Linen Stitch Basket

Linen Stitch Basket by Lizzie Rose Knits

Project Overview

The Linen Stitch Basket is a knitted container project designed by Lizzie Rose Knits. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a functional, decorative basket using the linen stitch technique. The pattern offers two size options to suit different storage needs and preferences.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a knitted basket suitable for storage and organization. The basket features a cylindrical shape with a flat bottom and open top. Size Small produces a basket with an 8-inch bottom diameter and approximately 12 inches in height, while Size Large yields a basket with a 9-inch bottom diameter and the same 12-inch height. Both versions work from the top opening downward to the center bottom, creating a seamless construction.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Linen Stitch Basket employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its structure and appearance. The pattern begins with a cast-on at the top opening and progresses downward using circular knitting methods. Crafters will work in the round using circular needles for the larger circumference sections. As the basket decreases toward the bottom, the pattern requires switching to smaller circumference needles, such as double-pointed needles (DPNs) or the magic loop method, to accommodate the narrowing diameter. This transition is essential for maintaining proper tension and stitch control during the decrease rounds.

Stitches and Stitch Pattern

Linen Stitch is the primary stitch pattern used throughout this project. This textured stitch creates a fabric with visual interest and structure, making it ideal for a basket that needs to hold its shape. The pattern uses a gauge of 8 stitches and 12 rows per 4 inches, which helps determine the final dimensions of the finished basket.

The pattern begins with a cast-on of 65 stitches for Size Small or 85 stitches for Size Large. The instructions recommend using either the longtail cast-on or knitted cast-on method to create a secure foundation edge at the basket's opening.

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: Super bulky weight yarn is required. Size Small requires approximately 105 yards, while Size Large requires approximately 180 yards. The super bulky weight ensures quick project completion and creates a sturdy, structured basket.
• Needles: 8mm (US 11) circular knitting needles in a larger size (18-24 inches) for working the initial rounds on the larger circumference. Additionally, 8mm (US 11) needles suitable for small circumference knitting are needed for the decrease sections, such as double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needles used with the magic loop technique.
• Notions: Scissors, a large-eye yarn needle for weaving in ends, and a tape measure or ruler for checking dimensions and gauge.

Pattern Structure and Construction

The Linen Stitch Basket is worked from top to bottom, beginning with the open top edge and progressing toward the center bottom. This top-down construction method allows crafters to try on or adjust the basket as they work. The pattern provides specific instructions for both Size Small and Size Large, with parentheses indicating size-specific stitch counts and measurements where they differ. When no parentheses are given in the directions, the instructions apply to both sizes equally.

A critical note for successful completion is remembering to transition to smaller needles during the decrease rounds. This needle change accommodates the reduction in stitches as the basket narrows toward the bottom, ensuring consistent tension and preventing the fabric from becoming too loose or difficult to work.