Free Crochet Nesting Basket Pattern in Three Sizes for Shelves

This crochet nesting basket pattern creates a delightful set of three baskets that are perfect for organizing your shelves. Each basket features a sturdy structure, making them both decorative and functional. You’ll be using basic double crochet and single crochet stitches, making it enjoyable and easy to follow.

These baskets are suitable for anyone looking to add organization to their space while learning new skills. You will gain experience in creating different sizes and working in rounds, enhancing your crochet abilities along the way.

Why You'll Love This Nesting Basket

• Versatile sizes – great for organizing various items throughout your home.
• Easy pattern – perfect for beginners learning to work in rounds.
• Customizable colors – mix and match yarn colors to suit your décor.
• Quick project – complete all three baskets in about 7.5 hours!

Skill Level: Easy

You should be comfortable with basic stitches like ch (chain), sc (single crochet), and dc (double crochet). This pattern introduces you to working in rounds.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain
• sc – single crochet
• dc – double crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• st(s) – stitch(es)

Size and Gauge

• Small Basket: 20 cm (8 in) diameter, 13 cm (5 in) height
• Medium Basket: 25 cm (10 in) diameter, 15 cm (6 in) height
• Large Basket: 30 cm (12 in) diameter, 18 cm (7 in) height
• Gauge: 12 dc and 7 rows = 10 cm (4 in) in the main stitch pattern. Measure gauge to ensure your baskets are the correct size.

Step 1: Making the Base

The base is worked in rounds for all sizes.

1. Round 1: Start with a magic ring. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 11 dc into the ring. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch 3. (12 dc)
2. Round 2: 2 dc in each st around. Join. (24 dc)
3. Round 3: *1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st; repeat from * around. Join. (36 dc)
4. Round 4: *1 dc in the next 2 sts, 2 dc in the next st; repeat from * around. Join. (48 dc)
5. You’ll continue with rounds of sc for each size.

Step 2: For the Small Basket

1. Rounds 5-6: Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around. Join. (48 sc after Round 6)

Step 3: For the Medium Basket

1. Rounds 5-7: Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around. Join. (48 sc after Round 7)

Step 4: For the Large Basket

1. Rounds 5-8: Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around. Join. (48 sc after Round 8)

Sides (From Base)

1. Small Basket: Round 1: Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around. Repeat until height is 13 cm (5 in). Sl st to join.
2. Medium Basket: Round 1: Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around. Repeat until height is 15 cm (6 in). Sl st to join.
3. Large Basket: Round 1: Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around. Repeat until height is 18 cm (7 in). Sl st to join.

Finishing

Cut yarn, and weave in all ends securely with your tapestry needle. If using crafting wire for added structure, shape it according to the basket's size and insert it into the sides. Optional: create a simple border with Color A by adding 1 sc in each st for a neat finish.

Beginner Tips for a Neat Basket

• Keep your yarn untangled as you work.
• Maintain even tension throughout your stitches for a polished look.
• Measure your work regularly to ensure the right size.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• "My basket is too small." – Check your gauge and adjust your hook size if needed.
• "The stitches are uneven." – Make sure you're keeping an even tension while crocheting.
• "The base is curling up." – Ensure you're not missing any stitches in your rounds or adjusting tension.

How to Care for Your Nesting Baskets

To keep your baskets looking fresh, hand wash them in cold water. Lay them flat or reshape them while damp to maintain their form. Do not tumble dry them to prevent any damage.

FAQ

Can I customize the size?

Yes! You can easily adjust the number of rounds to create baskets in whatever size you prefer.

What yarn can I use instead?

You can substitute with other worsted weight yarns as long as they are sturdy enough for the shape you desire.

How long will this project take?

Each basket varies in time. Expect around 2 hours for the small, 2.5 hours for the medium, and 3 hours for the large, for a total of about 7.5 hours for all three.

Want a matching set? Check out our crochet purse patterns or see all our free crochet bag patterns.

Image shown for inspiration — your finished result may vary slightly.