Over the past few years we have received numerous emails from crafters who want to know how to crochet with pull-tabs. This DIY Tutorial will teach you how to make a pull-tab flower. The flower can be made into a Christmas tree ornament, a brooch or incorporated into a bigger project.

To download a printable version, click here »

• 6 pull-tabs
• Crochet thread (1 or 2 colors). We recommend a strong synthetic fiber that is resistant to abrasion
• Lighter
• Scissors
• Wire cutters
• No 3 crochet needle

Step 2: Prepare Your Pull-Tabs

Choose tabs that are in good condition. Wash them until they are clean and shiny. Use the wire cutters to remove any sharp edges.

Step 3: Start Crocheting

Begin crocheting the center of the flower using a single stitch to cover the 'thin side' of the tab (top figure) (the side that's pulled when a can is opened). Repeat this step, joining all 6 pull-tabs in a line. (bottom figure).

Step 4: Connect the Circle

Pull the line of tabs into a circle and crochet them together (top figure). Fill in the middle space with single stitches until it forms the center of the flower (bottom figure). Cut the thread leaving a small tail. Burn the thread's end with the lighter to prevent the thread from fraying.

Step 5: Add Color to the 'Petals'

Cover the outer ring of the pull-tab using a double stitch with different colored thread. There are 22 double stitches per tab.

Step 6: Cover and Connect

Cover all tabs in this same manner, connecting each of the petals together.

Step 7: Finish the Flower

When the last tab is covered, join it to the first one with a single stitch. Finish it off by burning the end of the thread to prevent fraying. You're done!

Some ideas for your finished flower:

• Sew or hot glue a pin on the back to create a brooch
• Attach a loop of thread to create a snowflake holiday ornament
• Crochet many flowers together to form a wall hanging or a scarf.