As the weather warms up, it’s time to switch out those heavy sweaters for lighter, breezier options. In this roundup, I’ve gathered a selection of fabulous lightweight patterns that are ideal for wearing through summer. From airy lacy designs to lightweight cotton, these summer patterns are perfect for adding a handmade touch to your warm-weather wardrobe.
The perfect balance of comfort and style, lightweight sweaters keep us cozy on cool summer nights without overheating during the day. You’ll find the perfect project here! and enjoy your summer looking good in a stylish layer handcrafted by you.
- Lightweight Sweater Patterns
- 1. Elodie Pullover
- 2. Orla Pullover Sweater
- 3. Lottie Lacy Sweater
- 4. Lacy Motif Sweater
- 5. Sweet Iris Summer Top
- 6. Muse Crochet Summer Top
- 7. Crochet Mesh Top
- 8. Tunisian Mitred Top
- 9. Summer Sailing Sweater
- 10. Crew Neck Crochet Sweater
- 11. Crochet Bell Sleeve Sweater
- 12. Bell Sleeve Top
- 13. Adamya Tunisian Crochet Sweater
- 14. Broken Shells Summer Sweater
- 15. Flowers and Showers Pullover
- 16. Tunic Sweater Pattern
- 17. Lacy Crochet Cropped Sweater
- 18. Long Sleeve Crochet Crop Top
- 19. Coastal Shores Sweater
- Pin for Later
Lightweight Sweater Patterns
Clicking on the numbered link will take you to the crochet pattern.
Most patterns are written in US crochet terms.
For my UK crocheters, the table below is a conversion of basic crochet stitches from US to UK.
| US Crochet Terms | UK Crochet Terms |
|---|---|
| single crochet (sc) | double crochet (dc) |
| half double crochet (hdc) | half treble crochet (htr) |
| double crochet (dc) | treble crochet (tr) |
| treble (tr) | double treble (dtr) |
| double treble (dtr) | triple treble (trtr) |
Pair any of these jumpers with a cotton sun hat or bucket hat to complete your look and stay cool.
Happy crocheting!
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1. Elodie Pullover
My Elodie Pullover is an easy, lightweight, sweater that’s made in one piece with no shaping.
I designed this one to be beginner friendly but still stylish, with soft drape, light texture, and a relaxed fit you can throw on all year round.
My design gives a gentle oversized fit without being bulky. The simple stitch repeat means you can relax into the rhythm, and with no shaping to worry about, it’s a project you can enjoy from start to finish.
Free to view on my blog at the numbered link, the PDF is available in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.
2. Orla Pullover Sweater
Made with sock-weight merino yarn, I’ve kept things simple with my Orla design. It’s an easy stitch pattern, no shaping, and a construction that’s perfect for a first sweater project 🙂 You’ll love how the drape and texture come together in this relaxing make.
My pattern includes instructions for sizes S to 3XL and is written in English using US crochet terms.
The free pattern is on the numbered link above. You’ll find an ad-free printable version in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.
I loved designing and making the Orla pullover and I hope you will too.
3. Lottie Lacy Sweater
My Lottie crochet sweater is a lacy, loose-fitting top suitable for all skill levels. I’ve used the ascending shells pattern which gives such an elegant drape!
Worked in DROPS Cotton Light DK yarn (I bought mine from Wool Warehouse), my pattern uses 5mm and 6mm crochet hooks (starting chain and first row use 6mm and the body, 5mm).
- Constructed with two rectangular panels for the front and back with the sleeves crocheted separately.
- A diagram shows you how to inset the sleeves.
- Detailed instructions guide through the easy assembly process.
I’ve written the pattern in US crochet terms for sizes S through to 5X.
My pattern is available for free here on the blog, or you can upgrade to a PDF in my Etsy and Ravelry stores.
4. Lacy Motif Sweater
I think you’ll love this easy lightweight sweater made from joining together motifs! This is the perfect project if you’re short on time or can only crochet in short bursts.
The free PDF gives instructions for how many motifs you need to make in Bernat Softee Cotton for sizes S through to 5X. Diagrams of the motifs are included (you can follow the written instructions or work from the diagrams … or both together!).
Once your motifs are done, clear diagrams show how to join the motifs together for the back, front and sleeves. The hem and sleeve edging is easy.
I think the drape of the garment looks lovely and perfect for warmer weather layering.
Click the numbered link for the free PDF.
5. Sweet Iris Summer Top
The Sweet Iris Top is a beautiful, feminine crochet top that features a lovely lace design.
The lacy pattern is achieved by working the Iris stitch and it’s blended with double crochet. This gives a lovely texture.
It’s worked from top down by working part of the back, shoulders and then joining together. I haven’t used this construction in my patterns yet (although I am planning on experimenting for a dress). What’s your favourite construction?
I love that you have the option of long sleeves for a summer sweater, short sleeves for a top, or no sleeves for a tank top. And with this garment being so pretty, you could make all 3 to wear for different occasions!
6. Muse Crochet Summer Top
This pattern features a simple yet elegant design with a lacy texture, making it ideal for summer wear.
If this is your first garment, this pattern is perfect for you! With its simple stitch repeat and seamless construction (my favourite construction for cardigans!) you’ll enjoy working this pullover.
The pattern suggests using a lightweight cotton/cotton-blend yarn (Category 3) to achieve the best drape and comfort.
You do need to subscribe to unlock the full written pattern but there is also the option of following a video tutorial.
7. Crochet Mesh Top
This mesh top tutorial includes detailed written instructions, a list of materials needed, and step-by-step guidance.
Construction is 4 rectangles worked in an easy filet pattern and assembly is straight forward.
The pattern is suitable for beginners. You’ll find a linked video tutorial and the designer has also included photos to illustrate each step, making it easier to follow along.
The recommended yarn, Bernat Softee Baby is a DK weight that is 100% acrylic and available in pastel shades.
If you can work basic crochet stitches, this is a fab first garment for you to make.
8. Tunisian Mitred Top
Have you tried Tunisian crochet? Experience of working on a Tunisian blanket and now want to challenge yourself to create a garment? This intermediate project is perfect for learning new skills such as shaping, a mitered hem as well as a different construction.
Worked in Tunisian Knit Stitch (TKS), the cascade mitered vest by Make It Crochet is a one-piece project with minimal seaming at the shoulders. The mitered hem is worked first from top to bottom and then turning the vest upside down you’ll work from the waist up.
The designer has used DROPS Cotton Merino which is 50% wool/50% cotton (my cover-up dress Beach Bloom uses a blend of merino which works so well for keeping you cool).
Free to view on the designer’s website, you can upgrade to a PDF in Kim’s Ravelry store.
9. Summer Sailing Sweater
This is a lightweight and breathable garment, perfect for summer wear. This free pattern creates a loose, comfortable fit with a nautical theme, featuring classic sailor-style stripes.
The pattern suggests using 100% cotton Comfy Fingering Weight for its breathability and comfort in warm weather.
Construction in separate pieces and then seamed together:
- Front and Back Panels: These are worked flat in rows.
- Sleeves: Also worked flat and then seamed to the armholes.
- Assembly: Once the panels and sleeves are completed, they are sewn together, and a ribbed hem, cuffs, and neckline are added for a finished look.
You can’t beat sailor stripes for the summer!
10. Crew Neck Crochet Sweater
I couldn’t resist sharing more stripes with you! This is a denser fabric than the pattern above.
Stylish and comfortable, this pattern uses three colours in the Cygnet Yarns DK range (there’s 52 shades to choose from!). The designer advises that this yarn makes it lightweight and can be worn for most of the year.
You’ll work the front, back and sleeves before seaming together. The neckline uses minimal shaping and the sleeves are worked from the cuff with increases to shape.
A great stash busting project, have a look through your leftover yarns and make this one truly unique.
11. Crochet Bell Sleeve Sweater
This free pattern features elegant full length bell sleeves and a flattering fit.
This pattern uses DK (Double Knit) weight yarn. The designer suggests any DK weight yarn that meets the gauge requirements. If your personal gauge is different from the pattern, don’t forget to use my stitch gauge converter tool to help you adjust your stitches!
The pattern includes detailed instructions for sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone.
12. Bell Sleeve Top
I wanted to include another bell sleeve top but with different crochet stitches and sleeve length to give you options (plus you can compare them and be inspired if you would like to design your own).
This lightweight top features 3/4 length crochet bell sleeves and uses basic crochet stitches to achieve the open lacy look.
The designer has used #3 DK weight yarn but also suggests a #4 medium worsted weight yarn will work. If you already have yarn you think will be suitable, work your swatch to check the gauge.
The top is worked in pieces and then seamed together:
- Front and Back Panels: These are crocheted separately from the bottom up, using double crochet stitches.
- Sleeves: The bell sleeves are worked in the round and then attached to the main body.
- Assembly: After completing the panels and sleeves, they are sewn together, and the neckline is finished with a simple edging.
Written for sizes XS – 5X, you can easily customize by adding or taking away four stitches at a time.
As well as the written instructions, you’ll find a step-by-step photo tutorial for the stitch pattern too.
13. Adamya Tunisian Crochet Sweater
This pullover features a combination of Tunisian simple stitch (TSS) and Tunisian knit stitch (TKS), creating a textured fabric.
The front and back panels are worked separately from the bottom up and the sleeves are worked from the wrist up to the armhole (with shaping for a comfortable fit).
You’ll need sport weight yarn and a 6.5mm Tunisian crochet hook.
The designer has rated this project suitable for advanced beginners. If you like this design but don’t feel confident or haven’t worked this technique before, try a beginner Tunisian crochet pattern before moving on to making a garment.
14. Broken Shells Summer Sweater
This design features simple lace stitches worked in worsted weight cotton yarn. An easy repetitive stitch pattern, I think you’ll enjoy the rhythm of working this project.
The pattern includes sizes XS to 5XL and involves creating four panels (front, back, and two sleeves) that are sewn together.
Designed with a relaxed fit, the broken shell stitch used gives a textured look.
The free pattern includes detailed instructions, material lists, and special stitch guides.
15. Flowers and Showers Pullover
The Flowers and Showers pullover is an oversized, light, and lacy sweater that’s perfect for wearing during the warmer months.
It features a versatile design that can be worn off one shoulder, both shoulders, or neither. Whichever you choose, I think it will look fab.
The pattern calls for light worsted weight (#4) yarn, such as Caron Simply Soft or Brava Worsted. Both yarns are soft yet lightweight, ensuring the pullover doesn’t feel too warm or heavy.
The project is worked from the bottom up, with sleeves added at the end, and features a nice ribbed trim at the bottom and on the sleeves.
Visit the designer’s website for more information (the written instructions are in PDF format in Michelle’s Etsy store at the numbered link above).
16. Tunic Sweater Pattern
I wanted to include this pattern to show you how inventive you can be with crochet and the shapes we can make 🙂 (sparked any ideas?)
The design uses a combination of bead stitches, mixed cluster stitches, and working in the 3rd loops of half double crochet stitches. Fabulous texture!
I really like that the length and arm circumference of this tunic can be customised for the perfect fit. It makes it so inclusive, doesn’t it? After all, we all don’t have ‘standard’ body measurements …
Instructions for the stitches and construction are clearly explained in this free pattern.
You’ll need Caron Simply Soft (100% Acrylic, #4 Worsted weight yarn) or any yarn of similar weight would work. Maybe you have suitable yarn in your stash?
If you’re looking for summer layering with a difference, this definitely fits the bill!
17. Lacy Crochet Cropped Sweater
This lacy crochet top from Jenny and Teddy is a free, beginner-friendly pattern that uses colour-block.
Lightweight and airy, this top features a simple construction with no shaping that is made from basic rectangles.
The solid fabric uses moss stitch (you might know it as the linen or granite stitch) and the upper, open stitch pattern uses basic crochet stitches and chains.
You’ll need 100 % cotton dk weight yarn/3 light although if you’re making your top to wear in spring or autumn you could also go for an acrylic DK.
I love how easy it is to customize the design – this cute top is made to measure (the perfect fit for YOU) and you can change the length from cropped to standard. Clear guidance is included in the pattern and there’s a linked video tutorial.
Choose your favourite colours and get making!
18. Long Sleeve Crochet Crop Top
The Long Sleeves Crop Top crochet pattern from Carroway Crochet is a stylish and versatile beginner project that combines comfort and fashion.
This pattern is perfect for creating a trendy top with long sleeves, suitable for various occasions.
It is a bottom-up design, which means you start crocheting from the bottom hem and work your way up to the shoulders. After completing the body and sleeves, you sew the shoulder and side seams before sewing in the sleeves.
The pattern recommends any worsted weight 4 yarn and a larger hook to achieve a comfortable and airy garment.
- Note: You can make the top as long or as short as you like and the instructions for customizing your top are in the pattern.
19. Coastal Shores Sweater
Made from sport weight cotton yarn and featuring a loose boat neck and long sleeves, the Coastal Shores lightweight jumper by For the Frills is an easy crochet project and perfect for beginners.
Constructed by seaming four panels together, you’ll work with simple stitches and chains to create the mesh fabric.
The pattern includes detailed instructions for size XS through to 3XL.
Pair this with a thin-strapped cotton vest or as a cover-up over a swimsuit. It would look great paired with shorts, with jeans or you could add a layer of texture to a simple summer dress.
Pin for Later
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I hope you’ve found inspiration today. Let me know which pattern (or patterns!) you choose and how you get on. Was there something else you were looking for today? Leave a comment below or join me on Facebook.
