If you’re crazy about crochet, you probably don’t let the warmer temperatures of spring and summer slow you down. While it can be a challenge to crochet a large, heavy afghan when the heat is oppressive, there are options that can help you keep your cool. Don’t put your crochet hook up just yet, but look for ways to lighten the load.
Afghans are warm, but they can also provide a decorative element to a home at any time of year. A pattern that uses a tightly woven stitch with worsted weight or heavier yarn is probably too bulky for spring and summer décor, so search for patterns that are more lightweight and lacy to drape over the back of your couch or arm of your favorite chair.
Shown in Red Heart's Country Blue, the Renaissance Beauty Throw would look just as nice in a pastel or neutral color. The pattern is worked in squares, which makes it even more comfortable to work with on warm days. Also made of individual squares is this Andante Crochet Throw, which is stunning in a robin’s egg blue or seafoam color bamboo blend yarn called Spa, available from Caron. The white Light and Lacy Afghan in the photo above is also a good choice for a lightweight throw.
If you have a favorite pattern that calls for a worsted weight yarn, you might be able to modify it for spring and summer by using a lighter weight yarn. Try working up a swatch with baby, fingering, or sport yarn to make sure you’re satisfied with the drape and texture before attempting the larger piece. Some patterns might even be suitable to crochet with thread.
Many baby blankets are made with softer, lightweight yarn, but there’s no rule that says you can’t follow the same pattern but make it larger for a full-sized afghan or throw. Instead of the traditional baby pastels, choose neutrals or other colors to coordinate with your décor.
The onset of warm temperatures doesn’t mean you have to hang up your crochet hook for months at a time. Keep your cool while your fingers are flying with some of these tips.
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