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How to Make Pom Poms with Clover PomPom Maker

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Clover crochet hooks are among the most popular crochet hooks. That's not all that they make that's awesome, though. For example, have you seen the Clover PomPom maker? There are pompoms on so many different knit and crochet patterns. It's not a trend; it's a design feature. It's going to stick around. If you want to make it easier to make pom poms, then learn how to use the Clover PomPom Maker in this video tutorial.

*This post contains affiliate links. By clicking one of these links a portion of your purchase will go to the blog, the price you pay will not change. Thank you for your support of the blog*

how to use a pompom maker

Where To Use Pom Poms:

If you haven't jumped on the pom pom bandwagon quite yet then let me tell you why I love them.

First of all, pom poms are great for everyone. They can be used on items made for men, women, children.

Second, you can easily add a little spice to any project by adding a pom pom. You can add it to a scarf, a blanket, a hat, a hooded sweater, the possibilities are endless. Really, it's just a super simple way to add color, texture, and design detail to virtually any project.

Plus, they can be functional. Personally, I love using pom poms to cover the holes that are left at the top of hats. Pom Poms add a little something special to a basic hat. Or to anything else.

Pom Pom Makers:

Searching through Pinterest, you can find many different ways to make a pom pom. The most common ways are using a pom pom maker or using the ‘old fashioned way' with cardboard. Each way of making a pom pom will give you slightly different results. Try out a few ways and see what you like best. It might be different for each project.

That said, a pom pom maker really makes your life a lot simpler. Using the right tool always does. If you love Clover crochet hooks, then naturally you might want to check out the brand's pom pom maker. Of course, you might want different sizes of pom poms for different projects. The Clover pom pom maker comes in extra small, small, large, and extra large sizes. Plus they have a cute heart-shaped option for special projects.

Marly Bird's Pom Pom Posts:

Have I talked you into giving pom poms a try? Take a minute to look at two of my older posts that also include pom poms.

First, I put together a photo tutorial of making your own pom pom to add as an embellishment on a package. See the tutorial on making a pom pom package topper. Try it on your next handmade package.

As mentioned before you can add also pom poms to blankets. You could add them to each corner or you could use them as a border option. See the photo tutorial of adding a crochet pom pom border on the blog. Have fun with pom poms once you've learned how to make them.

Pom Pom Maker Video Tutorial

Here's the video tutorial for the Clover PomPom maker. It shows you exactly how to use it to make pom poms for all kinds of different projects. If you love Clover crochet hooks then you want to at least give this item a try.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use pom poms for?

Honestly, you can add a pom pom to almost anything! They're great for adding a little spice to scarves, blankets, hats, or sweaters. Plus, they're super functional for covering up those little holes at the top of hats…

Are there different sizes of the Clover Pom Pom Maker?

Yes! The Clover Pom Pom maker actually comes in a few different sizes. You can get it in extra small, small, large, and extra large. They even have a cute heart-shaped one for special projects!

Is it hard to use the Clover Pom Pom Maker?

So here's the thing… while there are a bunch of ways to make pom poms, the maker really does make your life a lot simpler. Using the right tool always helps, and this one is pretty straightforward, especially with the video tutorial!

Can I only use the Clover Pom Pom Maker for crochet projects?

Nope! While the post mentions Clover crochet hooks, pom poms themselves aren't just for crochet. You can add them to pretty much any knit or crochet project to give it that extra special touch.

Where can I see more of your pom pom projects?

Oh, you're in luck! I have a couple of older posts with pom poms. You can check out my tutorial on making a pom pom package topper, or even how to add a crochet pom pom border to blankets. Have fun with them!

BiCrafty Bootcamp Complementary Hat || Stranded Knitting…

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It's time for the next part of BiCrafty Bootcamp knitting lesson 12. You have already worked the BiCrafty Bootcamp Complementary Hat pattern past the Latvian Braid. Awesome! Now, you are ready for some simple stranded knitting colorwork. This will form the next section of the hat.

stranded knitting colorwork

What Is Stranded Knitting?

This technique is our introduction to colorwork in knitting. Of course, you might already have incorporated playing with color into your knitting. After all, we learned how to change colors in knitting way back in lesson four when we learned to how to knit stripes. You might have opted to change colors for each section of the knit cowl. However, stranded knitting is more than just changing colors – it's a true colorwork technique.

In this technique, you change colors within the same row. So, instead of creating stripes, you're creating a pattern with color. Although you can work with multiple colors, stranded knitting usually uses two colors per row. Since the Latvian braid we added to the hat is also worked in two colors, this color technique is a great next step for this knit hat pattern.

What Are Floats in Knitting?

Stranded knitting is so-called because you carry the unused color behind the work creating a “strand” of color there. Those strands are also called floats. Sometimes you'll need to tuck your floats as you knit. Learn more about this here. This is one of the major things people learn in knitting colorwork, so you're truly more than just a beginner knitter now!

Is Stranded Knitting the same as Fair Isle?

Stranded knitting is a form of colorwork. There are many different types of knit colorwork, most of which use this technique. Not all of them do, however. For example, intarsia knitting is a colorwork technique that does not use stranded knitting. Fair Isle, on the other hand, does use this colorwork technique. However, Fair Isle is a very specific colorwork technique. It's a specific type of pattern that comes from the Fair Isle region, thus the name. So, yes, Fair Isle uses stranded knitting … but not all stranded knitting is a Fair Isle pattern. All squares are rectangles but not all rectangles are squares.

BiCrafty Bootcamp Complementary Hat || Stranded Knitting Instructions:

The stitch multiple repeat for this part of the hat is 6. Therefore, it is necessary for us to increase from 100 stitches to 102. Do this by working 2 M1's (video for how to do a M1) at some point around the first round. (I go over this in the live teaching video below as well).

We're going to work with a chart now:

Knitting pattern grid featuring a chart with blue and purple colors, indicating main and contrasting stitches.

Continue with the following chart for this section of the hat. 

  • Read the chart from right to left. 
  • Each square of the chart represents a stitch in the repeat. 
  • Knit with the color identified in the square. 
  • Do NOT twist the yarn in this section! Hold the MC in the left hand (continental style) and the CC in the right hand (English style) when working the stranded chart.  

Keep the floats of the color not in use loosely stranded along the back of the hat. Do NOT pull the floats too tight!

Drop contrasting color (CC) (do not cut.)

Next Round: With MC, knit around

This Week's Video Lesson

Here's the live video where I show you how to do the colorwork for this part of the knit hat project:

Additional Patterns and Videos to Try

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’m new to colorwork, what exactly IS stranded knitting?

So here's the thing… stranded knitting is a super fun way to add patterns with color to your knitting! Instead of just changing colors for stripes, you use multiple colors within the same row to create a design. It's like painting with yarn, but you're using two colors at a time for this technique.

What are those “floats” I keep hearing about?

Honestly… floats are just the strands of yarn you carry along the back of your work when you're not using a particular color. They're totally normal in stranded knitting! Just be sure to keep them a little loose… you don't want them to pull your knitting all wonky.

Is stranded knitting the same thing as Fair Isle?

Yes! … but also no! Fair Isle knitting IS a type of stranded knitting, but it's a very specific style from a particular region. Think of it like squares and rectangles… all Fair Isle is stranded knitting, but not all stranded knitting is Fair Isle. This hat uses simple stranded knitting, which is a great way to start!

I need to increase stitches for this part of the hat… how do I do that?

You got this! For this section, you'll need to increase from 100 stitches to 102. The easiest way to do that is by working two M1 stitches somewhere in the first round. There’s a video linked in the post if you need a visual! Just follow along, and you'll be all set.

When I'm working the chart, how should I hold my yarn?

Great question! The tip for this section is to hold your main color (MC) in your left hand and your contrasting color (CC) in your right hand. This helps prevent you from twisting your yarns, which can be a bit tricky when you're just starting out with stranded knitting. Just keep those floats loose on the back, and you'll do wonderfully!

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8 FREE Crochet Sun Hats Patterns to Stylishly Shade…

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Crochet sun hats are terrific summer projects. First of all, they give you instant gratification – make it, wear it. Second, they quickly and easily dress up your summer wardrobe with handmade flair. Finally, they're small, light, and made with summer-friendly fibers. Therefore, you can enjoy crafting them as much as you enjoy wearing them. Crochet sun hats make great gifts, are good for all ages, and might even be a new project for you.

Free Crochet Patterns for Summer Sun Hats - Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

8 FREE Crochet Sun Hats Patterns

Here are the top 8 free crochet sun hats patterns we recommend.

1. Crochet June Sun Hat by Sewrella

Crochet June Sun Hat - Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

The wide brim makes this one of the best crochet sun hats patterns. It gives you all of the shade that you need during those sunny summer days. Moreover, it's super stylish. It's a chic addition to any wardrobe whether for poolside or park days.

2. Floppy Crochet Sun Hat by Heart Hook Home

Crochet Sun Hats Patterns- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Here's another wide-brim crochet sun hats pattern. It has a wider, floppy brim. You'll use crochet thread to make this pattern. This is a great lightweight yarn choice for summer! Then you'll starch it to get the shape that you want. It's easier than you might think.

3. Stop & Rewind Sun Hat by A Crocheted Simplicity

Crochet Sun Hat Pattern by A Crocheted Simplicity- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

This is an easy, adorable crochet sun hats pattern. Moreover, in addition to adult sizes, this has children's and doll sizes as well. You could easily make these for the whole family.

4. Wide Brim Sun Hat by Jenny and Teddy

Wide Brim Crochet Sun Hat pattern- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

A great brim is one of the best characteristics of good crochet sun hats patterns. This one shows how you can have a lacy, openwork design on the brim. It's fun to crochet. Moreover, it allows you to get both breeze and shade when you wear it. This is a winner, for sure.

5. Amazing Grace Blissful Summer Hat by Beatrice Ryan Designs

Bulky Cotton Crochet Sun Hats pattern- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

Working with bulky yarn in the summer can sound terrible. However, don't discount it. It's all about choosing the right bulky yarn. For example, working with cotton yarn can be cooling and comfortable, even in a bulky weight. The benefit, of course, is that this hat works up quickly thanks to that smart yarn choice. You get a bucket hat with a roll-up brim in a great two-color design.

6. Let The Sun Shine Hat Pattern by My Hobby is Crochet

Let The Sun Shine Crochet sun hat pattern- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

This crochet hat pattern uses front crossed and back crossed double crochet stitches. Otherwise, the stitches are basic. Therefore, you can learn something new without too much stress when you make this women's crochet sun hat this summer.

7. Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Sun Hat from Yarnspirations

Yellow Crochet Sun Hat Pattern- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

The bright yellow color makes this a terrific summer hat. It's bold, fun, and sunny. Worked primarily in double crochet stitches using cotton yarn, this is a quick and easy make.

8. Caron SS Crochet Ribbing Hat

Caron SS Crochet Ribbing Hat Free Pattern- Free Crochet Digital Pattern - Marly Bird

This isn't a traditional crochet sun hat. It's a bit thicker thanks to the dense ribbed texture. However, it's perfect for cooler summer evenings. Moreover, it has a distinctly nautical feel that's perfect for summer styling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a crochet hat work as a sun hat?

The brim! A sun hat needs a significant brim that shades your face and neck… typically 2 to 4 inches of brim extending from the hat body. A basic beanie without a brim provides warmth but no sun protection. Crocheted sun hats typically have a flat or slightly downward-angled brim worked in single or half double crochet for structure. The hat body itself can be any style, but the brim is what makes it a “sun hat” rather than just a summer hat. Some sun hats also have UPF-rated yarn for actual UV protection.

What yarn is best for a summer sun hat?

Natural fibers with sun-protective properties are ideal! Raffia (natural palm fiber) creates those classic straw-hat looks and is genuinely protective. Cotton is breathable and widely available. Hemp is durable and has natural UV-blocking properties. Some specialty yarn lines are specifically labeled with UPF ratings for actual sun protection. For most crafters, smooth cotton DK or worsted weight creates a beautiful, breathable sun hat. Avoid acrylic for a hat worn in summer heat… it doesn't breathe the way natural fibers do.

Is the brim of a crocheted sun hat floppy or stiff?

It depends on construction and yarn! A cotton hat worked in single crochet is naturally somewhat stiff and holds its shape well. Adding wire or interfacing to the brim edge creates a more structured, stiffer result (though you lose the “throw it in a bag” convenience). Working the brim in a denser stitch with a tighter gauge creates a more structured brim naturally. For a floppy, drape-y sun hat aesthetic, a looser gauge or more open stitch works for that particular look. Check the pattern description for whether it creates a structured or floppy brim.

How do I keep a crocheted sun hat on in the wind?

A chin strap is the most reliable option! Attach a simple cord or thin yarn strip at each side of the hat, long enough to tie under the chin. It sounds old-fashioned but it genuinely works on breezy days. Alternatively, a hat with a slightly snug fit (worked with negative ease relative to head circumference) stays on better than a loose-fitting one. Hat pins through the brim can secure it to your hair in a pinch. For very windy beach or outdoor days, a strap is really the most practical solution.

Can I make a sun hat to match a swimsuit or beach outfit?

That's the fun of making your own! A handmade sun hat in the exact color of your swimsuit, cover-up, or beach tote creates a coordinated beach look that no store could match. Natural raffia and cream cotton coordinate with almost everything. For a pop of color, bright cotton in a fun summer shade makes a statement. And a matching set (sun hat plus beach bag, or sun hat plus cover-up) is a rewarding project that creates genuine vacation wardrobe joy. Your handmade beach accessories will get more compliments than anything you could buy.

Knit Braids: Adding to Your BiCrafty Knit Hat (Knitting…

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Hi Bootcampers! I'm excited today because you're going to learn a great new technique: knit braids. Specifically, we're going to add the Latvian Braid to your first knit hat. This is a unique technique that even advanced knitters often don't know. And yet, it's actually a fairly simple way to create texture and visual intrigue. I'm excited that you're at this next step in your journey. And I'm also excited about the other things you might learn as you work on this knit hat over the next few weeks!

BiCrafty Bootcamp Month 3: What to Expect

As I discussed in last week's live video, I'm excited to show you some new skills this month as we continue working on this knit hat. In addition to the knit braids technique we're learning this week, some of the things we might incorporate into this pattern include:

  • Cables – they're easier than you think!
  • Colorwork – possibly simple stranding colorwork
  • Increases and decreases – maybe with lace stitch
  • Working with DPNs

And I'm totally open to suggestions from all of you about the things you're ready to learn!

First Knit Hat in the Round Latvian Braid

What Are Knit Braids?

You can create knit braids in a variety of different ways. In fact, you can use cabling to create knit braids. However, the Latvian braid is its own unique technique. Often worked in two colors, it's a surprisingly easy way to create texture. It's perfect for the brim of a hat. In fact, I used it for my Chill Out Winter Hat free pattern, which you might want to take a look at if you're curious about what it looks like.

Crocheter's Edge

Crocheters Tips to Learn Knitting

As we talked about in last week's video, you really need to start worrying about gauge now. It didn't matter so much in our previous projects. However, you want your knit hat to fit right. The good thing is that as a crocheter you probably already know about gauge. Check the video around 29 minutes in if you do need more info on this.

Knitter's Tips for Crocheters

knitters tip for crocheters

Many crochet braids projects simply take sections of crochet and braid them like you might braid hair. You can make knit braids like that, too, of course. However, there are a lot of great knitting techniques that create braided looks with the knitting itself. Open yourself to this awesome idea. As you'll see, the Latvian braid is an easy, fun technique.

This Week's BiCrafty Bootcamp Pattern

If you did last week's homework, then you should now have the eight rounds of ribbing that start the brim of your hat. You may have already done the next step, which is to switch to your larger needles and knit one round. We covered how to do that in last week's video.

Follow along with the live broadcast as Marly walks you through the Latvian Braid on the BiCrafty Community Complementary Hat.

Learn Latvian Braid with Marly

Choose two colors of yarn and designate one to be the main color (MC) and one to be the contrasting color (CC). Continue with the instructions.

Round 1: *K1 MC, K1 CC; rep from * around.

This round forms the “base” of your braid. It isn’t visible from the bottom of the braid, but it is the horizontal line of stitches you see in between each round of twists you’re about to create. Traditionally you work the same color on Round 1 as is worked on Round 2, (MC over MC, CC over CC, etc). Bring both yarns to the front of the work.

Round 2: *P1 MC. Bring CC under MC (twisting yarns), P1 CC. Bring MC under CC (twisting yarns); repeat from * around.

Reminder: Do not take the time here to untwist the yarns. They will become untwisted on Rnd 3 when you switch the direction of twist.

Round 3: *P1 MC, bring CC over MC (twisting yarns), P1 CC, bring CC over MC (twisting yarns); rep from * around.

If done correctly, once you have worked every stitch in the round, your two yarns will become totally untwisted, ready to work in whatever patterning is called for on subsequent rounds. 

Drop CC…do not cut!

Next Round: Knit with MC.

Get the next section of the hat here: https://marlybird.com/bicrafty-bootcamp-complementary-hat-stranded-knitting/

Additional Patterns and Videos to Try

You're ready to check out the Latvian Braid post and video tutorial as well as the Chill Out Winter hat pattern. You might also like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are knit braids?

Honestly… knit braids can be made in a few ways, and while cabling can create them, the Latvian braid is its own special technique. It's usually worked in two colors and is a super easy way to add texture, making it perfect for a hat brim!

Can you explain the rounds for the Latvian Braid?

So here's the thing… Round 1 sets the base, and you'll work alternating main color (MC) and contrasting color (CC) stitches. Then, Round 2 is all about purling, but you'll twist the yarns by bringing the CC under the MC and then the MC under the CC. Just keep going… Round 3 continues the twisting, but this time you bring the yarns over each other, which helps untwist them.

Do I need to cut my yarn when I'm done with the braid?

Nope! You just drop the contrasting color (CC) yarn… don't cut it. Then you can go right back to knitting with your main color (MC) for the next round of the hat.

What's this BiCrafty Bootcamp all about?

Yes! This month in the BiCrafty Bootcamp, we're diving into some new skills for your knit hat, like these knit braids! We might also be playing with cables, colorwork, increases and decreases, and even working with double-pointed needles (DPNs).

I'm a crocheter, is this hard to learn?

Don't you worry… as a crocheter, you already know about gauge, which is great for making sure your hat fits just right! And the Latvian braid itself is surprisingly easy and fun to create that lovely braided look.

63 Free Patterns: Neutral with a Pop of Color

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This round-up is unique: it's all patterns that are mostly neutral (white, black, gray, brown) with a bright pop of color added to them! With home decor, hats, scarves, and even sweaters for all ages in this collection of patterns from Yarnspirations, you'll find a project you'll want to make.

63 Free Patterns: Neutral with a Pop of Color

Blankets

A neutral background with added bright colors is a classic design for blankets! With almost a dozen designs, you can knit or crochet them in numerous designs.

  1. Pop-a-Minute Crochet Blanket
  2. Pop a Minute Crochet Baby Blanket
  3. Circles Afghan
  4. Corner Dip Striped Crochet Afghan
  5. Knit Patchwork Baby Quilt
  6. Pin Point Crochet Blanket
  7. Knit Patchwork Blanket
  8. Crochet Colorful Half Stripe Baby Blanket
  9. Illusion Infusion Crochet Blanket
  10. Zig Zag Dip Knit Blanket
  11. Chevron Knit Blanket
Colorful Half-Stripe Baby Blanket Free Crochet Pattern

Scarves/Cowls

Add a bit of color along one edge, or just decorate the bottom of these scarves and cowls.

  1. Stepping Diamonds Crochet Scarf
  2. Bobble Pop Crochet Cowl
  3. Hot Point Scarf
  4. Reversible Color Pop Scarf
  5. Mountain Peaks Scarf
  6. Bright Stripes Cowl
  7. Medley Merino Chic Scarf
  8. Color Dip Scarf
Hot Point Scarf Free Knitting Pattern

Pillows

The neutral color will tie in with the rest of your decor, while the bright accents ensure interest.

  1. Pompom Edged Pillow
  2. Crazy Corners Knit Pillow
  3. Mighty Mitered Knit Pillow
  4. Copenhagen Pillow
  5. Striped Pillow Duo
  6. Bold Angles Crochet Pillow
Striped Pillow Duo Free Crochet Pattern

Hats

Hats are a popular type of this design. Pompoms are an easy way to add a pop of color, or you can make the ribbing different from the main body. Or use one of the other versions shown here!

  1. Pop of Neon Hat
  2. Stripes on the Side Hat
  3. Super Slouchy Chic Hat
  4. Hats a Glow
  5. Dipped Top Crochet Hat
  6. Little Miss Pompom Hat
  7. Big Stitch Baby Hat
  8. Blue Fir Hat
  9. Ripple Hat
  10. Take a Shine Beanie
  11. Cable Hat
  12. Newborn Cozy Cap
  13. Winter Weekend Hat
  14. Winter Weather Set
  15. Garter Stitch Pompom Hat
  16. Love to Knit Fair Isle Hat
  17. Zig Zag Hat
  18. Checkered Hat
  19. Crochet Colorblock Hat
  20. Polka Dotty Crochet Hat
  21. Tri-Toned Hat
  22. Smarty Pants Hat
Stripes on the Side Hat Free Crochet Pattern

Baskets and Scrubbies

Keep your house organized and your dishes clean with these projects.

  1. Color Pop Crochet Baskets
  2. Crochet Handy Basket
  3. Dip Edge Crochet Basket
  4. Mosaic Knit Table Runner
  5. Dippity Doo Dah Knit Dishcloth
Color Pop Crochet Basket Free Crochet Pattern

Sweaters

Each of these sweaters has a different method of using a bright color! Experiment to find your favorite.

  1. Knit Chevron Trim Cardigan
  2. Color Dipped Top
  3. Dip Down Crochet Pullover
  4. Knit Chevron Trim Pullover
  5. Knit Fair Isle Yoke Sweater
  6. Top Down Super Stripes Sweater
  7. School Days Raglan Pullover
  8. Pretty Bow Tie Baby Cardigan
  9. Cute and Classic Baby Cardigan
  10. Baby Bear Hoodie
Knit Chevron Trim Cardigan Free Knitting Pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of patterns are featured in this post?

So here's the thing… this post is all about patterns that are mostly neutral colors, but they have a fun pop of a bright color added to them! You can find home decor, hats, scarves, and even sweaters.

Are these patterns only for crochet?

Honestly… no! While there are tons of crochet patterns, you'll also find knit patterns in this collection. So there's something for everyone, no matter your craft!

Can I find blankets in this collection?

Yes! There are almost a dozen blanket patterns included. They all feature that lovely neutral base with those cheerful pops of color, perfect for any room.

What kind of items besides blankets and hats are included?

Oh, you'll find all sorts of goodies! There are patterns for scarves and cowls, pillows to decorate your home, and even baskets and scrubbies to keep things tidy or help with chores.

Are there any sweater patterns that fit the theme?

You bet! The collection includes several sweater patterns, both for adults and babies, all incorporating that “neutral with a pop of color” theme in unique ways.

35 Summer Crochet Blanket Patterns

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If you love making blankets, you might dread summer because it's not the ideal weather for such big projects. However, there are loads of great summer crochet blanket patterns. In this post, I'll show you five different Leisure Arts crochet books, each offering a variety of patterns perfect for summer crochet project ideas over the next few months.

You may think crochet blankets aren't beginner crochet projects, but check out the books below, and I'm sure you'll discover some are well within reach. And if the ones you like look a little difficult, I'm sure you'll find a tutorial or two on-site to help you.

If you're hunting for easy crochet projects, though these are larger projects, I think you'll find some fairly simple and very rewarding.

Are you hesitant to make blankets in the summer? Check out our 17 summer craft tips. And if you'd prefer smaller crochet projects, check out our roundup of the best crochet shorts patterns. After all, we want you to keep your hands and crochet hook happy and sweat-free!

And now, let's talk about summer blankets…

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links that help me cover the cost of publishing my blog. Should you choose to make a purchase, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small percentage of the sale.

Tips for Good Summer Crochet Blanket Patterns

summer crochet blanket patterns - 5 books - 35 patterns. Marly Bird

We often use crochet throw blankets in the colder months, so what exactly makes a great summer blanket? I'm so glad you asked! Here are some things you should look for when trying to find good summer crochet blanket patterns:

  • Choose motif-based designs. Of course, you'll have lots of joining and weaving in ends after crafting. However, working on each individual motif keeps the work lightweight and cool. Motifs make granny square blanket patterns an instant hit.
  • Look for cotton, linen, and other lightweight yarn blankets to crochet. When the weather warms up, working with cooling summer yarns is fun.
  • Choose openwork crochet patterns. Openwork or lacy pieces are great for summer blankets because they let the air flow through.
  • Work on small crochet blankets. In other words, make baby blankets and lapghans rather than king-sized afghans.

Now that you know which blankets are good choices to crochet over the summer months, it's time to show you the ideal crochet patterns. These great crochet blanket pattern books will happily fill your summer crochet calendar.

Are you ready with your crochet hook and project bag? Let's check out these books!

5 Books for Summer Crochet Blanket Patterns

Leisure Arts has five books on crochet afghan patterns. Many of these crochet patterns are perfect for summer crafting. Altogether, you'll find nearly three dozen crochet patterns in these books. That should keep you plenty busy with wonderful summer crafting and yarny fun.

Lacy Afghans Make Perfect Summer Crochet Blanket Patterns

Purchase Lacy Afghans - 8 lightweight throws and blankets

Inside this book, you'll find eight lightweight crochet afghans. Although the book is about lace, the yarn weight of choice for all patterns is worsted weight. When people hear lace, they often think of lightweight, fingering yarn. In this case, the patterns have an open stitch pattern using a heavier yarn weight such as worsted. This combination of lace crochet stitch patterns and heavier yarn weight still works for comfortable summer crochet blanket making.

Using worsted weight yarn and a lace pattern, you can work up the patterns quickly. Open lace crochet stitches paired with post stitches and bobbles create an amazing texture for your blanket. There's some great designs in here. And yet, you should still feel comfortable as you craft this summer.

Cotton Blankets and Throws Are Lightweight for Summer

Cotton Blankets and Throws - a Leisure Arts Book. Ideal summer crochet blankets.

Cotton is a great yarn choice for summer crochet blankets. This book includes half a dozen lightweight crochet blankets, which you can use indoors or outdoors this summer.

Looking at each of these blankets, I immediately think of spring and summer. Sitting around at night when it cools off a little and needing something for your lap as you chat about your day… A cotton crochet throw is the perfect choice. You could also use a linen blend of the same yarn weight.

There are some considerations when using cotton, but overall, it's a great choice. When working with cotton, you do need to think about the fact that it will stretch out over time, that's the nature of the fiber. Check your gauge before you start, even on these blankets, to know what size your blanket will be when finished. When your cotton is wet, it will stretch out a little, and the blanket size might grow. You can learn all this about the cotton you select by doing a gauge swatch and blocking it.

Red Heart's Scrubby Cotton would be the perfect smooth cotton yarn for making these blankets. And did you notice the knot work and wonderful diamond tassels on the cover blanket sample? Love it!!

Scrappy Afghans Let You Work In Pieces To Stay Cool

Book Review: Scrappy Afghans - 8 crochet blanket patterns for scrap yarn.

Scrappy Afghans is a collection of 8 colorful projects that you can use to work through your stash. Have you kept small bits of leftover yarn after projects and aren't sure how to use them? These different styles of granny blanket projects are the perfect way to use them! Each motif almost looks like a mini mandala in the center, whether the resulting shape is a hexagon or granny square.

Working with smaller bits of yarn instead of huge skeins is great for making summer crochet blankets that aren't as hot to craft. It's like making a quilt using lots of smaller pieces. That's what makes granny square blanket patterns so popular as summer craft projects. Instead of a large section of crochet, it's like working on several small crochet projects. Then you join them all together. Working this way means you can still fit the smaller pieces in your crochet project bag for your summer travels.

Most of these projects require a base color that you will need a good amount of. Your scraps are then used to fill in with color for the blankets. Look inside the book to see patterns that include fringe so you don't have as many ends to weave in with all the color changes! I'm sure you'll enjoy picking out scrap colors to make these beautiful projects.

Modern Southwest Afghans

Purchase Modern Southwest Afghans - Southwest style summer crochet blanket patterns

Inside the book, you'll find six crochet afghan patterns with modern Southwest flair. The Southwest style is often closely associated with the weaving patterns used for rugs. These blanket projects range from easy to intermediate crochet skill levels.

Color choices really make the Southwest feel. But you could easily change the colors to change up the style of these blankets. Pick your colors and start on one of these six amazing patterns. This book has some ideal crochet throw blanket pattern choices, perfect for decorating couches or chairs.

Of the five books in this roundup, this one is the least conducive to making summer crochet blankets. The blankets in this collection use heavier yarn weights. However, there are a few good options here. The blankets are so lovely that we couldn't fail to include this title.

Afghans & Pillows to Love

Purchase Afghans & Pillows to Love - perfect for summer.

Inside the book, seven new patterns use eye-catching colors and trendy twists on traditional styles. You will find a new take on the log cabin blanket, some beautiful motif blankets, a scrap blanket, and more.

Each afghan in this book is paired with a pillow that ties back to the pattern of the blanket. They can be used together on a couch or bed to make a full set. Don't feel that you have to make both together, of course. You can pick and choose what you love and get started. When it's too hot to crochet even the lightest of blankets, switch to a pillow!

The cover photo is one of my favorite blankets of the book. This is one of those perfect summer crochet blankets because it's motif-based. But I also love the granny square blanket with its tassels on every point. It is such a great modern idea. Just remember, if you don't like tassels or the color, don't be afraid to change it up a little to something you love.

And if those aren't quite your style…

Have you seen this mosaic blanket? You have to check this out. It looks fantastic in only two colors!

What about our Monet Crochet Blanket? It's one of the most beautiful and functional crochet projects! Does it include a tutorial or two? Of course, it does!

And, if you haven't heard of temperature blanket crochet projects, you need to check out our guide. Though they're not motif-based, you'll only be halfway done by summer, so it's still not too warm to crochet.

Have we whet your appetite? Got your crochet hook at the ready?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a crochet blanket “summery”?

Lighter weight, cooler fibers, and often more open stitch patterns. Summer blankets are typically made from cotton, cotton blends, bamboo, or lightweight acrylic rather than heavy wool. They're often lighter in color palette too… whites, pastels, ocean-inspired blues and greens. Open stitch patterns like mesh or lace allow airflow, making the blanket comfortable to use even in warmer weather. They're perfect for outdoor picnics, beach blankets, lightweight throws for air-conditioned spaces, or breathable covers for summer evenings.

What yarn is best for summer crochet blankets?

Cotton is the classic choice! It's breathable, machine washable, durable, and looks crisp and clean. A cotton-acrylic blend adds a bit of stretch and makes it more forgiving on gauge. Bamboo blends are incredibly soft with a beautiful drape. For outdoor use, look for UV-resistant yarns. Avoid heavy wool… it'll be too warm for summer use and takes forever to dry if it gets wet. Worsted weight cotton is practical. DK weight gives a finer, lighter result. The goal is a blanket that's comfortable to use when it's warm!

Are summer blankets quicker to make than regular blankets?

They can be! Open stitch patterns like mesh and lace use less yarn per square inch than dense stitches… which means fewer rows and less time to reach the finished size. Lighter weight yarns also cover more area per yard. That said, very fine yarns require more rows for the same dimensions. The quickest summer blankets are simple patterns in cotton worsted weight with open stitches. You're not saving as much time as you might with bulky yarn and simple stitches, but you're creating something genuinely more appropriate for the season.

Can I use a summer blanket as a beach blanket or picnic blanket?

Depending on construction, yes! A tightly crocheted cotton blanket in a dense stitch can work as a picnic blanket… it's durable and machine washable. For beach use, you'll want something that can get sandy and gritty without the sand getting stuck in the stitch structure… very tight single crochet or a woven-look stitch works better than open mesh (which catches sand in every hole). A summer cotton blanket is more practical than wool for outdoor use because it machine washes easily and doesn't felt if it gets wet.

What are some good simple stitch patterns for summer blankets?

Shell stitch creates an airy, light fabric with a beautiful rippling texture. Simple mesh (alternating chains and single crochets) is very open and lightweight. Granny stripe blankets look gorgeous in summer colors. Ripple/chevron patterns are classic. Solid single crochet or half double crochet in a pretty color creates clean, simple fabric. For something more textural, a textured stitch pattern in cotton yarn looks crisp and interesting. The key for summer is choosing something that creates a fabric that breathes… not a dense, tightly packed fabric that traps heat.