This free crochet nesting basket pattern is perfect for organizing your home with a set of three baskets in small, medium, and large sizes. Each basket is made using durable cotton yarn and features a simple stitch pattern, making the project enjoyable and straightforward.

This project is suitable for beginners and will help you gain confidence in your crochet skills. We’ll guide you step-by-step to create lovely nesting baskets that you can use for various items around your home.

Why You’ll Love This Nesting Basket

  • Adjustable sizes – create a small, medium, and large basket to suit your needs.
  • Quick to make – perfect for gifts or a satisfying afternoon project.
  • Easy to customize – swap colors or add stripes to fit your home decor.
  • Practical and functional – great for organizing everything from yarn to toys.

Is This Pattern Good for Beginners?

Absolutely! The pattern uses basic stitches like single crochet and chain, making it an ideal first project. You’ll gain confidence as you work through each basket.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

  • ch – chain
  • sc – single crochet
  • sl st – slip stitch
  • inc – increase (2 sc in the same stitch)

Gauge and Finished Size

  • Finished Size:
    • Small Basket: 15 cm (6 in) wide and 10 cm (4 in) tall
    • Medium Basket: 20 cm (8 in) wide and 15 cm (6 in) tall
    • Large Basket: 25 cm (10 in) wide and 20 cm (8 in) tall
  • Gauge: 14 sc and 16 rows = 10 cm (4 in)

How to Make the Nesting Baskets (Step by Step)

Small Basket

The small basket starts with a circular base.

  • Base:

    • Ch 4, sl st in first ch to form a ring.
    • Rnd 1: Ch 1, 6 sc in ring. (6 sts)
    • Rnd 2: Ch 1, inc in each st around. (12 sts)
    • Rnd 3: Ch 1, 1 sc in next st, inc in next st repeat around. (18 sts)
    • Rnd 4: Ch 1, 2 sc in next st, 1 sc in each of the next 2 sts repeat around. (24 sts)

  • Body:

    • Rnd 5-10: Ch 1, sc in each st around. (24 sts)

  • Finish:

    • Rnd 11: Ch 1, sc in each st around, sl st to the first sc, fasten off.

Medium Basket

The medium basket follows a similar structure, but with more starting stitches.

  • Base:

    • Ch 4, sl st in first ch to form a ring.
    • Rnd 1: Ch 1, 8 sc in ring. (8 sts)
    • Rnd 2: Ch 1, inc in each st around. (16 sts)
    • Rnd 3: Ch 1, 1 sc in next st, inc in next st repeat around. (24 sts)
    • Rnd 4: Ch 1, 2 sc in next st, 1 sc in each of the next 3 sts repeat around. (32 sts)

  • Body:

    • Rnd 5-11: Ch 1, sc in each st around. (32 sts)

  • Finish:

    • Rnd 12: Ch 1, sc in each st around, sl st to the first sc, fasten off.

Large Basket

The large basket provides even more space for your items.

  • Base:

    • Ch 4, sl st in first ch to form a ring.
    • Rnd 1: Ch 1, 10 sc in ring. (10 sts)
    • Rnd 2: Ch 1, inc in each st around. (20 sts)
    • Rnd 3: Ch 1, 1 sc in next st, inc in next st repeat around. (30 sts)
    • Rnd 4: Ch 1, 2 sc in next st, 1 sc in each of the next 4 sts repeat around. (40 sts)

  • Body:

    • Rnd 5-12: Ch 1, sc in each st around. (40 sts)

  • Finish:

    • Rnd 13: Ch 1, sc in each st around, sl st to the first sc, fasten off.

Assembly & Finishing

Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Optionally, spray with stiffening spray for added structure.

Beginner Tips for a Neat Nesting Basket

  • Use stitch markers to keep track of your rounds.
  • Count your stitches regularly to avoid mistakes.
  • Manage your tension for consistent stitches.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

  • “My stitches are too tight.” – You may be using a hook that’s too small. Try a larger hook size.
  • “The edges are curling.” – This often happens if the basket is too small. Ensure you’re following the increase instructions.
  • “My basket is misshapen.” – Check your stitch counts after each round to make sure you’re increasing correctly.

How to Care for Your Nesting Baskets

Hand wash with a mild detergent and lay flat to dry to maintain their shape.

FAQ

How do I resize my baskets?

To resize your baskets, adjust the number of starting stitches and follow the same increase pattern, ensuring you maintain a consistent stitch count.

Can I use a different yarn?

Yes! Just ensure it’s a similar weight to the suggested DK cotton; this will help maintain the basket’s structure.

How long will it take to make all three baskets?

Making all three baskets will take approximately 6 hours, with the small one taking about 1.5 hours.

Looking for more ideas? Check out our collection of lovely blankets.

Free Crochet Nesting Basket Pattern in Small, Medium and Large

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