How to Firm Up a Crocheted Basket

Crocheted baskets can start to lose their rigidity after heavy use. Washing may also cause a basket to start to collapse. The most effective way to firm up a crocheted basket is with laundry starch. It is safe for all types of yarn and it will last for years as long as the basket is not machine washed.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid laundry starch
• Towel
• Darning needle
• Yarn
• Crochet hook
• Bucket or container large enough to hold crochet basket
• Drying rack

Instructions

1. Check the crocheted basket for loose stitches. Secure any loose threads by weaving them into the stitching with a darning needle.

2. Prepare liquid laundry starch according to the directions on the bottle. If there are no instructions, mix one part laundry starch to two parts water. Pour this mixture into a container that is large enough to completely submerse the crochet basket.

3. Immerse the crochet basket into the liquid laundry starch mixture. Gently squeeze the basket so the starch penetrates the fibers. Do not stretch the basket out of shape.

4. Place a towel or several layers of newspaper under a drying rack designed to dry sweaters. Place the crocheted basket on the drying rack and allow it to dry completely. Use a soft brush to remove any excess starch after the basket dries.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not twist or wring the basket when soaking it in laundry starch. It will permanently stretch it out of shape.