How to Make a Basket From a Sheet of Steel
Sheet metal is suitable for an array of craft projects, as it's durable yet pliable. Stainless steel is preferred for its ability to resist rust. Before starting a project, you'll need to find a basket pattern. The pattern will determine the precise width and length of the metal strips. The method used for basket weaving varies dramatically based on the pattern. Weaving with metal is actually easier than working with cane and wood strips, as it will maintain its shape when bent. This eliminates the need for basket weaving hoops and other tools like clothespins. The finished product can serve as a decorative item or a functional basket.
Things You'll Need
- Basket weaving patterns
- Sheet of steel
- Grease pencil
- Tape measure
- Straight edge
- Leather work gloves
- Tin snippers
- Protective work goggles
- Metal grinder
- Paint or lacquer (optional)
- Paintbrush (optional)
- Random orbital sander (optional)
- Fine-grit sandpaper pads (optional)
Instructions
-
-
1
Select a basket weaving pattern from a basket weaving book or an online basket weaving website. The pattern will determine how many strips of metal will be required, along with the diameter and length of the strips.
-
2
Mark out the width of the strips using a grease pencil and tape measure. The width will be determined by the basket pattern. If you need 1-inch wide strips, place a mark every inch along the edge of the metal sheet. Repeat the process on the opposite edge.
-
-
3
Connect the marks on the two opposing edges using a straight edge. Once finished, there will be parallel lines extending across the metal sheet.
-
4
Don leather work gloves to protect your hands from the metal's sharp edges.
-
5
Cut the metal into strips using tin snippers. Use the lines as a guide.
-
6
Cut the metal strips to the appropriate length using the tin snips and tape measure. The basket pattern will dictate the length of the strips.
-
7
Don protective work goggles.
-
8
Grind the edges of the metal strips to dull sharp edges. Simply run the metal grinder head along the four edges of each strip. Pay special attention to the corners. Round them slightly with the grinder.
-
9
Weave the metal strips into a basket, following the pattern. Basket weaving involves placing several strips in a parallel row. Additional strips are woven through these strips, using an "under-over" pattern. The first area that's woven is the basket bottom. The loose ends of the metal strips are then bent at a 45-degree angle so they stand vertically to form the sides of the basket. Additional strips are woven horizontally through the vertical strips, using an "under-over" pattern. The basket pattern will feature a step-by-step overview of the weaving process for that specific basket.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
The finished basket can be coated with a spray-on lacquer.
Add accents to the finished basket using metal stamping.
If you plan to paint the metal basket, the surface will need to be prepared prior to the weaving process. The metal's surface will need to be scuffed with a fine-grit sandpaper prior to painting to ensure proper adherence.
Always wear leather gloves while handling the sheet metal. The sharp edges of the metal may cause injury.
Always wear protective goggles when using a grinder.
References
- "Creative Metal Crafts: 25 Beautiful Projects for Your Home"; Joanna Gollberg; 2005
Resources
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
