Easy DIY Wicker Basket Makeover with a Leather Belt That Adds Instant Charm

Looking for a simple DIY that makes a big impact? This easy DIY wicker basket makeover is as charming as it is clever, just add a leather belt!

Whether you’re styling a living room corner or organizing in vintage style, this upcycled wicker basket adds texture, personality, and that unexpected finishing touch. And the best part? It’s affordable, fun, and totally one-of-a-kind.

“Ann Couser Kittredge, founder of interiors blog, Dabbling and Decorating, explains, ‘I’ve always loved collecting vintage and antique baskets, and even a few newer ones. I look for all shapes and sizes, and I especially love it when they have a bit of wear or history to them.” — Home & Gardens

Easy DIY Wicker Basket With a Leather Belt Accent

Supplies You’ll Need for This DIY Wicker Basket Makeover

Gather everything you need to turn a basic wicker basket into a charming, one-of-a-kind piece with this easy DIY project.

This post may contain affiliate links, which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

*Not painting this wicker basket is also an option because this little belt detail will work well with many variations.

Step-By-Step DIY Wicker Basket Tutorial with a Woven Leather Belt

This easy wicker basket makeover comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow along to transform your own basket using paint and a thrifted leather belt for a stylish, functional upgrade.

Step 1: Paint Your Wicker Basket

Start by painting the top and sides of your basket with either a paintbrush or spray paint, whichever you prefer!

Painting a Wicker Basket with a Brush:

Using a paintbrush gives you more control and lets you add texture and detail as you work with the basket’s weave. I personally prefer this method for DIY projects like this one; it’s just as easy as spray paint but allows you to highlight the natural grain and create subtle color variations.

If you’re painting a darker basket, a lighter color, or using paint on a material that might resist it, applying a coat of primer first will give you better coverage and longer-lasting results. Let it dry completely before moving on.

To finish, consider sealing the paint with a clear protective topcoat to add durability, especially if the basket will be handled often or placed in high-traffic areas. Follow the sealant’s drying instructions for best results.

Basket DIY with Spray Paint: Quick and Even Coverage

Spray painting a wicker basket is one of the fastest ways to refresh it with a clean, even finish. I love using this method when I want full coverage and quick results.

Hold the spray paint can about 12 to 18 inches away from the basket and apply the paint in light, even coats. Move the can steadily back and forth to avoid drips and ensure the paint reaches all the woven nooks and crannies.

Let the first coat dry completely, usually around 20 to 30 minutes, then apply a second coat if needed for richer color and better coverage.

Need more tips? Don’t miss my Paint Wicker Furniture: Step-by-Step Guide for extra painting tricks you can use on all kinds of vintage wicker pieces.

Once the paint is fully dry, your basket is ready for its final charm: the leather belt!

This was my basket after one coat of paint. I didn’t care for the coverage, so I continued with a second coat of paint covering the entire wicker basket.

Weave the Leather Belt for a Buckled Basket Detail

Now for the fun part, adding the leather belt! This step gives your DIY wicker basket its unique, buckled charm and ties the whole look together.

Align the Belt First

Before cutting anything, wrap the leather belt around the top edge and side of your basket to decide exactly where you want it to sit. For this project, I wove the belt through the basket’s open weave to create a secure and decorative closure.

Take note of where the buckle will rest so it sits evenly when fastened. You can adjust the positioning slightly until it feels balanced and visually appealing.

Once the belt is aligned just right, you’re ready to trim it and secure it in place.

How to Cut and Prep the Belt for Your Wicker Basket

Once your belt is aligned, it’s time to cut it into two pieces, one for the basket lid and one for the body. This creates that signature wrapped look with a functional or decorative buckle detail.

Use a sharp pair of professional scissors or heavy-duty fabric shears; I’m using these Professional Heavy Duty Tailor Fabric Scissors to get a clean, even cut through the leather.

How to Weave the Belt Into the Wicker Basket

To create the buckled look, position the buckle section of the belt along the side of the basket and the holed end across the lid. This gives the illusion of a working closure while keeping things purely decorative and oh-so-stylish.

Follow the photo sequence below to see exactly how I wove the belt through the wicker pattern. Once it’s in place, pull it snug and trim off any extra leather from the inside. The tight weave of the basket should grip the belt well, no glue or hardware needed!

Want to have fun with it? Swap out the belt seasonally! Try a red belt for the holidays, navy for patriotic summer styling, or even a floral belt for spring. It’s such an easy way to refresh this DIY wicker basket all year long.

How to Style This Basket DIY in Your Home Decor

This easy wicker basket DIY adds instant charm, texture, and personality to any space. With just a coat of paint and a thrifted leather belt, you’ve created a versatile piece that can work in nearly every room of your home. From cozy corners to stylish storage, here are a few ways I’ve styled my belted basket makeover.

DIY Basket Decor in the Sunroom

Add a subtle pop of color and personality to your sunroom with this painted wicker basket and leather belt accent. Tucked into a corner or placed under a side table, it blends beautifully with vintage and cottage-style decor. It’s the perfect mix of cozy function and eye-catching charm, and makes great storage for throws, books, or even Ella’s toys.

DIY Basket in a Corner Dining Room Nook

In our dining room, I styled this blue DIY wicker basket, complete with its charming leather belt detail, beneath a vintage table for an eye-catching focal point.

Paired with a collection of blue and white dishes, this handmade piece adds a touch of vintage elegance while blending seamlessly with the room’s classic New England style. It’s a simple way to add texture and personality to an overlooked corner.

DIY Basket Decor in the Living Room

This leather belt basket DIY brings just the right touch of rustic charm to our living room. It pairs beautifully with vintage blue decor and even doubles as a small side display table,both stylish and functional in one simple makeover.

It’s also a perfect idea for a thoughtful gift! Imagine turning a thrifted basket into a one-of-a-kind gift basket filled with flowers, baked goods, or cozy treats. It’s such a fun and creative way to upcycle something simple into something memorable.

Love an easy, creative project like this one? Check out more DIY home decor ideas below, from thrifted transformations to budget-friendly styling tricks that bring vintage charm into every corner of your home.

DIY Gift Basket Ideas Using a Wicker Basket Makeover

This painted wicker basket with its chic leather belt detail isn’t just stylish, it’s versatile, too! Turn it into a meaningful, one-of-a-kind gift with these creative DIY gift basket ideas:

These gift ideas are not only budget-friendly but completely customizable, perfect for any season, recipient, or occasion. And thanks to that charming leather belt, your upcycled wicker basket becomes part of the gift itself.

Looking for more creative painting ideas? From furniture flips to small thrifted treasures, these DIY paint projects will inspire you to grab a brush and transform something old into something beautiful.

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This post may contain affiliate links, which won’t change your price but will share some commission.