This pattern has detailed instructions and photos for making this colorful checkered striped basket. The checkered pattern utilizes the tapestry method of crochet, sometimes called intarsia. This color work method creates an almost reversible fabric and is perfect for a project, such as this basket, where the work will be able to be seen on both sides.

This pattern is similar to my checkerboard basket pattern but creates more of a stripe with the checkered pattern. This pattern is probably a little easier if you are a beginner and the pdf has more photos than the pdf for my checkerboard pattern.

From this pattern you will be able to crochet a versatile oval basket that is perfect for Easter, Purim, Mothers’ Day, Showers, Weddings, and so many occasions. It makes a great gift basket or a basket to hold a potted plant or an arrangement of flowers.

I was really drawn to the deep spring colors pictured which were inspired by the beautiful flowers starting to bloom in my South Carolina backyard. Of course, you don’t have to follow my color scheme. Have fun and create your own color palette for any season.

My pattern calls for an inexpensive worsted weight acrylic craft yarn so that it will be stiff enough to stand up on its own. You can use other worsted weight yarn, such as a coarse wool, but soft yarns, such as merino wool, silk, cotton or blends would probably not be suitable if you want it to stand up like a basket.

The finished size is about 7” across, 4.5” wide and 5.5” tall.

Skill Level: This is not a very difficult pattern but it does require a good bit of concentration to follow the instructions and count stitches so that your color work comes out right. I wouldn’t undertake it as a first crochet project but I’ve tried to include enough details and photos so that an advanced beginner with some experience can probably handle it. The checkerboard pattern is probably a good first color work project if you have not done color work before.

Materials:

G Hook (4.25 MM) Note on gauge and hook size: Gauge is not that important for a basket, although you do not want holes between your stitches. I used a G hook because I crochet rather loosely, so I almost always go down one size to obtain gauge when I follow directions. If you crochet pretty tightly or if you usually obtain gauge with the hook suggested in a pattern, then you might want to use an H hook. My gauge was 6 single crochet stitches equal about 2” and 3 rows equal about 1”.

1 skein each of Red Heart Super Saver in the following colors:
Jade
Bright Yellow
Light Periwinkle
Light Raspberry
Medium Purple

Note on yardage: If you use another brand of worsted weight yarn or leftover yarn from your stash, I’d estimate about 50 yards of each color.

Tapestry Needle (for weaving in ends)

I work very hard to ensure the accuracy of my instructions and I am always happy to answer any questions and try to help you work through any issue you might have with the pattern.