Summer knits are lightweight and comfortable to knit and wear. This summer roundup of knitting patterns includes 5 tank tops and 5 tees of varying styles. They are the perfect wardrobe staples. Enjoy in the warm weather months, but also style with a jacket or cardigan in the colder months.
Please enjoy the patterns listed below. I have included the pattern highlights, which I cover in my YouTube video 10 Summer Knitting Patterns, as well as my thoughts, and the links to these talented designers’ patterns. I can’t possibly choose which is my favorite, but if you can narrow it down, please let me know in the comments which patterns you like!
THEA Top by Susanne Müller
The THEA top caught my eye when I was looking for a specific tank top pattern that used worsted weight yarn. The minute I bought it, I fell in love. It was easy to follow, techniques were explained in words and photos (and sometimes videos), and the end result is amazing. It had enough new techniques to keep the pattern challenging for a beginner to garment knits, but it was easy enough to accomplish. Highly recommend!
A few pattern highlights are listed below.
- Top down – modify the length easily!
- Mostly knit in the round – pretty mindless
- Provisional cast on – my new favorite technique!
Easy Bralette by Svetlana Volkova
Ribbing. Need I say more? I am a huge fan of the knit ribbed look, and the Easy Bralette tank top uses it to perfection. It caught my eye on Ravelry as I was scrolling through, looking for the perfect ribbed tank top. There are so many to choose from, but I like this particular pattern because of the wide straps. Many knitted tanks have spaghetti straps, but I prefer a wider strap so I can comfortably hide my bra straps.
While I have not knit this pattern myself, I do plan on doing so in the near future. These are a few of the reasons I was drawn to this pattern.
- Lightweight – perfect for summer knitting
- Many sizes – easily modify for your body type
- Knit in the round – potential to knit fast
Knot Front Crop by Kerri Blumer
The Knot Front Crop takes a simple, stockinette tank top and takes it to another level. The knot in the front is intriguing and flattering and I just love it! This design reminds me of the knit headbands with knots in the front. But I have never seen this technique applied to a garment. It’s new to me, and I think this is a stunning design.
Again, I have not knit this pattern yet, but here are a few of the highlights I took away from the pattern description.
- Illustrated photo and video tutorials included – LOVE when patterns include this
- Fingering weight yarn – lightweight and good for summer
- Style many ways – with a skirt like her photos or high waisted jeans…
Lotus Petal Top by Iris H
The Lotus Petal Top, as the name suggests was inspired by the pointy tips of lotus petals. This summer tee is made from a fingering weight yarn, which will yield a lightweight summer top. I love how it includes a fun, summery lace at the bottom of the otherwise stockinette tee. It is beautiful and would be lovely styled with jeans, a skirt or a dress.
Below includes a few items I like about this pattern.
- Easily adjustable length
- Eyelets – the lovely lace detail!
- Stockinette after the first rows of eyelets
Camille Top by Johanna Gehrisch
Stunning. The Camille Top popped off the pages of Ravelry. This pattern really stood apart because of the color, but I immediately fell in love with the design. I have recently discovered that wrap top style dresses and tops are flattering on my body. Thus, I have been on the search for the perfect pattern to make one for myself. I think I found just the pattern.
Why do I like this pattern so? Check out a few highlights below:
- Peplum bottom
- Deep v-neck wrap style by overlapping front pieces
- Sleeveless
Brookline Blouse by Kate Gardin
Named for an area of town where Kate Gardin lives, the Brookline Blouse is a simple raglan style tee. This particular design resonates with me because I could see this blouse being worn in many different settings. I could wear it at work, going out with friends, or lounging at home. It is a versatile pattern.
The pattern is flattering. There is a slight v-neckline, loose, ruffly sleeves, and a peplum edge. You’ve got to check this pattern out! Please see a few more pattern highlights below.
- Raglan tee with eyelet increases
- Picot bind off
- Peplum bottom
Ranunculus by Midori House
The Ranunculus is one of the most popular patterns I have come across. There are 13,500 projects on Ravelry…. that’s a lot of people making this pattern! There must be something great about it. From the looks, it is a versatile pattern. There are many short sleeve versions and sweaters, all varying in ease, colors and yarn weights
I originally heard about this pattern through Inga on her podcast Knitting Traditions. She was making a summer version with one skein of yarn. Her version was a very loose and breathable fabric. It looked like a perfect summer pattern. And if the photos haven’t convinced you of knitting this project, take a look at a few highlights below.
- Circular yoke
- Video tutorials
- Available in multiple languages
Maia Summer Top by Bella Helms
The Maia Summer Top is the ultimate summer tank top pattern. Bella Helms includes basically 4 different designs into one pattern. One side is made up of cables, the other is moss stitch and buttons. There is also the option to add a peplum ruffle at the bottom, or ribbing.
This project would keep you focused till the end. It is a stunning design, definitely go check it out. If you need any more reason to knit this light and flowy top, I’ve added a few more takeaways from this pattern.
- Detailed pattern chart
- Delicate textures
- I-cord straps
Cinch Me Crop by Camille Mikolas
The front details of the Cinch Me Crop set this pattern apart. The front is intriguing with the v-neckline and i-cord rope. It almost reminds me of the way blinds can open and close. The same concept applies because you can cinch it as much or as little as you choose, making it super cropped or not. There are two options included in the pattern. You can make it as a tank top or add short sleeves.
This screams summertime to me. Definitely check it out! A few more details on the pattern are listed below.
- Top down
- Tank top or capped sleeves
- Worked flat
Easy Teeasy by Allison Cribbs
Allison Cribbs designed this summer knit top after those oversized, vintage tees that holes were cut into. The Easy Teeasy definitely brought her vision to light. This shirt is perfect for summer, with the breathable fabric made from the eyelet details, the short sleeves and the cropped length.
This pattern would be perfect for wearing with a bralette or as a coverup at the pool/beach. Check out a few pattern features below and I hope you give this one a try!
- Loose gauge with eyelets
- Knit flat and in the round
- Seamless
