Plastic Bag Crochet: Crafting A Hat From Unlikely Yarn

Plastic bags can be reused and recycled to create a variety of items, including crochet hats. The process involves creating 'plarn' (plastic bag yarn) from the bags, which can then be used to crochet a hat. This is a unique way to create a summer hat or bucket hat, and there are various tutorials and patterns available online to guide you through the process.

How to make 'plarn'

Plarn, or plastic yarn, is made by cutting and tying together strips of plastic bags. It can be used to craft a variety of items such as coupon pouches, bracelets, crochet bowls, and even knit bags. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make plarn:

Preparing the Plastic Bags:

• Start by laying out the plastic bag flat, ensuring that the side gussets are folded out, forming a rectangle.
• Using scissors, carefully trim the bag. Remove the top portion where the handles are, as well as the bottom section above the seam.
• It is recommended to work on a surface that will not get scratched during this process. Consider covering your table with a craft cutting mat, an old tablecloth, a child's playmat, or even flattened cardboard for protection.

The Slit Skirt Method:

• After trimming, you will be left with a rectangular sheet. Leave the bag in two layers and turn it so that the closed ends are at the top and bottom, with the open ends on each side.
• Cut the bag into strips that are approximately 1/2 to 1 inch wide. Start from the bottom fold and work your way up, stopping about 1 inch short of the other fold.
• The cuts do not need to be perfectly straight, as the end product is yarn, not a cabinet!
• Once you're done, open up the bag to a single layer, with the uncut section facing you.
• Now, you will cut diagonally from the end of one slit to the start of another. Begin by cutting from the lower first slit to the second top slit at an angle, leaving the top first slit for now.
• Continue cutting diagonally from the lower slit to the upper slit across the bag. As you make these cuts, the process will become clearer as the strip starts to unwind.
• Finally, cut the loop at the beginning of the bag at an angle to open it up. Trim any excess plastic to smooth out the edges.

The Spiral Method:

• This method is more straightforward but slightly harder to control.
• Prepare the bag in the same way as before, cutting off the bottom seam and handles.
• Cut into one of the open ends of the tube at a diagonal, creating a continuous strip with a width of about 1/2 to 1 inch (or your desired width).
• Continue cutting around the bag in a spiral, being careful to maintain the same strip width.
• This method requires attention to avoid accidentally cutting through both layers of the bag. If you do cut it in two, simply restart cutting from the beginning.

Storing Your Plarn:

• Once you have your desired length of plastic yarn, it's time to store it.
• Start by wrapping the end of your plarn around your fingertip, then slide it off and continue wrapping it around itself to form a ball.
• Switch directions every wrap or two, and hold the ball firmly as the plarn can be slippery.

Now that you've made your plarn, you can use it for various knitting or crocheting projects!

How high to make the crown

When crocheting a hat with plastic bags, the height of the crown will determine how tall the hat will be and how it will fit on your head. A typical height for the crown of a crochet hat made from plastic bags is between 4 and 4.5 inches. This height allows for a comfortable fit while also giving you enough space to work with when adding stitches and shaping the hat.

To achieve the desired height for the crown, you will need to increase the number of stitches in each row as you work your way up. This is done by adding stitches evenly across each row, following the pattern or design you are using. The rate at which you add stitches will depend on the specific pattern you are following, but a gradual increase is typical to create a smooth and even shape.

As you approach the desired height for the crown, you will want to start decreasing the number of stitches to begin shaping the top of the hat. This is typically done by crocheting multiple stitches together or by skipping stitches, depending on the pattern you are following. By decreasing stitches, you will create a gradual slope that gives the hat a more defined shape and ensures a snug fit.

It's important to note that the height of the crown can be adjusted to your preference or the size of the hat you want to make. If you are making a larger hat, you may want to make the crown taller to accommodate the extra size. Similarly, if you are making a smaller hat, you can adjust the height of the crown accordingly. The key is to ensure that the crown fits comfortably and that the hat has a proportional and aesthetically pleasing shape.

How many stitches to add

When crocheting a hat with plastic bags, you will need to add stitches on each row to shape the crown of the hat. The number of stitches to add will depend on the desired height of the crown. For a crown with a height of 4 to 4.5 inches, you can follow the example of a user who crochets summer hats and adds stitches on each row. This technique will ensure that your hat has a nice, rounded shape.

To determine the number of stitches to add for the desired crown height, you can use a simple formula. First, decide on the final number of stitches you want in your crown. Let's say you want to end up with 60 stitches. Then, divide that number by the desired height in inches. In this case, you would add 15 stitches per inch (60 stitches divided by 4 inches). This means you would increase by 15 stitches every row to achieve the desired height.

If you want a taller crown, you can adjust the number of stitches you add on each row accordingly. For example, if you want a 6-inch crown, you would add 10 stitches per inch (60 stitches divided by 6 inches). This will give you a slightly narrower increase, resulting in a taller crown. Experiment with different stitch increments to achieve the desired shape and size for your hat.

Remember that the key to shaping the crown is to increase the number of stitches evenly around the circle on each row. This will create a smooth and uniform shape. As you add more stitches, space them evenly to maintain the symmetry of the crown. You can distribute the added stitches uniformly by skipping a certain number of stitches between increases. For example, if you are increasing by 15 stitches, you can space them out by skipping 3 or 4 stitches between each increase.

How to shape the brim

To shape the brim of your hat, you will need to add stitches on each row. This will help to create a neat, curved edge. Begin by crocheting a chain that is long enough to fit around your head, or around a hat block if you are using one. Once you have reached the desired length, join the chain to form a circle.

Next, you will need to crochet around this circle, adding stitches as you go to create the brim. The number of stitches you add will depend on the desired width of your brim. For a wider brim, you will need to add more stitches. It is important to maintain an even tension as you work, to ensure that your brim lies flat and does not curl.

As you continue to crochet, you will begin to shape the brim by working two single crochet stitches into each stitch from the previous row. This will help to create a slight curve, giving your hat a more defined shape. Continue in this manner until you have reached the desired width for your brim.

Finally, to finish off the brim, you will need to crochet one more row without increasing the number of stitches. Simply crochet one single crochet stitch into each stitch from the previous row. This will create a neat, finished edge to your brim. After this, you can continue to crochet the body of your hat, working upwards to create the crown.

How to choose a crochet pattern

Choosing a crochet pattern for a hat can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be! Here are some tips to help you select the right pattern for your needs:

• Consider your skill level: If you're a beginner, look for patterns labelled as "beginner-friendly" or "easy. These patterns typically use basic stitches and straightforward construction methods, making them ideal for those new to crocheting.
• Choose the right yarn: The type of yarn you select will impact the look and feel of your hat. For a classic beanie, a 4-ply knitting worsted yarn made from acrylic or wool is a good choice. If you're a beginner, avoid fluffy or thick yarns, as they can be more challenging to work with.
• Determine the size: Before you begin, decide on the size of your hat. You can use standard guidelines or take head measurements for a more precise fit. Keep in mind that the circumference (forehead to back of the head) and height (ear to top of the head) are crucial measurements.
• Select an appropriate crochet hook: The size of your crochet hook will depend on the yarn you choose. For a 4-ply knitting worsted yarn, an H/8 aluminium hook is recommended. This size is comfortable to hold and versatile, accommodating multiple yarn sizes.
• Explore different hat styles: Crochet hats come in various styles, including beanies, slouchy hats, sun hats, and more. Consider the purpose of the hat and your personal preferences when selecting a style.
• Read through the pattern: Before committing to a pattern, take the time to read through the instructions. Ensure that the pattern is written clearly and that you understand the stitches and techniques required. This will help you avoid surprises or challenges midway through your project.
• Check for additional resources: Some patterns include video tutorials or step-by-step photos, which can be incredibly helpful, especially for beginners. Look for patterns that offer additional support to guide you through the crocheting process.
• Consider the time investment: Different patterns will vary in the time required to complete them. If you're short on time, look for patterns that are quick and easy to work up. Alternatively, if you're up for a longer project, choose a pattern that allows you to explore more intricate stitches and techniques.
• Think about your audience: Are you crocheting a hat for yourself or someone else? Consider the recipient's style, colour preferences, and any specific requirements they may have. This will help you select a pattern that aligns with their tastes and needs.

Frequently asked questions