If you're like me, you probably have bags full of different types of recycled containers. You just never know when you might need one for a project. Well the time has come when I do need one for a project for our Creative Craft Hop hosted this month by Donna @ Modern on Monticello. Welcome All! We are so glad you're here! Looks like I'm starting the hop off sharing my Upcycled Basket! Please don't forget to check out all of the stunning creative craft projects listed at the bottom of my post!
So I started looking at some of the containers that I have accumulated. I came across a good size clear plastic one - about seven inches tall and seven inches wide. It didn't have a top and I haven't a clue what was in it before. I just know it was nice and clean. And had a reflective look as if it was glass. But it wasn't. It was all clear plastic! So I decided to make a pretty basket - one for everyday use where I can store whatnots and catchalls! But I must say that it turned out rather pretty so it goes perfect with my decor, too!
Materials Used:
- Utility knife
- Snips
- Measuring tape, ruler
- Chalk pen
- Microfiber cloth
- Twine - 3mm 109yds
- Fabri-Tac Glue
- Clamps
- Plastic top (flat, large)
- Plate (template)
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And who doesn't love transforming trash into something useful and beautiful! So let's get started by removing the rim around the plastic container using a utility knife.
The plastic rim was quite difficult to remove. But I finally did it after the hubs saw me struggling with it - he recommended using a pair of snips which really got the job done.
Next, I used a tape measure to mark off the container in 1/2" increments using a chalk pen.Then used a ruler to draw lines on the container every 1/2" to cut out 1/2" strips ending with an odd number of strips. Having odd number of strips helps to make the weaving even.
The strips were a bit hard to cut, too, but thank goodness for the snips!
Once all of the strips are cut, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe off all of the chalk marks.
Once done, turn the container upside down to begin the weaving process.
Attach the end of the twine just inside of one of the strips at the bottom using Fabri-Tac glue or any quick grab and dry glue. I am not a fan of using hot glue on plastic. With the twine still attached to the roll, start weaving it over and under each plastic strip.
Continue going over one strip, under the next, over, under, over, under and so on, working your way around the container . . .
pushing the twine together for a neat and uniform look . . .
until you have nearly reached the top. Then cut the twine off on the backside of a strip, adding glue to the end and sealing it to the strip.Using a clamp, braid three pieces of twine 1.5+ times the length around the container to attach the braided twine to the top of the container.
Once the strips are braided, glue on in increments using clamps to hold in place until dry. Be sure to cut off excess braiding to use later for the lid.Now it's time to cover the plastic bottom!
Place a large dab of glue in the center of the plastic on the bottom. There was already an indentation there so it was not hard to find the center.Then begin coiling the twine around in a circle on top of the glue . . .
adding more glue around on the plastic as you coil the twine . . .
coiling and gluing round and round until . . .
reaching the end.
How cool to see the coiling and weave when looking down into the
clear container!
To Make the Lid:
Use a small plate, just the size that would cover the opening to draw a circle using a chalk pen on a plastic top for the lid. Cut out.
Then begin coiling the twine on glue starting in the center of the plastic lid.
Continue coiling the twine, adding glue as you coil until . . .
the lid is completely covered with twine.
Then braid another strip of twine to glue around the edge of the lid.
Use the excess braiding twine to make a loop handle by gluing the ends together for the basket lid.
To attach the loop to the lid, place a large dab of glue in the center . . . and around the base of the loop on top of the lid.
Add twine to base of the loop and begin coiling it around. Continue adding glue and coiling the twine until the loop until satisfied with the look to secure in place.
What a lovely upcycle craft!
A basket . . .for storage or . . .
decor!
I hope you've been inspired to upcycle your trash to something you will treasure!
Up next is Sara, @Birdz of a Feather, who happens to be one of our fabulous co-hosts! Sara is a very talented artist and today she is sharing her Dinosaur Wall Art which is amazing! And be sure to check out all of the talented bloggers sharing their awesome creations below:
