Why This Book Caught My Eye
Summer Crochet by Janine Myska immediately stood out thanks to its dreamy premise—19 warm-weather crochet patterns with an elegant, modern twist.
I was familiar with Janine’s previous work (Modern Crochet Sweaters) and loved her clean, wearable aesthetic. When I heard this book would focus on summer silhouettes and incorporate lace, mesh, and plant-based fibers, I had to dive in. It also generated buzz among crochet influencers who praised its balance of function and style—no kitschy bikinis here, just polished pieces that could walk off a boutique rack.
It’s a great addition to the crochet landscape where summer wear is often underrepresented. Janine brings both aesthetic and technical clarity to a space where a lot of summer patterns can feel rushed or impractical.
What’s Inside?
The book is divided into four themed sections—Poolside Lounging, Resort Wear, Beach Day, and Desert Heat—plus a robust “Getting Started” guide and detailed tutorials.
Each project includes:
- Size-inclusive instructions (XS–5X)
- Written + symbol charts
- Notes on customization, ease, and fiber behavior
- Gorgeous California-based photography
The layout is clean, and the consistent use of stitch charts and schematics is a huge plus. The “Resort Wear” and “Desert Heat” sections in particular feature striking, editorial-style garments (like the Siren Side-Slit Dress and Smokey Quartz Cardigan) that are still approachable for intermediate makers.
Who is this book for? Confident beginners and up. There are a few basic projects, but most require comfort with stitch placement and shaping. If you’re into crocheting wearable, photo-worthy items with drape and intention, this book is your summer jam.
Standout Techniques & Tips
Janine shines in her treatment of lace for crochet—she demystifies it. There’s a dedicated guide explaining how lace is built using common stitches, and how to use charts in tandem with text to avoid confusion.
A standout detail: the careful instructions on gauge swatching with blocking, including full swatch patterns and measuring tips for garments. It helped me think more deliberately about drape and fiber choice, especially with plant-based yarns.
I also appreciated her insights into sourcing materials like wooden rings, flex frames, and leather straps—and how to substitute or skip them while still keeping the design’s integrity.
The Knotions Test – Putting It to Use
I swatched the Saltwater Cardigan (pg. 25) and tried the stitch chart + written pattern side-by-side. It was a breeze. The visual layout helped me catch an early error, and the pattern notes on stitch counts and shaping made the whole thing feel beginner-friendly despite being marked intermediate.
The Visuals & Instructions – Do They Hold Up?
Yes. The photography is magazine-worthy, but functional too. Close-ups show stitch texture clearly, and the layout keeps things easy to follow. Charts are well-labeled and consistent.
The only tiny hiccup is that some readers may miss having row-by-row visual tutorials in the techniques section (though the charts make up for this). Fortunately, her website has tester photos linked for many patterns, which is a big help for visual learners.
What Could Be Better?
- A small glossary of fiber terms or fiber substitution cheat sheet might help newer crocheters.
- A few more “modification hacks” for customizing length or combining patterns (like adding sleeves to a tank) would be fun.
- The bralette pattern, while fantastic, requires some measuring confidence—some readers may prefer a standard-size version as a starting point.
Final Verdict – Worth Adding to Your Shelf?
Yes—especially if you crochet garments.
This book is a win for:
- Makers who love modern design and thoughtful details
- Anyone wanting to crochet actual clothes for summer without guessing about fit
- Those craving size-inclusive, photo-worthy patterns that feel wearable and breezy
If you’re looking for ultra-basic granny squares, this might be more advanced than needed—but for adventurous beginners and confident crocheters, this one’s a shelf staple.
Rating: Must-Buy
Where to Get It & More Resources
- Snag it on Amazon
- Buy it from the publisher: Page Street Publishing
- Author site & pattern tester photos: knitsnknots.ca
- Yarn substitution help: yarnsub.com
About the Instructor: Jody Richards
Jody is the founder and lead editor of Knotions. She loves poring over stitch dictionaries and trying out new stitches.
She’s also on a mission to get everyone to embrace the blocking. And, to avoid using garter stitch edges in knit swatches made for gauge.
And while she likes all things crafting (well ok, except that one thing), yarn crafts are her true love (and she has the stash to prove it).
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