Crochet basket - help much appreciated

[AllesAusLiebe]

Hi everyone,

I recently bought a set of shelves and absolutely cannot find the right size of storage boxes/baskets to fit in them, so I've decided to make my own.

I've found a few patterns online for square baskets using crochet and I just wondered whether anyone would kindly give me some tips?

1. Firstly, I've never crocheted before. Is it too crazy to think I'm going to have the skills to make three large baskets (35cm x 30cm x 35cm)?
   

1. I don't have any needles. Do I need to buy a full set, or will just a normal crochet needle be enough?
   

1. I was going to use t shirt yarn. Is this a good idea?
   

1. I'd prefer my baskets to be square, but would round baskets be more straightforward?
   

Many, many thanks in advance from an absolute beginner!

[SoupDragon]

1. I think they should be fairly simple if the pattern uses only one stitch (plus how to increase). In fact it can be good for learners as you can get into the rhythm of crocheting. Also, crochet is very forgiving really!
   
   
2. you only need one hook that is the right size for the yarn you are using. It will say this in the description of the yarn and/or on the pattern.
   
   
3. This is exactly the yarn I was thinking of :)
   
   
4. I think they are both similar really. Round probably involves more counting in the initial stage of making the circular base.
   
   It may be an idea to learn with a cheap yarn first thOugh.

[AllesAusLiebe]

Thanks so much for your reply, @SoupDragon.

Yeah, the pattern I've chosen looks straightforward - only one colour, no patterns etc.

I'll get some cheaper yarn and have a go - what's the worst that could happen?!

Thanks again.

[TankGirl97]

T-Shirt yarn will be great, just be aware some contains elastic which, whilst easy to work with, will give a fairly floppy basket (I made a basket with this and it's really useful but the sides don't stand up). Using a firm yarn is harder to crochet with but great for a basket.
I used hoooked zpagetti yarn and a size 12 hook.

[TankGirl97]

Also ravelry.com is great for finding patterns and yarn ideas.

[AllesAusLiebe]

Thanks so much for your help, @TankGirl97 - I've had a look at the site that you recommended and actually found a pattern that appears much more straightforward than the one I was going to use!

Just a quick question, if that's ok. I've seen some of the Zpagetti yarn on eBay and there's a really good deal on it at the moment, so I was going to go for that. Do you think I'd have an issue with the sides of my basket falling down if I use this? The yarn is 90% cotton and 10% mix.

Many thanks, and sorry if that's a silly question!

[Lesat]

Hi, Interfacing can give stability. You can get iron on or sew on and it also comes in different strengths. Take caution if you buy any from Amazon or Ebay.