That sounds like one of those DIY upcycle trends you see on social media — people taking inexpensive plastic colanders (like from a dollar store) and weaving or macramé‑style wrapping them with cord to turn them into stylish and functional items.
Here’s what that trend actually is and why it’s popular:
🧶 What the Trend Is
People are taking plastic colanders (cheap, lightweight strainers) and using rope, twine, jute, cotton cord, or paracord to wrap, weave, or knot around them. The result can become:
- Hanging baskets
- Planter holders
- Decorative storage
- Pendant light shades
- Fruit or snack bowls
Typically the cord is woven through the holes in the colander and tied in patterns — similar to macramé techniques — to add strength and aesthetic appeal.
💡 Why It’s Popular
🌿 Cheap + Accessible
Dollar store colanders and inexpensive cord make this a budget‑friendly craft.
🛠️ Functional + Decorative
The finished pieces are useful (storage/planters) AND look more stylish than the original plastic item.
🎨 Easy to Customize
You can:
- Use bright or neutral cords
- Add beads or charms
- Paint the colander first
- Make different sizes
📲 Social Media Friendly
The transformation is visually satisfying — perfect for TikTok or Instagram before/after videos.
🪴 What People Are Making
Here are some popular uses:
- Hanging plant holders — the colander becomes a pot with drainage holes already built‑in.
- Storage baskets — for toys, kitchen tools, or bathroom supplies.
- Light fixtures — spray‑paint the colander and hang with lights for a unique pendant!
- Fruit bowls — cord weaving can make the bottom solid enough for fruit.
- Wall decor — mix colanders in various sizes and colors for a boho wall display.
🧵 How the Basic Weaving Works (Simple Overview)
- Choose a plastic colander with lots of evenly spaced holes.
- Pick a cord (jute, cotton rope, paracord).
- Start at the top edge: tie the cord through a hole.
- Work around and down, looping through holes to create a pattern.
- Tie off securely when finished.
- Trim ends or add tassels/beads.
If you want, I can give you a step‑by‑step pattern for making one into a hanging plant holder — just tell me what size and what material you have! 🌿🪴
