Tea Bags Basket: Pattern #2

Tea Bags Basket: Pattern #2 by knitvana

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern creates a functional striped basket designed specifically for storing tea bags. The project consists of two main components: a structured basket base with sides and a coordinating top, making it both decorative and practical for kitchen organization or as a handmade gift.

Basket Construction and Techniques

The basket is worked using fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern employs make one (M1) increases to shape the basket base, creating a gradual expansion from the initial cast-on of 6 stitches up to 51 stitches at the widest point. This expanding construction forms the bowl shape of the container.

After the basket reaches its full width, the pattern transitions into the body section using primarily purl rows to create texture and visual interest. The sides are then decreased using purl two together (P2tog) decreases in a controlled manner, systematically reducing stitch count from 51 stitches back down to 5 stitches to close the top of the basket structure.

Stitch Details

• Knit stitch: Used for all odd-numbered rows during the base expansion and for specific transition rows
• Purl stitch: Forms the primary fabric texture throughout the basket body and creates the reverse stockinette appearance
• Make one (M1) increase: Applied strategically across 8 sections in even-numbered rows to expand the basket diameter evenly
• Purl two together (P2tog) decrease: Used in the closing section to reduce stitches and shape the basket opening

Color Work and Striping

The basket features a distinctive striped color pattern created by changing yarn colors at specific rows. The design alternates between white, blue, and red yarn, with the white color appearing at the base, top, and as accent stripes. Color changes occur at rows 19, 23, and 27, creating horizontal stripes that add visual appeal to the functional container. This color blocking technique requires only basic yarn management with no complex colorwork stitches.

Materials and Tools

This pattern requires knitting needles and yarn in three colors: white, blue, and red. The specific yarn weight and needle size are referenced in the complete pattern instructions. The basket top is cast on separately with 36 stitches, allowing for a coordinating lid or rim piece that complements the striped basket base.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is accessible to knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable with increases, decreases, and color changes. The repetitive nature of the purl rows makes it suitable for developing consistency and rhythm in knitting, while the shaping techniques provide valuable practice in garment construction principles.