Add both texture and function to your space with the Petal Loop Stitch Crochet Nesting Trays pattern, a set of modern crochet trays that are as practical as they are beautiful.

These trays are worked in the round using a wooden base, creating a sturdy foundation and a clean, polished finish. You’ll begin by attaching yarn directly into the pre-drilled holes of the base to establish the foundation round, then continue working upward to build the sides of the tray. 

The textured fabric is created using the Petal Loop Stitch, adding visual interest while helping the trays hold their shape. This combination of structural and stitching details results in a set of nesting trays that feel both functional and elevated.

Perfect for organizing and styling your space, these trays can hold yarn and crochet tools, keys and everyday essentials, bathroom or kitchen items, or other decorative accents around your home. They also make perfect trays for holding plants. And with five sizes included, you can use them individually or stack them together for a cohesive, nested set.

Whether you’re making them for your own space, gifting, or selling finished items, this pattern creates a beautiful balance of structure, texture, and everyday usability.

A video tutorial is included.

CROCHET HOOK:
G (4.0mm) Hook

NOTIONS:
Scissors
Yarn Needle to weave in ends
Cat Removable Stitch Marker
5 Wooden Basket Bases


YARN:
3mm Macrame Cord
100% Natural Cotton Rope

Yarn Quantities:
20 (35, 45, 60, 70) yds

Yarn Substitutions:
Bobbiny Yarn - 3 Ply 3mm, 108yds/400g
Macrame Cord - 3mm x 328yd

If you don’t have macramé cord on hand, you can easily get a similar look and structure by holding two or even three strands of yarn together. This creates a thicker, sturdier fabric that helps the trays hold their shape beautifully—plus, it’s a great way to use yarn from your stash.

For hints and tips on creating a bulky-weight yarn from one skein of worsted-weight, visit this post: https://brianakdesigns.com/bulky-yarn-1-skein/

ABBREVIATIONS:
bphdc- back post half double crochet
ch - chain
RS/WS - right side/wrong side
sc - single crochet
st(s) - stitch(es)
Stsc - stacked single crochet

GAUGE:
10 sts and 8 rows = 4” by 4” in stitch pattern repeat.

Gauge is not critical for this pattern.

Not sure what gauge is? Check out this blog post:  What Is Crochet Gauge and How To Fix It

SIZES:
5 Sizes: Wooden Circle Base diameter approx. 3.93 (5.91, 7.87, 9.84, 11.8)", holes 6mm in diameter.

Finished tray diameter size is approx: 4.18 (6.16, 8.12, 10.09, 12.05)"

SKILL LEVEL:
Intermediate