How to Use Collectibles as Basket Handles

When going to flea markets and yard sales, look for that "something" to make a unique handle for your next basket.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basket Dyes
• Basket Ears
• Basket Handles
• Basket Hoops
• Basket Reeds
• Basket Stains
• Natural Basket Supplies
• The Basket Book

Swing Handles

1. Discover an old handle from a bucket, tea kettle, antique stove or any other object that has a swinging handle.

2. Clean the handle, paint it, or leave it rustic to match your basket.

3. Drill a hole into top of the basket ears for the swing handle to fit into.

4. Place basket ears on the ends of the swing handle. You can make your own or purchase from a basket supply company.

5. Insert basket ears into the rim of the basket.

6. Lash rim and ears to basket. Double lash around ears for extra security.

Unique Collectibles

7. Look for collectibles that can be converted into a handle. Examples are ice tongs, an antique canning jar lifter and lightweight wrought iron.

8. Study the shape of the collectible. Decide how you want to incorporate it into your basket - either lashed to the rim or woven into the base or sides of the basket.

9. Bend tips of ice tongs or wrought iron to form a hook. This will be used with basket ears.

10. Create a design to match the collectible. For example, use a jar lifter as a handle for a small, round basket that will hold a quart jar filled with candy.

11. Use the basket rim to lash large sections of the collectible to the basket base to make a secure handle.

Tips & Warnings

• An old, plastic bucket handle works well with an apple basket that will be used in the garden.