Let's Talk about Plarn

Plarn? What?

Yep — plarn is yarn made from plastic bags. It’s a super awesome way to recycle all those plastic shopping bags that would otherwise end up in the trash. Bonus: it’s ridiculously easy to make, and it’s the perfect “assembly line” task to give your non-crafty friend who still wants to help.

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Finding Bags Worthy of Plarn

Not all plastic bags are created equal. The best bags are:

• Clean and dry (no mystery crumbs, please)

• A bit thicker, but still flexible — grocery store bags are perfect

• Uniform in size, so your plarn will be even

My go-to: I usually shop pickup at Fry’s, so I end up with a lot of these bags (a plarn jackpot).

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How to Make Plarn

• Flatten & Smooth

  • Lay the bag flat and smooth out wrinkles.

• Fold Lengthwise

  • Fold it lengthwise 2–3 times until it’s a long strip.

• Cut the Ends

  • Cut off the handles and bottom seam so you have a neat tube.

• Make Loops

  • Cut the tube into 1–2 inch wide loops.

• Link the Loops

  • Take two loops. Pull one loop halfway through another.

  • Pull one end of the same loop through the other side to create a knot.

  • Tighten gently — and you’ve got your first piece of plarn!

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What Can You Make with Plarn?

Plarn is sturdy, washable, and surprisingly versatile:

• Crochet mats for the unhoused – My club at school made plarn and donated it to our local humanist society. They crocheted it into durable mats for our unhoused neighbors.

• Picnic or camping blankets – Water-resistant and easy to clean.

• Bags – I’ve made tote bags with mine.

• Baskets or storage bins – Keep their shape and hold up well.

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Why Plarn is Awesome

• Reduces plastic waste in a creative way

• Costs nothing but time

• A great group activity — even kids can help with cutting and looping

• Makes for incredibly durable, practical finished pieces

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Final Thoughts

Plarn is proof that crochet and knitting can be more than just art — they can be a way to help your community, reduce waste, and turn something disposable into something lasting.

If you make something with plarn, tag me — I’d love to see it! And if you’re curious about what hooks work best for plarn, I’ve linked my favorite jumbo crochet hooks here!

Until next time, happy stitching

—Hannah (and Miso & Olive)

Miso "helping"