How to Make a Basket for a Bike

Creating your own basket for a bike can be much cheaper than buying a basket made specifically for your bike. Here are some ideas on how to make a basket.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Milk crate or wicker basket
• zip ties, wire or ribbon
• measuring tape
• bungee cord (optional)

1. The first step is to decide where you want the basket placed: in the front, attached to the handlebars (Step 2-3), or behind the seat of the bike (Step 3-4). Next, decide how big you would like the basket to be. Use the measuring tape to determine how much space you have behind the bike seat, or in between the handle bars.

2. If you want a basket on the front of your bike, find a wicker basket. Craft stores probably have several varieties of baskets. Remember that you can always cut off the handle of a basket if it is too big for the bike.

3. Using the wire, ribbons or zip ties, thread through the basket 2-4 times, depending on the shape and size of the handlebars. Secure the ties around the handlebars, making sure that the basket sits in a straight line.

4. 
    
   Bike rack with milk crate attached

   If you want a basket on the back of your bike, you may want to invest in a rack. This creates a ‘shelf’ on the back of your bike, on which the bike basket is attached to. A milk crate is the perfect size for this. You can find these anywhere that bottled or carton drinks are sold. Try your local supermarket or restaurants, just be sure to ask first!

5. 
    
   Use zip ties to secure crate

   Use at least six zip ties to create secure loops between the bike rack and the crate. Pull the zip ties as tight as they will go to ensure your basket will not slide around.

6. Test your new basket for security by shaking your bike back and forth, and by placing whatever you plan to carry in it. You may wish to carry extra bungee cords in the basket to help keep things you carry from bouncing out.

Tips & Warnings

• When making the ties, be sure not to have any wire or loose ends sticking out towards the biker.
• If you live near a college campus, their eateries may be helpful in finding a milk carton for you to take.
• Remember that whatever material you use on your basket will go through just as much wear and tear as your bike. Be sure any ties or decorations are weather proof!