Materials Needed
Making a rope basket without the help of a sewing machine requires the right tools. Professional baskets use a plethora of tools such as hoops, dividers, pliers, and basic sewing tools. For those without access to these tools, a more basic list of materials is needed in order to make a more rudimentary basket. These basics include a roll of sturdy cord, glue, a needle, scissors, and a pair of pliers.
The cord should be as thick as practical. Jute, hemp, or natural cotton are good choices for baskets made without a sewing machine. Synthetic materials, such as nylon, can be used as well. Avoid using materials that cannot be easily manipulated by hand.
Creating A Template
Creating a template is the first step to make a rope basket without a sewing machine. The template will help guide how the rope is laid out and will make it easier to ensure that the design comes out as desired.
The template must be twice as wide as the finished product. This is to allow for the stitching that will attach the basket’s sides together. Trace the template shape onto a piece of cardstock paper or card. Use this as a guide to cut the rope pieces that will be used to create the basket.
Making The Basket
Once the template is finalized, the individual pieces of rope will begin to form the basket. Begin by creating basic ‘slings’ with the pieces of rope. These are the basic components that will make up the basket.
Using a needle and sturdy cord, stitch the slings together. Start by stitching the pieces together from the inside of the basket. Once the pieces form the desired shape and have been stitched together, secure the pieces with a knot.
Next, secure the bottom of the basket by stitching the cords together and using glue to secure the bottom base. Upon completion, the inside of the basket should look secure and the bottom should be firmly attached.
Creating The Rim and Handles
The rim and handles of the basket will give it its final touch. Trim two pieces of twine to slightly longer than the measurements of the basket’s desired length. Tie a knot in one end of each piece.
Using pliers and a sharp tool, thread the twine around the rim of the basket. The twine should be kept as tight as possible. Use glue to firmly affix the ends of the twine to the rim.
Knot some twine in the opposite directions using the same technique. This will form the handles. After knotting, secure them with glue, paying attention to the underside of the basket.
Finishing the Basket
The finishing touches of the basket will include using a sharp tool to trim any fraying or unwanted string. Trim the excess twine from the top of the basket so it looks neat.
Take some of the excess twine from the stitching, and use glue to secure the twine around the rim of the basket. This will create a more finished, decorative look to the basket.
A sealer can be applied to the basket’s exterior to prevent dirt or moisture from entering the crevices. Sealing the basket helps to make it last longer.
Once the seal is applied, the basket is complete. Adding a few decorations, such as ribbons to the handles, can make a decorative statement that complete the look.
Customizing a Rope Basket
A basic rope basket without a sewing machine can be customized in a variety of ways. Different colors of rope can be used to form the basket, or different sizes of rope can be used to create various textures.
For a more decorative look, add beads or other decorations to the basket’s handles. This can be done by placing the decorations on the twine before it is attached.
A monogram of initials can be added to the front of the basket. Letter-shaped beads, ribbon, or any other decoration that is small enough to fit through the holes of the basket can be used.
Adding a lining to the inside of the basket will also give it a more customized look. Felt is a popular choice to use as it’s a soft material and can be found in a wide variety of colors.
Conclusion
Making a rope basket without a sewing machine can be a rewarding task. With the right materials and some patience, anyone can hand craft a rope basket that may become a family heirloom.
Though the basket is a simpler version than those crafted by professionals, it will still be an aesthetically pleasing and sturdy piece.
