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Recycling Clothing for Crochet + Free Crochet Pattern: Rebel Mesh Tote

  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read
A white crochet tote bag overlaid with black mesh. Cut strips of a purple and red plaid shirt are woven into the mesh along with chains and safety pins. This is the Rebel Mesh Tote by CouleeCraft.
The Rebel Mesh Tote

Happy Earth Day, pals!


The push to consume consume consume in all areas of our lives is a sickness driven by capitalism that is within our power to curb. I see it sink its nasty fingers into our hobbies: "Buy this!"

"Get this!"

"You need this!"


As much as I adore supporting our beloved fiber makers, I want to recognize that you do not need to get a New Shiny Skein to make something awesome. ✨


Grab some worsted from your stash and start looking at your wardrobe with fresh eyes.


Got a shirt that doesn't fit right? Something that's too worn or stained to donate or pass on to someone else? Well, cut that garment into strips, tie or sew them together, and weave it into something mesh!


Alternative view of the Rebel Mesh Tote showing the recycled pocket from the shirt that was cut up and woven into the bag tied to the front of the tote.
Add broken jewelry and preserve garment pockets to tie on for unique flair!

Items that make great fabric strips:

  • Button up shirts

  • T-shirts

  • Sheets

  • Tablecloths

  • Jeans


Knitted or crochet mesh sweaters, tops, bags, and wall art are all great candidates for upcycling your unwanted clothing into something new. I designed the Rebel Mesh Tote with repurposing of this nature in mind! It has a solid inner tote bag with a mesh overlay to act as a canvas for your recycled clothing weaving adventures.



The sample pictured was crocheted with Remix by Berocco - a 100% recycled yarn that you absolutely do not need to buy to make this project. Any sturdy, worsted yarn will do to crochet up the Rebel Mesh Tote.


While you are raiding your closet, raid your jewelry box and junk drawer of broken bits and bobs you can add on to you bag. My rendition went for a more grunge look with chains and safety pins, but you can easily tweak this to whatever your vibe is.


Enjoy the free pattern! Remember, the most sustainable supplies to use are the ones you already have at home. I cannot wait to see what you create! Tag me on Instagram, BlueSky, and Ravelry with your makes, I'm @CouleeCraft on all the places. 😉


Stay crafty!

-Carolyn


 
 
 

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