Hooked on Summer: 3 Stitches You Need to Try
Summer is here, and with it comes the desire for lighter, breezier crochet projects! While cozy blankets have their place in colder months, summer calls for stitches that offer beautiful drape, interesting texture, and aren't too dense to work with in warmer weather. Today, I'm sharing three fantastic crochet stitches that are perfect for your summer makes, along with some project ideas and links to get you started!
1. The Herringbone Double Crochet: Breezy and Beautiful
The herringbone double crochet (HBDC) is a personal favorite for summer. It creates a stunning, slightly slanted texture that mimics the look of woven fabric, offering incredible drape without being overly open or lacy. This makes it perfect for wearables like cardigans, tops, and scarves, as well as structured items that still need a bit of flexibility.
Why it's great for summer:
Beautiful drape: The slant of the stitches creates a fabric that flows nicely.
Unique texture: It adds visual interest without being too busy.
Versatile: Works well for both garments and accessories.
Project Ideas:
Summer Cardigans and Tops: Imagine a lightweight HBDC cardigan thrown over a tank top!
Zipper Pouches: The sturdy yet flexible nature of the HBDC makes it ideal for pouches that hold their shape. In fact, it's my go-to for them! Check out my Herringbone Double Crochet Zipper Pouch pattern and tutorial! These are quick, satisfying projects that are perfect for using up scraps of yarn.
Watch the Tutorial!
2. The Lemon Peel Stitch: Textured and Terrific
If you're looking for a stitch that offers delightful texture and works up relatively quickly, the lemon peel stitch is your new best friend. This stitch alternates single crochet and double crochet stitches, creating a bumpy, "pebbly" surface that is both visually appealing and satisfying to touch.
Why it's great for summer:
Excellent texture: The alternating stitches create a unique, tactile fabric.
Good absorbency: The texture makes it ideal for items that need to be absorbent.
Relatively dense but not stiff: It holds its shape well without being rigid.
Project Ideas:
Washcloths and Dishcloths: The texture of the lemon peel stitch makes it fantastic for scrubbing, and they make lovely hostess gifts!
Picnic Blankets: Worked up in a cotton or cotton blend yarn, a lemon peel stitch picnic blanket would be sturdy, textured, and perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Coasters: Quick and easy to make, and they'll protect your surfaces with a touch of handmade charm.
Watch the Tutorial!
3. The Camel Stitch: Adds a Knitted Look to Your Crochet
Want to achieve a knitted look with your crochet hook? The camel stitch (also known as half double crochet in the 3rd loop) is the answer! By working into the "third loop" of the half double crochet stitch, you push the regular top loops forward, creating a lovely horizontal "v" that closely resembles knit ribbing.
Why it's great for summer:
Creates a knit-like fabric: Perfect for those who love the look of knitting but prefer to crochet.
Good structure: It creates a stable, slightly stretchy fabric, ideal for items that need to hold their shape.
Works up quickly: As it's based on the half double crochet, it's a relatively fast stitch.
Project Ideas:
Bags and Totes: The structure and stretch of the camel stitch make it fabulous for bags that need to withstand daily use.
Laptop Sleeves: Its sturdy nature is perfect for protecting your electronics. I used it for my own! Check out my Camel Stitch Laptop Sleeve tutorial!
Headbands and Hats: The ribbing effect is fantastic for creating comfortable and stylish accessories.
Watch the Tutorial!
Tips for Summertime Crochet:
Make smaller projects: Summertime is ideal for quick wins! Think coasters, scrunchies, bookmarks, or even lightweight shawls—things that won’t sit in your lap and turn you into a human heater.
Choose lightweight yarns: Opt for cotton, bamboo, or linen blends—they’re breathable, cooler to the touch, and perfect for warm-weather projects like bags, tops, or home décor.
Take your crochet on the go: Summer’s full of road trips, park days, and poolside lounging—pack a small project and crochet wherever the season takes you.
Crochet in the cooler parts of the day: Try early mornings or evenings to beat the heat. Crocheting in front of a fan or in a shady spot outside with a cold drink nearby? Even better.
So grab your hooks and some lovely summer-friendly yarn (cotton, linen, or bamboo blends are fantastic choices for these stitches!), and get ready to create some beautiful and functional projects.
Happy crocheting!
