I was perusing through the web and discovered that there are alot of talented recycled designers out there. Of course, this isn't anything we didn't already know. But unless you use the right search words, they are hard to find. I found that unacceptable.
So my 2012 resolution was to create a website that was a directory of free pattern and tutorials links. By clicking on the picture of choice, you are linked directly to the designer's website, blog or Ravelry page. This way everyone leaves happy - the searcher of free pattern and/or tutorial links and the recycled designer.
A fellow crafter buddy, KristyRecycles aka Textiles4You, volunteered to make a YouTube video of my Front Post Pop Tab Plarn Bracelet. She did an awesome job and I know you'll enjoy it.
Kristy also has several other recycle craft videos that I know you'll enjoy. You have to check out her YouTube Channel ... Thank you Kristy!!!
My favorite type of bracelet is one made with pop tabs. It is very unique and yet versatile. I'm always trying to come up with different styles.
Here is a pop tab pattern I came up with:
Pop Tab Front Post Bracelet
SKILL LEVEL:Easy
MATERIALS: ·Crochet Hook – Size F ·Plastic Yarn:Approximately 2 standard size plastic grocery bags oIf using 2 different colors ,1 plastic bag for each color ·14 pop tabs (consistent in size)
Important Note:Not all plastic is made the same.When using plarn, achieving the desired size or gauge is dependent on the texture, thickness and strip width of the plastic yarn.
SIZE:Diameter – 10.25” around, 3” across CARE INSTRUCTIONS:Hand wash, air dry
Helpful Tips:
·Read through pattern instructions before beginning. ·See ‘Tutorials’ for instructions on how-to: oDouble Loop Cutting and Looping method ·Pop Tab hdcfp: Yo, insert hook through front of same pop tab back around to front of next pop tab, yo, pull back through front of 1st pop tab, yo and pull through all 3 sts on hook to complete hdc st. ·When using plarn, stretching your work after every couple of rows is important.This will give you a more realistic view of what you have completed up to that point. oInstructions:Grab the band at one end and with other hand grab band at beginning ch row, then give a slight pull. ·Plastic in general is susceptible to ripping/tearing due to its very nature. oWeaving in ends - it is best to maneuver your craft needle in between stitches and not through a stitch to avoid splitting the plastic yarn. ·The edged hole of the pop tab will be considered the 1st hole throughout this pattern and will always be placed under the previous pop tab.
Instructions: Round 1:Join with a sl st in 1st hole of pop tab, 2 sc in same hole.*Grab another pop tab and 3 sc in 1st hole,
*repeat for a total of 14 pop tabs or desired length to fit wrist. (Tip:If you’re making the bracelet for yourself, this is a good stopping point to measure around your wrist.)
Bring the ends together to form a circle making one more sc in the beginning pop tab.Join with sl st to 1st sc in same hole.If using a different color for Round 2 - fasten off, weave in end.
Round 2:Sc in same st and in next st, *hdcfp around same pop tab & in next pop tab (pop tab hdcfp: Yo, insert hook through the front of hole of same pop tab back around to front of next pop tab, yo, pull back through 1st pop tab, yo and pull through all 3 sts on hook to complete hdc st.).
Sc in next 2 sts, *repeat around to last pop tab.Join with a sl st to 1st sc.Fasten off, weave in ends.
Repeat Round 1 and 2 for opposite side of pop tab.
Last Stretch -With hands on opposite side of bracelet band, gently pull in opposite direction.Repeat this around.This will align the pop tabs more uniformly giving the bracelet a tailored-neat appearance.
