6 Useful Crochet Projects That Actually Save You Money

I love when people ask me about the "practical side" of crochet.

Sure, we all started because we wanted to make beautiful blankets and cozy sweaters.

But you know what? Some of my favorite projects are the ones that actually help my budget too.

If you're like me and you've been buying yarn with the best intentions (hello, stash!), these projects are perfect for using what you already have while making things that replace stuff you'd normally buy at the store.

Here are six crochet projects that literally pay for themselves, and I've made several of these multiple times.

1. Reusable Dishcloths & Scrubbies

This is hands-down my number one recommendation if you're new to "practical crochet."

I used to go through so many paper towels and sponges every week. Now? I have a little basket of cotton dishcloths that I rotate through, and honestly, it feels fancier than using disposable stuff.

What I use: Cotton or cotton-blend yarn (I love Lily Sugar 'n Cream for this)

Pro tip: Use scrubby yarn if you want extra cleaning power

The best part is that one $2-3 skein makes several dishcloths that last for years. I've been using some of mine for over two years now, and they're still going strong.

Here are a few crochet dishcloths and washcloths patterns for you to check out:

2. Market Bags & Grocery Totes

Here's what I discovered after my third store-bought reusable bag fell apart: I could make much better ones myself.

I've gotten really into making these oversized market bags with cotton yarn. They're perfect for grocery runs, trips to the farmer's market, or even as beach bags.

My go-to yarn: 100% cotton in a sturdy weight like Lily Sugar N Cream or Dishie.

Bonus: Some stores give you a discount for bringing your own bags!

The funny thing is, I started making these to use up leftover cotton yarn, but now I actually plan yarn purchases around making more bags. They make great gifts, too.

Check out this round-up of crochet market bag patterns.

3. Swiffer Pad Covers

This might sound unusual, but hear me out...those Swiffer refills are so expensive!

I keep looking at those expensive Swiffer refills at the store and thinking there has to be a better way.

Crocheting covers that fit right over the mop head seems like such a smart solution. You'd just toss them in the wash and reuse them instead of constantly buying new pads.

Pattern: Check out this free pattern from Heart Hook Home.

Game-changer tip: Make 3-4 covers so you can rotate while others are in the wash

One afternoon of crocheting replaced months of buying refills. That's my kind of math.

4. Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

I keep telling myself I'm going to make these! Every time I buy another pack of cotton rounds, I think about how much money I could save with reusable face scrubbies.

They look so quick to make; the kind of project you could crochet a whole set of while watching a movie.

I'm picturing keeping them in a cute little basket in my bathroom and tossing used ones in a mesh laundry bag. (There are actually some great patterns for these in my eco-friendly crochet patterns post if you want to tackle them before I do!)

Perfect yarn: Soft cotton or bamboo yarn (trust me, your face will thank you)

Pro tip: Make them in different colors so you can keep face and makeup removal pads separate

One skein can give you 10-15 scrubbies that last forever. Way gentler on your skin and my wallet.

5. Draft Stoppers (Door Snakes)

If you live in an older house, drafts around the doors can make your heating bill crazy.

These are basically long, skinny tubes that you lay along door bottoms or window sills. Super simple to make, but they make such a difference in keeping warm air in and cold air out.

I love this cat design draft stopper from Moogly.

Stuff it with: Rice, dried beans, or even yarn scraps (zero waste!)

Best part: No installation needed. Just plop them down where you need them

You can also make one for every exterior door in your house, and watch your energy bills go down.

6. Handmade Gifts

This isn't one specific project, but it's been my biggest money-saver over the years.

I've gotten into the habit of browsing my yarn stash whenever I need a gift. A cozy crochet scarf, some dishcloths in a cute basket, or a simple beanie usually costs me $2-$15 in materials versus $25-$50 for something store-bought.

My favorites to make: Beanies, scarves, potholders, coasters, and washcloths

Plus, it's a great excuse to actually use the yarn I've been hoarding...I mean, carefully collecting.

My Money-Saving Crochet Tips

After years of making practical projects, here's what I've learned works:

Shop your stash first. I always check what yarn I already have before buying anything new.

Buy yarn off-season. I stock up during summer clearance sales and post-holiday markdowns.

Focus on daily-use items. The projects you use every day give you the biggest bang for your buck.

Ready to Start Saving?

The thing I love most about these projects is that they're not just budget-friendly, they're actually useful. You'll reach for these handmade items every day, and each time you do, you'll remember that your crochet hobby is working for you.

Whether you're making your first set of dishcloths or your tenth market bag, these projects prove that crochet can be both cozy and smart.

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