Crochet enjoys the spotlight in summer. Gone are the days when crafting was for cooler weather; now, warm weather does not put a stop to creativity or put down your crochet hooks or knitting needles. The craft has seen a remarkable comeback in recent years, with retro designs leading the charge. More and more people are getting hooked on the crochet hook. And, why not? Crochet is versatile and has endless potential. You can make anything from sturdy home decor to stylish garments and accessories perfect for summertime. From fashion labels to celebrities, from bold granny square patterns to delicate lace patterns, crochet has a place in today’s creative world. Get ready for fun summer crafting. All you need is your crochet hook and yarn. In this blog, let’s explore how to crochet retro designs for summer.
What you’ll need?
With the changing weather, you can now get ready with retro crochet designs. With the right tools, yarn and your creativity, you can recreate magic with your hands.
- Crochet Hooks - Summer days call for lightweight yarn; therefore, make sure to carry smaller hook sizes that are compatible with the yarn weight. Any single-ended crochet hooks or sets are fine. You can choose bamboo, wood, aluminium, or stainless steel according to your comfort. You can explore everything you need to know about crochet hook sizes.
- Yarn - Planning for summer means exploring lightweight yarns or the versatile DK-weight yarn. Colors play an important role, so you can go with vibrant colors, neons, pastel colors, or variegated colorways. One of the defining features of retro crochet designs is its use of bold, vibrant colors..
- Accessories - Crochet accessories make crafting smoother and easier, so make sure you carry a wool needle, stitch markers, scissors, measuring tape, etc.
1. Granny Square
The most iconic crochet design of all time, Granny squares are versatile. The crochet pattern is perfect for crafters of all skill levels. Previously, the motifs were seen in old-fashioned afghans; today, they’re being reimagined into modern garments and dresses. The classic square is perfect for summer days. You can put to use leftover yarn from previous projects and make these squares in your free time. You can go with the classic square or various variations such as hexagons, floral, fruity and other shapes. Check out our guide on how to crochet classic granny square.
So, what projects can you crochet with granny squares?
- Cardigans: Summer cardigans are stylish. Think oversized, boho-inspired pieces featuring bold, vibrant granny-square motifs.
- Crop Tops or Dresses: The classic crochet motifs can be assembled to design crop tops and dresses.
- Accessories: Imaging bags, jewelery, cowls, scarves and so much more with vibrant granny squares..
2. Lace Designs
Crocheted lace patterns have a significant chapter in history and to date can adapted for various projects. The Queen Victoria of England was one of the prominent names to give crochet the spotlight as she was often spotted wearing Irish crochet lace. Since then the delicate design has made its way into home decor with doilies, tablecloths and curtains. In recent years, trending in fashion are dresses and shawls for summer weddings or bohemian festivals. Refer to our guide on how to crochet lace.
So, what projects can you make with lace designs?
- Shawls- Intricate lace designs on your crochet shawl is timeless fashion. Think of being draped one in a summer wedding or beach outing.
- Tops especially collars - Crochet a lace top or the collar part for fashionable tops and dresses for summer.
3. Chevron Patterns
Among retro crochet designs chevron patterns pay tribute to the 70s. The bold zigzag designs look attractive and has made a comeback. You can find them in garments, accessories and home decor.
- Blankets: Baby blankets or picnic blankets are perfect crochet projects for summertime.
- Sweaters: Add a touch of timelessnes to your sweater or cardigan with a few rows of chevron.
4. Home Decor
If you are planning to crochet in summer and not for wearables, then it’s a wonderful chance to bring handmade touch to your home.
- Cushions and Poufs: Bold, chunky crochet pieces add texture and personality to living spaces. Explore our guide on how to crochet with chunky yarn.
- Curtains and Table Runners: Lace-like crochet designs bring a vintage yet elegant feel to any room.
5. Crochet Accessories
Crochet has a upper hand in projects that require sturdiness making it the ideal summertime hobby.
- Hair Accessories: Scrunchies, headbands, and hair clips featuring retro crochet designs are both functional and fashionable. All you need is your single-ended crochet hook and yarn (stash works beautifully).
- Handbags: Chunky, textured bags in vintage-inspired patterns have made a strong comeback.
- Jewelry: Delicate crochet earrings and necklaces with intricate detailing add a handmade touch to any look.
Retro crochet designs offer endless possibilities to express creativity whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a beginner. So, pick up your crochet hook and let these designs inspire your next project!
KnitPro offers a wide collection of crochet hooks. Smooth wood is available in Symfonie’s vibrant colors or color-coded Dreamz or warm Ginger. Metals in vibrant shades are the highlight of Zing. Waves 2.0 have the added bonus of ergonomic rubber handles. Oasis is an innovative range of interchangeable single-ended crochet hooks that allow endless possibilities.
So, get ready for crocheting this summer!
