Paintbox Yarns Benita Nesting Baskets Knitting Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Benita Nesting Baskets

What Is Being Made

The Benita Nesting Baskets is a set of four nesting containers designed for storage and organization. These baskets are worked in the round using circular knitting needles, creating seamless cylindrical vessels that nest inside one another for compact storage. The pattern provides instructions for four graduated sizes with heights ranging from 15½ inches to 19¾ inches (39.5 to 50 centimeters) and circumferences from 40¾ inches to 52 inches (103.5 to 132 centimeters), allowing each basket to fit neatly within the next larger size.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level project employs circular knitting as the primary construction method, worked continuously in the round to create seamless baskets without side seams. The pattern uses increases strategically placed throughout the early rounds to expand the stitch count from an initial 4 stitches to the final stitch counts of 88, 96, 104, or 112 stitches depending on the basket size. The increases are distributed evenly across rounds and follow specific patterns, such as [Inc 1] (increase 1 stitch) repeated multiple times, then progressing to increases spaced with knit stitches like [Inc 1, k1], [Inc 1, k2], and [Inc 1, k3] to create a gradual, controlled expansion. Once the stitch count reaches the target number, the pattern transitions into a textured stitch pattern alternating knit and purl stitches in groups of four—[K4, p4] and [P4, k4]—which creates visual interest and structure. The handle sections are worked using the same stitch pattern before binding off a portion of stitches to create openings.

Stitches Used

The Benita Nesting Baskets pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches suitable for an intermediate crafter. The primary stitches include:

• Knit stitch (k) – the basic stitch forming the foundation of the fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used to create texture and visual contrast when alternated with knit stitches
• Increase stitch (Inc 1) – used throughout the expansion rounds to gradually enlarge the basket circumference
• Bind off (cast off) – used to secure stitches and create the handle openings

The stitch pattern creates a ribbed texture through the alternation of knit and purl stitches in four-stitch repeats, which provides both structural integrity and visual definition to the finished baskets.

Materials

The Benita Nesting Baskets pattern is designed to be worked with Paintbox Yarns Recycled Big Cotton, an eco-conscious yarn choice made from recycled materials. The project requires US 11 (8mm) circular knitting needles to achieve the correct gauge of 8.5 stitches and 18 rows per 4-inch (10-centimeter) square when worked in pattern. The yarn quantities vary by color and are provided in 8.8-ounce (250-gram) balls: 5 balls of Light Grey (A), 5 balls of Light Pink (B), 6 balls of Bright Green (C), and 7 balls of Red (D). This color combination allows crafters to create a coordinated set of nesting baskets with complementary or contrasting hues. Additional materials needed include scissors and a large-eyed needle for weaving in yarn ends upon completion.

Pattern Details

The pattern is presented in intermediate difficulty and includes instructions for four sizes with specific measurements and stitch counts for each. Instructions use US knitting terminology with UK equivalents provided in italics. The pattern begins with casting on 4 stitches and joining in the round, then systematically increases stitches over the first nine rounds before transitioning into the textured stitch pattern that forms the body of each basket. The handle sections are worked last, with specific stitch counts for each size before binding off to create functional openings. This downloadable PDF pattern is available exclusively through Paintbox Yarns and provides a complete guide for creating a practical, attractive set of storage containers suitable for home organization.