Waterloo Works Basket Project Guide
This guide teaches the foundational construction method used for all Waterloo Works basket patterns. Once you've mastered these techniques, you'll be able to create baskets in a variety of stitch patterns, colors, and sizes using any Waterloo Works basket base and topper.
Whether you're making your first basket or your fiftieth, this guide is your starting point.
Whether you're making your first basket or your fiftieth, this guide is your starting point.
Skill Level - Beginner
A basic understanding of crochet is helpful, but the included step-by-step photos make this project suitable for adventurous beginners.
Finished Size
Finished dimensions will vary based on:
Basket base selected (Round or Oval)
Yarn used
Hook size
Desired basket height
For the most stable basket, we recommend a finished height of 9 inches or less.
Estimated Time
2–5 hours
(Time will vary depending on basket size and experience level.)
Materials
Waterloo Works Wooden Basket Kit (Round or Oval)
Bulky Weight Yarn (T-shirt yarn recommended)
Crochet Hook
5 mm (US H-8)
5.5 mm (US I-9)
6 mm (US J-10)
Scissors
Yarn Needle (optional)
Recommended Yarn
For the best structure and durability, we recommend bulky weight T-shirt yarn. It creates a firm basket that holds its shape beautifully.
Most bulky weight yarns will also work well with the recommended hook sizes.
Using Worsted Weight Yarn
Worsted weight yarn may be used, although it generally produces a softer basket that may not stand upright without additional structure.
If using worsted weight yarn:
Use a 4.5 mm (US 7) or 5 mm (US H-8) crochet hook.
Work 2 single crochet stitches into each hole of the wooden base.
Continue working 2 single crochet stitches into each stitch throughout the basket to create a thicker fabric.
Stitch Counts
Basket Style Base Holes Total Stitches
Round 43 44
Basket Style Base Holes Total Stitches
Oval 47 48
Abbreviations
sc - Single Crochet
st - Stitch
yo - Yarn Over
Special Technique
Invisible Join — Used at the end of every round to create a smooth, seamless appearance.
Notes
Read through the entire guide before beginning.
Photo references are included throughout the instructions.
Every round ends with an Invisible Join.
These instructions apply to both Round and Oval basket bases. The only difference is the stitch count.
Once you've mastered this construction method, you can substitute almost any stitch pattern to personalize your basket.
Basket Construction
Round 1 – Attach the Wooden Base
Using bulky weight yarn and a 5 mm (US H-8) hook:
Begin in the designated starting hole.
Work 1 single crochet into each hole around the wooden base.
When you return to the starting hole, work 1 additional single crochet into that same hole.
Only the starting hole will contain two stitches.
You should now have:
44 stitches for the Round Basket
48 stitches for the Oval Basket
Invisible Join
At the end of each round:
Pull up the working loop.
Remove your crochet hook.
Insert the hook through the back of the first stitch of the round.
Catch the working loop with your hook.
Pull the loop through to the back of the stitch.
Your round is now invisibly joined.
Repeat this technique after every round.
Round 2 and Beyond
Work 1 single crochet into each stitch around.
For each stitch:
Each stitch from the previous round forms a small "V" at the top.
Insert the hook into the top of the "V."
Pull up a loop.
Yarn over.
Pull through both loops on the hook.
Complete the round using the Invisible Join.
Repeat until the basket reaches your desired height.
Attach the Wooden Topper
When your basket has reached the desired height:
Insert the hook into the next stitch as if making a single crochet.
Continue through the matching hole in the wooden topper.
Yarn over and pull up a loop.
Yarn over again and pull through both loops.
Repeat until every stitch is securely attached to the topper.
Join the last stitches of the topper using the Invisible Join.
Finishing
Weave in all loose yarn ends.
Your Waterloo Works basket is now complete and ready to enjoy!
Helpful Tips
Maintain consistent tension for a straight, balanced basket.
T-shirt yarn produces the firmest, most structured results.
Baskets taller than 9 inches may become less stable.
Don't be afraid to experiment! Decorative stitch patterns can completely transform the look of your basket while using this same construction method.
Care Instructions
Spot clean with a damp cloth.
Do not machine wash or soak baskets containing wooden components.
Allow to air dry completely before storing or using.
About the Waterloo Works Basket System
This Construction Guide is the foundation for all Waterloo Works basket patterns. Future patterns will build upon these techniques by introducing new stitch patterns, textures, and decorative finishes while using the same basket construction method.
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