My 8 most (and least) worn summer knits for 2024 | A lesson in choosing the right summer yarns

In this episode, we take a look at the summer tops I've knit and chat about which ones were successful, and which ones didn't work quite as well.
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You can find me:
Instagram: / meeshyfrazz
Ravelry: www.ravelry.co...
Web: meeshyfrazzkni...
Email: [e-mail]
Patterns/Yarns mentioned:
Moonset Tee by Ozetta: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Lana Grossa Seta Mulberry in Ecru
Caspar Top by kolibri by Johanna: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Juniper Moon Farm Findley in Rappahannock
Summer Ella Solo by leKnit: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Juniper Moon Farm Zooey in Bayleaf
Magnolia (Summer) by Camilla Vad: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Rowan Felted Tweed in Bottle Green
Confetti Crop Top by Knitatude: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Meeker Street The Flower Shop in A Little Petty
Rai Rai Sweater by Leeni Hoi: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Vidalana Linen Jewel in Oasis & KnitPicks Palette in Salsa Heather
Sunday Tee by PetiteKnit: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Polka Dot Sheep Iron Horse in Dusty Road
Anker's Summer Shirt by PetiteKnit: www.ravelry.co...
knit in Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in Ecru
BONUS: Professor Meow Sweater by Claire Slade: www.ravelry.co...
knit in KnitPicks Wonderfluff in Finnley Heather & Cobblestone Heather
00:00 Intro
02:39 Moon Set Tee
09:00 Caspar Top
17:11 Summer Ella Solo Top
23:54 Magnolia (Summer)
30:12 Confetti Crop Top
35:35 Rai Rai Sweater
41:04 Sunday Tee
46:29 Anker's Summer Shirt
51:02 BONUS: Professor Meow Sweater
56:45 Thanks for watching!
#knitting #knittingpattern #knittingsweater #knittingpatterns #knittingyarn #knit #knitted

[@pilibarzuna]

Linen, cotton and summer yarns always do that, the bias thing. You can avoid some of the slanting by knitting a false seam on the sides, so the piece acquires stability

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great tip, thank you!

[@CrazyAuntVal]

I love your "live & learn" approach to knitting, and your total honesty about "not the pattern's fault, just the wrong yarn for it." I have seen too many vlogs that are all sunshine & blowing smoke, never sharing the not-so-happy outcomes of their knitting choices (even when they're glaringly obvious to any experienced knitter watching.) That "my knitting is perfect" nonsense leads to disappointment in some knitters who start to question why all their knits aren't perfect too. I have had students say they wanted to quit knitting because "everyone else seems to be doing it right." I always share my horror stories with them and tell them that even after 40+ years of knitting, I still throw up my hands sometimes and chuck projects into the dark recesses of the closet against the "Wall of Shame." Personally, I don't know if I could hit the 'subscribe' button on *any knitter* who didn't have 🐈🐈‍⬛🐱 wandering through the shots! So yes, I came for the knitting; I fell in love with the cats. Finally, I had to laugh when you said, (paraphrasing) "I live in Western Washington and I was happy to put away my winter sweaters." I had a fleeting thought a few days ago that perhaps it was time to wash and put away my wooly sweaters. Unfortunately, the PNW weather gods heard me, laughed until they cried, and now we're expecting another round of rain & wind & 40° temps in my corner of Western Washington. *~sigh~* Of course that is not going to keep me from casting on a couple of Tolsta Tanks or some sleeveless T's by SusannaIC in cotton/linen &/or cotton/merino blends.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

This is such a thoughtful comment, I appreciate this so much. I don't think the process of knitting should be taken so seriously, I mean we're making these items with our hands! Of course we'll make mistakes, that's how we grow and learn! Every single one of these knits came with lessons that I use with each new item I knit. Hehe the cats are the true stars here, we all know it. And yeah, sorry for bringing the rain with my bold statement 🤣

[@nicolekougiou]

HI! For your cat sweater, you could frog the ribbing and make striped long sleeves in light and dark grey (purchasing more light grey). But before, you can unseam the shoulders and add a few rows up before casting them off again. The space under your arms will be extended. Then, it would be comfortable to wear on chilly weather. All your knits are so nice! Bravo!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great idea!

[@barbaramcclelland870]

I made the Moonset Tee in Knittong for Olive Silk. The yarn is not even remotely scratchy and makes a nice drapey and very soft fabric. The yarn does split quite a bit, so you really want to watch what you are doing when knitting with. I absolutely love my sweater and can wear in fairly warm weather. But silk is not as cool as cotton.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's great to know! I'm eager to use that yarn soon.

[@melitacarder]

Love seeing all your patterns. I do agree with the “no fuzz in summer” concept. I love all the 4ply / fingering weight summer yarns. It does pay to think carefully about the weight of the yarn that you’re planning to use for wearing in hotter weather!! 💚

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I couldn't agree more! Lighter weights for summer are the way to go!

[@parsnips1974]

Thank you for sharing your experiences with clarity and charm. You have made many beautiful items.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you so much!

[@2323ace2323]

The kitty shirt at the end is wonderful - you should think of it as a sweater vest and try a nice crisp white shirt underneath! The collar will add interest at the top and the long sleeves will be great in cooler weather 😸

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a fantastic idea! Honestly not sure why I didn't think of the white shirt underneath, it really does work just like a vest. Brilliant!

[@LoriNeu19]

Your video came up in my KZbin feed today when I sat down to work on my Mahina Cardigan and you had my attention as soon as I heard “here in Western Washington.” Wait, what? I live in Western Washington! In addition to loving your broadcast style, it’s so fun to actually recognize the shops, etc you mentioned. As a relatively new knitter, I loved the honesty of your reviews - shoulda, woulda, coulda 😂 and the permission I now feel to NOT love something I knit. So, greetings from Kirkland, and your newest fan! PS, definitely donate the blue/red striped sweater. Your other sweaters are darling on you, but that one? I agree, it’s not as flattering as the others.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Oh, that’s so fun! Hello fellow Washingtonian! Best of luck with your cardigan and thanks so much for your kind comments 🥰

[@ronnamatlin1691]

Watching your video and noticing your creases from blocking at the sides and then you mentioned your concerns with the confetti top. When I block my knits I stick toiletpaper rolls or paper towel or saran wrap rolls etc (just the cardboard tubes)you get the picture ....inside the top along the parts that fold onto themselves to avoid the creases. Just a thought if you want to give it a try. Thanks for your insights. Your knits look great.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great tip! I recently bought pipe insulation for that very reason, though I haven't tried it on that top yet.

[@parsnips1974]

Lengths of pool noodle...

[@meganlaynecrafts]

I also live in the PNW and have been very excited to see the ☀️. Of course, today the rain returned, but it is worth it to have the beautiful greens! Thanks for sharing your yarn choices and patterns. ❤

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Haha I know, it's quite chilly and cloudy now. But at least it's a good excuse to break out a sweater!

[@meganlaynecrafts]

@@meeshyfrazzknits yes! They definitely get lots of use around here! 😂

[@elizabethtrimble6853]

I enjoy your videos!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I'm so glad, thank you!!

[@kaerenw]

Hi there, thanks for the show. I really enjoyed listening to you, and hearing your takeaway messages. Choosing the right yarn is always hard! My favorite for you was the Caspar Top, and I say that based on that emerald green-blue color only. You are right that jewel tones look really good on you. I also liked the bay leaf color on you. And I thought the stripey top was a perfect fit, even though you didn’t think so. Although, I agree that that blue tone is just not your color. The red looked brown on screen to me, so the blue/brown stripes were a good match. You have a lovely hand in your knitting, and I liked your pattern choices very much. Happy knitting!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I think you're right, the color has blinded me to thinking the whole top doesn't work. I'm starting to think I might over dye it to see if I like it more after the fact! Thanks for your comment 😊

[@alisonjohnson8623]

I’m so glad I found your channel. This video was very informative! And I loved hearing Issaquah! I grew up there and never hear the name of that city anymore (I moved away 20 years ago). I look forward to watching more of your videos.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Isn't it funny how small the world feels sometimes? Thanks so much!

[@heatherlynnewest]

I really enjoyed your video. Great discussion of summer knits.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you so much!

[@nancook8953]

I am using sandes garn line and I love it. Great drape and coolness

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's been on my list, I need to try it!

[@Kera.S.]

I totally agree, as a newish knitter I knit the emotional support chicken as my 2nd project and so glad I did. I learned so many skills in one pattern that I feel so confident now! My 1st garment I'm working on now is the ranunculus and it's so easy. I just jump in, learn, and go. I figure that's the only way to learn right, by doing it. Not starting this until 53, I feel behind and need to learn so much. But I have all the time to do it and enjoy every stitch!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Exactly! If you don't know any better, you go in at the deep end and learn so much more that way! Then everything seems like a piece of cake 😉

[@nonnasstitchingloungewithr7281]

I like your choice of patterns. I also had Knitcrate long time ago and am still trying to figure out what to do with some of it. I rarely use the correct yarn, which I agree is key to liking what you knit. Welcome to KZbin! Rosie

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

It always seems like such a great idea to join, but then there's so much leftover yarn with no purpose! Thanks for the warm welcome :)

[@dellmktr4152]

I like no. 3,7 and Professor meow pattern n color. I wish I can knit as good as u. 😊

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you! 😊

[@FuwaAmi]

All your knits are great. And I love how these bright colors suit you. Especially white and light blue, they open your face glow. Much better than toned ones.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you so much!

[@nancypal]

i loved looking at your cats

[@annegraheck5713]

Love the honesty of your reviews.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I appreciate that!

[@catscrochetandchardonnay3241]

So happy to have come across your channel. Enjoyed seeing all of your knits, but your cats stole the show! So cute :) And the cat sweater at the end....I know what I'm going to be making next!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you so much! It's true, they're the real stars here.

[@isabelbonilla2193]

I love all your knits! Thank you for including the yardage and yarn info

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks so much!

[@susanmartinez1485]

This was informational and enjoyable to watch. Thank you, the comments on the yarns were also very helpful.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's so good to hear, thank you!

[@nikitinaknits]

Amazing episode, I enjoyed going through your honest reviews on your summer knits! Love your Moonest tee so much!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I'm so glad you liked it!

[@QueensYarnBoutique]

Your projects look amazing! 🧶 I really like your Moonset Tee and Magnolia Sweater.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@carolbergson1570]

Anker tee: I did short rows in the neck band ribbing. Fits really well and looks good. You really don't see the short rows because even with short hair - save a saved head - there is hair back there that mostly covers the short rows. My first time watching you and I am truly enjoying it...I'll go back and look a your older vlog-posts. While I'm 77, i still like much of what you like. Must be the Seattle sensibilities.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

It must be! I do think if I knit the Ankers (or Sunday) tee again, I will do the same as it would be pretty easy to add in. Thanks for watching 😊

[@jodyc8887]

I am in love with the Caspar too! I have some handmaiden silk/sea cell blend I’m gonna try it with!!! I’ve been waiting for the perfect top to use it with. Also yes, I’m in Vancouver Island and the sun is sooo nice to see!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

It really is worth all the effort, I absolutely love the Caspar top and am so glad I knit it in the silk blend. I hope you love yours too! So glad we’re finally getting some good weather 😅

[@jodyc8887]

@@meeshyfrazzknits well not today!!! Lol

[@dr.taneshaford9612]

I know you aren’t pleased with the summer Ella solo top but it is beautiful and I like the way it hangs on you! Great job! 😍😍😍

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you! I think it will still get occasional wear since I love the color and the pattern. I might even knit it again in a lighter yarn.

[@Maria-mg1yv]

You are the first one I see here mentioning the Magnolia. For me it was a love at first sight 😂. Another pattern with same vibe is the shona top if anyone is in search for summer tops.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Ooh thanks for the recommendation! I love the Magnolia series so much.

[@noreenmcneely9261]

So happy I stumbled upon your podcast! I love your reviews and your honesty regarding the wool. I couldn’t agree more that the Rowan Felted Tweed is scratchy. Sandnes Garn Line and Tynn Line are excellent choices for summer tops. The Line is worsted and Tynn Line is fingering. I have knit the Anker in Line and Yume and Knus Light in the Tynn Line. Tynn Line incredibly light and very wearable even on hot days here on Long Island, NY. Give it a try!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Oh that’s so good to know, thanks for the recommendations!

[@kristenblack7803]

Happy Friday! I love the review of the yarns with patterns and what worked and what didn’t. I have some knitwear that I just don’t wear because of length or the yarn wasn’t exactly right. I feel like the journey is exciting though to truly find your style, colors and what yarn works and feels best when wearing. Love the cats too.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Happy Friday! So glad you enjoyed it. Agreed, I’ve definitely refined what I like to wear, and you can tell as I get to the older knits how many choices I made that I now disagree with 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@sarahadams6881]

Hi, I’m new, enjoyed watching you for the first time and loving your cats!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Hi and welcome! Thanks so much 😊

[@jennifermckenzie2968]

Hi.First time viewer. You could use your biasing cotton linen yarn for a dish/face cloth! I have a cotton blend yarn that I am using now to make the Summer Sorrel and if I have leftovers, I think I will make a cloth (or 2). I have used a single ply wool that biased and it drove me nuts. I frogged the whole project and have the 5 skeins lingering in stash. If it makes you feel any different, it's not noticeable on screen at least!!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great idea! I have just enough for that too. I might have to do that soon!

[@heline9469]

Great video on the subject - sad though that there were many garments you don´t use. We all have those in our closet. But we will make better yarn and colour choices in the future. You should give or sell the Rai-rai and the Ancher´s summer shirt to someone who they would suit better. You could use the yarn again but there´s no point ripping off the shirt really if you don´t like the yarn or the color doesn´t suit you. I have made corrections even to some older projects to make them wearable. I just ripped off the upper part of my Navelli tee and knitted it again with a different yarn. I hope it gets some use now, I gave it to my daughter.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Absolutely! Each of these garments has helped me better learn my preferences. I hope your redone Navelli tee gets much love now!

[@jetv1471]

It is my understanding that linen will bias if knit in round so to avoid that you may need to knit linen flat and then seam it . Also linen is notoriously tough on the hands to knit with due to the lack of give / elasticity. I LOOOOOVED the white top on you ! The fit was spot on ! And I like the ribbing …. Who wants to do all that icord when the ribbing looks as good . My problem with the aqua top with the biasing is not that ( can’t see on camera )… but the lace being so low and showing my bra would bother me . And I don’t wear camisoles sooo

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's good to know about linen, thanks for the tip! And yeah, chest-level lace is definitely tricky.

[@user-sr7qe5rd5e]

It's not about linen to bias, tweeds, any yarn which is a one thread yarn will create bias, two or more interwisted threads will not bias, it's about twisting

[@catblues8645]

came for the knitting, stayed for the cats, and also the Rai Rai sweater looks like smurf ice cream with chocolate chips in it 😁

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Hehe the cats are the true stars here

[@musicbones1]

I am sitting here knitting with Zooey right now! You are right, it has a rustic texture, and it has weight because of the linen. Your lacy top is very pretty, but perhaps ypu wuuld like it better in a smooth yarn. I wouldn't tend to use a textured yarn with that sort of lace, as they fight for dominance. The Zooey knits up well for me on a size 5 wooden needle. I'm not getting hand pain and it has some stretch.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a good point, this yarn definitely doesn't lend itself to lace knitting, maybe a different knit would feel better. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@conor8185]

i LOVE zooey, but the thick/thin shaggy texture of the yarn is just not suited to a delicate lace top. my guess would actually be that it's biasing because the stitches look very tightly worked and the yarn is thick/thin, preventing the thicker stitches from laying comfortably. when i've knit it, it was at a pretty loose gauge (like 5 stitches to the inch) and it worked beautifully. the thinner strands made more open stitches, which won't be everyone's thing, but i had no issues with biasing and the final fabric is fantastic! i don't think zooey is for everyone, though. it's definitely a very rustic summer yarn.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I think that's a really good point. Lace and tighter gauge projects are probably not suited to Zooey. Thanks for your recommendations!

[@susyreigner626]

Do you mind sharing which pattern you knit in a loose gauge? I just bought it to make a top, now I’m wondering 🤔

[@knitwitchronicles]

Super insightful podcast, thank you! Also excited to have a western Washington podcaster to follow as that's also where I live 😊

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Hello fellow Washingtonian! Thanks for watching 😊

[@sapphirecamui6447]

Your orange cat looks a lot like my oldest (14yo), except mine has green eyes. His name is Whiskey, and when we got more cats 0_0 we tried to name them after other drinks, IE: Mickey (a cocktail spiked with a dr*g), Milky (mostly black, and even though she was an older kitten, she would suck our t-shirts, maybe to find milk), Ginnie (from Gin), then a food - Churro, Shadow (he's completely black

[@sapphirecamui6447]

PS: The 7th top i think is washing you out a bit. this can be easily be fixed with a large colorful necklace. What if you removed the sleeves? Ithink as a top it would look *chef's kiss*. It falls nice on you.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Great ideas! I agree the color isn't great on me, but maybe some accessories will do the trick!

[@carolynnadey56]

I think the anker shirt looks great on you!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you!!

[@anitabechtel5180]

Your right. The owner, Ben, of Nifty Knitter is the dyer behind Meeker Street. Lovely episode.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Oh good, I thought so! Thanks for letting me know 😊

[@tambraarchibald6217]

I completely agree with your assessment of Juniper Moon Zooey. I knit the weekender and it is doing the same thing! My split hems are twisted about 1/4 of the way around. 😖 Tammi, Wool and Wine podcast

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I'm so glad I'm not the only one! Just really didn't love the results with that yarn.

[@kimwinter7792]

Yep the same thing happened to me when I knit the Gibson girl in the Rowan felted tweed. That is definitely an outer wear yarn and made for colder days!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Yes, it's so warm!

[@judithtaylor6916]

Thank you for your podcast and recommendations. Here in the southern hemisphere we only use the metric system of measurement but it is helpful thanks, you do post the Ravelry pattern details showing the needle sizes in mm. contrary to one comment made. 😊 A lot of the yarns are sadly very limited or just not available to us. So hard trying to substitute/obtain silk and linen yarn. The Juniper Moon yarn doesn't appear to be over-plyed. To check if it's a balanced yarn, take a long double strand length and hang, to see if it does twist on itself, will indicate its not a balanced yarn.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks for the response and the tip about over-plyed yarn; I'll make a point to call out both measurements in the future!

[@missjenny1953]

My vote would be for the third top which you hate so much! It looks amazing on you

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks! I do like the color, the yarn just wasn't my favorite. I'll still wear it on occasion 😊

[@gabisew]

Enjoyed watching your review. Have you ever had your colors done? I believe you are a true Autumn. Explore that palette.

[@hearherhands]

Yeah. I am thinking this too - definitely looking like some kind of Autumn.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I haven't but I'm pretty sure you're right, those are often the colors I'm drawn to!

[@ajborthwick7239]

I had the Zooey recommended to me too and it drove me crazy knitting with it- I just found it so splitty!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Yeah... I really wanted to love it but it just wasn't for me.

[@maureendesmarais6955]

I only knit with fingering weight yarns since I mainly knit "summer" tops (I winter in Florida so I no longer experience "winter"). Yes, that means it takes me much longer to knit a tee or sweater but then I'm not needing to complete projects to create content. That's why I track stitches knit instead of projects as no way I can keep up with FOs knit in worsted weight. Similar to you, I used some gifted Rowan Summer Tweed. I hate the top and rarely wear it despite being "summer" yarn. Simply too thick!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Yes, that Rowan tweed is quite warm!! I agree, fingering weight garments are worth the extra time needed to knit up. That's a great idea counting by stitches knit!

[@elenabeyers2088]

Your knitting is beautiful. So sorry you are not enjoying all your tops. Your video is educational for me as I look at knitting some summer tops.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks so much! I’ve learned a lot from the tops I knit in earlier years and that has helped me to better understand what yarn types and colors I prefer! Each pattern is a lesson learned 😊

[@krautkopf65]

Beautiful tops. 24/7 yarn. I love the yarn but I use it for bag’s. I’ve only crochet bag’s so I can’t say how it would knit in bag’s but I wouldn’t use it for a top. I did crochet a couple boho vests with fringe. Do love those.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I've been saving the rest of my 24/7 stash so I can do some sort of bag, I've heard good things! And it seems quite strong.

[@camderden2879]

I actually like the color palette. To each his own. 😉

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Haha I do too, just trying to branch out a bit 😉

[@nadinedetain6765]

Hello, thank you to have shared all your summer knits. I only saw one actual flop because of colour and stripes, otherwise all beautiful (and very elegantly worn). Some might be more worn if fixed (large shoulders with a box pleat, too short sleeves might be extended). Itchy yarns are to be prohibited all over the World 😂😂😂🤣

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Haha I agree with all of this!

[@RoelfienaTerSteege-qn5zd]

Ik kijk altijd met heel veel plezier naar je filmjes en geniet er echt van! Ik kijk ook Engelse filmpjes en kan dat ook wel goed volgen, maar ik ben aan het lace breien en dan vind ik een Nederlands wel iets gemakkelijker. Ik zal me ook gaan verdiepen in de community. Opzich vind ik dat heel leuk maar gaat ook vaak extra "breitijd" kosten.🙈

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I'm so glad you watch! Totally understandable that it would be tough while lace knitting. Thank you so much for your kind words 😊

[@ginninadances]

How many people asked you if you did a center pull on the Zoey yarn? I've had some wild results based on how the yarn was removed from the ball. I have to put the ball on a stick and let it unwind as it was wound, or it does the super twist or split dance. Thank you for all of these! I was looking for some cute summer things!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's super interesting, now I wonder... I pull from the outside, maybe that's why!

[@jeanette6396]

Thanks for your reviews and analyses.❤ I live in the midwest, 90s this week. No way can I wear wool or alpaca in the summer. Envy that your weather is cooler and you can wear wool in summer. Linen is much lighter than cotton. Cotton is very heavy always. You are right that the aqua color of your rai rai sweater doesn't flatter you, whereas the melinda summer top looks good. Plant yarns have no stretch so will always be hard on your hands. A blend of cotton or linen with wool would probably be better for you. Alpaca also has little stretch or memory. Wool is what you need. I've often admired the cat sweater pattern on knit picks. Love your cats, too!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks for this thoughtful reply! I've got a couple cotton/wool blend sweaters that I absolutely love for that very reason -- that's such a good yarn combo. As much as I would like to try more linen tops, my hands don't love it!

[@andreaz-tf6iw]

Hi there, also from western Washington and I used the sandnes garn linea for a shirt at a 23 stitch gauge. Initially I thought it was too heavy but I have spent the last couple months in Spain and Italy and it’s the only thing I wear, especially on travel days when I know I’m gonna be walking around a lot, carrying heavy pack and standing in the sun. I brought some store bought shirts that are much lighter but for whatever reason I actually find the linea top to be more breathable. The main downside is that it takes a long time to dry which in Europe has been hard since I don’t often have access to a dryer. In Seattle I do dry it 90% with my dryer, although that’s probably not recommended :D. When I get back to Seattle I intend to try the fingering weight version. It is a splitty yarn and mine had some rough bits in it which shed/washed away. It didn’t bother me but thought I’d mention since you mentioned splittiness a couple times. This is also not the most formal looking fabric, I think most of the colors are somewhat marled and it’s very dry/matte Additionally my understanding is that drops belle is very similar but I have yet to try it

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's so good to know! Thanks for the info 😊

[@TSUNAMI-MAMI]

This is so helpful!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I'm so glad!

[@CeciDJing]

I am a Norwegian, and I promise you.. Sandnes Garn Line or Tynn Line is the best linen/cotton yarn by far.... you should really try it ;) I speak for many years experience ;)

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

It’s definitely on my list, I keep hearing such great things!

[@wandm32]

The Caspar Top in that blue color looks stunning on you. I knit Professor Meow for my daughter a few years ago and she never wore it. The yarn is too warm for a summer top. I wonder if there’s any way to convert it to a decorative pillow or something ‘cause the cat is really cute.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you! I do love that color and have to agree with you. I share your sentiments on the Professor Meow sweater, I'd love to repurpose it somehow.

[@karinajackson2779]

I agree with you on juniper yarn’s Zooey -- HATED IT!!! It was painful to work with and the top I knitted is heavy to wear. I prefer using Knitting for Olive’s pure silk. Much softer

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I've heard so many great things about KFO, I need to try that next!

[@scpancakes]

Tuna & Bagel?! Love the pet names

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Hehe thanks!

[@aleksandraschermann6033]

Magnolia summer looks very good. It is figure fitting, which is rare. One thing to change would be to make the sleeves even shorter.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thank you! If I wore it in the heat of summer, I might agree, but it works well for those transitional months.

[@lizzyp1414]

I thought you picked some really nice patterns! Very cute and flattering on you, with some great details. It's a shame that a lot of them didn't work out because of yarn choice. I feel like that's a common issue I hear talked about with summer patterns in general, finding the right yarn seems to be pretty difficult.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Oh thank you! I found a lot of them to be good lessons on what yarns I really am drawn to (and now even more so what colors I prefer), so I have no regrets. It's so helpful to narrow down what does and doesn't work with our personal preferences.

[@glofdahl1733]

What about overdying the Rai Rai with dark jade or dark blue? That would probably make the stripes less prominent too.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's actually a great idea, I might look into that.

[@wollfinger]

Really enjoyed watching! As soon as you mentioned not liking the color of the Rai Rai Sweater I thought maybe you could dye it? And I agree, that blue is very bright and the muted color of the one you compared to it looked better on you. You could either try out some natural dye (plants, Veggies, even coffee or black tea - helps muting colors) or dye it a completely different color that would match better with the burgundy stripes. I had a very bright pink T-Shirt and dunked it in coffee for a few days and it turned out so pretty, a very muted dusky pink which works way better with my skin tone than the bright - almost neon - pink. It didn‘t wash out btw.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a fantastic idea! I might try that.

[@shannonagain89]

@@meeshyfrazzknits I scrolled through the comments to see if someone had already suggested overdying the Rai Rai - I totally second this idea! If you have some of the teal yarn left over I would try making swatches and trying a couple colors and see which outcome you like the best. I would do either a very diluted golden-orangey brown to cancel/mute the bright teal and bring it closer to the color of your other one, but a darker green-blue or even just dark grey might look nice too! a light pink wash would make it kinda purpley!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I really like this idea, I think I might try it once I pick out some dye!

[@martinimonsters]

It's so interesting how the slightest shade difference can be huge for what looks good and what looks "bad" (I think you can make a lot of less flattering things work when you just own it as a style choice), so I agree that your Summer Ella Solo Top looks more flattering on you than the Rai Rai Sweater, even though they seem so similar. I don't know if I totally buy seasonal color analysis (I don't think people always fit into the categories that neatly in my experience), but I do follow it a bit and have had my colors done, I'd guess (I'm no expert by any means) you're a summer, maybe specifically a deep summer - just throwing that out there if it helps you in any way on your color choice journey. I have also learned the hard way that I don't like cotton and linen yarns (even though I do still love them in woven fabrics), they do look messier and more "homemade" in a way that's just not for me. I want to try some more blends with merino to see how those work out, because they are so nice in theory for the summer.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Isn't that funny!? Just taking a blue that leans slightly more cyan vs. a blue that leans a little more teal can make a huge difference in how it looks. I'm kind of with you on the color analysis, I want to know my colors but also weirdly don't? I don't want to limit my palette, but I also think it would be helpful as a guide when picking out yarn colors.

[@martinimonsters]

​@@meeshyfrazzknits I think it can be worth having your colors done just to have a starting point of what easily looks good on you, and the experience can help give you an eye for what looks flattering generally, and the difference in color undertones which can be helpful. Like it might make it clearer to you what is different about certain shades so you're better at spotting the ones you know you just won't like. There's colors I still find flattering enough on me that are totally outside of my season, so as long as you don't have a mindset where you get too stuck to "rules" then I think it's easy enough to not overly limit yourself. Conversely, if you just pay attention to how you feel in colors, you start to figure out your palette anyway. It only sucks when you spend a bunch of time knitting something just to donate or frog it for a non-wearable item. That reminds me, I like getting yarn in hanks so I can drape it around me and see how I feel about it near my face, if I'm not feeling it, then socks or a gift it is!

[@biristef9490]

I also have a "thing" with sommer knits🙈. Somehow I avoid knitting with Cotton. I have the same feeling as you, it is just too heavy and I also get pain while knitting with cotton. I recently discovered the Tynn Line from Sandness Garn and even if it splits oft while knitting, it is very soft and light and I don't get pain while working with it.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I've heard a few people say good things about Tynn Line, I'm going to need to try that!

[@1979rigik]

Тhank you for the interesting video and clear diction. Although my English isn't very good, I managed to understand almost everything. :-) And the cats are wonderful - my furry ones liked them.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Oh that's great to hear!

[@susancormack2618]

Thx for your review, great information to have. Please include needle size in mm.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

You got it! My next video (and all future videos) will include both.

[@roxannesmith289]

I use Juniper Moon Farm Zoey all the time and never have had any biasing in the fabric. A theory I have about biasing is the way you knit vs the twist in the yarn.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's very possible!

[@catblues8645]

If a yarn causes a bias in the knitting, it's best to use it in a structured pattern, not stockinette, this will counteract the twist of the yarn

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Agreed, I didn't realize at the time it would bias, but I'm reading that it's quite common with linen yarns, so I'll keep that in mind!

[@dianepothier3078]

Try soaking your Magnolia in a small amount of fabric softener and water. It may tone down the scratchy bits

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great idea, I might try that and report back.

[@bethsaylor5325]

Fellow Juniper Moon Farms Zooey hater here. Started a summer tee with it. Hated every second. Sold the rest on Ravelry. Do not understand the hype.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Glad I'm not alone! Just really not the yarn for me, I guess.

[@Maketodayamazing123]

I’m using Zooey right now to knit a cardigan. And I am not loving the process either. It came with a lot of praise from the shop where I bought it. I found it very hard on my hands as well. And the structure of the yarn (thick and thin), which yours did not seem to have, I am rowing out. And I do not normally have that problem. This was not cheep yarn, and I do not think I would knit with it again.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Glad to know it wasn't just me, though it's a bummer to hear some folks aren't having a great experience with it!

[@dianepothier3078]

Regarding the Zoey yarn, I’ve been told if you reskein the yarn and work from the opposite end you may have better luck. ??? Diane from Boston.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's good to know! I might have to try that.

[@karenpung9836]

Right pattern/wrong yarn, right yarn/wrong pattern frustrates me more than anything else. We’ve all tried on clothes shopping that looked fabulous on hanger and totally wrong on me! So frustrating!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

So true! It's a good learning lesson, but it's definitely frustrating sometimes.

[@CassieDA17]

Question on your Caspar. Did you hold the lace weight double? I have lace weight yarn in stash and had no idea what to knit with it until I saw your Caspar, but the pattern calls for DK so I’m confused. I have linen jewel from that knit crate subscription and I haven’t used it yet- now I’m worried 😮 I knit a tolsta tee out of 24/7 cotton and I know what you mean about it being too heavy.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I only held it with one strand in the lace weight. I was also thrown off by her calling for DK, but in the pattern she's only using 1 strand of lace mohair. I'm guessing she calls it DK because of the fluff, but I was able to get gauge with my lace weight. It's a bit of an open gauge, but not by a crazy amount. And I only used 3/4 of a ball!

[@craftingkirsty]

Just found your channel, very enjoyable 😊 What pattern is the cardigan on the dolly behind you , it’s lovely 🥰

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks so much! That's the Debonnaire Sweater, it's a good one: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/debonnaire-sweater

[@Woolyfluff_craftystuff]

Came for knitting, stayed for cats (and knitting of course) 😻

[@KcE-in4fc]

It's funny how every knitting video I watch, there's a kitty 😺 😂

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

🐈😻

[@sarajoyce7231]

What is the floral cowl on your mannequin? Its beautiful!!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Thanks so much! It's my Wildflower Bloom cowl: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/wildflower-bloom-cowl

[@sveamartens9192]

Have you ever considered dying the rai rai shirt? If you don't wear it, there is no risk, but maybe you will start wearing it if it works

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I'm starting to think I might do that actually

[@petramanos]

Have you ever considered just a plain merino for your summer knits? Perhaps you'd be happier with wool?

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

My confetti crop top is 100% superwash merino and that's been quite pleasant to wear! I agree that merino isn't a bad idea for summer since my climate is fairly mild.

[@user-sr7qe5rd5e]

Zoe yarn is a one thread yarn, intertwisted yarns don't do bias, that's the problem, and the circular patterns are not for one thread yarns like zoe, the pattern creates more shift and bias

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That definitely seems to be the case here. Lesson learned!

[@KcE-in4fc]

I keep asking this question to everyone who is experienced knitters. Why do you leave your ends to the end to weave in and not do it as you go? I'm a beginner knitter started in January, but I was taught right from the start to weave or hide your ends as you knit or knit them in right as you're there. Am I missing something?

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great question and I definitely think it's dependent on preferences. I save mine to the end just in case I have to rip back and redo anything. Now, for something like a scarf/shawl where I know I don't need to worry much about size and have unruly ends, I'll weave those as I go.

[@tessmorton-trask1725]

Turn your cat sweater into a pillow 😀

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Haha not a bad idea!

[@kimwinter7792]

I don’t see the biasing of the aqua Zooey top. Maybe the camera hides it?

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

It doesn't seem to show up on camera, I noticed that too.

[@darlenerowe6908]

Might be worth rinsing your Magnolia in hair conditioner if you haven't already

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a great idea, I might try that. I did this once with a Peruvian Highland wool sweater and it didn't help much, but I'd like to try it again on something not quite as rustic!

[@ainasjokvist4648]

Hi, thanks for sharing your summer tops. I can only agree that heavy summer fibers are difficult to get right. I knitted a tee in viking bamboo (cotton and bamboo) a worsted weight. It's too thick and drapey at the same time. The knitted fabric is not forgiving at all and it's hard to weave in ends seamlessly and I didn't choose the right colour either. 😂 I knitted a stripy long sleeved summer sweater Brännö by Svarta Fåret in drops Belle witch is very similar to Line by Sandnes garn. The overall look is good but I still think that the garment is a bit heavy. The knitting experience is way better than the Bamboo yarn and more forgiving. My conclusion is that a thinner yarn like sport or fingering is to prefer over a DK or worsted for summer fiber in my opinion. Knitting the cumulus tee by petite knit in knitting for olive pure silk I think the end result is going to be ok but my experience with the yarn is that it is a bit splitty and dry it's not the easiest to get even in the knitted fabric (it has no bounce so the tension is hard to keep) and the tee is started knitted flat and you can notice that my tension differs between the right and wrong side. It's the third time knitting this pattern and I like it. I actually have a 100 % cotton Alberte by Permin (light sport or heavy fingering) top in the making the Emma top by Susanne Muller. It's knitted with half fisherman's rib and I think because of the knitting technique the cotton doesn't feel stiff it drapes. I feel exited too have it finished. The pattern is knitted flat and that's maybe why it's not done yet. Sorry for writing so much.. I got exited too share my experience when you shared yours.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

This was great to read, thank you! I love hearing other people's experiences with the different yarns and agree, summer yarns are best in the lighter weights. I'm thinking I might try the Knitting for Olive Cotton Merino on something next.

[@allysonbrownmarcolini514]

I also used the JMF Zooey this spring and really didn't like it. The T I made also looks like crap, and I didn't enjoy knitting with it. Will not purchase again.

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Good to know I'm not the only one!

[@lifelvr9509]

Goodness, I thought it was just me. I am crocheting a sweater with another brand of linen and cotton yarn and literally can't work on it longer than half an hour. It's so hard on my hands and feels kind of creepy to me. Tried knitting it and no, just no. At least it lays better crocheted, but truly would never buy it again!

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Right? Life's too short to work with yarn that causes discomfort!

[@louiserossiter4310]

Bagel didn't knock something off he purposely pushed it off! 😅

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

Haha that's highly likely!

[@gh60956]

Very pity , I don’t follow or watch any knitter who doesn’t bother to mention the metric needle size or write it on the screen . All the European knitters are so kind to add the US needle sizes wonder if you take this into consideration pls 🙏 cause I loved your work

[@helentkalcic4417]

Wow, that’s a pretty bold statement.

[@j.3069]

​@helentkalcic4417 she's no native English speaker and I suspect German or Italian or Eastern European or something similar - different culture and not meant rude but honest and respectful in letting her know what annoyed her 😅

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's a good point, I'll try to remember to call out both next time. Thanks for letting me know!

[@helentkalcic4417]

You’re very kind!!

[@bethsaylor5325]

I watch a lot of European podcasts and most do not mention the US needle size. I keep a needle gauge by my side and refer to it when needing the US equivalent. I suggest you do the same.

[@apippin774]

Donate all the sweaters you dont wear. Bad color and yarn choices for a garment ruin the fit and comfort..good lesson to learn

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

I think I will end up doing that with some of my older knits for sure.

[@jetv1471]

It is my understanding that linen will bias if knit in round so to avoid that you may need to knit linen flat and then seam it . Also linen is notoriously tough on the hands to knit with due to the lack of give / elasticity. I LOOOOOVED the white top on you ! The fit was spot on ! And I like the ribbing …. Who wants to do all that icord when the ribbing looks as good . My problem with the aqua top with the biasing is not that ( can’t see on camera )… but the lace being so low and showing my bra would bother me . And I don’t wear camisoles sooo

[@meeshyfrazzknits]

That's so good to know! And yes, ribbing over i-cord!!