This colorful petite basket utilizes the tapestry method of crochet, sometimes called intarsia. When working a pattern in two (or more) colors, the unused color is carried until you need it again along inside the stitch for the used color so there is no stranding behind the work. This pattern builds on some of my previous tapestry designs to create a unique and useful basket that measures about 6.5” in diameter across the bottom and about 2” high. The pattern calls for 5 colors, but the color combinations are endless! Have fun and create your own color palette for any occasion, holiday, décor, or season. Match your home décor, or make a variety in fun colors to give as gifts for Christmas, Hanukkah, Birthdays, Mothers’ Day, Showers, and so many other occasions.

Skill Level: This is not a very difficult pattern but it does require some concentration to follow the instructions and count stitches so that your color work comes out right. Because it is worked in the round and with multiple colors, it wouldn’t be suitable as a first crochet project but I’ve tried to include enough details as well as photos of the first several color changes so that an advanced beginner with some experience can probably handle it. The pattern could be a good first color work project if you have some experience and are looking for a little bit of a challenge.

Materials:

Hook: G Hook (4.25 MM)

Note on gauge and hook size: Gauge is not that important for this project, although you want a fairly dense fabric and (other than the edging) you do not want holes between your stitches. Depending on how you crochet and the yarn you use, you may want to adjust your hook size. My gauge was 2 single crochet stitches and 2 rows equal about 1/2”. Since you are crocheting in the round, each 2 rows add about 1” to the diameter.

Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver. This is my “go to” inexpensive worsted weight acrylic craft yarn for baskets and such because it has body and durability (as well as endless color choices!). You can use any type of worsted weight yarn, including cotton, but I would probably avoid very soft yarns as you don’t want your basket to be droopy. You don’t need a lot of yarn, so it is a good stash buster project! Here are the estimated amounts and the colors used in the two baskets shown:

Color A 12 yds Light Sage Light Periwinkle
Color B 25 yds Burgundy Soft Navy
Color C 10 yds Gold Buff
Color D 6 yds Real Teal Light Sage
Color E 6 yds Lavender Aran

Note on yardage:  There are 364 yards in each skein of the Red Heart Super Saver.  Five skeins of this yarn are more than enough to make several baskets.  

Stitch Markers

Tapestry Needle (for weaving in ends)
Stitches

Chain CH
Single Crochet SC
Slip Stitch SS
Back Loop Single Crochet BLSC (work a SC in the back loop only)