How to crochet the basket weave stitch

Texture is an important part of art, and crocheting is a form of art in its own right. Being able to take yarn and make it come together so you not only have function but also a beautiful form takes your creation and elevates it to the next level. The basket weave stitch adds superior texture to a project without sacrificing a bit of function. It's a tight stitch that's effective for making warm sweaters, hats, blankets and scarves.

Classified as a beginner stitch, with the basket weave stitch all you really have to know is how to do the chain and double crochet. Front posts and back posts are terms you'll see, but they are simply double crochets worked into the front side or back side of a double crochet post rather than the top. For a helpful step-by-step tutorial on how to do the basket weave, check out the video by B.hooked Crochet that follows this article. Whoever said basket weaving could only be done with grass and reeds?

Materials
- Any weight yarn. The video tutorial calls for worsted weight.
- Hook size that works with your yarn. I use a 5 mm.

Pro tip: Use a chunky yarn and larger hook to stitch up the basket weave stitch — the larger stitches will create even more texture and warmth.

Abbreviations
BpDc –back post double crochet
Ch – chain stitch
Dc – double crochet
FpDc – front post double crochet
st(s) – stitch(es)
rep – repeat
t – turn

Written Pattern
Row 1: Ch any multiple of 8 (in the video I Ch 24), Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each across, Ch 3, t
Row 2: FpDc in first 4 sts, BpDc in next 4 sts, rep across, Dc in turning ch, Ch 3, t
Row 3: BpDc in first 4 sts, FpDc in next 4 sts, rep across, Dc in turning ch, Ch 3, t
Row 4: BpDc in first 4 sts, FpDc in next 4 sts, rep across, Dc in turning ch, Ch 3, t
Row 5: FpDc in first 4 sts, BpDc in next 4 sts, rep across, Dc in turning ch, Ch 3, t
Repeat rows 2 to 5 as written until the project is the desired length. Finish off and weave ends.

For those who want to think outside the box and not be tied down to the traditional, Little Monkeys Crochet puts this stitch to good use creating a decorative pillow.

This stitch is ideal for creating blankets of exceptional warmth. Red Heart states that "classic worsted weight yarn" seems to give the best look for the basket weave. If you don't want a super tight weave, simply use a larger hook to loosen the stitch.

Comfy baby blankets can be done in this pattern too.

Not to be outdone in creativity, Dream a Little Bigger decided to apply the basket weave to a glass case holder.