Learn How to Make a Stylish Crochet Rectangle Basket with Handles

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Starting the Base
4. Working the Sides
5. Creating the Heart Stitches
6. Changing Colors
7. Adding the Border
8. Finishing Touches
9. Conclusion

Introduction

Crochet is a popular craft that allows you to create beautiful and functional items using yarn and a crochet hook. In this tutorial, we will be making a rectangle basket, also known as a waistcoat basket. This project is perfect for beginners and can be completed using Lion Brand's Hometown USA yarn in three coordinating colors. Follow along with the step-by-step instructions to create your own stylish and practical basket.

Materials Needed

Before getting started, make sure you have the following materials:

• Lion Brand Hometown USA yarn (number six, super bulky) in three coordinating colors
• Crochet hook (size determined by yarn label)
• Scissors
• Yarn needle

Starting the Base

To begin, we will create the base of the basket. Start with the darker color yarn and make a chain of 35 stitches. Next, work half double crochets across the chain, starting in the second chain from the hook. Continue working half double crochets for a total of six rows, chaining to turn at the end of each row.

Working the Sides

After completing the base, we will now work on the sides of the basket. Begin by working half double crochets along all three edges of the rectangle. Place 12 half double crochets along each short side and 34 half double crochets along each long side. Repeat this process for all three sides.

Creating the Heart Stitches

To create the heart stitch pattern that gives the basket a knitted appearance, we will switch to single crochets and use the center single crochet technique. Instead of working into the sides of the stitches, we will insert the hook into the center of the single crochets in the row below. This will create small "hearts" that resemble knit stitches. Work the center single crochet technique for five rows.

Changing Colors

After completing the heart stitch pattern, it's time to change colors. Switch to the silver yarn by joining it with a slip stitch and chaining one. Continue working the center single crochet pattern in the new color for four rows. Next, switch to the white yarn using the same method and work the center single crochet pattern for three rows. Finish off with a final row in white.

Adding the Border

To give the basket a finished look, we will add a border using the reverse single crochet stitch, also known as the crab stitch. This stitch is worked in the opposite direction and creates a textured edge. Begin by inserting the hook into the spaces between the heart stitches and working a single crochet. Continue this stitch pattern all the way around the basket, including around the handles.

Finishing Touches

Once you have completed the border, tie off the yarn and weave in any loose ends using a yarn needle. Your rectangle basket is now finished and ready to use! This versatile and stylish basket is perfect for organizing and storing items in your home or as a thoughtful handmade gift for a friend.

Conclusion

Crocheting a rectangle basket is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to create a functional and beautiful item. With just a few simple stitches and some basic materials, you can create a stylish and practical basket to enhance your home decor. Get started today and see the satisfying results of your crochet skills!