Artisan Boho Crochet Plant Hanger with Trailing Vine Foliage-Transform your living space into a botanical sanctuary with this elegant, handcrafted plant hanger. This project combines structural basket-weaving techniques with delicate organic shaping to create a ‘String of Hearts’ style succulent that never needs watering. Designed for the modern home, this piece utilizes sturdy cotton cord to mimic the look of macrame while maintaining the intricate texture that only crochet can provide.
Materials Needed
- 100g 4mm Natural Cotton Cord for the basket and hanger
- 50g Worsted weight green cotton yarn for the foliage
- 3.5mm and 4.5mm crochet hooks
- Polyester fiberfill stuffing
- Large-eye tapestry needle
- Stitch markers
Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- sc: single crochet
- sl st: slip stitch
- inc: increase (2 sc in one stitch)
- dec: decrease (sc 2 together)
- BLO: back loop only
- mr: magic ring
- dc: double crochet
Step 1: Constructing the Planter Base
- Using the 4.5mm hook and cream cotton cord, create a magic ring and work 6 sc into the center.
- Round 2: Increase in every stitch around to reach a total of 12 stitches.
- Round 3: Work a pattern of (1 sc, 1 inc) around to reach 18 stitches, continuing the increase pattern until the base measures approximately 4 inches in diameter.
- Final Base Round: Work one round of sc in the Back Loop Only (BLO) to create a crisp ‘corner’ for the transition from the base to the walls.
- Ensure your tension is tight to provide a sturdy foundation that won’t sag when stuffed.
Step 2: Building the Basket Walls
- Continue working in continuous spirals of sc without joining rounds to avoid a visible seam.
- Work even rounds of sc until the walls reach approximately 3.5 inches in height.
- Check the fit of your internal stuffing or a small plastic pot insert to ensure the height is sufficient.
- In the final round, work a series of slip stitches around the rim to provide extra stability and a polished finish.
- Fasten off and weave in the ends securely using a tapestry needle.
Step 3: Crafting the Diamond-Lace Harness
- Attach the cream cord to the top rim of the basket and chain 15 to begin the first support strap.
- Work a series of long chains and slip stitches to create the diamond-shaped overlay visible on the exterior of the basket.
- Create four main vertical support cords by chaining 60 for each, then slip stitching back down to add thickness.
- Gather the four long cords at the top and join them with a secure knot or a wrapped ‘magic knot’ to form the hanging loop.
- Ensure all four straps are of equal length so the plant hanger hangs perfectly level.
Step 4: Crocheting the Trailing Vine Stems
- Switch to the 3.5mm hook and the green yarn to create the organic foliage elements.
- Begin by creating a foundation chain of varying lengths (ranging from 12 to 24 inches) to represent different vine lengths.
- Work slip stitches back along the chain to give the stem strength and a slightly irregular, natural appearance.
- Make approximately 8-12 separate vine stems to ensure the plant looks lush and full.
- Leave long tails at the start of each chain for easy attachment to the basket lid later.
Step 5: Forming the Teardrop Leaves
- Along each vine stem, identify points roughly 1.5 inches apart where the leaves will be attached.
- To make a leaf: (Ch 4, work 1 dc in the 3rd chain from hook, 1 sc in the next, sl st back into the stem).
- Vary the size of the leaves by using hdc (half double crochet) instead of dc for the leaves near the bottom of the vine.
- Mirror the leaves so they appear in pairs along the stem for a symmetrical, ‘String of Hearts’ aesthetic.
- Fasten off each leaf and use a needle to tuck any small stray threads into the body of the leaf.
Step 6: Final Assembly and Finishing Touches
- Create a flat circular ‘lid’ using the green yarn, matching the diameter of your basket opening.
- Sew the top of each vine securely to the green lid, spacing them out to drape over the sides naturally.
- Fill the basket with fiberfill stuffing and sew the green lid onto the rim of the basket using a whip stitch.
- Optional: Add a long tassel of cream cord to the very bottom of the basket for a classic bohemian finish.
- Adjust the vines so they cascade evenly between the harness straps and hang the piece in a bright corner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use acrylic yarn instead of cotton cord?
A: While you can, cotton cord is highly recommended for the basket and hanger because it has very little ‘give.’ Acrylic yarn may stretch over time under the weight of the stuffing and vines, causing the hanger to become distorted.
Q: How do I make the vines look more realistic?
A: The key to realism is irregularity. Make some vines significantly longer than others, and vary the spacing between the leaves. You can also use two slightly different shades of green yarn to add depth.
Q: How do I clean the crochet plant hanger if it gets dusty?
A: Since this is a decorative item with stuffing, avoid machine washing. Use a lint roller or a canned air duster for regular maintenance. If it needs a deep clean, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then air dry completely.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing your Artisan Plant Hanger! You’ve successfully blended structural crochet with delicate decorative elements to create a timeless piece of home decor. This ‘evergreen’ accent is perfect for those low-light corners where real plants struggle. Happy crocheting, and enjoy the botanical beauty you’ve brought to life!
