When the seasons are quickly changing and spring turns into summer, that makes me think outdoor adventures. One of my favorite ways to spend time with my loves is a picnic. The other strong affinity I have is for baskets. Yes, I’m a basket addict. Are you? So it was no surprise when I spied this set of small picnic baskets at the thrift store that I grabbed them to come home with me. How about we have an upcycled picnic baskets adventure today?

Unfortunately, these baskets are a tad too small for my family of 8 to make use of for our needs. But that doesn’t mean I can’t have some DIY fun to make them cute for someone else, right?

DIY TIME

First, let’s take a closer look. One of the baskets has hinges a third of the way in the lid. It’s by Peterboro Basket Co and is super cute. Out of the two, I’d say this one is better made. However, it does have stains and wear to it in various places.

Next, the second one is from a hospital that, I believe, is given out to new mom’s after having a baby. Then, if you peek under the lid it has the logo displayed. Likewise, I also use one of these same baskets for my embroidery. So handy!

So, aside from just those minor flaws or wear, they are ready for a makeover. I’m all about having fun making them new. You can see how I made a table out of this one, and an insulated picnic basket from another one HERE. Plus, I like to crochet my own too. Baskets are da bomb!

DIY TIME

First, in order to get the baskets ready for a makeover, I use my orbital sander to take off the wear and finish on the lids. Then, each top got a soaking of the reactive stain for Aged Wood. Reactive means it’s a natural stain that reacts with the tannins in the wood to age naturally. My goal is to create a days-gone-by look.

Then, once the stain cures I apply a coat of paint to the base of one of the baskets. We all can use some color fun in our lives, right?

Last, but least I add some stenciling to jazz up the tops. You know I love me some typography! Plus, I have enjoyed using this grain sack stencil on upholstery, wall decor, and more.

THE REVEALS

Finally, here’s my duo upcycled picnic baskets in their new looks. Which one suits you best?

The blue one has the aged look with gray wax and a French postage stamp on top. Also, inside is painted the same.

SECOND BASKET

Next, is the Peterboro basket that I basically aged with stain, black wax, and the grain sack stencil. Likewise, the interior is the same as the exterior.

Who’s ready for a picnic? It’s definitely been beautiful weather here, flowers are in bloom, and the sun is shining. I’m game!

If you like to own either of these baskets, you can find them and more available in my online shop. I’m always adding new things, so stop by and see!

In addition, do pin and share my upcycled picnic baskets to inspire others. You know there are picnics just waiting to happen!

Up next, one of my daughter’s wants to give this Queen Anne side table a refreshing new look. See the after HERE.

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While you’re at it, more DIY fun like these upcycled picnic baskets: