I’m pleased with this smaller version of my Spiked Stitch Pattern Basket. Like the larger version, it utilizes stitch height instead of color blocks to create a color pattern. It’s a slightly different spike pattern than my larger basket but, as with the larger basket, the different heights of the Spike Stitches create both interesting design and texture. The color of the spikes is carried up to the next rows, resulting in a wavy effect. A row of spike stitches around the top forms a nice thick band, accented by two chains of overstitching that bring all the colors together.

The pattern calls for an inexpensive worsted weight acrylic craft yarn so that it will be stiff enough to stand up on its own. You can use other worsted weight yarn, such as a coarse wool, but soft yarns, such as merino wool, silk, cotton or blends would probably not be suitable if you want it to stand up like a basket.

Skill Level: Advanced Beginner/Intermediate. This pattern utilizes Spike Stitches. Spike Stitches aren’t very difficult as long as you understand where exactly to put your hook. Knowing where to put your hook to make a Spike Stitch requires an understanding of the structure of crochet stitches. You will probably want to be comfortable with basic stitches and have some experience with creating crochet fabric before undertaking this project. Detailed instructions and photos are provided.

Materials:
G Hook (4.25 MM) Note on gauge and hook size: Gauge is not that important for a basket, although you do not want holes between your stitches. I used a G hook because I crochet rather loosely, so I almost always go down one size to obtain gauge when I follow directions. If you crochet pretty tightly or if you usually obtain gauge with the hook suggested in a pattern, then you might want to use an H hook. My gauge was 6 SC stitches equal about 2” and 3 rows of SC equal about 1”.

Yarn: One skein each of three colors of Red Heart Super Saver Yarn. Here are the colors I used for each of the baskets pictured in the group photo:

Top Left: Color A - Lavender; Color B - Country Rose; Color C - Jade - Most of the photos in the tutorial show this basket being worked in this color scheme.
Bottom Left: A=Real Teal, B= Lavender, C=Aran
Bottom Middle: A=Country Rose, B=Buff, C= Real Teal - This basket can be seen in the photo showing the inside of the basket.
Bottom Right: A=Cherry Red, B= Gold, C= Lavender - Also shown alone in a photo.
Top Right: A=Gray, B=Buff, C= Lavender - This is the basket pictured alone in the first photo.

Note: This may be a discontinued color. If necessary, substitute any dark rose or mauve shade, or color of your choice.