14 Knitting Basket Free Patterns You Can Make Today
If you love home accents that are as practical as they are pretty, knitted baskets are a perfect project. They add a cozy handmade touch to shelves, desks, and ottomans while organizing everything from yarn scraps to remote controls. The beauty of knitting baskets is that you can tailor them to any space, using colors, textures, and yarn weights you already have on hand. Below you’ll find fourteen original, free knitting basket patterns designed to give you a variety of styles—garter-stitch simplicity, ribbed structure, moss stitch texture, and even a felting option for extra-sturdy storage. Each pattern includes material lists, gauge guidance, finished size, and clear instructions so you can start right away.
Introduction: Why Knit Baskets and How to Choose Your Pattern
Knitted baskets strike a balance between form and function. They’re sturdy without needing heavy hardware, and you can customize them to fit your home style—scandinavian minimal, rustic, bright and playful, or calm and pastel. When choosing a pattern, consider:
– Weight of yarn: Heavier yarns (bulky or super bulky) make sturdier baskets, especially for storing heavier items. Lighter weights work well for delicate organizers and decorative pieces.
– Knit technique: Simple garter stitch or moss stitch baskets are forgiving and durable. If you want more texture, try ribbing or slip-stitch patterns.
– Finish and lining: A fabric lining inside your basket can protect delicate items and give a pop of color. You can also felt certain yarns to create ultra-sturdy, washable baskets.
– Size and shape: Round, square, and rectangular baskets each suit different storage needs. Decide whether you want a bottom that’s flat and stable or a softer, flexible form.
General tips for success:
– Use a sturdy yarn with good stitch definition. Wool blends, cotton blends, or wool/acrylic blends work well for baskets.
– Go for a tight gauge; if your stitches are loose, consider going down a needle size to increase stability.
– If you’re new to shaping, start with round baskets that begin with a flat base and gentle increases, then build up the walls.
– Block lightly after finishing to even out the fabric, but avoid overstretching.
Pattern 1: Simple Garter Stitch Storage Basket
Overview: A beginner-friendly, sturdy basket with a flat base and tall sides, knitted in garter stitch for durability.
Materials:
– Worsted weight yarn, about 300–350 yards (275–320 m)
– Circular needles, 16″ (40 cm), size US 7 (4.5 mm)
– Stitch markers (optional)
– Yarn needle for seaming
Gauge: About 4 stitches per inch (in garter stitch)
Finished size: Approximately 9 inches (23 cm) in diameter and 4 inches (10 cm) tall
Abbreviations: k = knit, p = purl, CO = cast on, BO = bind off
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 40 stitches. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist.
– Round 1–6: Knit all stitches (garter stitch forms naturally in the round).
– Body: Continue knitting in garter stitch until the tube measures about 4 inches tall from the base.
– Finish: Bind off loosely. Fold the bottom edge if you’d like to smooth the transition, or seam the side edges with a mattress stitch for a cleaner look.
– Optional lining: Cut a fabric circle to fit the base, stitch to the inside for durability and a neater finish.
Tips: If your yarn is very thick, you might finish with a slightly shorter height. If you want a taller basket, simply keep knitting in garter stitch until you reach your desired height.
Pattern 2: Striped Knit Basket with I-Cord Handles
Overview: A cheerful, medium-sized basket featuring color changes and neat I-cord handles for easy carry.
Materials:
– Worsted weight yarn in two colors (about 600–700 yards total)
– Circular needles, 16″ (40 cm), US 7 (4.5 mm)
– Darning needle
– I-cord consistent with handle length (about 6–8 inches per handle)
Gauge: About 4 stitches per inch
Finished size: Approximately 9 inches in diameter, 5 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 40 sts, join in the round. Work 6 rounds garter stitch to form a base.
– Stripes: Switch colors every 8 rounds to create bold stripes. Continue until your piece is about 5 inches tall.
– Handles: When the basket is complete, pick up 20 stitches along opposite sides for each handle. Work I-cord handles to about 6 inches, then seam ends into the body of the basket with a few neat stitches.
– Finishing: Weave in ends and, if desired, block lightly.
Variations: Change stripe width for a more subtle or dramatic look. You can also use a self-striping yarn to get stripes without changing colors.
Pattern 3: Seed Stitch Basket with Decorative Edge
Overview: A sophisticated, textured basket using seed stitch for a soft, sturdy surface. A crisp, rolled edge adds a finished touch.
Materials:
– DK weight yarn, about 350–420 yards
– Straight needles or circulars to accommodate a flat base and height, US 6 (4.0 mm)
– Stitch markers
Gauge: About 22 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches in seed stitch
Finished size: Approximately 8 inches by 8 inches base, height about 5 inches
Abbreviations: rs = right side, ws = wrong side
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 28 stitches. Work in seed stitch (k1, p1) every row, alternating rows as needed to maintain seed pattern.
– Increase for base: After 6–8 rounds, gradually increase by 4 stitches every other row (evenly spaced around the edge) until the base reaches about 8 inches square. Then work even in seed stitch for 4–5 inches of height.
– Top edge: For a decorative edge, bind off with a gentle, loose edge, or roll butting with a light blocking.
Finishing: Weave in ends. Optional lining for a cleaner look.
Pattern 4: Ribbed Basket with Fold-Over Rim
Overview: A classic ribbed texture provides stability; the fold-over rim gives a refined finish and a bit of height.
Materials:
– Worsted/bulky weight blend (about 500 yards)
– Circular needles, US 8 (5.0 mm), 16″ length
– Stitch markers
Gauge: About 4 stitches per inch in stockinette with ribbing
Finished size: Approximately 9 inches in diameter, 6 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 40 stitches. Work 2 rounds in K2, P2 rib to create a stretchy base, then continue in stockinette until base is 3–4 inches wide.
– Sides: Switch to K2, P2 rib for the main walls for about 5–6 inches, then continue in ribbing for another 2 inches.
– Rim: Fold over the top 2 inches to create a neat rim; if you wish, purl those inside stitches before folding for a crisp edge.
– Finishing: Weave in ends; press gently to flatten the base.
Pattern 5: Felted Wool Basket (Bulky Yarn)
Overview: A sturdy, washable basket once felted. Ideal for heavy items like magazines or toys.
Materials:
– Bulky weight yarn (100% wool recommended), 400–600 yards
– Large-diameter knitting needles (US 10.5–11, 6.5–8.0 mm) or a pattern-specific size
– Washing machine for felting
– Optional fabric lining for finishing
Gauge: Not applicable after felting; focus on initial size
Finished size (before felting): About 9 inches tall and 9 inches across when flat
Pattern:
– Cast on a large tube: Cast on 60–80 stitches (depending on your gauge). Work garter stitch or stockinette in the round for around 8–12 inches, forming a tall tube.
– Close and felt: Bind off, then place the piece into a hot wash cycle with a small amount of detergent. Check frequently and felt until the basket reaches your desired size and density.
– Finishing: Dry flat; while damp, shape to a circular form and line if desired.
Note: Felted baskets are excellent for rustic or modern looks, but they won’t be as precise for small items.
Pattern 6: Denim-Look Basket with Moss Stitch
Overview: A sturdy, textured basket with a casual denim-inspired look using moss stitch.
Materials:
– Cotton or wool-blend yarn in a denim-like blue (about 500–600 yards)
– Convertible or straight needles US 6 (4.0 mm)
– Stitch markers
Gauge: About 20 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches in moss stitch
Finished size: Roughly 9 inches square base, 5 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base: CO 36 stitches. Work evenly in moss stitch (alternating moss stitch on WS and RS) until the base measures about 9 inches square.
– Sides: Continue moss stitch in rows for about 5 inches to create walls.
– Finishing: Bind off loosely, seam any gaps, and weave in ends. Optional lining to tidy the interior.
Pattern 7: Floral Trim Round Basket
Overview: A round basket with a delicate decorative floral trim along the top edge.
Materials:
– Light worsted weight yarn (about 500–600 yards)
– Circular needles US 7 (4.5 mm), 16″
– Fine contrast yarn for trim
– Beading needle (optional, for added texture)
Gauge: About 4 stitches per inch in garter stitch
Finished size: Approximately 9 inches in diameter, 4–5 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 40 stitches, work in garter stitch for a round base (increase evenly to form the circle, then continue until base reaches 9 inches).
– Sides: Work even in garter stitch for 4 inches.
– Floral trim: Switch to the lighter color and, with the contrast yarn, pick up stitches along the top edge and create a faux floral edge using simple increases and decreases to form petal shapes. If desired, add a row of decorative crochet or knit I-cord to resemble stems.
– Finishing: Bind off, weave in ends, and block gently.
Pattern 8: Small Office Desk Organizer Basket
Overview: A compact, four-compartment organizer to keep pens, scissors, and small notes tidy.
Materials:
– DK weight yarn (about 450–550 yards)
– Straight needles US 6 (4.0 mm) or US 7 (4.5 mm) for a looser fabric
– Four small boxes or dividers for inside; optional fabric liner
Gauge: About 22 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches in moss stitch
Finished size (per compartment): About 4–4.5 inches square and 3–4 inches tall
Pattern:
– Build four panels: Knit four rectangular panels of roughly 4×4.5 inches using moss stitch.
– Create sides: Seam the panels into a shallow box using a mattress stitch, with a small gap at the top for a clean finish.
– Optional interior dividers: Add a thin fabric liner to give each compartment structure, or knit a few more tiny panels to insert as dividers.
– Handles: If you want to move the organizer, add small fabric handles or a narrow I-cord handle along the top edge.
Pattern 9: Round Plant Pot Cover Basket
Overview: A charming plant pot cover that doubles as a small decorative basket.
Materials:
– Light worsted yarn (about 350–450 yards)
– Circular needles US 8 (5.0 mm), 16″
– Optional pom-pom or tassel for corner decoration
Gauge: About 20 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches
Finished size: Intended to fit standard 4–6 inch plant pots (adjust by gauge)
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 40 stitches; work in garter stitch until base measures about 8–9 cm across.
– Sides: Switch to stockinette or garter stitch for height as desired (roughly 5–6 inches tall overall).
– Top edge: Fold the top edge back to create a neat cuff; secure with a few stitches at the inside to maintain shape.
– Finishing: Weave ends; place pot inside; adjust for a snug fit.
Pattern 10: Travel Yarn Basket with Drawstring Top
Overview: A lightweight, portable yarn basket with a drawstring top to keep yarn from rolling off a table.
Materials:
– Light worsted or DK weight yarn (about 500–600 yards)
– Circular needles US 7 (4.5 mm), 16″
– Thread for drawstring or a single long i-cord
Gauge: About 4 stitches per inch
Finished size: Approximately 9 inches in diameter, 7 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base and body: Cast on 40 stitches. Work about 6 rounds in garter stitch to form a flat base, then continue in garter stitch for a few inches to build walls.
– Drawstring top: When the basket reaches the desired height, switch to a lighter yarn or change to a thinner stitch for the top 1–2 inches. Thread a cord through the upper edge or use I-cord to finish the drawstring channel.
– Finishing: Weave ends; add a small fabric lining if desired for extra stabilization.
Pattern 11: Under-Bed Storage Basket
Overview: A larger basket ideal for under-bed storage, designed with sturdy walls and a flat bottom.
Materials:
– Bulky or chunky yarn (about 700–900 yards)
– Large needles US 11–13 (8–9 mm) for a dense fabric
– Optional lining material
Gauge: Roughly 3–4 stitches per inch, depending on yarn
Finished size: About 12–14 inches in diameter, 6–8 inches tall (adjust yardage to reach your target size)
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 48 stitches. Work in stockinette or garter stitch to form a flat circular base of your chosen diameter.
– Walls: Switch to a dense stitch (either garter or a compact moss stitch) for the walls for stability, continuing until the height is reached.
– Finishing: Bind off loosely; you may line or add a light interfacing for stiffness.
Pattern 12: Desk Divider Basket with Dividers
Overview: A three-compartment desk basket, perfect for organizing office supplies with built-in dividers.
Materials:
– DK weight yarn (about 600–700 yards)
– Circular needles US 6–7 (4.0–4.5 mm)
– Optional fabric lining
– Cardboard or thin wooden dividers for structure
Gauge: About 22 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches in moss stitch
Finished size: Outer dimensions about 9 inches x 9 inches x 6 inches tall; three internal compartments
Pattern:
– Base: Knit a single round flat base to the size you want (typically 9 inches).
– Build walls: Knit four sides around the base in moss stitch or stockinette to reach the height. Add a fifth panel for a top edge if desired.
– Dividers: Attach internal dividers using lighter fabric or knit thin panels that can be inserted or secured with seams to form three compartments.
– Finishing: Weave in ends, apply lining, and position the basket in your desk space.
Pattern 13: Fruit Basket with Open Weave
Overview: A lighter, open-weave basket perfect for fruit or display items.
Materials:
– Cotton-blend yarn (about 500–650 yards)
– Circular needles US 5–6 (3.75–4.0 mm)
– Stitch markers
Gauge: About 22 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches in open weave
Finished size: Approximately 9 inches in diameter, 6 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base: Cast on 40 stitches. Work in a simple open weave pattern (slip-stitch or lifted increases) to create a breathable base.
– Sides: Transition to a looser open weave for the sides to maintain airiness.
– Rim: Fold or finish with a simple rolled edge.
– Finishing: Weave ends; place fruit or decorative items inside to showcase the pattern.
Pattern 14: Gift Basket with Removable Liners
Overview: A small, charming gift basket with a removable fabric liner for easy cleaning.
Materials:
– Worsted weight yarn (about 350–450 yards)
– Circular needles US 7 (4.5 mm)
– Fabric liner (cut to size) with matching thread
– Optional ribbon for decoration
Gauge: About 4 stitches per inch
Finished size: Approximately 8 inches diameter, 5 inches tall
Pattern:
– Base and body: Cast on 40 stitches, work circular garter stitch for a circular base, then build up the sides in garter stitch or a simple rib for structure.
– Liner: Sew a fabric liner to the inside; it should be slightly smaller than the basket interior to fit neatly.
– Finishing: Add a ribbon or decorative tie on the outside if desired.
Tips for All Patterns
– Blocking: Light blocking can help baskets keep their shape, especially for stitch patterns like moss or seed stitch.
– Lining: A fabric liner adds durability and a clean look, especially for baskets used for items like office supplies or cosmetics.
– Handles: If you add handles, secure them well at multiple points to prevent tearing of the fabric.
– Cleaning: For washable baskets, choose yarns that can be machine washed. For felted baskets, plan for shrinking during felting.
A Quick Closing Note
Knitted baskets are a wonderful way to bring warmth and organization into any space. The fourteen patterns above offer a range of textures, sizes, and uses—from a simple garter-stitch basket to a practical desk organizer and a plant pot cover. Each pattern is designed to be fun to knit, quick to complete, and customizable to your home decor. As you work through them, feel free to mix and match colors, experiment with stitch patterns, and adapt the sizes to fit your shelves and storage needs.
If you’re new to knitting baskets, start with Pattern 1 or Pattern 7 for practice with base shaping and edge finishing before moving on to the more technical patterns such as the divider basket or the lined gift basket. And remember, one of the joys of handmade storage is that you can tailor the size, height, and texture to fit your lifestyle—and you can do it all with materials you already have in your stash.
Would you like me to tailor these patterns to a specific yarn weight you have on hand or to a particular size you need for a shelf, nightstand, or under-bed storage? I can adjust gauge and yardage accordingly and provide a printable pattern sheet for quick reference.
