Plarned Wreath

Here is a way to use those ubiquitous plastic bags that are handed out at almost every store and market.  Of course, you can cut them apart, knot them into plarn, and crochet with them, but the holiday is coming, so consider making a wreath instead.

Many of the plastic bags are colorful, but the plain white or gray grocery store bags work just as well for plarn purposes.  As far as tools and materials go, all you need to begin with is a metal coat hanger, a lot of empty plastic bags, and a pair of scissors.  Now, the first part of this process can be rather tedious, but you get the material for free, and you don’t have to throw something non-biodegradable in the trash.

First of all, lay the bag out flat, and cut off the handles and the bottom section.  At this point, what you should have is a tube of plastic.  Fold the tube several times lengthwise and cut it into strips.  These can be about an inch wide, though some people like thinner ones.  In any case, try not to get them too thin or they will tear while you are trying to work with them.  When the strips are unfolded, they look like thin circles of plastic 

At this point, you will need a wire circle to attach the plastic too.  If you have an old wire lamp shade frame laying around, that will work.  Or you can use the metal coat hanger.  Pull the hanger open into a circle and use the hook at the top as the hanger for your finished wreath.

Now, take two of the plastic circles, fold them in half around the wire, and tie on the wreath.  Fluff out the plastic loops and continue.  When the wire is completely covered, you will have a passable Christmas wreath.  At this point, you might want to attach a bow or other holiday decorations.  I put crocheted snowflakes on mine.

Although these wreaths are not exactly elegant, they are especially suitable for outside doors.  The plastic is exceptionally durable and the rain or snow doesn’t damage them.  You can always spray paint them to give them a more holiday look.  If you want a wreath with more style, you can use the plastic wreath as stuffing, and cover it with material.

I cut up an old velveteen remnant and used it to cover the plarn by sewing it directly onto the wreath over the plastic.  It makes it easier to attach decorations if you bind the wreath at intervals with cord.  I used gold cord I got at the craft shop. 

With some plastic holly and pine cones, your refurbished wreath is done.  With the cloth cover, this will not be as suitable for outdoors, but it has a smoother look.

 And there you have a new Christmas wreath at almost no additional cost.  In addition, you have cleared out some plastic bags as well.