Most people see old venetian blinds as nothing more than household waste. Once they’re bent, faded, or replaced by newer window coverings, they usually end up in the trash. But one creative crafter discovered a surprisingly beautiful second life for those old slats—and now everyone in her craft group wants to make one.

Using nothing but discarded venetian blinds, a simple frame, and a bit of patience, she created elegant woven storage baskets that look like expensive designer décor. These handmade baskets are sturdy, customizable, and perfect for organizing everything from blankets and toys to craft supplies and magazines.

Best of all, this eco-friendly project gives old materials a brand-new purpose while saving money and reducing waste.

Why This DIY Basket Is Going Viral

Woven storage baskets are everywhere in home décor stores. The problem? Quality baskets can be surprisingly expensive.

This DIY version offers several advantages:

Recycles old blinds
Costs very little to make
Looks high-end
Can be customized in any size
Is durable and easy to clean

The smooth texture of venetian blind slats creates a modern woven appearance that fits beautifully in farmhouse, Scandinavian, and minimalist interiors.

Why Venetian Blinds Work So Well

Venetian blind slats are ideal weaving materials because they are:

Flexible
Lightweight
Water-resistant
Durable
Easy to cut

Whether your blinds are vinyl, faux wood, or plastic, they can often be repurposed into stylish baskets.

The finished product is surprisingly sturdy and can last for years.

Materials You’ll Need

Gather your supplies before starting.

Materials	Quantity
Old venetian blinds	1–2 sets
Scissors or utility knife	1
Measuring tape	1
Ruler	1
Clothespins or clips	Several
Hot glue gun	Optional
Needle and strong thread or zip ties	Optional
Cardboard or wood base	1
Sandpaper (if needed)	Optional

Estimated project cost: $0–$10 if using recycled materials.

Step 1: Remove the Blind Slats

Carefully disassemble the venetian blinds.

Remove:

The headrail
Strings
Bottom rail
Individual slats

Lay the slats flat on a table.

Clean them with warm soapy water to remove dust and grime.

Allow them to dry completely.

Step 2: Sort and Inspect the Slats

Examine each slat for:

Cracks
Warping
Stains
Damage

Set aside damaged pieces.

Select the best slats for weaving.

If necessary, lightly sand rough edges for a smoother finish.

Step 3: Decide on Basket Size

Choose what your basket will be used for:

Small Basket

Ideal for:

Keys
Remote controls
Craft supplies

Medium Basket

Perfect for:

Towels
Books
Toys

Large Basket

Great for:

Blankets
Laundry
Storage bins

Measure and sketch your desired dimensions before beginning.

Step 4: Cut the Slats to Length

Using scissors or a utility knife:

Cut slats according to your basket measurements.

You’ll need:

Vertical strips
Horizontal weaving strips

Cut extra pieces in case of mistakes.

Uniform lengths create a cleaner final appearance.

Step 5: Build the Basket Base

Lay several slats side by side horizontally.

Weave perpendicular slats through them:

Over
Under
Over
Under

Continue alternating until you create a flat woven square or rectangle.

This woven section becomes the basket bottom.

Use clips to hold everything in place while working.

Step 6: Fold the Side Walls Upward

Once the base is complete:

Carefully bend the outer slats upward to form the basket walls.

Because blind slats are flexible, they naturally curve into shape.

Take your time to avoid creasing the material too sharply.

Step 7: Weave the Side Panels

Begin weaving additional slats horizontally around the upright pieces.

Continue the over-under pattern.

As you build upward:

Tighten loose sections
Adjust spacing
Keep walls even

The woven pattern gradually creates the beautiful basket texture.

Step 8: Secure the Corners

Corners require extra reinforcement.

You can secure them using:

Hot glue
Strong thread
Zip ties
Clear fishing line

Trim any excess material.

Neat corners give the basket a professional look.

Step 9: Finish the Top Edge

Fold the top ends inward or wrap an additional slat around the rim.

Secure the rim with:

Glue
Stitching
Clips

This step strengthens the basket and creates a polished appearance.

Step 10: Add a Base Insert

For heavier items, add an insert made from:

Cardboard
Thin plywood
Foam board

Cover the insert with fabric if desired.

This extra support increases the basket’s durability.

Step 11: Customize Your Basket

Personalize your creation with:

Fabric liners
Decorative labels
Rope handles
Painted finishes
Leather straps

The possibilities are endless.

Every basket becomes one-of-a-kind.

Creative Uses for Your Basket

These woven baskets are incredibly versatile.

Use them for:

Living Room Storage

Store:

Throws
Magazines
Remote controls

Bathroom Organization

Hold:

Towels
Toiletries
Hair accessories

Craft Room Supplies

Organize:

Yarn
Fabric
Paint brushes

Entryway Storage

Keep:

Keys
Mail
Gloves

Why Crafters Love This Project

This DIY project combines:

Sustainability
Creativity
Functionality
Affordability

Turning old blinds into elegant baskets gives materials a second life while creating beautiful home décor.

It’s the kind of project that surprises people because the finished basket looks nothing like its original source.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these beginner errors:

Using damaged slats
Uneven weaving tension
Weak corners
Skipping base reinforcement
Cutting inaccurate lengths

Careful measuring and patience produce the best results.

Final Reveal: From Window Covering to Designer Basket

At first glance, nobody would ever guess that this elegant woven basket began as a set of old venetian blinds. The smooth woven texture, clean lines, and sturdy construction make it look like something from a boutique home décor store.

What was once destined for the landfill has become a stylish storage solution that is both practical and beautiful. It’s no wonder everyone in her craft group is copying the idea.

This clever upcycling project proves that sometimes the best DIY creations aren’t made from expensive supplies—they’re hiding in the things we almost throw away.