Summer Knitting Projects to Fall in Love With!
There’s something about summer that calls for lighter yarns, brighter colors, and projects full of joy. After months of working on a large-scale project like my knitted wedding dress, it felt so refreshing to switch gears and embrace a new season of knitting—one that feels airy, inspiring, and just right for warm-weather wear.
In this month’s knitting podcast, I shared some of the summer knitting projects currently on (and off) my needles. From fresh cast-ons to satisfying finishes, these pieces reflect the creativity and ease that summer brings.
Knitting Update: New Cast-Ons, WIPs & Finished Favorites
Cast-On Joy: The Diona Tee
One of my favorite summer knits so far is the Diona Tee by Sari Nordlund. This silky, breezy top features an elegant cable motif and is knit in a copper-speckled silk blend that I found in my stash.
It was originally purchased at Edinburgh Yarn Fest in 2019 and is now finally getting its moment to shine. Worked seamlessly from the top down, the Diona Tee is the perfect example of summer knitting inspiration—lightweight, stylish, and instantly wearable.
Current WIP: The Isabella Sweater
The Isabella Sweater is my latest work in progress, and it’s shaping up beautifully. I'm using La Bien Aimée’s Helix yarn in the colorway Lise, a rich pink with burgundy undertones.
The yarn has a soft halo and luminous quality, making every stitch feel extra special. With bell sleeves, a slightly cropped fit, and the potential for lace details, this project is both practical and playful—a perfect representation of my handmade wardrobe goals.
Finished Object: The Dori Vest
After three months of slow stitching, the Dori Vest is finally finished. It’s a cropped brioche vest with a soft neckline and lovely side ties, knit in Rauma Fivel—a rustic yet soft Norwegian wool. Despite the slow progress (brioche stitch takes time!), the result is a versatile, cozy piece that’s perfect for layering through multiple seasons.
Knitting Without a Pattern: The Impro Dress
One of the most rewarding parts of my summer knitting journey has been creating the Impro Dress. Made entirely from stash yarns and guided by intuition rather than a traditional pattern, this project reminded me that you don’t need to know everything to start. The texture, shape, and stitch pattern evolved organically, turning leftover yarn into a deeply personal piece full of creative energy.
This dress is made from a mix of Isager Highland Wool, Isager Tweed, and Garnsurr Mohair—each adding its own character. The construction began with a vest pattern as a base, then expanded with increases and shaping guided by my own knitting math. It’s a celebration of stash busting, improvisation, and slow fashion knits.
A Handmade Wedding Dress: My Most Meaningful Knit
Perhaps the most special knit I’ve ever made is my wedding dress. Crafted from Sandnes Sunday yarn, this full-length lace gown combined design elements from Camilla Vad’s Magnolia and Lene Holme Samsøe’s Dahlia. I customized everything—from the shaping and structure to the bodice details and even the pearl beading. It took months of work (and a custom-sewn silk underdress), but the end result was a magical, wearable symbol of love and creativity.
I share the full story—including how I designed and improvised the dress—in the latest episode of my knitting podcast on YouTube.
Why I Love Summer Knitting
Summer knitting isn’t just about lighter fibers; it’s a mindset shift. It’s about choosing yarns and patterns that feel good in your hands, embracing slower progress, and savoring the joy of making something truly your own. Whether you’re casting on a new fingering weight sweater or finally finishing that brioche vest, every stitch adds up to something meaningful.
For me, summer knitting projects are a way to stay grounded, playful, and creative—especially when life feels a little busy. And if you’re navigating your own stash, your own pace, or your own improvisation? That’s where the magic happens.
Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
If you’d like to hear more about these projects and see all the yarny details, head over to my YouTube channel and watch the full episode. I talk through each piece, share behind-the-scenes moments, and reflect on what these summer knitting projects have taught me.
Whether you’re here for knitting without a pattern, lightweight summer tees, or wedding dress-level ambition, I hope this post leaves you feeling inspired to pick up your needles and make something joyful.
This post was all about summer knitting projects!