Create Stunning Decoupage Rope Baskets: A Beginner's Tutorial

Many of our customers at DecoupageNapkins.com have asked us how to decoupage a rope basket. We asked Donna from Mason Creations etc. to create a detailed tutorial just for you! Watch the video below to get started:

Step-by-Step Guide to Decoupaging a Rope Basket

Step 1: Prepare Your Basket and Rice Paper Start with a pre-made rope basket. Choose a sheet of decoupage rice paper or a paper napkin with the image of your choice. Donna recommends using a water brush to tear the rice paper or napkins along the edges. Water brushes help you wet just the areas you wish to tear, creating a smooth, blended look that is easier to integrate into the basket's texture.

Step 2: Measure and Trim Measure the center of the basket and do a test fit with your image. This ensures that your design is perfectly centered. Trim the decoupage paper to mimic the basket’s shape. Donna suggests doing a dry run before applying any adhesive to see how the image fits and to make any necessary adjustments.

Step 3: Add Gold Edging In her project, Donna used Pentart metallic paint in gold. She applied the paint with a sponge around the edges of the rice paper to give it a high-end look. Donna's tip: Use a light dabbing motion to avoid over-saturating the paper, which can cause it to warp.

Step 4: Adhere the Rice Paper Spray the rice paper lightly with water to make it more pliable. This important step helps eliminate bubbles and wrinkles during application. Apply a layer of a decoupage glue or adhesive such as Polyvine Decorator’s Varnish to the basket. You'll want to apply it liberally as the rope will absorb some of the adhesive. Press the rice paper into the grooves, working your way upward. Add another layer of decoupage glue or varnish on top of the rice paper, focusing on securing the edges. Work in small sections to ensure the adhesive doesn't dry before you get the rice paper in place.

Step 5: Let it Dry Allow the basket to dry overnight to ensure the paper set properly. Donna advises placing the basket in a well-ventilated area to speed up the drying process and avoid any tackiness.

Step 6: Add Decorative Touches Once dry, Donna used gold paint to add dots in the center of the flowers on the rice paper for extra detail. Her technique: Use a fan brush or fine-tipped brush for precision.

Step 7: Seal the Project Apply a final heavy coat of Polyvine Decorator’s Varnish to seal everything in place. Make sure to cover all areas evenly to protect the decoupage from wear and tear. If your basket will be kept in a very moist area such as a bathroom or kitchen, then we recommend you top-coat your basket with Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish which will add a high degree of water resistance to your basket. If your basket will be kept outdoors, then step up to Polyvine Heavy Duty Extreme Varnish for the ultimate in mold, mildew and fungus protection plus waterproofing and UV protection.

Final Touches Attach the bow to your basket for a beautiful finishing touch. Secure it well so it stays in place with regular use.

We hope you enjoyed this tutorial! Special thanks to Donna from Mason Creations etc. for her expert guidance. Most materials used in this tutorial can be found at DecoupageNapkins.com. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for a 10% discount on your next order and to stay updated on new tutorials and products. Happy crafting!