Felted Nesting Bowls

Felted Nesting Bowls by knot•sew•cute

Project Overview

These felted nesting bowls are a beginner-friendly crochet project designed to create a set of decorative and functional containers. The design uses the natural felting properties of specific yarn to transform crocheted pieces into sturdy, finished bowls that nest together for convenient storage and display.

What Is Being Made

The project produces a collection of nesting bowls—multiple bowls in graduated sizes that stack inside one another. These containers can be used for storage, decoration, or functional purposes in the home. The bowls are created through crochet and then felted to achieve a finished, professional appearance with defined structure.

Crochet Techniques Used

This beginner-level project employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for crafters new to the craft. The pattern uses basic stitch construction and shaping methods to build the bowl forms before the felting process transforms them into their final state.

Stitches Used

• Chain (ch) — foundation stitch for starting the project
• Single Crochet (sc) — the primary building stitch, created by inserting the hook into the indicated stitch, drawing yarn through to create two loops on the hook, then drawing yarn through both loops
• Slip Stitch (sl st) — used for joining rounds and finishing

Materials and Yarn

The pattern calls for Cascade® 220 yarn, which is 100% Peruvian Highland wool. Each skein contains 100 grams (3.5 ounces) and provides 200 meters (220 yards) of yardable material. The yarn weight is classified as Aran or Worsted weight, making it ideal for creating fabric with good drape and structure. The pattern features four colorways: 8910, 7803, 8891, and 9444, allowing crafters to choose their preferred palette or create a multicolored nesting set.

Tools Required

A 3.50 mm (E) crochet hook is recommended to achieve proper gauge with the specified yarn. A yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends and finishing the project. Crafters should verify they have the correct hook size to match the pattern's gauge requirements.

Gauge and Construction Standards

The pattern specifies a gauge of 9 single crochet stitches and 9 rows measuring 5 centimeters (2 inches) when worked with a 3.50 mm (E) crochet hook on an unblocked square. Achieving this gauge is essential for proper bowl sizing and fit. The pattern is written in American Standard crochet terminology.

Felting Process

After crocheting, the bowls undergo a felting process that transforms the wool fabric. Felting creates a denser, more finished appearance and gives the bowls structural integrity and a professional look. This technique takes advantage of the natural properties of 100% wool yarn to create a cohesive, sculpted final product.