How to Make Braided Rug Baskets

Braided rug baskets are easy to make and can last a long time. Braided baskets are functional as well. You will be able to store light weight household items, synthetic flowers and much more. Depending on which fabric combinations you want to use, the basket can reflect the color palette you already use or become a colorful accent piece.

Choose the fabric you want to use to make your braided rug basket. You can use old clothing, extra fabric from other home decoration projects or you can purchase new fabric from a crafting store. Decide on a pattern or color combination before buying fabric.

To determine the size of the braided basket, use a plastic or metal mixing or storage bowl as a mold. You will be wrapping braids around the bowl, so make sure that it's sturdy.

Cut fabric into strips that are two inches wide and 12 inches long. Take the ends of two pieces of fabric and place them together on a smooth surface to form an 'L'. Attach the ends using needle and thread. Instead of sewing in a straight line, the line should be diagonal to create a stronger attachment. Continue sew strips together in this fashion until you have one long strip that's 12 feet long. Make six long strips. Depending on the size of the bowl you're using, you may need to create additional strips.

Turn the bowl upside down. Place a length of fabric that's been cut to measure the bottom of the bowl on top. This will be the bottom of the basket when you're done braiding and attaching the braids to each other. Take three long strips and begin braiding them as you would hair or other types of fabric. The braid should not be too tight or too loose. Make sure the braid does not become twisted as you work. Periodically check the top and untwist any areas that have turned.

Create two long braids. To build your basket, thread your needle with strong thread. Start winding a braid around the rim of the upside down bowl. Once you've created two rows, stitch the rows together using thread. Continue to wind the braid and stitching it to the existing rows. When you reach the fabric you placed on the top of the basket, use your needle and thread to sew the bottom of the basket to the braid. Tuck any end pieces between the braided rows. Remove the bowl.

Cut six strips of fabric that measure six to eight inches in length. Braid these strips together to create two handles. Use thread to sew handles into place.