DIY Knitted Mitten Keychain: A Fun and Easy Plastic Craft

Updated at: 31/05/2025

Looking for a charming and unique accessory to add a touch of handmade whimsy to your keys? Then look no further! This DIY project guides you through creating adorable knitted mitten keychains, a surprisingly simple craft that utilizes readily available plastic yarn. Forget intricate patterns and complex techniques; this project is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, promising a quick and satisfying crafting experience. The vibrant colours and cozy mitten design are guaranteed to inject personality into your everyday carry.

These miniature knitted mittens are surprisingly easy to make, even if you've never picked up knitting needles before. Using plastic yarn ensures durability and a playful pop of color, and the entire process is designed to be quick and straightforward. Ready to transform simple plastic yarn into a delightful keychain? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Plastic of different colors
  • Keychain pin
  • Key ring
  • Craft knife
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when using sharp objects like scissors or knitting needles.
  • Avoid using recycled plastic that may contain harmful chemicals. Ensure the plastic you use is food-safe and designed for crafting.
  • Thoroughly wash your hands after handling plastic and crafting materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mitten Design and Cutting

    • Draw a mitten shape on plastic.
    • Cut out the mitten shape.
    • Cut out another mitten piece.
    Cut out another mitten piece.Cut out another mitten piece.Cut out another mitten piece.
    Mitten Design and Cutting

  2. Plastic Roll Preparation and Twisting

    • Prepare thin rolls of plastic in different colors.
    • Twist rolls of different colors in opposite directions (clockwise and counterclockwise).
    Twist rolls of different colors in opposite directions (clockwise and counterclockwise).Twist rolls of different colors in opposite directions (clockwise and counterclockwise).
    Plastic Roll Preparation and Twisting

  3. Creating the Knitted Texture

    • Arrange the twisted rolls on the mitten stencil to resemble a knitting pattern.
    Arrange the twisted rolls on the mitten stencil to resemble a knitting pattern.
    Creating the Knitted Texture

  4. Assembling the Mitten

    • Layer the two mitten pieces and trim the edges.
    • Add details to make the mitten look realistic.
    Add details to make the mitten look realistic.Add details to make the mitten look realistic.
    Assembling the Mitten

  5. Adding the Outline

    • Roll a flat strip of plastic to outline the mitten.
    • Attach the plastic strip around the edges of the mitten.
    Attach the plastic strip around the edges of the mitten.Attach the plastic strip around the edges of the mitten.
    Adding the Outline

  6. Finishing and Baking

    • Attach a keychain pin.
    • Bake the mitten for 8 minutes at 230°F.
    Bake the mitten for 8 minutes at 230°F.Bake the mitten for 8 minutes at 230°F.
    Finishing and Baking

  7. Attaching the Key Ring

    • Attach a chain with a key ring.
    Attach a chain with a key ring.
    Attaching the Key Ring

Read more: Easy Clay Heart Sculpting: From Charm to Button

Tips

  • N/A

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tension

Reason: Inconsistent tightness while knitting leads to a misshapen mitten.
Solution: Practice maintaining a consistent tension throughout the knitting process.

2. Incorrectly Sizing the Mitten

Reason: Knitting a mitten too large or too small for the keychain ring.
Solution: Carefully measure the keychain ring before starting and adjust your knitting pattern accordingly.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for making these keychains?
Plastic yarn (sometimes called plarn) is ideal because it's durable, comes in various colors, and holds its shape well. Avoid using traditional wool or cotton yarns as they may be too delicate for a keychain.
Can I use different knitting needle sizes?
While the specific needle size isn't critical, using needles that are too large will result in a loose, floppy mitten, and needles that are too small will make it difficult to knit and create a tight, possibly inflexible keychain. Using a needle size recommended for your chosen plastic yarn weight is suggested for the best results.