purlJam

# Easter Egg Carton Holder

A practical and charming carrier to hold and transport a standard egg carton. This rectangular holder features sturdy sides and comfortable handles, perfect for Easter egg hunts, farmers market trips, or decorative storage. Great beginner project using only basic stitches!

## Materials

- **Yarn**: Worsted weight (4) yarn, approximately 250-300 yards
  - Suggested: Cotton or cotton-blend for durability and washability
  - Sample shown in pastel yellow, but any color works beautifully
  - Consider spring colors: pink, lavender, mint green, or classic white
  
- **Hook**: US G-6 (4.0mm) or size needed to obtain gauge

- **Notions**:
  - Yarn needle for weaving in ends
  - Scissors
  - Stitch markers (optional, but helpful)

## Gauge

**4 sc and 4 rows = 1"** (worked tightly)

*Gauge is important for this project to ensure the holder is sturdy enough to support the weight of an egg carton. If your gauge is loose, go down a hook size.*

## Finished Dimensions

- **Base**: 12" long x 4" wide
- **Height**: 2.5" 
- **Handles**: 10" long (from base to top of arc)

*Fits a standard 12-count egg carton (approximately 11.5" x 4" x 2.5")*

## Pattern Notes

- Pattern is worked in rows for the base, then stitches are picked up to work the sides in rounds
- Ch 1 at beginning of rows does NOT count as a stitch
- Work stitches tightly for a firm, sturdy holder
- Mark the beginning of rounds when working sides if desired

## Abbreviations

- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side

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## INSTRUCTIONS

### BASE

The base is worked in rows to create a firm, flat rectangle.

**Row 1**: Ch 49, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. [48 sc]

**Row 2**: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. [48 sc]

**Rows 3-16**: Repeat Row 2. [48 sc per row]

*Math check: 16 rows x 4 rows per inch = 4" width ✓*

Do not fasten off. You will now work around the entire perimeter to create the sides.

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### SIDES

You will now work in rounds around the entire base perimeter. Place a stitch marker at the beginning of the round if desired.

**Round 1** (working around perimeter):
- Ch 1, do not turn, work 2 sc in corner
- Work 16 sc evenly spaced along the short edge (working into the row ends)
- Work 2 sc in corner
- Working across opposite long edge (the foundation chain), work 48 sc across
- Work 2 sc in corner
- Work 16 sc evenly spaced along the second short edge
- Work 2 sc in corner
- Sl st to first sc to join. [132 sc total: 48 + 48 + 16 + 16 + 4 corners]

*Note: When working into row ends, insert hook under both loops of the edge stitch.*

**Round 2**: Ch 1, sc in each st around, working 2 sc in each of the 4 corner sts. Sl st to first sc to join. [140 sc: 50 + 50 + 18 + 18 + 4]

**Rounds 3-10**: Ch 1, sc in each st around. Sl st to first sc to join. [140 sc]

*Math check: 10 rounds x 4 rounds per inch ≈ 2.5" height ✓*

**Round 11** (top edge): Ch 1, sc in each st around. Sl st to first sc to join. [140 sc]

Fasten off, weave in ends.

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### HANDLES (make 2)

Handles are worked separately and sewn on for maximum strength.

**Row 1**: Ch 9, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. [8 sc]

**Row 2**: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. [8 sc]

**Rows 3-40**: Repeat Row 2. [8 sc per row]

*Math check: 40 rows ÷ 4 rows per inch = 10" length ✓*

Fasten off, leaving a long tail (24") for sewing.

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## ASSEMBLY

### Attaching Handles

1. **Position first handle**: Lay holder flat with a long side facing you. Place one handle end on the outside of the holder, centered on the long side, with the end extending about 1" down from the top edge.

2. **Sew first end**: Using the yarn tail and yarn needle, sew the handle end securely to the holder. Sew through all layers multiple times in a square pattern for reinforcement. The handle should cover approximately 2-3" of the side.

3. **Arc the handle**: Bring the other end of the handle over to form an arc. The handle should arc about 10" high (measured from base to top of arc for comfortable carrying).

4. **Sew second end**: Sew the second end of the handle on the opposite long side of the holder, directly across from the first end, using the same secure square pattern.

5. **Reinforce**: Go back and add additional stitching at stress points where the handle attaches to ensure it can support the weight of a full egg carton.

6. **Repeat for second handle**: Attach the second handle on the other long side of the holder.

*Tip: Handles should be positioned on the long sides (48-stitch sides) so the carton sits lengthwise in the holder.*

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## FINISHING

1. Weave in all remaining ends securely.

2. If desired, block the base lightly by dampening and laying flat to dry. This will help the bottom lay flat.

3. Test your holder with an empty egg carton to ensure proper fit before using.

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## Customization Ideas

**Colors**: 
- Spring pastels for Easter (pink, yellow, lavender, mint)
- Natural tones (cream, beige, sage green)
- Bright rainbow stripes (change colors every 2 rows on base)

**Embellishments**:
- Add a small crocheted flower or bow to the handle
- Embroider "Happy Easter" or a name on one side
- Crochet small eggs or bunnies to attach as decoration

**Size Adjustments**:
- For a jumbo egg carton: Add 6 stitches to foundation chain and 2 rows (48 → 54 sts, 16 → 18 rows)
- For half-dozen cartons: Reduce foundation chain to 25 (24 sts) and work 16 rows

**Sturdier Version**:
- Hold two strands of worsted weight together
- Use a smaller hook (E-4 / 3.5mm) for tighter stitches
- Add a cardboard insert to the base

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## Care Instructions

- **Washing**: Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent
- **Drying**: Lay flat to dry, reshape if needed
- **Storage**: Store flat or hanging by handles when not in use

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## Skill Notes for Beginners

This pattern teaches:
- Working in rows to create a flat base
- Picking up stitches along edges
- Working in rounds
- Creating functional handles
- Reinforcing stress points for durability

**Estimated Time**: 4-6 hours

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**Pattern Design Notes**: This Easter egg carton holder creates a practical and reusable carrier perfect for transporting eggs safely. The rectangular construction uses basic single crochet throughout, making it ideal for beginners while creating a sturdy, functional item. The separately-attached handles provide maximum strength and can be reinforced as needed.