How to Make a Easter Basket Out of a Shoe Box
Hold on to those empty shoe boxes after a family trip to the shoe store. They work for a number of kids' crafts, including a simple homemade Easter basket. Part of the preparation work is best handled by an adult, but the kids can take care of the rest. The weaving aspect of this Easter craft helps kids improve their fine motor skills. They also use their creativity to decorate the basket.
Things You'll Need
- Shoe box
- Shoe box lid
- Craft knife
- Scissors
- Tape
- Glue
- Markers
- Easter grass
Instructions
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1
Cut straight vertical lines along the side of the shoe box using a sharp craft knife. Start each cut right under the top edge of the box. You want the cuts evenly spaced for a uniform look, leaving about an inch between each slit. Cut the slits along all four sides of the empty shoe box.
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2
Cut the edge off of the shoe box lid. Keep this section to use as the handle. Cut the flat part of the lid into long strips to use for weaving. Another option is to cut a contrasting color of poster board into strips. This gives the Easter basket more color. Cut the strips the same width for a uniform look.
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3
Slip the first strip into one of the cuts on the box. Weave the strip back and forth between each slit to create the basket weave pattern. Glue or tape the strip in place at both ends.
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4
Continue weaving strips through the slits. You'll want to reverse the way you go through the slits on the second strip. For the sections you went under with the first strip, you'll go over with the second strip. This creates the alternating weave pattern. Weave the strips in on all four sides, securing the strips as you go.
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5
Glue, tape or staple the edge strip from the lid to create the handle. You can also cut a handle from poster board. The handle is attached to opposite sides of the box. You can attach it to either the two long sides or the two short sides depending on your personal preference.
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6
Decorate the homemade Easter basket as desired. Markers, glitter, sequins, stickers or other craft materials work well as the decorations.
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7
Tuck some Easter grass into the bottom of the basket.
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Tips & Warnings
This simple Easter craft also works well as a gift from a child. Have her decorate the basket she weaved, fill it with Easter goodies and give it to a family member or friend.
