Instructions for Pull Tab Crochet

Pair crochet tools with pull tabs for eye-catching items.

Pull tabs from the tops of soda and energy drink cans to make funky crocheted accessories and decor items. You won't need too many supplies and your ability to come up with designs is limited only by your imagination. You should be comfortable working with wire cutters and a lighter. You also need to know how to make a slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet and decrease in the round.

Things You'll Need

• 6 pop-top pull tabs
• Wire cutters
• Size 3 crochet hook
• Nylon or other synthetic crochet thread, two colors your choice
• Scissors
• Cigarette lighter

Instructions

1. Select tabs that are in good condition--not bent. Remove sharp edges with the wire cutters. Wash the tabs so you remove any dried juice or soda residue, then let them dry.

2. Choose one color of crochet thread and begin crocheting single crochet stitches into the thinner, "pull" side of a pop top. Make as many single crochet stitches as will fit comfortably on the tab. Without finishing off, line up another tab and continue the line of single crochet stitches on the new tab. Continue until you have created a chain of six tabs.

3. Manipulate the line of pull tabs into a circle. Crochet the two end pull tabs together using single crochet stitches. Crochet single crochet stitches into the center of the pull tabs so you create the center of a flower. Decrease stitches on each round to fill in the circle. On the last stitch, crochet a slip stitch and fasten off. Cut the thread then carefully burn the end to stop fraying.

4. Pick up the second color of crochet thread and begin crocheting the outer edge of each pull tab with double crochet stitches. Crochet 22 double crochet stitches per pull tab.

5. Crochet each tab with 22 double crochet stitches and connect each tab together with a single crochet stitch. After you've finished crocheting the last tab, connect it to the first tab with a single crochet stitch. Make a slip stitch, fasten off and cut the thread then burn it with the lighter carefully.

Tips & Warnings

• Attach this flower to a hat, use as a brooch, or make several flowers and crochet them together as a belt.

• Work carefully with the wire cutters and cigarette lighter so you don't hurt yourself.

References

• Escama Studio: How to Crochet with Pop Tops
• Craft Yarn Council: Crochet 911-Decrease