Winter Knitting in Summer: Editors’ Picks for Christmas in July

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Summer can’t stop these knitters! Whether getting a jump-start on knitting gifts, swatching for sweaters, or treating ourselves, we’re keeping our needles busy and starting our winter knitting in summer. See what the Interweave editors are knitting for Christmas in July.

Stephanie’s Pick:

I love sweaters, I love winter holidays, and thusly, I love festive holiday sweaters. While I have a robust collection of thrifted holiday sweaters, I’ve yet to knit myself something to wear to holiday parties or out caroling (do people still go caroling?). Every year, the itch to knit a holiday sweater hits me too late, and I put it off another year, vowing to get started earlier next time. This year, however, I’m getting a jump on things.

It’s full-on summer, and while I’m not quite ready to cast-on a heavy sweater, I’m having a great time auditioning patterns and yarns as I knit swatches in rich evergreen shades. Currently up for consideration are the Plaits and Links Cardigan by Kathy Zimmerman, and Snowfall Sweater by Jesie Ostermiller.

Julia’s Pick: It’s the Size that Counts

I’ve learned through many mistakes (*cough, cough, knitting frantically on Christmas Eve*) that it’s better to start knitting holiday gifts as early as possible. And since gifts are often smaller items—hats, mittens, etc.—they make for wonderful winter knitting in summer. I never end up with feet of hot fabric draped over my lap, and I can easily tuck a project in my purse and work on it at brunch with friends.

For example, I’m working on the Devonshire Beanie by designer Mone Dräger for one of my sisters for the holidays. The yarn is deliciously airy anyway, but the small size of the project makes it perfect summer knitting.

Tammy’s Picks: Leftovers from Last Year

It’s easy for me to decide what to work on for Christmas gifts this year; I can easily get started now, as there are still many on the list from last year, never even started. Brother! I took off like a rocket making gifts last year and did manage to get a few done, but time moves at her own pace and my needles do the same. Sigh. Maybe you can relate?

Up first is the Thoreau Hat, for my oldest. The hat is so totally him. Sleek with a bit of flair and a spot of color. He won’t really understand the work that will go into the pattern but I’m in love with the details and am glad to have everything at the ready so I can cast this one on and get it done well before the holidays—maybe in time for his birthday!

Next up will be the Hallgrim Hat and Mittens set for my niece. I love the design in this knitting pattern and know my niece will appreciate the shaping and style. If all goes well, I’ll make a second hat for my youngest (I have two boys).

I’ll get a few other gifts into the queue, but on my list after these first few just might be a sweater for myself. I could sure use a new cardigan and maybe I’ll finish it in time for the change of seasons, this year! The Lace Dolman Jacket seems like the perfect project to work on now, given its fine details and lightweight yarn, and once finished, the perfect transition piece. I know I’ll be employing some lace tips from Kathleen to keep up with the patterning on this design—but patience and attention will pay off!

Allison’s Pick: Simple and Quick

Summer projects for me need to be simple, portable, and quick. The Jefferson Street Hat fits all these criteria. Knit in a simple rib, it’s rhythmic, undemanding, and requires only the ability to count to 3. It’s also the perfect gift for my non-knitting friends, who just want a warm beanie, not something that has “interesting construction.”

While the pattern calls for a super-luxurious blend, any fingering-weight will do. If you can find something slightly fluffy, all the better!

Laura’s Pick: Treat Yourself

As we all start gearing up for holiday knitting, I need to choose a gift for the most delightfully knitworthy person I know: Me. I’ve been very good this year, what with the quarantining and not buying every single thing that Etsy has to offer, so I deserve a beautiful lace shawl like the Sweet Lily Shawl by Kristin Omdahl.

It’s a stunning shawl that uses short-rows to create the crescent shape, and the classic lily-of-the-valley border is so lovely. I can’t decide if I want to make it out of silk or cashmere. Oh heck, why not both—I’m worth it!

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Have you started your gift-knitting? Do you spend the end of summer knitting for winter, or do you savor the time knitting tank tops and small projects? Let us know in the comments!

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