I love a project that turns a cheap little find into something you’ll actually use every day, and this crochet storage tote does exactly that. By crocheting chunky burnt orange yarn right through the wire mesh of a white dollar store wire trash can, you end up with a sturdy basket-style tote that feels cozy, useful, and honestly a lot cuter than its humble beginning suggests.

This is a wonderful project for anyone who likes easy crochet, practical storage, and budget-friendly makeovers. I especially like this one for family spaces because it holds blankets, toys, extra kitchen towels, or even farmers market produce, and the wire can keeps its nice tall shape without any fussy sewing or complicated basket construction.

Materials laid out for a crochet storage tote made from a wire trash can
Materials laid out for a crochet storage tote made from a wire trash can

Materials

1 white wire mesh dollar store trash can, approximately 10 to 11 inches tall and 9 to 10 inches across the top

3 skeins chunky burnt orange yarn, category 5 bulky, 100 to 120 yards each, 300 to 360 yards total
1 crochet hook, size 8 mm
1 crochet hook, size 9 mm for looser edging and handles
1 pair sharp craft scissors
1 large yarn needle
2 lengths cotton twill tape or sturdy cotton webbing, 1 inch wide and 18 inches long each
1 small bottle clear matte spray sealer or brush-on sealer for the wire rim, optional
8 inches matching yarn for tying off and securing handle joins, optional

Instructions

1. Wipe the white wire trash can clean and check the rim for any rough spots; if needed, add a light coat of clear matte sealer around the cut wire areas and let it dry fully so the yarn glides smoothly.

2. Turn the trash can so it sits upright and decide where you want the front and back of the tote; I like to place the smoothest side forward because the crochet stitches show off best there.

3. Using the 8 mm hook, tie the yarn securely around one lower mesh opening about 1 inch up from the base, then single crochet through each mesh opening all the way around to create the first anchored round.

4. Work upward in even single crochet stitches, placing one stitch into each open mesh square and pulling the yarn snug enough to cover the wire well without warping the can’s shape.

5. Continue crocheting around and around, stacking the stitches so the white wire still peeks through just a bit behind the yarn texture; this gives you full cozy coverage while keeping the can recognizable and structured.

6. When you reach about halfway up, check the spacing and add an extra stitch in any wider mesh sections so the coverage stays dense and full rather than gappy.

7. Crochet to the top row of mesh, then switch to the 9 mm hook and work one final round through the top openings to soften the edge and make the rim look more finished.

8. Fold one 18-inch length of twill tape in half to form a handle and position the ends on opposite sides near the top rim; stitch each end firmly to the crocheted fabric and through the mesh with the yarn needle and matching yarn.

9. Repeat with the second 18-inch length on the other side, making sure both handles are the same height so the tote lifts evenly when filled.

10. Work a simple slip stitch edging all the way around the rim, covering the handle attachment points neatly and giving the top edge a polished, store-bought finish.

11. Weave in every yarn tail securely on the inside, then gently shape the tote with your hands so the sides sit straight and the opening stays round and generous.

12. Fill the tote with rolled throw blankets, toys, or extra linens to help it settle into shape, and let it sit overnight before regular use.

Finished crochet storage tote made from a white wire trash can styled in a cozy living room
Finished crochet storage tote made from a white wire trash can styled in a cozy living room

Variations & Tips

For toy storage: If you’re using this in a family room or playroom, make two matching totes so one can hold stuffed animals and the other can hold blocks or dress-up clothes. Kids are much more likely to help clean up when everything has a soft, easy-to-carry basket.

For picky color tastes: Burnt orange is beautiful and warm, but you can swap in olive, cream, mustard, or soft gray chunky yarn if you need it to blend into your room a little more.

For extra coverage: If your wire mesh openings are especially wide, use more yarn and work two stitches in every other opening on the widest rows so the finished tote looks plush and full.

For stronger handles: Cotton twill tape is easy to sew on, but narrow leather straps or sturdy canvas webbing also work well if you want a more grown-up look.

For a softer rim: Wrap the top wire edge with yarn before your final slip stitch round if the rim feels too hard in your hands; this adds a nice cushioned finish.

For cleaning: Because the tote has a wire frame, I spot-clean mine with a damp cloth and a drop of mild soap instead of washing the whole thing. It keeps the shape much nicer.