Rabbit Basket

Rabbit Basket by Emma Pavier

Project Overview

The Rabbit Basket is a contemporary crochet container designed by Emma Pavier, combining traditional crochet techniques with cross stitch elements. This finished piece measures approximately 15cm wide by 15cm high, making it a compact and practical storage solution. The project is ideal for crafters seeking a weekend-length crochet project with intermediate skill requirements.

What Is Being Made

This design creates a decorative rabbit-themed pot or container suitable for multiple purposes. Once completed, the Rabbit Basket functions as a plant pot, yarn holder, or decorative storage for small items such as Easter chocolates or craft supplies. The finished container features a fresh and contemporary aesthetic that appeals to modern crochet enthusiasts.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Rabbit Basket is worked entirely in spirals using the fundamental crochet technique of double crochet (or single crochet in USA terminology). The spiral construction method creates a seamless, continuous fabric without visible seams or joining rows. This technique is particularly effective for creating cylindrical or rounded container shapes and contributes to the project's contemporary appearance.

The pattern incorporates tapestry crochet elements, combining two contrasting colors to create the rabbit design. This method involves carrying the unused yarn inside the stitches and switching colors as needed to build the pattern. The two-color approach—sage green and white—produces visual interest while maintaining the simplicity of the double crochet stitch throughout.

Stitches Used

• Double Crochet: The primary stitch used throughout the entire pattern, worked in continuous spirals to form the container structure
• Tapestry Crochet: A color-work technique that integrates two yarn colors within the double crochet stitches to create the rabbit motif

Materials and Tools

The Rabbit Basket is crafted using specialized materials that distinguish it from typical yarn-based crochet projects. The primary material is Everlasto 100% cotton Baker's Twine, a stiff, structured cotton product specifically designed for baking and craft applications. Two colors are required: sage green (BTS05-SAG) and white (BTS05-SNO), with approximately 100 meters of each color needed. One roll of each color is sufficient to complete the project.

A 4mm crochet hook is used to work the baker's twine. The stiffness of the cotton twine differs significantly from standard yarn, requiring adjustment to working technique. The pattern recommends working loosely to reduce hand strain, as the twine's rigidity can be challenging during extended crochet sessions. Stitch markers are listed as optional tools to help track the beginning of each spiral round.

Yarn Weight and Material Characteristics

While the pattern specifies baker's twine rather than traditional yarn, the material weight aligns with DK and 4-ply yarn weights, providing structure and definition to the finished container. The 100% cotton composition offers durability and a natural aesthetic, making the container suitable for both functional and decorative purposes. The baker's twine's inherent stiffness creates a self-supporting structure that holds its shape without blocking or stiffening treatments.

Pattern Notes and Considerations

Tension is not critical for this project, allowing crafters of varying experience levels to achieve successful results. The pattern uses UK crochet terminology, with double crochet stitches; crafters preferring USA terms should substitute single crochet. The entire pattern is worked in continuous spirals, eliminating the need for joining or turning chains between rounds. This streamlined construction method makes the project accessible for intermediate-level crocheters while maintaining visual interest through the two-color tapestry design.