Burlap baskets are a great way to add rustic charm to your home while keeping your budget in check. Their neutral tones and versatile textures make them perfect for a variety of purposes—from home decor to storage and even DIY gifts. In this post, we’ll explore 17 creative ways you can use burlap baskets, whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s style or organize your space efficiently.
DIY Burlap Basket Ideas
1. No-Sew Burlap Basket
Creating a no-sew burlap basket is easier than you think. All you need is a cardboard box, some burlap fabric, and a hot glue gun. Cut the burlap fabric to cover the box, then secure it with glue for a neat finish. You can leave the edges raw for a rustic feel or fold them under for a cleaner look. This simple project takes less than an hour to complete.
These baskets are perfect for storing small household items such as office supplies, crafting materials, or even small toys. The size and shape of your basket can be easily customized depending on the box you choose. For an extra touch of personalization, consider adding some fabric paint designs or stenciling a family name on the side.
If you’re looking to keep costs down, repurpose old cardboard boxes and leftover burlap from previous projects. Burlap fabric is generally inexpensive, but you can also use an old burlap sack if you have one on hand.
2. Painted Burlap Baskets
Adding a splash of color to your burlap baskets is a great way to inject personality into your space. With a few coats of acrylic or fabric paint, you can transform a plain burlap basket into a colorful decor item that fits seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic. Choose patterns that suit your style—chevron designs, geometric shapes, or even simple polka dots can make a big impact.
Start by taping off areas of the basket that you don’t want to paint, or use stencils for more intricate designs. Acrylic paints work well on burlap, as they provide rich, vibrant colors without soaking too deeply into the fabric. Once the paint dries, these baskets can be used to store anything from mail to kitchen supplies.
One budget-saving tip is to repurpose leftover paint from previous DIY projects. You can mix and match colors to create a unique palette without spending extra money.
3. Personalized Burlap Basket with Wooden Labels
Adding personalized wooden labels to burlap baskets not only enhances their visual appeal but also helps with organization. Craft wooden labels can be easily found in most hobby stores or made at home using scrap wood. Attach the labels to the front of the basket using a hot glue gun or a sturdy twine knot.
These personalized baskets are perfect for organizing toys, books, or pantry items. You can also use them to sort laundry by labeling each basket for whites, colors, and delicates. Wooden labels add a touch of rustic elegance and make it easy to find what you’re looking for at a glance.
For an eco-friendly and budget-conscious approach, use wood scraps or pieces from old projects to create the labels. Sand them down, paint or stain them, and voila—you have custom labels without the added expense.
4. Burlap and Lace Basket
Combining the rustic texture of burlap with the delicate elegance of lace creates a charming, vintage look. Adding a lace trim to a burlap basket is simple, and it can instantly elevate the basket’s appearance, making it suitable for weddings, baby showers, or shabby chic interiors. You can sew the lace onto the basket or use fabric glue for a no-sew option.
These burlap and lace baskets work beautifully as centerpieces or decorative storage in bedrooms and bathrooms. They can be used to store jewelry, small towels, or other personal items while adding a touch of elegance to the room.
To keep costs low, consider repurposing lace from old clothes, curtains, or thrift store finds. Lace remnants from fabric stores are also an affordable option, and you only need a small amount to transform a plain burlap basket into a showstopper.
5. Fabric-Lined Burlap Basket
If you want to add both style and durability to your burlap basket, consider lining it with fabric. This not only reinforces the structure of the basket but also provides a smooth interior, making it easier to store delicate items like clothing or linens. Simply cut your chosen fabric to size, then glue or sew it into place along the edges of the basket.
Fabric-lined burlap baskets are ideal for organizing closets, bedrooms, and bathrooms. They provide a stylish solution for storing socks, scarves, or towels while keeping everything neatly contained. Choose fabrics that complement your decor—bold prints or solid colors work equally well, depending on your preference.
For a budget-friendly approach, use leftover fabric from previous sewing projects or recycle old bedsheets or tablecloths. This way, you can create a custom look without spending extra on new materials.
Burlap Basket Ideas for Home Organization
6. Burlap Basket for Kitchen Pantry
Burlap baskets are excellent for organizing your kitchen pantry. Use them to store dry goods, spices, snacks, and utensils. The natural texture of burlap complements most kitchen designs, particularly those that lean toward rustic, farmhouse, or minimalist styles. Label each basket to easily identify what’s inside—this will help keep your pantry tidy and efficient.
To make the baskets more durable for food storage, consider lining them with wax paper or a thin plastic sheet. This will protect the fabric from potential spills and make cleaning easier. You can also stack several smaller baskets to create vertical storage space, maximizing your pantry’s capacity.
Buying burlap baskets in bulk can save you money, especially if you have a large pantry to organize. Consider mixing and matching different sizes to create a cohesive yet functional system.
7. Burlap Baskets for Bathroom Storage
Bathrooms can quickly become cluttered with toiletries, towels, and cleaning products. Burlap baskets offer a stylish and functional solution for storing these items. Small baskets can hold toiletries like lotions, soaps, and razors, while larger ones can be used to store extra towels, toilet paper, or cleaning supplies.
Since bathrooms are often humid, it’s a good idea to waterproof or line your burlap baskets to prevent moisture damage. A simple plastic insert or a coat of waterproofing spray can help protect the fabric. For added style, you can embellish the baskets with ribbons or tags that indicate their contents.
If you’re working with a tight budget, look for second-hand baskets or repurpose other containers by wrapping them in burlap fabric.
8. Burlap Toy Basket for Kids’ Rooms
Keeping kids’ rooms tidy is always a challenge, but large burlap baskets can make toy storage easier and more appealing. These baskets are durable enough to handle frequent use and large enough to store a variety of toys, from stuffed animals to building blocks. The neutral color of burlap blends well with different decor themes, so the baskets can grow with your child’s changing tastes.
To make the baskets more sturdy for heavier toys, consider reinforcing them with cardboard or an inner lining of felt. This will help the baskets maintain their shape even when filled to the brim. You can also label each basket to organize toys by category, making cleanup faster and more efficient.
Purchasing larger baskets in bulk or at thrift stores can help keep costs down. Additionally, you can update old baskets with a fresh layer of burlap to give them new life.
9. Burlap Craft Storage Bins
Crafters know the struggle of keeping supplies organized, but burlap baskets can help! Use these baskets to store yarn, fabric scraps, paint, or paper. For an even more organized approach, you can add dividers inside the basket, made from cardboard or wood, to section off different materials.
Labeling each basket is key to finding your supplies quickly. Use wooden tags or even chalkboard labels to keep track of what’s inside. The rustic charm of burlap adds a decorative touch to your craft room, making it both functional and beautiful.
To save on costs, repurpose baskets from other areas of your home or use empty cardboard boxes wrapped in burlap as DIY storage bins. This way, you can create a cohesive storage system without breaking the bank.
10. Burlap Basket for Entryway
The entryway is the first impression of your home, and burlap baskets can help keep it organized and inviting. Use these baskets to store shoes, gloves, scarves, and other accessories. You can place them under a bench or in a hallway closet for easy access as you come and go.
For a more efficient system, consider creating a multi-tier basket rack. Stackable burlap baskets or baskets placed on shelves can keep your entryway clutter-free while still looking stylish. Add labels or decorative elements to personalize the space.
Repurpose old baskets by re-wrapping them in burlap, or scour thrift stores for inexpensive options. This way, you can create a functional and attractive entryway on a tight budget.
Burlap Basket Ideas for Decor
11. Seasonal Burlap Basket Centerpiece
Burlap baskets make excellent seasonal centerpieces for your dining or coffee table. You can fill them with autumn leaves, pinecones, flowers, or candles, depending on the time of year. For fall, consider adding mini pumpkins and dried wheat, while spring might call for fresh flowers or greenery.
The beauty of using burlap baskets as centerpieces is their versatility. You can easily swap out the contents to suit the season or occasion. By incorporating natural elements, you can create a stunning display without spending much money.
To make this idea even more budget-friendly, gather natural elements from your backyard or local park. This not only cuts costs but also adds a personal touch to your decor.
12. Burlap Planter Basket
Turn a burlap basket into a rustic planter for your indoor plants. Simply line the basket with a plastic insert or waterproof liner to prevent water damage, then add your favorite potted plants. Succulents, ferns, and small flowering plants look particularly charming in burlap baskets.
These planter baskets are perfect for adding greenery to your living room, bedroom, or even your kitchen. The neutral tones of burlap complement the vibrant green of plants, creating a calming, natural look. You can also place multiple baskets on a shelf or windowsill for a cohesive display.
To save money, repurpose old baskets you already own or visit thrift stores for affordable options. Adding a fresh layer of burlap can transform any basket into a beautiful planter.
13. Burlap Picnic Basket
Elevate your next outdoor gathering with a burlap-wrapped picnic basket. Start by taking a basic wicker or plastic picnic basket and wrapping it in burlap for a rustic touch. You can also add decorative elements like ribbons, flowers, or personalized tags to make it extra special.
A burlap picnic basket is not only functional but also adds to the ambiance of a cozy outdoor meal. Use it to store picnic essentials like plates, cutlery, and napkins. After the picnic, the basket can double as storage for blankets or books at home.
Thrift stores are a great place to find old picnic baskets that can be easily updated with burlap. This affordable DIY project is perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or romantic outdoor dates.
14. Burlap Basket for Rustic Weddings
Burlap baskets are a popular decor item for rustic or country-themed weddings. Use them to hold wedding favors, programs, or even flowers for the ceremony. You can decorate the baskets with lace, ribbon, or personalized tags to match your wedding theme.
Place smaller baskets on each table to hold utensils or napkins, or use larger ones to collect cards or gifts from guests. Burlap baskets are versatile and can be easily customized to fit your wedding color palette.
To save on wedding costs, consider making the baskets yourself or repurposing them after the event for home decor or storage. Burlap is an inexpensive material, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious brides.
15. Burlap Gift Basket
Burlap baskets make excellent gift baskets for any occasion. Fill them with homemade treats, bath products, or other thoughtful items. You can also personalize the basket by adding the recipient’s name with stenciling or fabric paint.
A burlap gift basket is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or housewarming gifts. The rustic charm of the basket adds a personal touch that store-bought baskets often lack. Plus, the recipient can reuse the basket in their own home, making it a gift that keeps on giving.
Save money by making your own baskets from cardboard boxes and burlap fabric. This DIY project allows you to create a custom gift that’s both beautiful and budget-friendly.
16. Burlap Basket Wall Decor
Who says baskets are just for storage? Burlap baskets can also be used as wall decor to create a unique, textured display. Simply attach a sturdy hook to the back of the basket and hang it on the wall. You can fill it with dried flowers, greenery, or small decorative items to enhance the look.
This idea works well in rustic or farmhouse-style homes, adding both charm and functionality to your walls. Arrange several baskets of different sizes in a gallery wall style for a dynamic display.
To keep costs low, look for baskets at second-hand stores or use ones you already own. Adding a layer of burlap can give old baskets a fresh new look.
17. Burlap Basket for Blanket Storage
Keep your living room or bedroom tidy by using a large burlap basket to store blankets and throws. The neutral tones of the burlap make it a perfect match for most home decor styles, while the basket itself keeps your space looking organized and clutter-free.
Place the basket next to your sofa or bed for easy access to cozy blankets during movie nights or cold evenings. You can also use the basket to store extra pillows or other soft furnishings.
For a budget-friendly option, repurpose an old laundry basket by wrapping it in burlap. This gives it a fresh, rustic look while saving you the cost of buying a new basket.
Final Thoughts
Burlap baskets offer a world of possibilities for DIY projects, home organization, and rustic decor. Whether you’re looking to tidy up your space, create unique decor, or give thoughtful handmade gifts, these budget-friendly ideas are sure to inspire. The versatility of burlap allows you to customize each basket to your personal style, all while keeping your costs down. So gather your supplies and start crafting—your home will thank you!