Monday, March 5, 2012

Plastic Basket


Stuck in on a rainy day yesterday I made this basket by crocheting plastic bags. On Thursday night at the Craft and Cocktails fundraiser for Oxfam we will be demonstrating how to make plarn (plastic yarn) from your old plastic bags and we'll get you started on a simple circle. I used a 4mm crochet hook and the plastic was cut into half inch strips.


The base is made by increasing the number of stitches in alternate rounds and is done in trebles. Small coasters can be made in this way, or larger place mats. Keep going and you will have a plarn crochet rug! To form the sides I did one treble into the space between each treble in the previous round. Basically, if you add stitches you will have a flat circle if you don't you will create a cylinder. Plarn can be a bit more awkward to use than normal yarn and it can be quite a workout for the fingers and neck muscles. 


It's a good idea to do your crafting in short sessions and change to another activity regularly to avoid repetitive strain. Though this is easier said that done as you will know if you are already a bit of a crochet junky. We are thinking of setting up a support group for the neglected children of mother's who are addicted to doing just one more line...

If you can't make the night please consider donating to Oxfam they're really doing amazing work that is transforming the lives of women around the world. And if you want to bring your own craft project to our event please do; knitting, crochet, embroidery, sewing; I'd love to see what you're up to.

9 comments:

  1. That's a brilliant use for plastic bags. The basket looks great.

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  2. I love crocheting but never seem to find the time to do it. What a great use for plastic bags. Sounds like a fun night shame I live in Wales!!

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  3. Lorna is there no end to your talents woman? You really are a renaissance woman.

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  4. How clever! I love things that are made out of stuff that would otherwise get thrown away.

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  5. Great idea and useful too!
    June

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  6. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  7. I've heard of plarn, but have never tried working with it, your basket is lovely, a very practical way to use up those plastic bags. x

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  8. What a brilliant idea.Your basket looks great!

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  9. Thank you for your comments everyone. Looking forward to my crafting and cocktail night tomorrow night.

    Sorry Rahul, I don't want anyone else's advertising on my blog without asking.

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