Knitted Gift Set

Cotton & Cloud Knitted Gift Set by Kyoko Nakayoshi

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer Kyoko Nakayoshi presents a complete gift set ideal for knitters seeking intermediate-level projects. Designed in Winter 2013, the set includes functional containers and decorative pieces that combine practical utility with thoughtful craftsmanship. The collection showcases how strategic color work and shaping techniques create finished pieces suitable for gifting or personal use.

Yarn Basket Design

The primary project in this set is a knitted yarn basket with generous proportions: 63 centimeters in circumference, 20 centimeters in diameter, and 16 centimeters in height. This functional container is designed to hold and organize yarn during knitting projects, making it both decorative and purposeful for fiber artists.

Yarn Specifications

The pattern calls for Artesano Aran yarn, a premium blend of 50% alpaca and 50% wool. This fiber combination provides warmth, softness, and excellent stitch definition. The yarn yields 132 meters per 100-gram skein, allowing for substantial projects with relatively modest yardage requirements.

The color palette consists of:

• 1 skein of Sunset (C805) as the main color
• 1 skein of Nightfall (C807) as the contrasting color

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The yarn basket is constructed using circular knitting worked in the round, as evidenced by the round-by-round construction instructions. This method creates seamless, tubular fabric ideal for containers.

The primary stitch technique employed throughout the basket is strategic K2tog (knit two together) decreases. These decreases are distributed evenly across each round using a repeating pattern structure, creating a controlled shaping that gradually reduces the stitch count from the base to the top opening. The decreasing pattern follows a mathematical progression:

• Round 6 through Round 24 feature consistent 8-stitch decreases per round
• Decreases are spaced at regular intervals (every 9 stitches, then 8, then 7, continuing the pattern)
• The final round uses K2tog exclusively to close the opening

This decreasing technique creates a gently tapered shape that transitions from the wider base to a narrower top, forming the characteristic basket silhouette while maintaining structural integrity throughout the piece.

Difficulty Level and Craftsmanship

Rated as an intermediate project, this knitted gift set requires familiarity with circular knitting techniques, stitch counting, and following complex pattern repeats. Knitters should be comfortable working with decreases and understanding how stitch reduction affects fabric shaping. The color work with two distinct yarns adds visual interest while remaining accessible to intermediate-level crafters.

Gift Set Application

As a complete gift set designed specifically for knitters, these projects celebrate the fiber arts community. The yarn basket serves as both a functional storage solution and a handmade keepsake, making it an ideal gift for fellow knitting enthusiasts who appreciate both utility and aesthetic appeal.