Upcycle a Laundry Basket Into a Nautical-Style Planter

Create Drainage

On the bottom of the basket, drill a hole in the center and in each corner to allow water to drain when planted.

Add Jute Rope

Squeeze a line of high-temperature hot glue along the bottom edge of the basket, then quickly attach heavy-duty, natural jute rope (Image 1). Once the bottom layer is complete, continue wrapping the basket (Image 2), adding a bead of glue about every four inches to secure the rope. Stop about 4 inches from the top, or 3/4 of the way up, then cut jute at an angle (Image 3) and glue down onto itself.

Add Accent Color

Cut the end of a length of navy blue rope at an angle, fit it to the angled end of the jute rope and glue it in place. Wrap and glue two layers (Image 1) then cut the rope at an angle and glue to secure. Wrap the rest of the basket in natural jute, stopping at the lip of the basket, just below the handles (Image 2).

Wrap Handles

Hot glue the end of a piece of navy blue rope to the back of one handle, wrap the entire handle with rope, then secure with a bead of hot glue on the other end. Repeat on the other handle.

Line With Plastic

Cut a piece of plastic drop cloth or use a large trash bag to line the inside of the planter. This will keep dirt and debris from leaking through the basket and staining the rope. Use hot glue to attach the plastic liner to the inside of the planter, cutting away any excess at the top. Don't forget to cut a couple of small holes in the bottom for drainage.

Enjoy the Views

This nautical-inspired basket looks gorgeous filled with lush, colorful summer blooms like vibrant yellow marigolds and bright pink celosia. A seaworthy sight, indeed.