How to Make a Mid-Century Modern Inspired Fruit Basket

By Francesca Stone Updated  August 30, 2017
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Mid-century modern design is making a comeback in a big way. The key features of this style are simple shapes, natural materials and sleek legs on everything. I love bringing elements of this design style into my home via modern DIY projects. This fruit basket tutorial combines the vintage look of mid-century modern era with sleek, contemporary style — and it's very easy to achieve!

Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone

Things You'll Need

  • Large basket

  • Small hairpin legs

  • Nuts and bolts

  • Spray paint (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the legs

One of the reasons I love mid-century modern design is the use of color. It allows you to embrace your fun side and play with bright accents to make even the plainest of pieces stand out. For this project, I used a blue spray paint to transform boring steel hairpin legs into colorful accents with a rich turquoise hue.

First, make sure the surface of the metal is clean and rust free, then spray on light layers letting each dry for at least 10 minutes. After two to three coats the legs will be ready for the next step.

Image Credit: Francesca Stone

Step 2: Attach the legs to the basket

Before making any attachments, place the legs on the bottom of the basket ensuring they are evenly spaced. Make a mark with pencil or masking tape to help you place the legs correctly later on.

Image Credit: Francesca Stone

Using the nuts and bolts, attach the legs to the underside of the basket one at a time. Once all the legs are attached turn the basket over. Now, wasn't that easy!

Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone

Step 3: Arrange fruit as desired

Fill your new tabletop accessory with your favorite produce so everything is within arm's reach.

Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone
Image Credit: Francesca Stone