’s one of those yarns that seems to do whatever you ask of it—with minimal fuss.
Why These Yarns Made the Cut
Choosing the best summer yarns for knits comes down to a few key things:
- Breathability – No one wants to sweat through their handmade tee.
- Softness – Summer skin is sensitive, and I want yarns that feel gentle.
- Drape – Whether it’s a dress or a slouchy tee, I want fabric that moves.
- Durability – Summer knits get washed a lot, so they need to hold up.
- Stitch definition – Lightweight yarns should still make your stitches pop.
Every yarn on this list checks all those boxes. I’ve used them myself, designed around their best features, and recommended them to other knitters without hesitation.
Bonus: Free Patterns for Each Yarn
To make your summer knitting even easier, here’s a quick list of the featured free patterns and their corresponding yarns (all affiliate links):
- Deborah Tee (baby, youth, adult) – KnitPicks Samia (affiliate link)
- Chain Tee – Premier Yarns Cotton Fair (affiliate link)
- Bethany Pixie Bonnet – Hobbii Rainbow Bamboo (affiliate link)
- Cable Crossbody Bag – KnitPicks CotLin (affiliate link)
- Puff Sleeve Tee (child & adult) – KnitPicks Vividie (affiliate link)
- Peter Purse – Lion Brand Coboo (affiliate link)
You can find each of these patterns for free on my website, along with over 200 other free patterns for all seasons and skill levels. If you’re not sure where to start, head to my Free Knitting Patterns page and poke around—there’s something for everyone.
What Are Your Go-To Summer Yarns?
Now that I’ve shared my list of the best summer yarns for knits, I’d love to hear yours! Do you have a favorite that’s not on this list? Have you tried any of the ones I mentioned?
Leave a comment below and let me know what you’re loving this summer. I’m always looking for new yarns to try—and I know others reading this are, too!
This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog and helping me keep patterns free for everyone!
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