Hanging Wall Basket Free Knitting Pattern

If you’ve been searching for a practical yet beautiful home décor project, a hanging wall basket is exactly what you need on your needles right now. These charming, functional pieces bring texture, warmth, and a handcrafted feel to any room in your home. Whether you hang them in the kitchen to store fruit, in the bathroom for small toiletries, or in a child’s bedroom to hold soft toys, a knitted wall basket is one of those projects that looks impressive but is surprisingly achievable even for knitters who are still building their confidence.

This free knitting pattern will walk you through everything you need to create your own hanging wall basket from scratch. We’ll cover the materials, the stitches, the construction method, and some helpful tips to make the process as smooth as possible. By the end, you’ll have a beautiful handmade piece ready to hang on your wall and show off to everyone who visits.

Why Knit a Hanging Wall Basket?

Before we dive into the pattern itself, it’s worth talking about why this project is worth your time. Knitted baskets have become incredibly popular in home décor, and for good reason. Unlike crocheted or woven baskets, a knitted basket has a distinctive texture that adds real depth and visual interest to a wall. The stitches catch the light in different ways depending on the yarn you use, and you can customize the look endlessly by changing colors, yarn weights, or stitch patterns.

Hanging wall baskets are also wonderfully space-efficient. They turn otherwise empty wall space into functional storage or display areas. A cluster of three baskets at different heights looks stunning in a living room or entryway, and a single large basket in the kitchen can hold everything from garlic and onions to dish cloths and oven mitts.

From a crafting perspective, this project is genuinely satisfying. You get to practice several useful techniques including working in the round, shaping, and creating a stable base, all within a single manageable project. Most knitters can complete one basket in a weekend, which makes it a great project when you want to start and finish something without a months-long commitment.

Materials You Will Need

To knit this hanging wall basket, gather the following materials before you begin.

You will need approximately 200 to 250 yards of a chunky or bulky weight yarn. Cotton or cotton-blend yarns work especially well for baskets because they hold their shape beautifully and have a natural stiffness that helps the basket stay structured. Wool-cotton blends also work wonderfully and give the finished basket a lovely rustic look. If you want a softer, more bohemian feel, a jute-blend or natural fiber yarn is a great choice.

For needles, you’ll want a set of US size 10 (6mm) double-pointed needles or a short circular needle in the same size if you prefer to use the magic loop method. A set of stitch markers will help you track your increases and decreases. You’ll also need a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

For the hanging element, you have several options. A length of macramé cord, leather cord, cotton rope, or even a thick twisted yarn all work well. You’ll need roughly one to two yards depending on how long you want the hanging loop and whether you plan to create a decorative knot at the top.

Optional but recommended: a wire basket frame or a few rounds of stiffening spray if you want an especially structured finish. Many knitters find that cotton yarn alone gives enough body, but stiffening spray can be a helpful finishing touch.

Gauge for this pattern is approximately 12 stitches and 16 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on US 10 needles. Because baskets don’t need to fit a body, gauge is more flexible here than in a garment pattern, but keeping it close will help your basket come out close to the intended size.

The finished basket measures approximately 8 inches wide at the opening and 6 inches deep.

Abbreviations Used in This Pattern

CO: Cast on
K: Knit
P: Purl
K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
M1R: Make one right (increase)
M1L: Make one left (increase)
PM: Place marker
SM: Slip marker
St(s): Stitch(es)
Rnd: Round
Rep: Repeat
BO: Bind off

Pattern Instructions

Step One: Creating the Base

The base of the basket is worked flat in rows before you join to work in the round for the sides. This gives the basket a neat, structured bottom that will sit flat against the wall.

Using your US 10 needles, cast on 6 stitches using the long-tail cast on method, which creates a neat and sturdy edge.

Row 1 (wrong side): Purl across all 6 stitches.
Row 2 (right side): K1, M1R, K4, M1L, K1. You now have 8 stitches.
Row 3: Purl across.
Row 4: K1, M1R, K6, M1L, K1. You now have 10 stitches.
Row 5: Purl across.
Row 6: K1, M1R, K8, M1L, K1. You now have 12 stitches.
Row 7: Purl across.
Row 8: K1, M1R, K10, M1L, K1. You now have 14 stitches.
Row 9: Purl across.
Row 10: K1, M1R, K12, M1L, K1. You now have 16 stitches.
Row 11: Purl across.
Row 12: K1, M1R, K14, M1L, K1. You now have 18 stitches.
Row 13: Purl across.
Row 14: K1, M1R, K16, M1L, K1. You now have 20 stitches.
Row 15: Purl across.

You now have a nicely shaped oval base with 20 stitches. It should measure roughly 5 inches long and 2 inches wide at this point.

Step Two: Picking Up Stitches and Joining in the Round

This step is where the basket really starts to take shape. You’re going to pick up stitches around the entire edge of your base piece and then join to knit in the round.

With the right side of your base facing you, place a stitch marker at the beginning of your working needle. You already have 20 stitches on the needle from the base. Now, working down the long side of your oval, pick up and knit approximately 10 stitches evenly along the edge. At the short curved end of the oval, pick up and knit approximately 5 stitches. Along the second long side, pick up and knit 10 more stitches, and around the remaining short curved end, pick up and knit 5 more stitches.

You should have approximately 50 stitches total on your needle when you join to begin working in the round. Place your beginning-of-round marker and join, being careful not to twist.

The exact stitch count can vary slightly depending on how evenly you pick up stitches, but try to stay close to 50. An even number will make the pattern easier to track.

Step Three: Knitting the Sides

Now comes the deeply satisfying part: knitting the walls of the basket. The sides are worked in the round in a simple but beautiful textured pattern that creates a woven-looking fabric with wonderful structure.

Rounds 1 through 3: Knit every stitch around.

Round 4: K1, P1, repeat from to around the full round.

Rounds 5 and 6: Knit every stitch around.

Round 7: P1, K1, repeat from to around.

Round 8: Knit every stitch around.

Repeat rounds 1 through 8 three more times, or until your basket sides measure approximately 5 to 6 inches from the base. The alternating seed-stitch rows create a subtle horizontal texture that looks lovely and also adds structural integrity to the sides of the basket.

If you prefer a simpler look, you can simply knit every round in stockinette. The basket will be slightly less structured but will still look wonderful, especially in a textured or tweed yarn that adds its own visual interest.

Step Four: Creating the Rim

The rim gives your basket a clean, finished edge and helps the opening hold its shape.

Round 1: K2, P2, repeat from to around.
Round 2: K2, P2, repeat from to around.
Round 3: K2, P2, repeat from to around.
Round 4: Knit every stitch around.

Three rounds of 2×2 ribbing followed by one final knit round creates a neat cuff that folds slightly outward, giving the basket a beautiful finished appearance.

Bind off loosely using a stretchy bind off method. A simple way to do this is to knit two stitches, then insert the left needle into the first stitch on the right needle and lift it over the second stitch and off the needle. Continue in this way until all stitches are bound off. Cut your yarn and pull the tail through the final loop.

Step Five: Finishing and Adding the Hanging Cord

Weave in all your ends using a tapestry needle. Take your time with this step, especially on a cotton yarn, as the ends can work their way loose if not secured carefully. Weave each end in at least two different directions through the fabric.

Now it’s time to add the hanging element. Cut two lengths of your macramé cord, each about 24 to 30 inches long. Thread both lengths through the back of the basket at the top rim, spacing them roughly an inch apart. Pull them through until you have equal lengths on each side, then bring all four ends together above the basket and tie them in a simple overhand knot. This creates the hanging loop. Adjust the knot placement to set the height at which the basket will hang.

For a more decorative finish, you can braid the cords before knotting them, or add a wrapped knot below the main loop for extra visual interest. Some knitters also add a decorative wooden ring above the knot, threading the cord through the ring before tying off, which creates a lovely Scandinavian-inspired look.

How to Back the Basket for Wall Hanging

Because this basket will hang on a wall, you want to make sure the back is flat and stable so it sits flush against the surface. The construction method used here, starting with a flat base and then picking up stitches, naturally creates a flatter back than a fully in-the-round basket would.

To further stabilize the back, you can cut a piece of thin cardboard or craft foam to fit the base of the basket and slip it inside. This small addition makes a noticeable difference in how neatly the basket sits against the wall.

You can also use fabric stiffener or a mixture of equal parts white glue and water to stiffen the basket. Simply dilute the glue in water, brush or dip the basket, shape it carefully, and allow it to dry completely before hanging. This method gives the basket an almost sculptural quality and ensures it holds its shape beautifully even when loaded with items.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this pattern is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas for making it your own.

Changing the colorway is the simplest way to customize the basket. A natural undyed cotton gives a minimalist, modern look that works in almost any space. A deep terracotta or dusty rose looks beautiful in a boho-style bedroom. Navy or forest green suits a more classic or farmhouse-style interior. You could also try striping the sides of the basket by carrying two colors and switching every few rounds.

Adding fringe or tassels to the bottom of the basket is a wonderful decorative touch. Simply cut lengths of yarn and loop them through the base stitches, then trim them to an even length. A few longer pieces of macramé cord mixed in with yarn fringe creates a lovely layered texture.

Embroidery is another beautiful customization option. Once the basket is finished, you can use a tapestry needle and contrasting yarn to add simple embroidered motifs to the sides. Flowers, leaves, geometric shapes, or simple cross stitches all look wonderful against the knitted background.

Varying the size is easy too. For a smaller basket, cast on 4 stitches instead of 6 and work fewer increase rows before picking up stitches. For a larger statement piece, begin with 8 stitches and add more increase rows, then continue picking up more stitches around the edge. The pattern scales intuitively once you understand the basic construction.

Tips for Success

A few practical notes before you cast on. Always check your yarn label before starting. Some cotton yarns are quite stiff and may feel awkward on the needles compared to a wool yarn, but this stiffness is actually an asset in basket knitting. Stick with it and you’ll be glad you did when you see how well the finished basket holds its shape.

If you find picking up stitches around the base intimidating, take it slowly. Use a crochet hook to pull loops through if that feels easier, then transfer them to your knitting needle. The exact placement doesn’t need to be perfect. Aim for even spacing rather than a precise stitch count, and your basket will look great.

Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfectly symmetrical. Baskets are wonderfully forgiving projects. A slightly uneven edge or a small inconsistency in the texture pattern will barely be visible once the basket is filled and hanging on the wall.

If you’re knitting this basket as a gift, consider pairing it with a small plant, a bundle of dried flowers, or a selection of artisan soaps or bath products arranged inside. A handmade basket filled with thoughtful items makes a genuinely memorable present for a housewarming, birthday, or holiday.

Caring for Your Knitted Wall Basket

Most cotton yarn baskets can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and a small amount of gentle soap. If the basket needs a deeper clean, hand wash it in cool water, reshape it carefully while damp, and allow it to dry flat before rehanging. Avoid machine washing unless your yarn label specifically says it’s safe, as the agitation can distort the shape you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

Keep the basket out of direct sunlight for extended periods if you’ve used a dyed yarn, as prolonged sun exposure can cause fading over time.

Making a Set of Three

Once you’ve made one basket, you’ll almost certainly want to make more. A set of three hanging wall baskets at slightly staggered heights is one of the most popular wall arrangements in contemporary home décor, and a trio of handknitted baskets looks absolutely stunning. Consider making each one in a slightly different size or a slightly different color within the same palette for a cohesive but interesting grouping.

You can hang them with individual cords on separate hooks, or thread all three cords through a single driftwood branch or dowel rod for a dramatic wall installation that works beautifully in a living room or hallway.

Final Thoughts

A hanging wall basket is the kind of knitting project that reminds you why you picked up needles in the first place. It’s practical, beautiful, and genuinely achievable. You get to work with your hands, produce something lasting, and add a piece of handmade warmth to your home or to someone else’s.

This free pattern gives you a solid foundation, but the real joy is in making it your own. Experiment with yarns, textures, and colors. Add a fringe or leave it clean. Hang it in the kitchen or the nursery or the front hall. However you use it, your knitted wall basket will be a piece you’re proud of every time you walk past it.

Happy knitting, and enjoy every stitch.