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This boxy striped crochet basket combines a gradually expanding, squared-off base with straight sides and two sturdy crocheted handles. Made with plush blanket yarn, it’s a useful home organizer for craft supplies, toys, blankets, or other everyday items. The construction is approachable for crocheters comfortable with single crochet and working in joined rounds, while the repeating stripes make the basket enjoyable to watch take shape.

Why you’ll love this pattern

The basket starts with a small circle and grows into a square through evenly spaced corner increases. That makes it a handy project for practicing how to shape a flat base without adding separate corner pieces. Once the base reaches its final round, the stitches change direction to form the basket’s sides.

Bernat Blanket O’Go is bulky and soft, so the basket builds up quickly compared with the same design made in a thinner yarn. The stripes add color without requiring a complicated stitch pattern, and the finished piece is useful as well as decorative. Its generous shape can help keep loose household items together, and the two handles make it easier to move.

The pattern also offers room to learn. You’ll practice counting increases, joining rounds, changing colors, working in back loops, and sewing on handles. These skills are useful in many other crochet projects, too.

“I liked seeing the round base turn into a neat, square-edged basket. The thick yarn made it satisfying to work, and the handles are useful for moving it around the room.”

How this crochet pattern comes together

You’ll crochet the basket in three main parts: the base, the body, and two handles.

The base is worked in joined rounds. Its increases are placed at the corners, with three single crochets worked into each corner stitch. As the base grows, the stitches between those corners increase, helping the fabric form a square rather than a circle. The base stripe pattern continues over 13 rounds and ends with 104 stitches.

To begin the body, you’ll work one round of single crochet through the back loops only. This creates a clear turning line between the flat base and the upright walls. The basket body is then worked in joined rounds for 28 rounds total, using the specified stripe pattern.

Each handle is made as a short, flat strip in rows of single crochet, then sewn to the basket. The pattern is best suited to a beginner who already knows the basic crochet stitches and is ready to keep track of rounds and color changes. A newer crocheter can also try it by working slowly and using stitch markers to track each corner.

Completion time depends on your pace, experience, and how often you stop to count or check the shaping. The bulky yarn makes the work move along, but the 13-round base, 28-round body, and careful handle assembly still take time. Plan for several crochet sessions rather than expecting to finish in one sitting.

Materials you’ll need

Bernat® Blanket™ O’Go™ (10.5 oz/300 g; 220 yds/201 m)
- 1 O’Go, Contrasts A, B, and C: Oats (42051)
- 1 O’Go, Contrasts D, E, and F: Flash (42056)
Crochet hook: U.S. K/10.5 (6.5 mm), or the size needed to obtain gauge
Yarn needle for sewing on the handles and weaving in ends
Stitch marker for tracking a round or a corner
Plastic bin, optional: 11¾" x 11¾" x 11¾" (30 x 30 x 30 cm)

The pattern calls for bulky blanket yarn. Its thick, plush texture helps the basket feel substantial, but using a different yarn weight may change the finished size and make the sides more or less firm. If you substitute yarn, choose a similar bulky weight and check your gauge; also make sure you have enough yarn for the base, 28 body rounds, and both handles. The plastic bin is optional and can be placed inside the finished basket for added support.

Step-by-step instructions

Abbreviations: ch = chain; sc = single crochet; sl st = slip stitch; rnd = round; rep = repeat. The pattern is worked in joined rounds unless stated otherwise. A joined round ends by connecting to the first stitch with a slip stitch.

Basket base

Work the base from the start, following the Basket Base Stripe Pattern over 13 rounds. Place a marker at each corner if you find it helpful. Increases are made by working 3 sc into a single corner stitch.

First round, with C: Chain 2. Work 8 sc into the second chain from the hook. Join the round. 8 sc.
Second round: Chain 1. Work 2 sc in each sc around. Join with a sl st to the first sc. 16 sc.
Third round: Chain 1. Work 3 sc in the first sc, then work 1 sc in each of the next 3 sc. Repeat this sequence around: 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the next 3 sc. Join. Fasten off C and join A. 24 sc.
Fourth round, with A: Chain 1. Work 1 sc in the first sc. Repeat the following sequence to the last 5 sc: 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the next 5 sc. Work 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the last 4 sc. Join. 32 sc.
Fifth round: Chain 1. Work 1 sc in each of the first 2 sc. Repeat the following sequence to the last 6 sc: 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the next 7 sc. Work 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the last 5 sc. Join. Fasten off A and join B. 40 sc.
Sixth round, with B: Chain 1. Work 1 sc in each of the first 3 sc. Repeat the following sequence to the last 7 sc: 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the next 9 sc. Work 3 sc in the next sc, then 1 sc in each of the last 6 sc. Join. 48 sc.
Rounds 7–13: Continue increasing by 8 sc on each round. Work 3 sc into each corner stitch and maintain the Basket Base Stripe Pattern. At the end of round 13, the base has 104 sc.

The instructions identify the stripe pattern for the base but do not spell out every color change for rounds 7–13. Continue following the pattern’s designated Basket Base Stripe Pattern for those rounds rather than guessing at a new sequence.

Basket body

Work the body in the Basket Body Stripe Pattern for 28 rounds total.

First body round, with A: Chain 1. Working in the back loop only, work 1 sc in each sc around. Join. Fasten off A and join E.
Second body round, with E: Chain 1. Working through both loops, work 1 sc in each sc around. Join. Do not fasten off E; join B.
Continue the body: Keep following the Basket Body Stripe Pattern. Repeat the last round as directed until you have completed 28 rounds of the body stripe pattern. Join each round. Fasten off when the body is complete.

The instructions specify the color changes at the start of the first and second body rounds, then refer to the Basket Body Stripe Pattern for the remaining rounds. Follow the original stripe sequence for the rest of the body, since no complete color-by-round sequence is included here.

Handles

Make 2 handles.

With B, chain 25. Leave a 5" (13 cm) tail for sewing the handle to the basket.
First row: Work 1 sc in the second chain from the hook, then work 1 sc in each chain to the end. Turn. 24 sc.
Second and third rows: Chain 1. Work 1 sc in each sc to the end of the row. Turn after each row.
Fasten off.

Make the second handle in the same way.

Finishing and assembly

Use the yarn tail to sew the first handle to the basket, following the placement shown in the pattern photo. Check that the handle is not twisted before you secure it.
Sew the second handle to the opposite side of the basket, directly across from the first.
Weave in loose ends securely with a yarn needle.
If desired, insert the purchased plastic bin inside the basket.

Ways to use your finished project

This boxy basket works well as a home organizer wherever you want soft storage that can be picked up and moved. Use it to hold yarn and small works in progress, children’s toys, board games, folded throws, or spare cushions. The handles are especially handy when you want to carry supplies from one room to another.

The finished basket can also serve as a decorative storage piece in a living room, bedroom, or craft space. Choose a color palette that complements the room, or make a coordinated set in different sizes if you’re comfortable adjusting the pattern. Because the pattern specifies a plastic bin of a particular size as an optional insert, that bin is a practical way to give the basket more support when it will hold heavier or awkwardly shaped items.

A handmade crochet basket can make a thoughtful housewarming gift or a useful present for a crafter. If you give it as a gift, consider including a small, neatly bundled item to place inside, such as yarn, craft tools, or a soft throw.

How to care for your crochet basket

Check the yarn label for the care instructions for your specific Bernat Blanket yarn. Follow those directions, especially if you combine it with another yarn or add a plastic bin. When washing is permitted by the label, use gentle handling and avoid water that is hotter than recommended.

Remove the plastic bin before cleaning the crochet basket. Wash the crocheted piece according to the yarn-label instructions, then support it as you lift it so the wet fabric does not stretch under its own weight. Reshape the base and sides while damp, and let the basket dry fully before returning the insert.

For routine maintenance, remove dust and loose fibers gently. Store the basket clean and completely dry, away from prolonged direct sunlight or damp areas. If the basket is made with a substitute yarn, use that yarn’s care label as your guide; fiber blends can have different washing and drying requirements.

Helpful crochet tips

Mark the corners. The increases define the square base, so mark the corner stitches or the stitches where you make the increases. Move the markers as each round grows.
Count after every round. The stitch count rises by 8 sc per base round, from 8 sc in the first round to 104 sc in the final base round. If your count is off, check your corner increases before moving on.
Look at the shape, not only the count. A correct stitch count is useful, but the base should also lie reasonably flat. Uneven increases or missed corner stitches can pull the base out of shape.
Join consistently. Join rounds in the same way throughout. Be sure your joining slip stitch is not mistaken for a stitch on the next round.
Keep the body stitch count steady. The basket sides are worked with 1 sc in each stitch around, without the base’s corner increases. Check that you are not accidentally adding stitches at the joins.
Watch the back-loop-only round. Work the first body round through the back loops only, then return to both loops for the next round as instructed. That change helps form the base-to-body transition.
Change colors neatly. Follow the specified stripe pattern and secure yarn ends well. Avoid pulling color-change joins too tight, which can make the top edge or stripe line pucker.
Check the handles before sewing. Lay each handle flat and confirm it is not twisted. Position the second handle directly opposite the first so the basket is balanced when carried.
Test the support you need. The plastic bin is optional. If you plan to store heavier items, use the insert as directed rather than expecting a soft crocheted basket to hold its shape like a rigid container.

Customize your project

The striped design is easy to personalize with colors that suit your home or the person receiving the basket. Keep a similar light-and-dark contrast for stripes that stand out, or choose a quieter palette for a more understated look. The pattern names specific O’Go colors for its contrasts; if you choose a different palette, preserve the stated color changes rather than changing yarn at random.

You can also make a coordinated storage set by using the same stripe colors in several baskets. The supplied optional bin size gives a useful reference point for the intended insert, but changing the base size will affect whether that bin fits.

To make a larger or smaller basket, you would need to adjust the base and body construction, not simply add more body rounds. A wider base requires additional corner increases, and the body’s stitch count would need to match the new base. Changing only the yarn or hook can also change the size, fabric thickness, and firmness, so check your gauge and expect a different fit with the optional plastic bin.

A decorative edge or embroidered detail could be added after the basket is complete, but extra embellishments may change how the top edge sits or add bulk. Test any trim on a small sample first. Avoid heavy decorations if you expect to carry the basket by its handles.

Frequently asked questions

Is this crochet basket pattern beginner-friendly?

It can suit a beginner who knows how to chain, single crochet, slip stitch, and work in joined rounds. The main challenge is placing the base increases at the corners and keeping track of the stripe pattern. Stitch markers and regular stitch counts make those steps easier.

What yarn is used for the striped basket?

The materials list specifies Bernat® Blanket™ O’Go™ in the listed contrasts: Oats (42051) for A, B, and C, and Flash (42056) for D, E, and F. Each color group is listed as one O’Go. If you choose another yarn, use a similar bulky weight and check the gauge, since yarn substitutions can change the basket’s size, feel, and structure.

Can I use a different crochet hook?

The pattern calls for a U.S. K/10.5 (6.5 mm) hook or the size needed to obtain gauge. A different hook may be appropriate if your stitches are too tight or loose, but it can affect the finished dimensions and firmness. Make a gauge check before committing to the full basket.

How do I make the basket base square?

The square shape comes from working 3 sc into each corner stitch. The number of stitches between corner increases grows from round to round. Marking each corner and checking the stitch count helps prevent missed or misplaced increases.

Why is my basket base curling or becoming wavy?

Curling or waviness can result from missed or misplaced increases, uneven tension, or a hook size that does not suit your yarn. Check that each corner receives the required increase and that the base stitch count increases by 8 on every round. Also check that the base is forming evenly before you begin the body.

How much yarn do I need?

The materials list specifies one O’Go for the Oats group (contrasts A, B, and C) and one O’Go for the Flash group (contrasts D, E, and F). The listed O’Go size is 10.5 oz/300 g and 220 yds/201 m. The pattern does not provide separate yardage for each contrast, so keep all listed yarn available while working the stripes.

Is the plastic bin required?

No. The plastic bin is optional. It measures 11¾" x 11¾" x 11¾" (30 x 30 x 30 cm) and can be inserted after the handles are attached to provide extra support.

Can I make the basket larger or smaller?

Changing the yarn weight or hook can change the overall size, but it may also affect how firm the basket feels and whether the plastic insert fits. For a deliberately wider or narrower basket, the base increases and the matching body stitch count must be adjusted together. The source instructions do not provide a separate size-adjustment recipe.

Can I sell baskets made from this pattern?

The instructions provided here do not state whether finished items may be sold. Check the original designer’s usage terms before selling items made from the pattern.

How should I wash the finished basket?

Follow the care instructions on the yarn label. Remove the optional plastic bin before washing, use the recommended water temperature and method, and reshape the basket while it dries. Make sure it is fully dry before putting the insert back inside.