Knitting with wool is truly incomparable. Its unmatched smoothness and elasticity provide a unique tactile pleasure.
However, during the warm season knitters need to seek alternatives as our hands can never truly rest.
In recent years, I have experimented with various yarns ideal for summer clothing, ranging from cotton to bamboo, silk, hemp, and linen. I must admit, I developed a fondness for many of them.
In my pursuit of creating my summer wardrobe, I have carefully selected lightweight and breathable yarns that are ideal for warm weather, ensuring that each garment feels effortless to wear even on the hottest days.
By sourcing materials that are produced ethically and with minimal environmental impact, I aim to align my me made wardrobe with principles of conscious fashion.
Expanding on my exploration of different yarns suitable for summer garments, I delved further into the characteristics and qualities of each type. Here are some key points from my experimentation:
- Cotton Yarn:
Highly twisted cotton yarn results in a heavier fabric, which may be suitable for certain projects requiring more structure.
However, I tested a 100% cotton yarn crafted using a chain ply technique and it stood out for its exceptional lightness and airy feel, making it a great choice for breezy summer pieces.
- Bamboo Yarn:
Bamboo yarn offers a luxurious softness and drapes beautifully, making it a lovely option for elegant and flowy summer garments. Its primary drawback is its excessive drapiness, causing it to stretch while worn and resulting in an oversized fit.
It has natural antibacterial properties, which can be beneficial for sensitive skin during hot weather.
Cruelty free Silk Yarn:
It has a textured and rustic appearance compared to traditional silk yarn and it is prized for its durability and strength, making it ideal for creating items that will last for years to come.
It has excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping the skin cool and comfortable in warm climates.
- Hemp Yarn:
Hemp yarn is known for its durability and strength.
The yarn I experimented with didn’t appeal to me because it was excessively slippery and it highlighted even the smallest tension imperfections.
However, It has a natural resistance to mold and mildew, which is advantageous for humid summer conditions.
Linen Yarn:
Linen is my top choice! There’s nothing quite like the sheer delight of wearing a linen knitted piece during the scorching summer days.
It is lightweight and breathable, offering excellent airflow to keep the body cool in hot weather.
It has a crisp texture that softens over time, adding a relaxed and casual vibe to summer outfits.
Through this exploration, I have discovered innovative ways to combine yarn textures and colors to create visually striking garments that stand out.
Retrobottega Venezia 