Instructions for a Coiled Paper Basket

Use a few old magazines to make a new home accessory.

You can make a coiled paper basket from an old magazine or two for an environmentally friendly home décor accessory. The basket can be used to hold keys, incoming and outgoing mail or as a decorative tea towel holder. You can leave the magazine paper exposed when you have completed the basket or cover it with a layer of acrylic paint for an accessory that coordinates with the home's décor.

Things You'll Need

• Magazines (1 to 2)
• Craft glue
• Acrylic paint (optional)
• Paintbrush (optional)

Instructions

1. Separate the pages from a magazine. Cut strips from each page that are about 1 inch wide.

2. Spread a layer of craft glue on one of the strips and fold it into thirds lengthwise. Spread a layer on top of the folded strip and then roll it up like a jellyroll.

3. Apply glue along another strip and fold it in thirds lengthwise. Spread glue on the folded strip and then coil it around the first coiled strip. Repeat until the base of the coiled paper basket reaches the size you would like.

4. Cover the inside of a large bowl with wax or parchment paper and place the basket base in the bottom of the bowl.

5. Glue and then fold another strip into thirds. Spread a layer of glue on about ¾ of the strip and wrap it around the base of the bowl. Cover the base with the glued ¾ of the strip and let the remaining ¼ of the strip extend above the base. Repeat all the way around the base.

6. Continue folding and gluing strips to make the sides of the bowl. Cover ¾ of each strip with the glue and let ¼ of the each strip extend above the row below to build the sides.

7. Remove the coiled paper basket from the bowl and let it dry completely.

8. Paint the basket with acrylic paint or use it without the paint.

References

• Espirit Cabane: Coiled Paper Basket