Bernat Blanket Extra Stacked Stocking Stitch Knit Basket

SUPPLIES & TOOLS:

• Bernat Blanket Extra Thick (21.2oz; 72yds)
• Sunset (62005), 1 Ball or 72yds
• Size U.S. 50 (25mm) Circular Knitting Needle 36" Long (or size needed to obtain gauge)
• Stitch marker.


• MEASUREMENTS:
• Approx 13" x diameter and 13" tall.


• GAUGE: 2 1/2 sts and 3 1/2 rows = 4" in stocking st.

DIRECTIONS:

NOTE: Base and Sides are worked separately and seamed together in Finishing.
The instructions are written for smaller size. If changes are necessary for larger size the instructions will be written thus ( ). Numbers for each size are shown in the same color throughout the pattern. When only one number is given in black, it applies to both sizes.

BASE:
Using Tail and your fingers (instead of a sewing needle), sew Cast-on and Cast-off edges tog to form circle. Weave Tail through each st around opening in center of Base and pull tight to close. Fasten Securely.
Cast on 4 sts loosely. Do not join. Working back and forth across needle in rows, proceed as follows:
1st to 4th rows: Rep from ** to ** for Small Base.
5th row: Knit.
6th row: Knit to last 3 sts. Turn, leaving last 3 sts unworked.
7th and 8th rows: Knit.
Rep 1st to 8th rows 7 times more.
Cast off.
Cast off leaving an 18" long Tail.
Using Tail and your fingers (instead of a sewing needle), sew Cast-on and Cast-off edges tog to form circle. Weave Tail through each st around opening in center of Base and pull tight to close. Fasten Securely.

SIDES:
Cast on 26 sts loosely. Join in rnd, being careful not to twist sts, placing marker at first st for easier counting.
1st to 9th rnds: Knit.
Cont with Handles as follows:
Note: Each Cast-off begins with K2.
Next rnd: K5. Cast off 3 sts loosely. K10 (first st of these is already on right needle when previous cast-off complete). Cast off 3 sts loosely. Knit to end of rnd. 20 sts.
Next rnd: (RS). K5. Turn. (WS). Cast on 3 sts loosely over bound off sts using the cable cast-on method. Turn. (RS). K10. Turn. (WS). Cast on 3 sts loosely over bound off sts using the cable cast-on method. Turn. (RS). Knit to end of rnd. 26 sts.
Cast off loosely.

FINISHING:
Using your hands instead of a needle, sew Sides of Basket to Base so Base sits inside Sides and Sides extend to bottom of Basket (as shown in photo). Even out jumbo sts with fingers for a tidier look.


ABBREVIATIONS:
Approx = Approximately
Cont = Continue(ity)
K = Knit
Rep = Repeat
Rnd(s) = Round(s)
RS = Right side
St(s) = Stitch(es)
Tog = Together
WS = Wrong side