These checkered cotton squares add a clean, vintage charm to any kitchen sink while serving as practical tools for scrubbing dishes. You will find that working with two colors creates a distinct grid effect that feels sophisticated yet remains accessible for anyone who knows how to hold a hook. This project relies on the moss stitch, which produces a dense, woven texture that stands up to heavy daily use. Beginners will appreciate how quickly these squares work up, making them a productive way to use leftover cotton yarn while building confidence with color changes and carry-along techniques.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern

This classic crochet basket provides a sturdy, structured container perfect for organizing yarn scraps, holding keys by the entryway, or storing small office supplies. The thick, dense fabric created by the single crochet stitch combined with a smaller-than-average hook size ensures the sides remain upright without the need for additional stiffeners. Because the pattern relies on a continuous spiral, you avoid the visible seam that often occurs in round projects, resulting in a clean, professional finish. The simple, repetitive nature of the stitches makes it an ideal project to work on during an evening of television or while listening to a podcast.

I finished this basket in one sitting and was amazed by how firm the sides stayed without being bulky. It fits perfectly on my desk for all my loose crochet hooks.

— Sarah, hobbyist crafter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginner
Approximate Time: 2 to 3 hours
Construction: Worked in continuous rounds from a flat circular base upward to the sides
Finished Dimensions: 6 inches in diameter by 5 inches tall

Materials & Supplies Needed

Yarn: Worsted weight #4, 100% cotton yarn, approximately 180 yards. Cotton provides the best structure for home decor items.
Hook Size: 4.0 mm (US G-6). This size creates a tighter tension than the label recommendation, which is necessary for the basket to stand on its own.
Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends, stitch marker to track the start of rounds, and a pair of sharp scissors.
Yarn Substitutions: You may use an acrylic worsted weight, but note that it will result in a slightly softer basket that may slouch. Wool will felt if washed in warm water, which can be an advantage if you want an extra-stiff basket, though it changes the texture.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

MR = Magic Ring
ch = chain
sc = single crochet
inc = 2 sc in the same stitch
sl st = slip stitch
BLO = back loop only. Working in this loop creates a ridge that helps the side of the basket turn upward at a sharp 90-degree angle.
st/sts = stitch/stitches

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Basket Base

Rnd 1: Start 6 sc into a magic ring. Pull the ring tight to close. (6 sts)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12 sts)
Rnd 3: 1 sc, inc around. (18 sts)
Rnd 4: 2 sc, inc around. (24 sts)
Rnd 5: 3 sc, inc around. (30 sts)
Rnd 6: 4 sc, inc around. (36 sts)
Rnd 7: 5 sc, inc around. (42 sts)
Rnd 8: 6 sc, inc around. (48 sts)

Basket Sides

Rnd 9: Working in BLO, sc in each st around. This transition round creates the bottom edge of the basket. (48 sts)
Rnd 10-22: Sc in both loops of every st around. Continue working in a spiral until the basket reaches your desired height. (48 sts)
Rnd 23: Sl st in each st around to create a clean, finished edge. Fasten off and cut the yarn.

Assembly and Finishing

Once you reach the final round, pull the yarn tail through the final loop. Use your tapestry needle to weave the end down into the interior of the basket. Secure the tail by weaving it through several stitches on the inside base of the basket to ensure it does not unravel with use. Trim the excess yarn close to the fabric.

Care & Washing Instructions

Hand wash your basket in cool water using a mild detergent to prevent the fibers from stretching or losing their shape.
Lay the basket flat on a clean towel in a shaded area to air dry completely.
If the basket becomes misshapen, lightly mist it with water and reshape it with your hands, then allow it to dry in the desired form.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Tension is the most important factor for this project. If your stitches are too loose, the basket will collapse. Maintain firm, consistent tension throughout the entire process.
Always place a stitch marker in the first stitch of every round. Because this project is worked in a continuous spiral, it is very easy to lose track of where your round begins.
When weaving in your ends, carry the tail through the back of the stitches for at least two inches. This prevents the yarn from working itself loose as you place items in and out of the basket.
To increase the size of the base, continue the increase pattern (x sc, inc) for as many rounds as needed. Note that every additional round of the base will require approximately 20 extra yards of yarn to maintain the same height.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a larger hook if the project is too hard on my hands?

You can use a larger hook, but the resulting basket will be much softer and likely will not stand upright. If you struggle with hand fatigue, take frequent breaks rather than increasing the hook size.

Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?

Yes, this is an excellent pattern for beginners because it uses only the single crochet stitch and teaches you how to work in the round and in the back loop only.

Can I sell the baskets I make from this pattern?

You may sell finished items made from this pattern, provided you credit the designer. Please use your own photographs to represent your work.

How do I prevent the basket from leaning to one side?

Leaning usually happens if your tension is inconsistent or if you are accidentally skipping stitches. Count your stitches at the end of every round to ensure you always have exactly 48 stitches.

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Your finished dishcloths bring a refreshing pop of color to the kitchen and make thoughtful, handmade gifts for friends or family members. For a different look, try using two shades of variegated yarn to create a softer, blended transition between the squares instead of the bold contrast of solids. Please share a photo of your work on social media so others can see your color choices. You can find more home accessory designs and simple projects by browsing the other free guides on the blog.