7 Best Yarns to Use for Crochet Baskets

Hello everyone, today we are learning about the 7 best yarns to use for crochet baskets! 

Crochet baskets can be nifty little storage wonders that can be practical and pretty, but before you start your project, you may be wondering, what yarn should I be using? 

Picture this – you got your favorite crochet hook ready, a Pinterest worthy pattern in hand, and an imagination brimming with visions of a perfectly crocheted masterpiece. But guess what? You hit a snag (maybe literally!), and the culprit? Yup, you guessed it, your yarn isn’t holding up.

It’s bending and falling over, and doesn’t quite hold the shape of that beautiful basket you had pictured.

But worry not, I’m here to share the best yarn to avoid further crochet fiascoes! 

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What to Look for When Choosing Yarn for a Crochet Basket 

First, let’s consider a few things to look for in choosing the correct yarn for your crochet basket.

• Durability: Let’s be real, your basket’s gonna hold stuff – maybe lots of stuff. So, pick a yarn that’s like the Hulk of fibers. Think strong, durable, and ready to handle the weight of your random things.
• Stiffness: Sagging baskets? Not on your watch. Look for a yarn with a bit of stiffness, or better yet, double up on your yarn strands or look for bulky, thick yarns.
• Weight: Thin and delicate or thick and chunky – it’s your choice. Match the yarn weight to the basket size you’re aiming for. Thicker, bulkier yarns are better for larger baskets that need to hold way more weight, while finer yarns work well for small, delicate baskets.
• Texture: Smooth, chunky, or funky textures – the choice is yours. But remember, the texture can add character and visual appeal to your basket. 
• Color Options: Yarns come in all shades of pretty colors. Whether you’re into rainbow explosions or calming neutrals, pick a color that speaks to you.
• Absorbency: If you plan to use the basket for holding items in moisture prone areas like the bathroom or kitchen, consider yarns that are absorbent, like cotton yarn. No one wants a soggy surprise.
• Purpose: What will you use your basket for?. Will it be used as a decoration, hold delicate items, or carry heavy loads? The purpose of the basket will influence the yarn weight and fiber you should choose.
• Eco-Friendliness: If you wanna show mother nature some love, consider yarns that are sourced from eco-friendly and responsible suppliers. Natural fibers like cotton, jute, and hemp are often more environmentally conscious choices.
• Budget: If you’re like me, being budget-conscious is important. Consider the cost of your chosen yarn. Remember, pricier doesn’t always mean better. Balance quality with what your wallet can handle.

How to Prevent a Saggy Crochet Basket

Aside from choosing the right yarn for your basket, let’s discuss a few ways you can strengthen and prevent your basket from sagging. 

• Use Tight Stitches: This might seem obvious, but a lot of interesting and intricate stitches look pretty, however they may not be the best choice for a sturdy basket. Try slip stitches, single crochets, half double crochets, or a combination of the three. Avoid using chains and taller stitches like double or treble crochet stitches.
• Use a Smaller Hook: Going down a hook size or two than what your yarn calls for, can help you make your stitches even tighter! 
• Internal Reinforcement: Try slipping in a wire or using ropes within your stitches to help reinforce the sides of the basket and have it stand tall. You can do this by literally crocheting over the wire or rope as you go. Even doubling up on your yarn strands will help.
• Make a Strong Base: Start your base in a continuous round (circular or rectangular), but when you start the first round of the body of the basket, crochet in the back loop. Then you can crochet as normal for the rest of the rounds. This helps your base keep whatever shape you’re going for.
• Add a Lining: Try using a lining to strengthen the sides. Use a plastic sheets (these little mesh sheets are great) or hot glue cardboard with a pretty fabric over it to the inside.
• Starch or Glue: If you already made your crochet basket, try using a mixture of glue/starch and water, paint it onto the outside of your basket and place it into something that has a similar shape (like a mixing bowl or use the top of the trash can). Allow it to dry. Repeat on the inside.  

Alright, with all those tips in mind, let’s check out the absolute best yarns to make your crochet basket!