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Plastic Bag Crochet – Plarn Bag for Zero Waste Crochet

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plastic-bag-tote.jpg

I tried it again. Crocheting with plastic bags. I spent quite some time online checking out how to prepare the plastic bags to create ‘yarn‘. There are two basic ways to do this:

First, cut off handles and seam at the bottom, creating a square. Fold that square across its height so you have a long piece, then fold again. From that, cut about 6 sections. These make rings. Interlock these rings and crochet away.

 

You can also purchase plarn ready made here via Etsy.

Second method begins like the first in removing handles and bottom seam. Then, to create a single continuous length (about 7 yards by my calculations), you make a small diagonal cut about 1.5 inches deep and cut the remainder of the bag in a spiral.

Both preparation methods are fairly time consuming. Now, this is FREE YARN, so I can’t complain about that. Every site I visited encouraged me to use a large hook, from K on up to Q. Most preferred plastic hooks as wood and metal were harder on the plastic.

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ervilhas.weblog.com.pt (the tote)

Well, this is NOT FOR ME. I’m a pretty dedicated recycler – and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE MAKING THINGS FROM TRASH – but crocheting with this plastic ‘yarn’ is awkward and time-consuming. I was so hopeful that I could create a couple of cute totes for gifts. But, NO! I just threw them all in the trash. I’ll pay for my yarn instead.

I’ve made totes with rug yarn in the past and don’t even like crocheting with that stuff, but it’s almost indestructible so it makes sense to crochet totes with it. I think I just might stick with using some sz 3 and 5 balls I have on hand. Maybe not as environmentally friendly as using those plastic bags or newspaper sleeves, but my blood pressure will remain lower and my serenity stronger.

Before You Go…
That stash of plastic bags under your sink? It’s not clutter—it’s free crafting supplies waiting to happen! Whether you make this exact tote or invent your own plarn masterpiece, you’re giving single-use plastics a hilarious second act as something actually useful.

More Zero-Waste Inspiration:

Turn T-Shirts into Yarn (No-Sew Tutorial)

 

Challenge Time!

Make this bag, then tag #CraftGossipPlarn—we’ll feature the most creative upcycle on our Instagram! 

Comments

  1. I thought that you follow the steps for the first one and then cut the loops and tied them… Oh well, I am not that far along… I can redo it!

  2. Just a friendly FYI:

    Although you were unable to use the grocery bags for “yarn,” a lot of grocery stores do have bins to collect and recycle those plastic bags to help keep them out of our landfills.

  3. Yes, Maven, i agree. do NOT put these plastic bags in the trash bin to go to land fill. we always use them at least 3 times before they go to the trash bin. we try to keep them forever out of the trash bin. if you look on some of the ‘indie craft’ sites, you’ll find other ways to use the bags, including great craft ideas.
    jd

Have you read?

The Miffy Crochet Book Review: 16 Sweet Projects for Bunny Lovers

Some characters need elaborate outfits and a whole collection of accessories to be recognisable. Miffy manages it with two long ears and the simplest little face. There is something rather lovely about that, especially when you’re looking for crochet projects that feel sweet without being overly fussy.

The Miffy Crochet Book brings that familiar storybook charm to a collection of handmade toys, decorations and home accessories. If you have a Miffy fan in the family, or you’re rather fond of the little bunny yourself, this is a crochet book worth a closer look.

What appeals to me is the possibility of making several coordinating gifts from one collection. A bunny is lovely on its own, but a bunny with a matching blanket? That is how a small project quietly becomes an entire gift basket.

What Is The Miffy Crochet Book?

Created by crochet designer Kimberley Zwaans, with designs based on Dick Bruna’s illustrations, this official Miffy crochet book is published by Search Press.

The 128-page paperback contains 16 projects, with a mixture of smaller makes and larger pieces. You can find The Miffy Crochet Book at Knit Picks.

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

More Than a Miffy Bunny Crochet Pattern

The collection includes Miffy and friends as amigurumi toys, alongside projects such as a blanket, motif cushion and moon-and-stars mobile.

There is also a birthday theme, with a crochet cake, placemats, bunting and a crown. That gives the book an appeal beyond toy making, particularly if you enjoy creating decorations that can come out again for family celebrations.

I like that mixture. Sometimes you want a small character project with a face to embroider. Other times, a larger piece of crochet is exactly what you want beside your chair for the evening.

The collection uses seven yarn shades, which gives it a cohesive feel. You will still need to check the quantities and requirements for each project before shopping. Seven colours does not necessarily mean seven balls, much as our yarn budgets might wish otherwise.

Is It Suitable for Beginners?

The publisher describes the book as beginner-friendly and says it includes illustrated guidance for the key stitches. There are also projects offering more challenge.

My practical advice is to choose your first make by the techniques involved, rather than simply picking the smallest item. Small amigurumi pieces can require quite a bit of counting, shaping and careful assembly.

If working in the round is still new territory, our magic ring crochet tutorials for beginners are useful preparation. You can also build confidence with these easy crochet projects that start with a magic loop.

Before starting, check the book’s stitch terminology, recommended yarn and hook size. Those details matter more than choosing a colour that happens to look lovely in the basket.

The Appeal, and What to Consider

For me, the strongest selling point is the coordinated theme. This would be particularly appealing for crocheters who love Miffy, enjoy character projects or want several related handmade gift ideas.

The narrower theme is also something to consider before buying. If you prefer a crochet book packed with different animals and styles, this collection may feel too specific. Its appeal depends on how much you enjoy Miffy’s simple, recognisable world.

Simple faces also deserve careful finishing. A tiny change in eye placement or the angle of an ear can alter a character’s expression, so I would allow time for pinning and checking before sewing everything permanently.

If you would like a separate bunny project to try first, our free kawaii bunny crochet pattern on CraftBits offers another option. It is a different pattern, rather than an extract from this book.

Who Would Enjoy This Book?

I would put The Miffy Crochet Book on the shortlist for a crocheter who enjoys nostalgic characters and likes the idea of making a coordinated collection.

The combination of toys, home accessories and celebration projects gives those 16 designs several different uses. You could choose one special make or gradually work towards a whole Miffy-themed gift.

That is the charm for me: familiar, cheerful designs with room to make something personal. Just decide which project you’re starting before buying the yarn. Otherwise, “one little bunny” has a habit of acquiring a blanket, bunting and its own birthday party.