Plarn Ear Saver – Free Crochet Pattern

This is a free crochet pattern for how-to crochet an easy ear saver worked in plarn, or recycled plastic bags.

I have been trying to use up my existing yarn stash, rather than buying new yarn. One of the things in my yarn stash is a collection of plastic shopping bags that have holes in them, and are just waiting to be turned into plarn (AKA plastic yarn), and crocheted with.

I reached out to friends and family asking for suggestions of what to make with it, and one of my cousins reached out asking if I could make her some ear savers with it. Of course!

I made one for each of my family members that are nurses, and sent to them for Mother’s Day.

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Materials:

• 13 1″ Strips – I find this takes 1 – 2 bags
• K10.5/6.5mm Crochet Hook
• #18 Tapestry Needle for Weaving in Ends
• #20 or #22 Tapestry Needle for Sewing on Buttons
• 2 5/8″ – 1″ Size Buttons
• Sewing Thread – I recommend Silamide

Material Notes:

How to Make Plarn – Photo Tutorial

The best option for thread is silamide thread. This is a durable, waxy 2-ply nylon thread. If you use this, you will only need to cut 2 strands, and double. If you use a regular sewing thread, like an all-purpose one, you will need to cut 3 strands, and double.

Time Spent:

15 Minutes

Measurements:

5.25″ (6″) Wide

Abbreviations:

• HDC – Half Double Crochet

Ear Saver Pattern:

Chain 17 (21). 2 HDC into the 2nd chain, HDC into the next 14 (18) chains, 3 HDC into the last chain, now working on the opposite side of the foundation chain: HDC into the next 14 (18) chains, HDC into the same as the 1st (to equal 3). Slip stitch join to the first HDC. [34 (42) HDC]

Fasten off, and weave in ends.

Add the Buttons – One on Each End:

Cut thread (see material notes), thread needle, and double knot the bottom.

Run your needle under several stitches, similar to if you were weaving in ends, but at the end, insert your needle through the center of one strands catching it in the plastic to secure. Weave back and worth at least two more times.

Work into the holes of your buttons working 4 – 5 passes for a 4 hole button, and 5 – 6 passes for a 2 hole button, then insert needle through fabric, but not the button, and wrap it around the space that is in between the fabric, and the button. By wrapping it, you are creating a shank over the existing stitches you just worked, which is going to add strength to the button, as well as lift it a little from the fabric so it’s easier to use without stressing the stitching.

Weave in the end in a similar way to securing it on.

Please feel free to make and sell your own Plarn Ear Savers, but please DO NOT claim this pattern as your own nor should you sell my pattern, and DO NOT re-publish my photos as your own. DO NOT copy and paste my pattern anywhere, link to it instead.

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