An
easy way to dress up a plain basket is to make a fabric lining for it. With
these easy to follow instructions, you'll have a fabric lining made in no time
at all!
Supplies Needed:
After you have gathered all the necessary supplies, the first step is to measure both the bottom and the sides of the basket. From these measurements, you can make a paper template. The reason for creating the paper template is that since most baskets are oval shaped, you can place the template in the basket to ensure that the fabric lining will fit properly. Note: Always add an extra ½ inch on all sides of the paper template to allow for hems.
For the bottom, measure and write down the width and length. If the bottom of the basket is the same shape on the inside and on the outside, the easiest way to make your paper template is to trace the outside of the basket on a piece of paper. The outside will be slightly bigger than the inside, so this template will give you the extra hem allowance you will need for your fabric.
For the sides, you will need to measure both the height and the width of the basket in two different spots. For the height of basket, make sure to take measurements for both the middle and the side of the basket, as the height will often be different. As well, since you want the fabric to fold over the basket, you will want to make the template a few inches taller than the actual height of the basket. The width of the basket will also be different. For the width, however, you will need to measure it at the top and the bottom.
Once you have taken your measurements, you can create your paper templates. Start by outlining the dimensions on a piece of paper. Then cut out the paper shapes and place them in your basket. If you need to, adjust the paper shapes until they fit nicely in your basket.
Once you are happy with the size of your paper templates, you are ready to
cut your fabric. You'll need to cut out four separate pieces of fabric – one for
the bottom, two pieces for the sides and one long strip for the ribbon ties.
When you are ready to sew, start by sewing the two side pieces together first.
Then sew the bottom piece to the side piece. If you like, you could also add a
ribbon or a different coloured fabric to the lining. This extra piece will be
folded over the top edges of the basket, so that it can be seen on the outside
of the basket.
The next step is to prepare the ribbon ties. Cut out 4 strips of fabric, with each one being 8 inches long and 1 inch wide. For each strip, fold it in half, with the right side facing out and then sew the edges together. Next, cut one end of each strip at an angle. Now the ribbon ties are ready to be attached to the fabric lining. Sew the ribbon ties to the wrong side of the lining, with one ribbon tie for each side of the lining.
The final step is to place your newly created lining in the basket. Place it in the basket, fold the top edges over and tie the ribbons together. Finally, stand back and admire your handy work!
Looking for fabric for the lining on your basket? Check out our selection of Sewing & Quilting Fabrics. Go with a classic, solid print or go for something that's bold and fresh!
