Crochet cat basket free pattern
Looking for a cozy and stylish cat bed your cat will actually use? This crochet cat basket free pattern is the perfect beginner-friendly project for creating a comfy crochet cat hideaway your pet will love. Made with super bulky yarn and simple stitches, this basket works up quickly and holds its shape beautifully.
Whether you place it in a sunny corner or next to your favorite chair, this cat hideaway crochet pattern creates a warm, enclosed space that helps cats feel safe and relaxed.
If you’ve been wanting to try a crochet cat basket that’s practical, modern, and easy to customize, this pattern is a great place to start.
Why you’ll love this pattern
This cat basket crochet pattern is designed to be both functional and fun to make. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Beginner-friendly: Uses basic stitches and clear round-by-round instructions
- Quick project: Super bulky yarn means fast progress and sturdy results
- Cozy hideaway: The enclosed shape creates a comforting crochet cat hideaway cats naturally gravitate toward
- Customizable: Easily change colors, height, or opening size to suit your space
- Sturdy finish: Optional starch spray helps the basket keep its shape over time
This is a great project if you want a handmade cat bed that looks good in your home and actually gets used.
Crochet cat basket pattern details
Skill level
Beginner — This crochet basket is made using basic crochet stitches.
Materials needed
- Crochet Hook Size: M/N-13 9 mm
- Yarn: Super bulky weight yarn (#6). In black, gray, and tan. I used Lion Brand Yarns Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Oatmeal and Grey Marble.
- Yarn needle: Use this to weave in your ends.
- Scissors: Use scissors to fasten off your yarn.
- Stitch marker(s): Optional. Use these to help keep track of your stitches.
- Starch spray: I used this to stiffen my basket.
Finished size
The base of my basket is 12 inches in diameter and it is 12 inches tall. The opening is about 7.5 inches in diameter.
Gauge
Gauge is not overly important for this pattern, but it may affect the final size and shape of your basket.
9 stitches and 8 rounds = 4 inches
✅ Too many stitches? Try a larger hook.
✅ Too few stitches? Try a smaller hook.
Yardage
I don’t have the exact yardage needed for each color, however, my basket weighs 486 grams/17.1 ounces.
Crochet abbreviations
- hdc = half double crochet
- hdc2tog = half double crochet decrease
- ch/chs = chain/chains
- st/sts = stitch/stitches
- sl st = slip stitch
- blo = back loop only
Pattern notes
- The pattern is worked in the round from the bottom up.
- The chain 2 at the start of each round does not count as a stitch.
- Join each round with a slip stitch to the first stitch of the round.
- Repeat instructions between the asterisks (*) for the rest of the round.
- The pattern is written in US terms.
Crochet cat basket free pattern
Base of basket (increase rounds)
Start with tan yarn.
Rnd 1: Magic circle, ch 2, 10 hdc, join (10 stitches)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 hdc in each st, join (20 stitches)
Rnd 3: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next st*, join (30 stitches)
Rnd 4: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 2 sts*, join (40 stitches)
Rnd 5: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 3 sts*, join (50 stitches)
Rnd 6: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 4 sts*, join (60 stitches)
Rnd 7: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 5 sts*, join (70 stitches)
Rnd 8: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 6 sts*, join (80 stitches)
Rnd 9: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 7 sts*, join (90 stitches)
Rnd 10: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in the next 8 sts*, join (100 stitches)
Lower basket walls (structure rounds)
Rnd 11: Ch 2, hdc blo in each st, join (100 stitches)
Rnd 12: Ch 2, hdc in each stitch — work below the tops of the stitches in the area between the posts — this will make these stitches sturdier, join (100 stitches)
Rnds 13–16: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (100 stitches)
Switch to black yarn.
Rnds 17 & 18: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (100 stitches)
Switch to gray yarn.
Rnds 19-23: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (100 stitches)
Switch to black yarn.
Upper shaping (decrease rounds)
Rnd 24: Ch 2, *hdc2tog, hdc in the next 8 sts*, join (90 stitches)
Rnd 25: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (90 stitches)
Switch to tan yarn.
Rnd 26: Ch 2, *hdc2tog, hdc in the next 7 sts*, join (80 stitches)
Rnd 27: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (80 stitches)
Rnd 28: Ch 2, *hdc2tog, hdc in the next 6 sts*, join (70 stitches)
Rnd 29: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (70 stitches)
Rnd 30: Ch 2, *hdc2tog, hdc in the next 5 sts*, join (60 stitches)
Switch to black yarn.
Rnd 31: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (60 stitches)
Rnd 32: Ch 2, *hdc2tog, hdc in the next 4 sts*, join (50 stitches)
How to stiffen your crochet cat basket
To stiffen your crochet cat basket using starch spray, follow these simple steps:
- Evenly spray the inside and outside of the basket with starch spray, making sure all areas are lightly coated.
- Let the basket dry completely before moving or reshaping it.
- For extra stiffness, repeat the spraying and drying process one or two more times until the basket holds its shape.
Once dry, your crochet cat basket will be firm, sturdy, and ready to use as a cozy cat hideaway your furry friend will love.
Finishing
Fasten off and weave in all loose ends using a yarn needle. If desired, lightly shape the basket with your hands to even out the sides and opening.
For a sturdier finish, follow the steps above to stiffen your crochet cat basket using starch spray. Allow the basket to dry completely before use.
Your crochet cat basket is now finished and ready to use as a cozy cat hideaway—perfect for naps, lounging, and keeping your furry friend comfortable.
Care and cleaning
Spot clean your crochet cat basket as needed using a damp cloth and mild detergent. Gently blot the area and allow it to air dry completely.
Avoid machine washing or soaking the basket, as this can cause it to lose its shape—especially if starch spray was used to stiffen it.
To refresh the basket between cleanings, remove loose fur by shaking it out or using a lint roller. If the basket becomes slightly misshapen over time, reshape it by hand and allow it to air dry.
With proper care, your crochet cat basket will stay cozy, sturdy, and comfortable for your cat to enjoy.
Frequently asked questions
What yarn works best for a crochet cat basket?
Super bulky (#6) yarn is ideal for a crochet cat basket because it creates a thick, sturdy fabric. Wool blends like Wool Ease Thick & Quick work especially well for structure and durability.
Is this crochet cat basket pattern good for beginners?
Yes! This crochet cat basket free pattern is beginner-friendly and uses simple stitches like half double crochet. The pattern is worked in the round with clear instructions.
How do I make the basket stiff enough to hold its shape?
Starch spray works well for stiffening your basket. Spray evenly inside and out, let it dry completely, and repeat if needed for extra structure.
Can I adjust the size of the cat hideaway?
Absolutely. You can make the basket wider by adding increase rounds at the base or taller by adding more straight rounds. This makes it easy to customize your cat hideaway crochet pattern for different cats.
Will cats actually use this crochet basket?
Most cats love enclosed spaces! The cozy shape of this crochet cat hideaway mimics a den-like environment, which helps cats feel safe and comfortable.
More crochet for cats
Looking for crochet for cats ideas? These fun and comfy designs are perfect for spoiled kitties, handmade pet gifts, and cozy beds that double as cute home décor. Explore more free crochet cat patterns—from cat pods and caves to toys and blankets—and start your next kitty-approved project today!
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Happy crocheting! 🧶 Don’t forget to Pin this pattern so you can come back to it later!
— Melissa
