Plarn Shopping Bag-Recycling with Crochet

Have you heard of Plarn? It's a fun 'green' craft that uses strips of cut up plastic bags to crochet a sturdier (and cuter:@) Reusable Shopping Bag. The bag is worked in a continuous round and depending on the size you make comes together fairly quickly. I think these bags would be really cute little gifts, especially if you know someone that's passionate about recycling.

 

As usual I started with a great detailed tutorial HERE and kinda veered off in my own direction...

Tips:

• One thing I read over and over was "keep the stitches loose", I echo that.
• I used bags that all came from one store so the colors worked together. I did start another bag using all different colors from different stores and it didn't take long to see that was, um... really ugly!
• For this bag I chose an N hook and worked most of it in half double crochet, the very top and handle was double crochet. The tutorial uses a K hook.
• I do recommend two handles for stability (one on each side) instead of one across the middle.
• I'd say the bag is great for medium weight items and can carry a decent amount of things, it does stretch.
• Want a beach bag that the sand can be shaken out of and then hosed down? I think this would work...
• When the bag gets too beaten up and dirty, simply drop it into the recycling bin at the supermarket. 

Have a happy 4th of July everyone:@)

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