Top 10 Project Ideas for Your 'Be Free' Wool-Linen Yarn

jadawoodesigns
Jul 10
5 min read

Hello, creative soul!

I’m sitting here in the studio today, the sun is streaming through the window, and I have a confession to make. For years, I struggled with "summer knitting." I’d reach for those gorgeous plant fibers: cotton, linen, hemp: and while they were lovely and cool, I always missed the "bounce" and memory of wool. And then, there was the "ocean breeze problem." You know the one? You’re out for a walk on a beautiful June evening, the sun goes down, the coastal air turns crisp, and suddenly that thin cotton tee feels a little too light.

I wanted something that could breathe during the heat of the day but still hold onto a whisper of warmth when the shadows grew long. That’s exactly why we created the Be Free collection: our signature 70/30 blend of organic wool and linen. It is, quite literally, the creative solution to my own seasonal dilemma.

This hand dyed linen yarn blend is magical: it has the crisp, rustic stitch definition of linen and the soft, forgiving elasticity of wool. It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your next masterpiece. Whether you’re a knitter, a crocheter, or a weaver, I want you to feel like a valued member of our maker community. We’re all on this journey of expression together!

Here are 10 of my favorite project ideas to help you "be free" with your creative process this season.

1. Augusta Sweater by Lone Kjeldsen

Augusta Sweater pattern by Lone Kjeldsen on Ravelry.

If you love a classic silhouette with a modern twist, the Augusta Sweater is a dream. This oversized boatneck sweater is worked top-down and features a feminine raglan increase with a delicate seed stitch detail.

Why it pairs with Be Free: Our wool-linen blend provides the perfect structure for that boatneck. If you want a loftier, more ethereal fabric: something truly vibrant: try holding one strand of Be Free with a strand of our Halo Baby Suri Alpaca Silk. The result is a misty, soft sweater that feels like a hug from a cloud.

2. Dunedrifter by Wool & Pine

Dunedrifter pattern by Wool & Pine on Ravelry.

The Dunedrifter is the ultimate breezy summer tee. It’s worked side-to-side, which is such an energizing way to knit! It starts at one sleeve and works across the body, featuring a horizontal lace band that is just stunning in a speckled yarn.

Why it pairs with Be Free: This pattern specifically calls for fibers with linen or silk to help the fabric hang naturally. Our hand dyed yarn gives this tee a beautiful, liquid drape that won't sag over time, thanks to the wool’s memory. It’s the perfect companion for high-waisted linen pants and a walk on the beach.

3. Pier Tote Bag by Quail Studio

Not every project has to be a garment! The Pier Tote Bag is a textured, mesh-style bag that looks like it stepped right off a Mediterranean pier. It’s sturdy, stylish, and incredibly practical for carrying your current WIP (work in progress).

Why it pairs with Be Free: Linen is famous for its strength, making it one of the best fiber arts supplies for bags. To get that chunky, rustic look, feel free to hold the Be Free yarn double. The wool in the blend adds a touch of softness so the straps won't dig into your shoulder: a little moment of "maker grace."

4. Bark Net by Sidsel Sangild

Bark Net pattern by Sidsel Sangild on Ravelry.

For my crochet lovers, the Bark Net is a must-have. It’s a crocheted market bag with a surprising amount of elasticity. The texture looks complex, but it’s actually a very approachable pattern once you get into the rhythm.

Why it pairs with Be Free: Using a variegated yarn for this net creates a vivid play of color as you work the mesh. The organic wool gives the bag the "bounce" it needs to spring back into shape after you’ve filled it with fresh peaches or a few extra skeins of merino wool yarn from your favorite local shop.

5. Nuit Top by collett_knit

Nuit Top pattern by collett_knit on Ravelry.

Sometimes you just want something fitted and sophisticated. The Nuit Top is a sleeveless, fitted top that works beautifully as a standalone piece or layered under a cardigan.

Why it pairs with Be Free: The wool-linen blend is exceptionally breathable and moisture-managing. In a fitted garment, this means you stay cool and comfortable all day long. I love seeing this worked up in our more muted, earthy tones: it feels so grounded and "slow-fashion."

6. Chillyjoy by Cari Jehlik

Chillyjoy pattern by Cari Jehlik on Ravelry.

I had to include this one for those "behind-the-scenes" cozy moments. The Chillyjoy is an oversized crochet cardigan complete with a hood and pockets. It’s basically a wearable blanket, but much more stylish.

Why it pairs with Be Free: While the pattern calls for a heavier weight, you can achieve a similar effect by holding Be Free triple or mixing it with another luxury yarn. The linen content keeps the oversized cardigan from being too heavy, while the wool ensures it’s cozy enough for a bonfire night. Stock is limited on our current batches, so grab your sweater quantity soon!

7. Polo Shirt by Elodie Courtat

Polo Shirt pattern by Elodie Courtat on Ravelry.

Vintage vibes are everywhere right now, and this crocheted polo shirt is at the top of my list. It features a classic buttoned collar and a relaxed fit that screams "summer holiday."

Why it pairs with Be Free: Crochet can sometimes be a bit "stiff" with pure plant fibers, but our crochet yarn blend softens the hand significantly. It gives the polo a refined, high-quality look that feels like a boutique find rather than a DIY project.

8. Celsea Button Up Cardigan by Jennifer Renaud

If you love the look of knitting but prefer a crochet hook, the Celsea Cardigan is for you. It features "knit-look" ribbing and a relaxed, oversized fit that is so easy to style.

Why it pairs with Be Free: The stitch definition in this pattern is key. The linen in our indie dyed yarn makes those "knit-look" stitches pop, providing a professional finish that you’ll be proud to wear. It’s a wonderful project for those who are still growing their garment-making skills.

9. Never Too Late Sweater by Minimi Knit Design

Never Too Late Sweater pattern by Minimi Knit Design on Ravelry.

This seamless v-neck is all about the details: a gorgeous textured yoke and a sophisticated fit. It’s worked top-down, and the construction is a fascinating "journey" for any knitter looking to learn something new.

Why it pairs with Be Free: V-necks can sometimes lose their shape if the yarn is too heavy or inelastic. The merino wool yarn portion of our blend provides the "memory" needed to keep that neckline crisp and perfect, wash after wash.

10. Sabai Top by Susanne Müller

SABAI Top pattern by Susanne Müller on Ravelry.

Last but certainly not least, the Sabai Top. This boatneck tank is light, airy, and entirely seamless. It’s exceptionally beginner-friendly: a perfect "spark" for someone new to knitting garments.

Why it pairs with Be Free: The recommended yarns for this pattern are often cotton-linen blends, making Be Free a perfect match. It’s a fast, satisfying knit that shows off the subtle color variations of a hand dyed yarn. Go for a soft lavender or a sage green to really lean into that serene, summer vibe.

Every time I pick up a skein of the Be Free collection, I feel a sense of gratitude for the community that supports this little dream of mine. Bringing over 30 years of maker experience into every batch we dye is a labor of love: it's my way of fostering creativity in your home.

Whether you're casting on a breezy tee or a sturdy tote bag, I hope these ideas give you the "spark" you need to start your next adventure. Our shop is always open for those looking for their next favorite fiber.

I’d love to hear from you: which of these 10 projects is calling your name for the summer season?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on social media with your progress!

With love and happy making,

Jessica