Looking for a way to update a few thrift store baskets? This easy step-by-step guide will help you learn to chalk paint wicker baskets!
Do you have a wicker basket ( or 2 or maybe even 3) that needs a bit of a refresh? Chalk paint is the perfect solution! Let me show you how you can transform your thrift store wicker baskets in minutes.
This type of wicker basket is easily found at garage sales, tag sales or resale shops such as Goodwill. I found this set of three baskets at the local Methodist Church thrift store. While they were structurally in good shape, they were a bit discolored. I thought they would be perfect for a chalk paint transformation!
A Easy Step-by-Step Guide on How To Chalk Paint Wicker Baskets
Before –
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After-
Let’s Get Started – Chalk Paint Wicker Baskets
Step 1 – Gather Supplies.
Before you begin, gather your supplies. You’ll need a basket to paint, chalk paint and of course, a paint brush. Depending on the look you want to create, you may also need a few extra items such as painter’s tape and wax or polyurethane for sealing. To make your project easier, be sure to gather all of the materials you need before getting started.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Basket Surface.
Before you begin painting, the surface of your basket should be clean and smooth. You can use a damp cloth to wipe away any dust or debris. For tougher stains or discoloration, sanding the surface of the basket lightly is an effective way to make sure it’s ready for paint. Make sure the entire surface is free from dirt before beginning your painting journey! After making sure my basket was clean and free of cobweb or dirt, I was ready to get started.
Step 3 – Apply Base Coat of Chalk Paint
Now it’s time to apply your base coat of chalk paint and give your basket the desired color.
I had a can of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in a color named French Linen that I recently used to repaint a wooden lamp. I decided to use this same color for my basket refresh. The French Linen color is a great neutral color.
I usually line the paint tray with aluminum foil for easy clean up!
I began by painting in the direction of the grain, then switched the direction of the brush in order to cover any missed spots. Once finished, you will want to let the first layer dry thoroughly before applying additional coats.
I worked on a few other projects while I waited for the first coat of paint to dry. This is what the baskets looked like after their first coat of paint.
Once the chalk paint was dry, I added a second coat to the outside of the baskets. It took about an hour for this second coat of paint to dry. Drying time can be affected by humidity. Luckily it wasn’t humid today!
For best results, apply 2-3 coats of chalk paint onto the basket surface until desired coverage is reached. I only used 2 coats of paint. I decided not to paint the insides of the baskets.
Here is a close up of the finished basket.
Step 4 – Clean Up
Once you are finished painting, clean up is easy! Your brush can be cleaned with soap and water. Be sure to rinse well and let it dry. Simply remove the foil from the painter’s tray and dispose.
Optional Step – Add Shading, Texture, Detail and Patterns With Additional Coats of Chalk Paint
The possibilities are endless when it comes to adding texture, shading, and detail to your painted baskets with additional coats of chalk paint. You can use a second shade of the same color to create an ombre effect, or mix and match different colors if desired. Patches of darker hues and lighter shades can be used together to create a multi-dimensional effect. Stencils allow you to achieve detailed patterns on your basket – simply layer the chalk paint over the stencil for a beautiful look!
Once the basket is completely dry, you could use chalk paint wax on it. I decided to skip this step. If I was going to use the basket somewhere were it might be subject to a lot of banging around (like a toy basket for a child), I would use the wax to help protect the surface of the basket.
Step 5 – Style Your Baskets
I love to use baskets throughout my home. I made a quick display with a few stems of silk flowers. The runner is a recent estate sale find!
Here are some of the ways you can use your refreshed baskets!
In the Kitchen –
Hang several baskets on a wall to create an attractive kitchen organizer. Arrange them from large to small, so you can store everything from pots and pans to produce, jars, and grains in an easy-to-access manner. Use colorful ribbons or even stencils on the baskets to add a bit of personality to your display.
As A Storage Holder for the Bathroom –
Repurpose thrift store baskets as storage holders for your bathroom. Hang them from the wall to hold towels and toiletries, or stack them against each other for a more space-efficient arrangement. Paint your baskets in a bright color to add a cheerful touch to the room. In
Media Center and Console Table –
Add a rustic touch to your media room or console table with thrift store baskets. Use them to hold magazines, remote controls, and other items that would normally clutter the space. Mix in some decorative plants for a cozy look. Paint the basket handles in attractive colors for added interest or stencil in a design for an extra creative touch.
Are you ready to try to chalk paint wicker baskets?
Save This Pin For Later!
Links to Other Chalk Painted Projects:
How to Refresh an Old Wicker Basket with Chalk Paint
How To Refresh Candle Holders with Chalk Paint
How to Refresh a Bookcase with Chalk Paint
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