Okay, I know that it is hot but there is still time in the day to knit or crochet or both. This time of the year, in the Northern Hemisphere at least, it is nice to have a list of simple small projects to work on. I tend to make toys, hats and cowls or other small items this time of the year to keep the project from becoming a blanket on my lap. Kids or baby sweaters are also good summer needle arts projects.
Are you like me and in a bit of a panic to have enough stock for craft sales this fall? I have a few free and paid patterns on Ravelry here that are great for sale stock. They are quick to make, don’t take a lot of yarn and sell really well. They are also great for charity knitting which is another great way to spend your summer crafting time. These items are always welcome, especially the toys, in the winter months.
I have being looking through project pages and other sites to see what other projects will fit into the it’s too hot to knit a blanket weather and still keep that I have to craft urge satisfied. I found a surprising number of small things to work on.
Socks, socks and more socks seem to be the most popular item to make with hats, mittens, and cowls the next. I did come across crocheted jewelry, an art that I always forget about. I was given a crocheted pearl ring and choker set by my DH when we first started dating. I knew right then that he was a keeper and still have that pretty jewelry.
There a number of patterns for crocheted bracelets that have beads or not and look really lovely. I have a couple of them on the project list to try while I am sitting on the patio. They will make pretty gifts for the granddaughters.
Crocheted or knitted squares are another great small project. They can be all the same or a variety of stitch patterns. I usually opt for a variety as I am easily bored with the style of the same pattern repeated. I made this little lap blanket from a Bernat booklet some years ago to learn cable knitting. I fell in love with the style of since progressed to Aran sweaters.
Learning a new style or skill is another great reason to work on small projects during the hot months. I learned to make hairpin lace last May and still have the project sitting in a bag. It will be placed front and centre in my UFO basket as it is light and airy enough to work on without discomfort.
Have a look through your patterns, pick a cool yarn and get busy! There really is a way to beat the heat and keep on crafting.
Spoiler Alert: New Shawl Pattern Next Week!