How to Crochet an Easy Plant Hanger for Beginners

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Start the circle with a foundation chain

Chain 10 stitches with your worsted weight yarn and H-7 hook, then join with a slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring. This small ring becomes the very centre of the hanger's base, so keep the chain relaxed rather than tight — a snug foundation ring can be difficult to work the first round into.

Step 2 — Work the first round

Chain 3 (counts as your first double crochet), then double crochet 11 more times into the centre ring for a total of 12 stitches. Join the round with a slip stitch to the top of your starting chain 3. This first round of increases is what gives the base its flat, disc-like shape.

Step 3 — Work the second round

Chain 3 again, then double crochet into every single stitch around — one double crochet in each of the 12 stitches from the previous round — bringing your total to 24 stitches. Join with a slip stitch to close the round as before. The base should now lie flat with no cupping or rippling; if it's cupping, your stitches are too tight, and if it's rippling, they're too loose.

Step 4 — Switch stitches to stop the circle from growing

Chain 2, then work a half double crochet into each of the 24 stitches around. Switching from double crochet to the shorter half double crochet stitch stops the circle from expanding any further, locking in the base size. Single crochet into the first stitch to transition, then chain 30 and count six stitches along the edge. Single crochet into the seventh stitch to reattach the chain, forming the first of the hanging loops. Repeat this chain-30-and-reattach sequence around the remaining stitches, finishing by joining with a single crochet at or next to your first stitch. These evenly spaced chain-30 loops are what the tying cords will thread through in the next step.

Step 5 — Secure the last stitch

Chain 1 and pull the loop tight to fasten off, then cut the yarn and weave in this end before moving on to the tying assembly. This keeps the base secure while you work with the separate lengths of yarn needed for hanging.

Step 6 — Thread and tie the hanging cords

Cut three lengths of yarn, each 60 inches long, and fold each one in half to create a looped end with two open ends hanging below it. Take the looped end of one strand and pull it through until you have a single loop with the two tails hanging free. Slide one of the chain-30 loops from Step 4 underneath this loop, lift the loop up and over, then thread the tail ends through it and pull tight to cinch the folded yarn securely around the middle of that chain-30 loop. Repeat this same process for the remaining two strands and their corresponding chain-30 loops, spacing them evenly around the base.

Step 7 — Gather, braid, and weave in the ends

Gather all three tied strands together above the base and tie them in a single overhand knot about 14 inches up from the top of the circle — this knot is what will hold your pot in place. Below the knot, braid the remaining tails together; holding a weight at the bottom of the braid makes this easier to do alone if you don't have a second pair of hands to hold it taut. Once braided to your desired length, tie off with a final knot and trim the ends, leaving a bit of length for a rustic tassel look. Finish by weaving in any remaining loose ends with the tapestry needle. The completed hanger is sturdy enough to hold most plants in pots up to 8 inches.

Frequently asked questions

What is the pattern used to create the non-expanding circle?
The non-expanding circle is built with a simple half double crochet stitch worked into every stitch around, combined with chain stitches and slip stitches. Switching from double crochet to half double crochet on the final round is what stops the circle from continuing to grow outward.

What is the purpose of braiding the tails?
Braiding the gathered tails gives the hanger a rustic tassel effect at the bottom, adding a decorative, handmade touch. Holding a weight at the end of the braid makes the process easier if you don't have a second pair of hands to help.

What is the maximum pot size a crochet plant hanger can support?
A hanger made with worsted weight yarn like this one is strong enough to comfortably hold most plants in pots up to 8 inches in size.

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