My round jute and cotton stacking baskets hardly need an introduction.
That’s why I am so happy to announce that their eagerly awaited square version is finally here.
This pattern took way, way longer than I ever thought possible to publish, but at last it is here – and also in my Etsy shop.
The 25-page instantly downloadable PDF file contains instructions to crochet 3 perfectly stackable square crochet baskets. 
Aside from nine written pattern sections, this instructional booklet is packed full with 37 high-quality detail-focused photos, four step-by-step photo tutorials, and many useful notes, tips, and tricks.
These three square baskets complement the round set perfectly both in size and proportion, and will add to your growing collection of simple, practical, and lasting home decor items made with the simplest of natural fibres: jute and cotton.
And now, both patterns are available as a discounted bundle!
The bundle is also available in my Etsy shop. If you’d prefer to buy it there, don’t hesitate to use coupon code BLOGZLAVA3 for an instant $3 off the already budget-friendly pattern bundle.
This Jute looks very difficult to crochet! My hands are hurting just thinking about it. Is it not stiff and difficult to pull stitches through?
I have worked with a cotton and hemp blend and found it very difficult to work with….and my hands were aching after just working small portions of the pattern. Is there a trick to make it work more easily?
I won’t lie: jute is tough. It’s rougher, tougher, stiffer, and coarser than any other yarn I have ever worked with. To boot, it doesn’t glide up and down a finger. It *can* be unpleasant to work with. Its roughness doesn’t bother me, but I can see how jute might not be the most popular material to work with. At the same time, it is these very properties that help create the firmest, most durable crochet baskets I’ve ever held.
As for tricks, whenever I work with jute, I hold the cord between my left thumb and index finger instead of winding it around my fingers. A reader a while ago also suggested wearing cotton gloves when crocheting with jute. I haven’t tried it as I got used to working with jute quite quickly, but I say it’s worth a try! Let me know if any of these work for you!
Eeeee! I just came across this on Pinterest and I was like, JANA! I KNOW HER!
These look fantastic. You have one of the best creative minds I know.
Hands down, the best comment ever!!! And not because of the compliment (though I am humbly blushing).
These look amazing, and would work so well for baby things!
I am considering buying the pattern, but I am trying to see about materials first. What kind of jute you use for the baskets? I’ve never worked with it, but gave seen that at local Joanns they carry different thickness….
Thank you!
Hi, Nadia – you’re right; my 2-1/2 year old son uses them to store all his blocks and soft toys! I used the Hobby Lobby jute; but 3-ply, 3mm Darice brand sold by JoAnn should work well, too – you might need to adjust gauge a little, but not too much.
Oh…I would love a coupon to purchase the patterns!! Thanx
Your baskets are beautiful as well as functional. I can’t wait to buy your patterns.
I would like to know approximately how much materials cost to make a set of these stacking baskets. Could you list the material requirements for doing a set so I can research it, or give a ballpark figure? They’re great! I’d love to make them, but want to have an idea of what I’m getting into dollarwise first. Thanks for the pattern!
Hi: Cost will vary depending on what materials you use. If you use the suggested brands, you will need 6 rolls of Hobby Lobby jute at $3 each, and 6 2.5-oz balls of Sugar n’ Cream cotton (prices vary by retailer – currently $2.39 each at JoAnn), which comes to an approximate total cost of $32 for all three baskets (square of round). I hope this helps.
Thank you!
Hi! I love these! I just started to crochet and I know you said it wasn’t best for beginners but I just have to try! I wondered whether the square baskets are harder than the round ones? Thanks!
Hi! If you are just starting, I’d recommend trying the round ones first – it IS simpler.
I have to be honest, the first couple of rounds on the square base can test patience of an experienced crocheter 😉 If you decide to try the square set first, I recommend that you not only mark the starting stitch of each round, but also each corner chain 1 (or chain 2) space. And if you want to be absolutely sure you’re working the stitches into the correct spots, you can also mark the joining slip stitch – to remind yourself NOT to work any stitches into that one. And also, check out the tutorial on where to work single crochets after working the corner (on page 9) – it’s easy to skip one here.
Unlike with a simple circle, when working a square there cannot be a mistake when it comes to stitch count – otherwise, it won’t be a square! So, constantly checking your stitch count is of utmost importance.
Whichever pattern you decide to try, you can email me with any questions you have! (My email address is on the last page of either pattern.)
Have fun creating!
Hello Jana,
What a coincidence!
I came up with the same idea in April 2015:
https://katkatkatoen.blogspot.be/2015/04/touw-en-katoen.html
Ofcourse your pictures and your crochet look more professional, but I had just started my blog back in March 2015.
I guess you just have to post these ideas at the right moment, at the right place to get this kind of success.
But I wish you all the best and good luck on selling your pattern!
I’m sure to visit your blog again because there are many beautiful designs here.
Have a nice day,
Sigrid
Hi, Sigrid,
Great minds think alike! I adore your planter cover. There is something so soothing about the neutral colors and simple design.
I very much appreciate your kind words about my blog and photography. I wish I had anything to do with the viral success of one of my patterns. The attention has been both humbling, and completely beyond my control. Someone somewhere randomly pinned a link to my blog, and one year later – people still visit. I don’t get it. Social media perplex me 🙂
This square set was created upon urging from my readers and fellow crocheters who wanted a rectangular set to complement the round jute and cotton set I started working on back in 2014. You can see the evolution of the original round design in these three work-in-progress blog posts:
https://jakigu.wordpress.com/2014/11/14/work-in-progress-jute-and-cotton-baskets/
https://jakigu.wordpress.com/2015/01/26/work-in-progress-stacking-baskets/
https://jakigu.wordpress.com/2015/01/31/crochet-pattern-stacking-baskets/
For the square option, are there instructions included as to how to convert to a narrow, long rectangle?
Beautiful, simple design. I’ve been looking all over stores to find something like this then I find your site on Pintrest. Love it!
Hi, Beth:
The square version only includes instructions to crochet a square basket, with all four sides of equal length. I have not yet published a rectangle version, even though it’s been on my to-do list for quite some time. Still, if you are a crocheter with a little bit of experience, the square version could easily be altered to make a rectangular basket by crocheting the base as a rectangle instead of a square (there are quite a few lovely free online tutorial s for crocheting a single crochet rectangle), and then following the instructions for the sides (the stitch count will be off, but all other steps ca be followed to a T.)
Hi Jana! I love these baskets! I am a relatively experienced crocheter but haven’t done it in a while. I am in need of specific sized square baskets – two of equal size. They need to be 24″x24″ squares and about 6″ tall. Would it be possible to use your pattern and adapt it to this size? Also, I’d love any ideas on how to reinforce the base – I’m afraid the larger it is, the weaker the base will be if I put anything relatively heavy in it. Thanks so much for any advice!
I have replied to you via email, Beth!
I’ve knit a ton but haven’t crocheted past a basic chain (thank you, Granda Jean!). Any suggestions on a super cute and functional pattern to try first?
Your comment makes me regret I don’t have more patterns for complete beginners, Carol! I do have a complete beginner’s guide & pattern for crochet picture frames (it’s paid, but you’re welcome to use coupon code 1zero1a for 25% off). For further inspiration, you can have a look at two of my Pinterest boards, crochet / for beginners and crochet / quick and easy projects. I love functional crochet patterns, and I would recommend starting with something small – something that can be finished in an afternoon or two. A coaster, a picture frame, or – if you’d be interested in wearable crochet – a cowl or a simple scarf.
Hey hun the coupon doesn’t work
Makeda, the coupon listed (BLOGZLAVA3) for $3 off the bundle works in my Etsy shop.
The bundle is currently discounted to $6 here on my site, but you’re welcome to use coupon code LENTAK25 for an additional 25% off.