How To Make A Removable Basket Liner and Handle Using a Plastic Jug

Let me show you how to make a removable basket liner and handle using a plastic jug. This is a great way to make your next crochet, fabric or knit basket into a sturdy design. Cut a strip from the plastic jug to use as for a sturdy handle. You can leave it as is or place single crochet stitches around the strip.

Let me show you the first steps to make a hard liner and sturdy handle for a crochet basket using a plastic jug.

I used an empty bleach jug that was rinsed and dried out. Of course you can use whatever plastic jug you would like.

Watch this video below and it will show you how to crochet the Half Star Easter Basket. If you would rather follow a written crochet pattern, you can find the free version RIGHT HERE.

I made a crocheted base of 10 HDC stitches in the round. I crocheted a total of 4 rounds which gave me 40 stitches.

If the jug you are going to use is larger, you can crochet 5 or 6 rounds. The base needs to come close to being the exact same size as the bottom of your jug.

Let’s move on to the beginning steps to add a removable plastic jug to your crochet basket.

1. If you want a liner that matches the Half Star Crochet basket, you can use a Great Value Bleach jug that is 2.53 qts. It will fit perfectly.
2. Place the jug on the inside of the basket you have made, to see if it’s a good finish.
3. After you put the basket on the jug, place a mark right at the top of the basket. You can use any ink pen.
4. Measure from that mark to the bottom of the jug using a tape measure.
5. Now it is time to take the wrapper off of the jug.
6. Use the measuring tape to show you where to place marks around the circumference of the jug.

The following steps will take you to the point of cutting out the strip for the handle.

There is so much you can do to upcycle a plastic jug. In the 1990’s a favorite technique was covering the entire jug with fabric, then adding flowers, lace and ribbon. They were beautiful in the bath or bedroom.

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If you would like to see how to add a crocheted covering to the handle and Easter fabric to the inside of the jug, watch the video below.

1. I like to use kitchen scissors, but you can use a utility knife if you would like.
2. Cut around the circumference of the jug.
3.Trim off any rough edges if there are any.
4. Try the basket on for size to see if it’s a good fit.
5. A bit of the plastic may peek out over the top and that is what you need, as the top edge of the basket hasn’t been added yet. Set the plastic liner aside for now.
6. Use the top of the jug that was cut off to make the handle. Measure and mark 1/2″ around the circumference.
7. Use the same kitchen shears or utility knife to cut off the handle strip.
8. Take a minute to see how the plastic handle will look on the basket. If it is too long cut off an inch or two at a time, until you get the length that you would like. My handle was 14″. Keep in mind that the ends of the handle needs to extend 1″ to 2″ below the rim of the basket.

If you are ready to dive in after reading this tutorial, here is a list of supplies you will need. But first, here is a photo tutorial on how to add fabric to the basket liner that you just made.

I am including the crochet supplies you need, just in case you want to make this exact same basket.

Supplies:
1. Bleach jug or round plastic container that is 5-5.5” inches in diameter and 16”-17” around, and is approximately 5.5”-6” tall or more. You will not use any more than 6” of the container.
2. Utility scissors to cut the plastic container.
3. Fabric Scissors
4. Measuring tape
5. Hot glue gun and glue sticks.
6. 22” x 22” piece of fabric
7. Pen for marking the cutting line.

Hooks:
L- 11/8mm
K 10.5/6.50mm (Optional)
H-8/5.00mm

Yarn: Hold two strands Red Heart Super Saver yarn Approx. 300-250 yds of MC – 75 yds of CC

I hope this tutorial along with the videos that you can access are a help to you. If you would like to purchase the ad free pdf for the Half Star Stitch Basket, Please CLICK HERE to purchase at Ravelry.

If you make this basket I would love it if you would come to my crafting and crochet group and share your photos with me.

I have designed many crochet baskets and more than a few have hard liners. If you would like to see them, please CLICK HERE.

I hope you enjoyed your time on my side of the mountain. I hope you will come again soon.

God Bless,

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COPYRIGHT STATEMENT This photo tutorial is protected by copyright© Krissys Over The Mountain Crochet 2025. Do not sell, alter or redistribute this tutorial or it’s photos in any way or form. 

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