Quick & Easy Basketweave Knitted Throw: The Perfect Handmade Gift Pattern for All Skill Levels

I’m thrilled to share this fantastic quick basketweave knitted throw pattern with you today, a highlight of our ongoing handmade gift series. While I knit almost daily, this marks my first time sharing a knitting project here. Knitting is a profoundly calming activity for me; I eagerly anticipate my knitting time each evening. It’s become such a cherished ritual that I rarely watch a movie or TV show without a project in hand – unless, of course, I’m at a theater (knitting in the dark is beyond my current skill set, though I admire those who can!).

You might be surprised to learn that I consider myself a very simple knitter. My joy comes from the meditative process itself, not from conquering overly intricate patterns. Consequently, I don’t easily get bored knitting repetitive stitches; it’s precisely the rhythmic nature that I find so soothing. This preference means I usually opt for patterns that don’t demand extensive learning or complex techniques. While I’ve been knitting for years and have crafted sweaters and cardigans for many family members, I’ve deliberately avoided cables, elaborate lace, or projects like socks that involve multiple needles and countless markers. That level of complexity simply detracts from the relaxation I seek in knitting. My aim is always to find joy and calm in the craft, not frustration.

Therefore, when I label this project “quick,” you can trust it lives up to its name. I could easily add “easy” as well, but with so many “quick & easy” projects out there, I wanted to distinguish this one. The basketweave knitted throw pattern I’m presenting today is remarkably straightforward, yet the textured center, framed by a simple edging, provides ample visual appeal and interest. It’s a design that looks more complex than it actually is, making it particularly satisfying to create.

Beyond its ease and speed, this fabulous throw stands out as an exceptional gift. You’ll be genuinely proud to present it to your loved ones, whether family or friends – I certainly am! The beauty of this pattern is its accessibility: it only requires a basic understanding of knitting fundamentals, specifically the simple seed stitch (which is essentially alternating knit and purl stitches: knit 1, purl 1, knit 1, purl 1, and so on) and the foundational stockinette stitch. The “basketweave” effect, which appears quite sophisticated, is cleverly achieved by simply alternating blocks of knit stitches and purl stitches. It’s truly my kind of pattern – impactful results with minimal fuss.

If you’re comfortable with basic knitting techniques and have successfully made projects like scarves, you possess all the skills needed to create this beautiful throw. It’s an ideal step-up project for beginners looking to expand their repertoire without feeling overwhelmed, offering a rewarding experience as you watch the beautiful texture emerge.

Essential Materials for Your Basketweave Throw

Selecting the right materials is crucial for making this project quick and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Yarn Selection: The primary factor that makes this project “quick” is the use of a bulky weight yarn. Bulky yarns work up much faster, allowing you to see progress rapidly. I was fortunate to find a great deal on wool cones from DNBY, which is my go-to source for quality yarn at affordable prices. Since they weren’t bulky, I simply held two strands together to achieve the desired bulky gauge. This means you can use any bulky yarn or, alternatively, double up a worsted-weight yarn to create a bulkier strand that will work perfectly with this pattern. Consider natural fibers like wool for warmth and drape, or a soft acrylic blend for easy care and a hypoallergenic option.
• Yarn Characteristics & Care: The specific wool I used initially felt a bit scratchy. However, after a gentle wash and machine dry, it transformed into a wonderfully soft fabric without excessive felting. This process also had the added benefit of effectively concealing all the woven-in ends, giving the throw a clean, professional finish. It’s important to note that not all wools felt (or shrink) to the same degree, so if you’re using a new-to-you wool, it’s always a good idea to test a small swatch or follow any care instructions provided with the yarn. Superwash wools, for instance, are treated to resist felting, making them a great low-maintenance option.
• Needle Type: Given the substantial size of this throw, traditional straight needles simply won’t suffice. You will absolutely need circular knitting needles. Opt for a cable length of either 40 inches or 60 inches – mine is 60 inches, which provides ample space for all the stitches. The needles pictured and highly recommended are the Options Interchangeable Needles from Knit Picks. I’ve become incredibly fond of them and use them for nearly all my knitting projects due to their exceptional flexibility and smooth knitting experience. An interchangeable set is a fantastic investment for any knitter, offering versatility for various projects.

Clever Tips for an Effortless Throw Pattern

While the basketweave pattern is inherently simple, a few helpful tips can make your knitting experience even smoother and more enjoyable:

1. Utilize Stitch Markers for Borders: To enhance the ease of knitting and minimize errors, I highly recommend placing simple circular stitch markers at each edge where your seed stitch border transitions into the main basketweave pattern. These markers serve as visual cues, helping you “mindlessly” remember when to switch from seed stitch to stockinette (or the basketweave blocks) and vice versa. This reduces the need for constant counting and allows for a more relaxed, rhythmic knitting flow.
2. Markers for Pattern Establishment: As you progress through your rows, simply slide the marker from one needle to the next at the designated transition points. You’ll naturally switch your stitch pattern (knit to purl or purl to knit) as you encounter the marker. When first establishing the basketweave pattern, particularly around Row 11 as indicated in the instructions, you can also place markers between each block of 18 stitches. This provides clear divisions, making it easier to ensure you’re knitting and purling the correct sections. Once you’re comfortable with the pattern repeat and can “read your knitting,” you can remove these internal markers if you prefer.
3. Understanding the Basketweave Effect: The secret to the beautiful basketweave texture lies in a straightforward alternation: you knit one block of stitches, then purl the next block. After a set number of rows, you reverse this, purling the sections you previously knitted and knitting the sections you previously purled. Once this alternating block pattern is clearly established and you can see the texture forming, as depicted in the photos, continuing the pattern becomes remarkably intuitive and effortless. You’ll quickly get into a rhythm, making the remaining rows a truly calming and satisfying experience.

Above, you can see the complete throw and appreciate the full effect of the basketweave pattern. For reference, my finished throws typically measure around 40 inches by 45 inches, though your final dimensions might vary slightly depending on your specific yarn choice and individual knitting tension. A wonderful aspect of throws is that precise measurements aren’t critical. As you can see, I don’t bother with blocking these throws. They are, after all, meant to be cozy, functional items – often folded over a couch, bunched up for warmth, or casually draped across a lap. Their rustic, natural drape is part of their charm.

Quick Basketweave Knitted Throw Pattern Instructions

This pattern is designed to be straightforward and rewarding, even for those new to larger projects. The key to success is understanding the simple repetition and enjoying the process.

NOTE: This pattern was updated on December 11, 2013, to correct a counting error in the row instructions. Please ensure each block in the pattern is worked to be 18 stitches wide by 24 rows tall. My apologies for any previous confusion!

Project Details:

• Needle Size: US 13 (9.0 mm) long Circular Needles. A cable length of 47 inches or 60 inches is required. I personally use (and absolutely adore) the Options Interchangeable Needles in Harmony wood from Knit Picks, specifically with a 60-inch cable. This length provides ample room for all the stitches without crowding.
• Yarn: Approximately 1100 to 1500 yards of bulky weight wool or a wool-blend yarn. The exact yardage will depend on the desired length of your finished throw (refer to the “End Note” below for more details on customization). For the throw pictured, I utilized cone wool discovered at DNBY, which is my trusted source for high-quality, discounted yarns. Alternatively, popular bulky yarns like Woolease Quick & Thick or any comparable bulky weight yarn will work wonderfully. As mentioned in the material notes, you can also hold two strands of a standard worsted weight wool yarn together to achieve a bulky weight if you prefer.
• Gauge: Thankfully, precise gauge is not strictly necessary for throws! This is a common relief for many knitters, as exact sizing isn’t required for a cozy blanket. (Yes! Am I the only one who dislikes swatching and figuring out gauge? Let’s skip it for this project!).
• Pattern Structure: The throw features a neat seed stitch edge that frames a beautiful, large basketweave pattern in the center.

Knitting Instructions:

1. Cast On: Using your chosen bulky yarn and circular needles, cast on 124 stitches.
2. Establish Seed Stitch Border: Knit a seed stitch pattern for 10 rows. This creates a stable and attractive bottom border for your throw.
3. Row 1 of Basketweave Pattern: Begin by working 8 stitches in seed stitch to create the side border. Then, place a marker (PM) to signify the start of your main basketweave section. For the basketweave: *knit 18 stitches, purl 18 stitches*. Repeat this sequence a total of 6 times (this creates 6 blocks, each 18 stitches wide). Feel free to place a marker between each 18-stitch block as needed to help you establish and maintain the pattern, especially in these initial rows. Finish the row by working the last 8 stitches in seed stitch.
4. Rows 2-24 of Basketweave Pattern: Continue working the first 8 stitches and the last 8 stitches in seed stitch, maintaining your defined borders. For the central basketweave section, “knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches.” This means you’ll continue the pattern established in Row 1 – knitting over the knit sections and purling over the purl sections – for these 23 rows.
5. Row 25 (Right Side) – Reverse Blocks: Maintain the seed stitch for the first and last 8 stitches. Now, it’s time to reverse your block stitches to create the characteristic woven texture of the basketweave. For this row, where you previously knitted, you will now purl, and where you previously purled, you will now knit. This switch is what makes the “basket” blocks stand out.
6. Rows 26-48: Continue knitting in this newly established, reversed pattern for the central blocks, always remembering to keep the first and last 8 stitches in seed stitch to maintain the cohesive border. You will work 23 rows in this reversed configuration.
7. Row 49 and Remaining Rows: Repeat the block reversal process. Again, purl the stitches that were previously knitted, and knit the stitches that were previously purled. Continue to knit for another 24 rows in this new configuration, then switch again. Keep alternating your knit and purl blocks every 24 rows, always preserving your seed stitch borders, until your throw reaches the desired length. Refer to the “End Note” for guidance on customizing length.
8. Last 10 Rows & Bind Off: Once your throw has reached its desired length, work the final 10 rows entirely in the seed stitch pattern. This creates a matching top border. When complete, bind off your stitches loosely to ensure the edge remains flexible and doesn’t pucker. Finally, weave in all your loose ends neatly for a polished finish.

End Note: Customizing Your Throw’s Length

The beautiful throw pictured in this article measures 6 blocks long by 6 blocks wide. However, one of the joys of making your own throw is the ability to customize its dimensions! You can make your throw as long as you wish. Simply ensure you have an adequate amount of yarn and continue knitting additional sets of 24-row blocks until you achieve your preferred length. Personally, I often prefer to make my throws a bit longer, aiming for 7 or even 8 blocks long while maintaining the 6 blocks wide. I ran out of yarn for the specific throw shown, which is why it ended up at 6×6 blocks. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the length that best suits your needs and vision!

For even more inspiring ideas and patterns, don’t forget to follow my Handmade Gifts Pinterest Board! I’m constantly adding new and exciting projects that I think you’ll love.

Disclosure: I am not affiliated with any of the companies linked within this article. These are simply products and resources I personally use, love, and am genuinely happy to recommend and share with you!

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Quick Basketweave Knitted Throw Pattern

This fabulous knitted throw is an ideal handmade gift that you’ll be proud to give to family or friends. If you’re familiar with basic knitting techniques like making scarves, you have all the skills needed to create this beautiful and cozy blanket!

Makes: 1 throw blanket

Author: Jami Boys

Estimated Cost: $35-$40

Tools Needed

• US 13 long Circular Needles (47″ or 60″ cable) (I personally recommend and use Options Interchangeable Needles in Harmony wood from Knit Picks on a 60″ cable for their flexibility and ease of use. Please note: standard straight needles are not suitable for this large project; circular needles are essential.)
• Stitch Markers (optional, but highly recommended for ease)

Materials Required

• 1100-1500 yards Bulky weight wool or wool-blend yarn The exact yardage depends on your desired throw length (refer to the end notes). I used a cone wool from DNBY; however, any bulky yarn (e.g., Woolease Quick & Thick) will work. You can also hold two strands of standard worsted-weight yarn together to achieve the bulky gauge. My wool initially felt a bit scratchy but became wonderfully soft after washing and machine drying without felting, which also hid woven-in ends effectively. Always check yarn care instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cast on 124 stitches using your preferred method.
• Work 10 rows in a seed stitch pattern to establish a sturdy and attractive border.
• Row 1 of Pattern: Work 8 stitches in seed stitch (for the border). Place a marker (PM). Begin the basketweave pattern: knit 18 stitches, then purl 18 stitches. Repeat this sequence a total of 6 times (this creates 6 blocks of 18 stitches each). Optionally, place markers between each block to help define the pattern. Finish the row by working the last 8 stitches in seed stitch.
• Rows 2-24 of Pattern: Continue working the first and last 8 stitches in seed stitch. For the central basketweave section, continue working “knits over knits” and “purls over purls” within each established block.
• Row 25 (Right Side) – Block Reversal: Maintain the seed stitch for the first and last 8 stitches. To create the basketweave effect, reverse the block stitches for this row: purl the stitches that were previously knitted, and knit the stitches that were previously purled.
• Rows 26-48: Continue knitting in the newly established reversed pattern for the central blocks, ensuring you always maintain the seed stitch edges for the borders.
• Row 49 and Remaining Rows: Reverse your knit and purl blocks once more (purl the knits, knit the purls). Continue knitting for another 24 rows, then switch the blocks again. Repeat this pattern of switching blocks every 24 rows, always maintaining your seed stitch borders, until the throw reaches your desired length (see notes below for customization).
• Final Border & Bind Off: Once the desired length is achieved, knit the last 10 rows entirely in the seed stitch pattern to match the bottom border. Then, bind off all stitches loosely to ensure a flexible edge. Weave in any remaining yarn ends securely.

Additional Notes & Tips

Customizing Your Throw’s Length: The throw pictured in this guide is made with 6 blocks long by 6 blocks wide. However, you have the flexibility to make your throw as long as you desire. Simply ensure you have enough yarn and continue knitting additional sets of 24-row blocks until you achieve your preferred length. I often enjoy making throws that are 7 or 8 blocks long (while still 6 blocks wide), but I simply ran out of yarn for the specific throw photographed here.

Helpful Throw Pattern Tips for a Smoother Experience:

1. To make this throw even easier and prevent errors, use simple circular stitch markers at each edge where the seed stitch border transitions to the main basketweave pattern. These will help you effortlessly remember where to switch stitches.
2. As you knit, simply move the marker from one needle to the next, changing your stitch (seed to basketweave or vice versa) as you pass it. You can also place markers in Row 11 to help you initially establish the individual basketweave blocks, removing them once you’re comfortable with the pattern.
3. The engaging basketweave effect is created by straightforwardly purling one block of stitches, then switching to knit the next block. Once this alternating pattern is established and visible, continuing the pattern becomes very easy and intuitive.

 

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