Evergreen Ember Basket Free Pattern – A Knitted Yuletide Gift Holder

Wrap Your Gifts in Handmade Warmth: The Evergreen Ember Basket

There's something truly magical about giving a gift that's wrapped in love—and what better way to show that love than by presenting your Christmas presents in a handcrafted knitted basket? The Evergreen Ember Basket is the perfect fusion of festive charm and practical functionality. With its rich pine green body and fiery crimson rim, this soft, sturdy container is not just a gift holder but a beautiful piece of holiday decor that can be used year after year.

Whether you're filling it with small treats, ornaments, or a special present for someone dear, this basket adds a cozy, handmade touch to your holiday celebrations. And the best part? It's a beginner-friendly project that works up quickly in worsted weight yarn, making it an ideal weekend craft. Let's dive into this delightful pattern!

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in two colors:
  • Color A (Pine Green): Approximately 200g
  • Color B (Crimson Red): Approximately 50g
  Total: ~250g of worsted weight yarn
• Needles:
  • US 8 (5mm) circular needle, 16-inch length
  • US 8 (5mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the base
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch (knit every round)
• Other: Stitch marker, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, mild soap for felting

Step-by-Step Instructions

This basket is knitted in the round from the bottom up, then gently felted to give it structure. The result is a sturdy yet soft container, perfect for holding small gifts, treats, or ornaments. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll have a beautiful basket in no time!

Abbreviations

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
• M1: Make one (increase) – pick up the bar between stitches and knit into the back of it
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• Rnd(s): Round(s)

Part 1: Knitting the Base

Step 1: With Color A (Pine Green), cast on 8 stitches using your preferred method. Distribute these stitches evenly onto 4 double-pointed needles (2 stitches on each needle). Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round, and join in the round, being very careful not to twist your stitches.

Step 2: Rnd 1: Knit all 8 stitches. This is your foundation round.

Step 3: Rnd 2 (Increase round): Make one (M1) in each stitch around. You should now have 16 stitches total (4 stitches on each needle).

Step 4: Rnd 3: Knit all stitches plain. No increases this round.

Step 5: Rnd 4 (Increase round): (K1, M1) repeat around. You'll now have 24 stitches (6 on each needle).

Step 6: Rnd 5: Knit all stitches plain.

Step 7: Rnd 6 (Increase round): (K2, M1) repeat around. You'll now have 32 stitches (8 on each needle).

Step 8: Rnd 7: Knit all stitches plain.

Step 9: Continue in this established pattern, increasing 8 stitches every even-numbered round. The sequence for increases is as follows:

• Rnd 8: (K3, M1) around = 40 stitches
• Rnd 9: Knit plain
• Rnd 10: (K4, M1) around = 48 stitches
• Rnd 11: Knit plain
• Rnd 12: (K5, M1) around = 56 stitches
• Rnd 13: Knit plain
• Rnd 14: (K6, M1) around = 64 stitches
• Rnd 15: Knit plain
• Rnd 16: (K7, M1) around = 72 stitches

Step 10: After completing Rnd 16, you should have a flat circle measuring approximately 6 inches in diameter. Knit one final round plain (no increases) to even out the edge. Your base is now complete!

Part 2: Knitting the Sides

Step 11: Switch to your 16-inch circular needle. Transfer all 72 stitches onto the circular needle. Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round.

Step 12: Work in stockinette stitch by knitting every round. Continue knitting in the round for 6 inches. As you knit, you'll notice the fabric naturally begins to curl upward, forming the sides of your basket. This is completely normal and desired—embrace the curl!

Step 13: To reinforce the top edge of the basket body, work 4 rounds in garter stitch using Color A. Garter stitch in the round is achieved by alternating knit and purl rounds:

• Rnd 1: Knit all stitches
• Rnd 2: Purl all stitches
• Rnd 3: Knit all stitches
• Rnd 4: Purl all stitches

This creates a textured, sturdy band that will help the basket hold its shape.

Part 3: Creating the Crimson Rim

Step 14: Cut Color A, leaving a tail for weaving in later. Join Color B (Crimson Red) at the beginning of your round. Work 6 rounds in stockinette stitch (knit every round) with Color B. This will create a beautiful, bold rim that contrasts beautifully with the pine green body.

Step 15: Decrease round: (K2, K2tog) repeat around. This will reduce your stitch count from 72 to 54 stitches. The decrease gently gathers the rim, giving it a neat, finished look.

Step 16: Knit 2 more rounds plain with Color B. This stabilizes the decreases and adds a bit of height to the rim.

Step 17: Bind off loosely. A loose bind-off is essential here—if you bind off too tightly, the rim will pucker. Use a larger needle for binding off if needed, or simply bind off with a relaxed tension. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail, and pull it through the last stitch to secure.

Step 18: Weave in all loose ends using your tapestry needle. Be sure to weave them in securely so they don't come loose during the felting process.

Part 4: Felting and Finishing

Step 19: To give your basket structure and firmness, gently hand-wash it in warm water with a drop of mild soap (like wool wash or baby shampoo). Submerge the basket completely and let it soak for about 10 minutes. Gently squeeze the fabric—do not wring or twist, as this can distort the shape.

Step 20: Rinse the basket thoroughly in clean, warm water until all soap is removed. Gently squeeze out excess water.

Step 21: To shape the basket, place a dinner plate or bowl inside it to stretch the base into a perfect circle. The plate or bowl should be approximately 6 inches in diameter to match the base. Set the basket on a towel and let it air dry completely. This may take 24-48 hours depending on your environment.

Step 22: As the basket dries, the slight felting will firm up the fabric while keeping it soft and cozy. Once completely dry, remove the shaping plate or bowl.

Step 23: Your Evergreen Ember Basket is now ready to be filled with gifts, pinecones, festive treats, or even used as a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table!

Tips for Success

• Check your gauge: Before starting, knit a small swatch to ensure your gauge matches. If your gauge is off, your basket will be larger or smaller than intended.
• Use stitch markers: Place a marker at the beginning of each round to keep track of your progress, especially during the increase rounds.
• Don't rush the felting: The gentle hand-felting process is what gives the basket its structure. Be patient and let it dry completely for the best results.
• Customize it: Feel free to experiment with different color combinations to match your holiday decor or personal style!

This pattern is perfect for knitters of all levels, and the result is a beautiful, functional piece that will be treasured for years to come. Whether you're making it for yourself or as a heartfelt gift, the Evergreen Ember Basket is sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday season. Happy knitting!