Create this cute mini picnic basket style bag for a fun and handy way to carry your packed lunch.

Written in US terms with UK conversion chart included. Photographs have been used throughout to help with instructions. There is also a printer friendly version included.

You will need any type of washable DK and UK Chunky (Bulky)sized yarn for this project and will be using 4mm and 5mm hooks. You may use 2 strands of DK together instead of Chunky yarn. I have used 100% acrylic yarn.
The finished basket will measure approximately 15x15cm by 12cm high closed or 18cm open (excluding the handle). A piece of cardboard covered in foil or plastic will be placed inside the base for sturdiness and to help even weight distribution. You may use a sandwich Tupperware box base measuring 15x15cm instead.

You will need:
Brown DK yarn for the basket - 1 ball of 100g
Red and White UK Chunky (Bulky) yarn (or your chosen colours) for the blanket detail - <50g of each
1 button 20-25mm in diameter for the closure
Optional: 2 wooden buttons 20-25mm for the basket decoration
4 stitch markers
A piece of sturdy cardboard or layers of card & some kitchen foil/plastic wrap
A yarn needle and scissors