By making an inner layer, you can insert plastic mesh to make the basket more stiff.
Only increased to 40 stitches. LOVE this pattern! So complicated looking, but quite simple once you get the knack of it… Note: round 7 skip every other stitch after base of of last petal space. Also seems weird to insert hook into the space created when you closed the last petal cluster, but yes, you do!
EDIT: Ripped out the top round & SL ST last st of 4-pcl CH1 Then HDC around. Sl ST into 1st HDC.

Inner sleeve: CH 1, SC in 3rd loopS AROUND, don’t join. Changed to Plymouth Encore Mega in grey & SC until fit nicely inside to bottom of basket.
Inserted plastic mesh between layers for added stiffness.
Sewed a leather square over top join.
SUPER CUTE! & Fast!