10 DIY Easter Basket Ideas Made with Recycled Materials

These homemade Easter basket ideas can help you easily transform waste materials like plastic bags and leftover fabric into something special that kids will appreciate! Discover how to create unique Easter baskets by using repurposed materials, including paper, cloth, plush animals, milk jugs, juice cartons, plastic bottles, cans, plastic bags, and even sweaters and T-shirts! It’s simple with the help of the collection of step-by-step DIY project tutorials below. These eco-friendly Easter basket ideas with clear how-to instructions and eco-friendly Easter gift ideas might also be of interest to you.

With the wonderful list of recycled and repurposed DIY Easter Baskets below, you can create lovely, eco-friendly Easter baskets for children or the young at heart. This list of creative ideas for repurposed Easter baskets was initially published on February 26, 2016, and it is frequently updated and reprinted to improve the content. Check out our page about Fun Family Easter Traditions to find out more about the history of Easter baskets and the Easter bunny!

1. DIY EASTER BASKETS MADE WITH RECYCLED PAPER

Creating Easter baskets from recycled paper is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday while also being eco-friendly. Here’s a simple DIY guide to making your own recycled paper Easter baskets:

Materials Needed:

1. Old newspapers or magazines
2. Scissors
3. Glue or tape
4. Decorative materials (colored markers, stickers, ribbons, etc.)
5. Optional: cardboard for added stability

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Gather Your Materials:

Collect old newspapers or magazines that you no longer need. These will be used to create the base of your Easter baskets.

2. Prepare the paper strips:

Cut the newspapers or magazines into long strips, about 1 to 2 inches wide, depending on how large you want your basket to be.

3. Create the base:

Take one strip of paper and roll it into a tight coil, securing the end with glue or tape. This will be the center of your basket.

4. Build the basket walls:

Continue rolling strips of paper and attaching them around the central coil, gradually building up the walls of your basket. You can vary the height and width of the walls to customize the shape of your basket.

5. Add handles (optional):

To create handles for your basket, cut two longer strips of paper and attach them to opposite sides of the basket rim. Make sure they are securely attached for carrying.

6. Decorate Your Basket:

Once the basic structure is complete, let your creativity shine by decorating your basket with colored markers, stickers, ribbons, or any other decorative materials you have on hand. You can also paint the basket with non-toxic paint if you prefer.

7. Let it Dry:

Allow your Easter basket to dry completely before using it to hold Easter eggs or other treats.

Additional Tips:

• For added durability, you can reinforce the base of your basket by gluing or taping cardboard circles to the bottom.
• Experiment with different paper colors and patterns to create unique and personalized Easter baskets.
• Get the whole family involved in the process for a fun and eco-friendly Easter craft activity.

Enjoy your DIY recycled paper Easter baskets, and have a hoppy Easter.

2. SCRAP-FABRIC HOMEMADE EASTER BASKETS

Making homemade Easter baskets out of scrap fabric is a fantastic way to utilize leftover materials while creating something beautiful and sustainable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own fabric Easter baskets:

Materials Needed:

1. Scrap fabric pieces in various colors and patterns
2. Scissors
3. Needle and thread or sewing machine
4. Ribbon or yarn for handles
5. Fabric glue (optional)
6. Embellishments (buttons, sequins, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose Your Fabrics:

Select an assortment of scrap fabric pieces in colors and patterns that you like. This is a great opportunity to use up leftover fabric from previous projects.

2. Cut Fabric Strips:

Cut your fabric into strips of equal width. The width will determine the height of your basket, so choose according to your preference. You’ll need enough strips to create the circumference of the basket and the height you desire.

3. Sew Fabric Strips Together:

With right sides facing each other, sew the short ends of the fabric strips together to create a loop. If you’re using a sewing machine, use a straight stitch and backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seam. If hand-sewing, use a whip stitch or running stitch.

4. Create the Basket Base:

Cut a circle out of fabric for the base of your basket. You can trace around a small plate or bowl to get the desired size. Sew or glue the fabric loop you created in the previous step around the edge of the fabric circle, right sides together, leaving an opening for turning it right side out.

5. Turn Right Side Out:

Carefully turn your fabric basket right side out through the opening you left in the seam. Use a pencil or chopstick to push out the corners and smooth the edges.

6. Add Handles:

Cut two pieces of ribbon or yarn to your desired handle length. Sew or glue the ends of each handle to opposite sides of the basket rim, ensuring they are securely attached.

7. Embellish Your Basket (Optional):

Get creative and decorate your fabric basket with embellishments like buttons, sequins, or fabric paint. This is your chance to add a personal touch and make your basket uniquely yours.

8. Fill Your Basket:

Once your fabric Easter basket is complete, fill it with Easter grass, eggs, candies, or any other treats you’d like to include.

Additional Tips:

• Experiment with different fabric textures and patterns to add visual interest to your basket.
• If you’re short on time or sewing skills, consider using fabric glue instead of sewing to assemble your basket.
• Get the whole family involved in making their own fabric Easter baskets for a fun holiday activity.

Enjoy crafting your homemade fabric Easter baskets, and have a wonderful Easter celebration.

3. DIY EASTER BASKETS MADE FROM RECYCLED OLD CLOTHES

Repurposing old clothes into DIY Easter baskets is a creative and sustainable way to celebrate the holiday. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own Easter baskets from recycled clothing:

Materials Needed:

1. Old clothing items (such as t-shirts, jeans, or sweaters)
2. Scissors
3. Needle and thread or sewing machine
4. Ribbon or yarn for handles
5. Fabric glue (optional)
6. Decorative materials (buttons, ribbons, fabric paint, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose Your Clothing:

Select old clothing items that are clean and in good condition. T-shirts, jeans, and sweaters work well for this project. Choose fabrics that are sturdy enough to hold their shape once transformed into baskets.

2. Cut Fabric Pieces:

Lay out your chosen clothing item flat and cut it into large fabric squares or rectangles. The size of the fabric pieces will determine the size of your Easter baskets, so cut according to your desired basket size.

3. Create the Basket Base:

Fold one fabric piece in half to form a square or rectangle, depending on the shape you prefer for your basket. Sew or glue the side seams together to create a pouch-like shape. Leave the top edge open.

4. Shape the Basket:

Fold down the top edge of the fabric to create a neat and sturdy rim for your basket. You can fold it over multiple times for added stability.

5. Add Handles:

Cut two pieces of ribbon or yarn to your desired handle length. Sew or glue the ends of each handle to opposite sides of the basket rim, ensuring they are securely attached.

6. Embellish Your Basket (Optional):

Get creative and decorate your fabric basket with embellishments like buttons, ribbons, or fabric paint. This is your chance to add a personal touch and make your basket uniquely yours.

7. Fill Your Basket:

Once your Easter basket is complete, fill it with Easter grass, eggs, candies, or any other treats you’d like to include.

Additional Tips:

• Experiment with different clothing textures and patterns to add visual interest to your baskets.
• If you’re short on time or sewing skills, consider using fabric glue instead of sewing to assemble your baskets.
• Get the whole family involved in making their own Easter baskets from recycled clothing for a fun holiday activity.

Enjoy crafting your homemade Easter baskets from recycled old clothes, and have a joyful Easter celebration!

4. HOW TO MAKE AN EASTER BASKET OUT OF A STUFFED ANIMAL

Turning a stuffed animal into an Easter basket is a creative and adorable way to celebrate the holiday. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making an Easter basket out of a stuffed animal:

Materials Needed:
Stuffed animal
Scissors
Fabric glue or needle and thread
Easter grass
Plastic eggs or other treats
Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose Your Stuffed Animal:
   Select a stuffed animal that is large enough to hold Easter treats but still lightweight and easy to manipulate. Soft, plush animals work best for this project.
2. Prepare the Stuffed Animal:
   If the stuffed animal has a small opening or seam, carefully use scissors to enlarge it, creating a space large enough to insert and remove items. Be cautious not to damage the fabric or stuffing.
3. Empty the Stuffed Animal:
   Gently remove any stuffing from inside the animal to create a hollow cavity. You can set aside the stuffing to use for other projects or discard it if no longer needed.
4. Reinforce the Opening (Optional):
   If the opening you created is large or prone to fraying, reinforce the edges with fabric glue or by sewing a hem using needle and thread. This will help prevent the fabric from unraveling over time.
5. Fill the Stuffed Animal:
   Place Easter grass or shredded paper inside the stuffed animal to create a nest-like base for your treats. Ensure the filling is distributed evenly throughout the cavity.
6. Add Easter Treats:
   Place plastic eggs, chocolates, candies, or small toys inside the stuffed animal, arranging them neatly on top of the Easter grass. You can also add other Easter-themed items like stickers or mini figurines.
7. Close the Opening:
   Carefully seal the opening of the stuffed animal using fabric glue or by sewing it shut with a needle and thread. Ensure the closure is secure to prevent the treats from falling out.
8. Decorate (Optional):
   Get creative and decorate the outside of the stuffed animal with ribbons, bows, or Easter-themed embellishments. You can also attach a small Easter basket handle to the top of the stuffed animal for added charm.
9. Display Your Creation:
   Once your Easter basket stuffed animal is complete, display it prominently as a festive centerpiece or give it as a unique Easter gift to friends or family.

Additional Tips:
Choose a stuffed animal with a flat bottom to make it easier to display.
Consider adding a layer of clear plastic wrap inside the cavity of the stuffed animal to protect it from any moisture or spills from the treats.
Personalize your Easter basket stuffed animal by adding the recipient’s name or initials with fabric paint or embroidered patches.
Enjoy creating your Easter basket out of a stuffed animal, and have a hoppy Easter celebration!

5. RECYCLED PLASTIC BAG EASTER BASKET DIYS

Creating Easter baskets from recycled plastic bags is a fantastic way to upcycle and reduce waste during the holiday season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own Easter basket from recycled plastic bags:

Materials Needed:

1. Plastic bags (various colors)
2. Scissors
3. Iron and ironing board (or parchment paper and iron)
4. Hole punch
5. Ribbon or yarn for handles
6. Decorative materials (stickers, markers, ribbon, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Gather Your Plastic Bags:

Collect plastic bags in different colors. Make sure they are clean and dry before starting the project.

2. Prepare the Plastic Bags:

Lay the plastic bags flat and cut off the handles and bottom seams. Then, cut the bags into strips about 1 inch wide.

3. Create Plastic Yarn (Plarn):

Take each plastic strip and stretch it gently to elongate and straighten it. Repeat this process with all the strips.

4. Make Plarn Balls:

Roll each strip of plastic yarn into a tight ball. These plarn balls will be used as the weaving material for your basket.

5. Weave the Basket Base:

Start by weaving the base of your basket. Use a simple over-and-under pattern, alternating colors as desired. You can make the base as large or small as you like.

6. Build the Basket Walls:

Once the base is complete, continue weaving the plastic yarn upward to create the walls of the basket. Keep the tension tight to ensure the basket holds its shape.

7. Add Handles:

Punch two holes on opposite sides of the basket rim for handles. Cut two lengths of ribbon or yarn and thread them through the holes. Tie knots on the inside of the basket to secure the handles.

8. Decorate Your Basket:

Get creative and decorate your plastic bag Easter basket with stickers, markers, or ribbon. You can also weave in additional colors or patterns to customize the design.

9. Finish and Trim:

Once you’re satisfied with the design, trim any excess plastic yarn and tuck the ends neatly into the basket weave.

10. Fill Your Basket:

Once your Easter basket is complete, fill it with Easter grass, eggs, candies, or any other treats you’d like to include.

Additional Tips:

• Experiment with different weaving patterns and color combinations to create unique designs.
• If you don’t have a hole punch, you can use scissors to carefully cut small holes for the handles.
• Get the whole family involved in collecting plastic bags and crafting Easter baskets for a fun and eco-friendly activity.

Enjoy making your DIY Easter basket from recycled plastic bags, and have a wonderful Easter celebration!

6. RECYCLED MILK CARTON AND PLASTIC JUG EASTER BASKET IDEAS

Repurposing milk cartons and plastic jugs into Easter baskets is a great way to reduce waste and create charming holiday decorations. Here are some creative ideas to transform these materials into festive Easter baskets:

Milk Carton Easter Basket:

Materials Needed:

1. Clean, empty milk carton
2. Scissors or craft knife
3. Acrylic paint or colored paper
4. Paintbrushes (if using paint)
5. Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, markers, etc.)
6. Glue or double-sided tape

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Milk Carton: Clean the milk carton thoroughly and let it dry completely. Cut off the top section of the carton to create the basket opening.
2. Decorate the Carton: Paint the outside of the milk carton with acrylic paint in your desired color or cover it with colored paper using glue or double-sided tape. Let it dry completely before proceeding.
3. Add Decorative Touches: Use ribbons, stickers, markers, or any other decorative materials to embellish the outside of the milk carton. You can create patterns, write messages, or add Easter-themed designs.
4. Create the Handle: Cut a strip of cardboard from the remaining part of the milk carton or use a piece of ribbon. Attach the handle to the sides of the milk carton using glue or tape, forming an arch shape.
5. Fill the Basket: Once the Easter basket is decorated and the handle is attached securely, fill it with Easter grass, eggs, candies, or any other treats you’d like to include.

Plastic Jug Easter Basket:

Materials Needed:

1. Clean, empty plastic jug (such as a milk jug or juice jug)
2. Scissors or craft knife
3. Acrylic paint or colored paper
4. Paintbrushes (if using paint)
5. Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, markers, etc.)
6. Glue or double-sided tape

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plastic Jug: Clean the plastic jug thoroughly and let it dry completely. Cut off the top section of the jug to create the basket opening.
2. Decorate the Jug: Paint the outside of the plastic jug with acrylic paint in your desired color or cover it with colored paper using glue or double-sided tape. Allow it to dry completely before moving on.
3. Add Decorative Touches: Use ribbons, stickers, markers, or any other decorative materials to embellish the outside of the plastic jug. Let your creativity shine by adding Easter-themed designs or patterns.
4. Create the Handle: Cut a strip of cardboard from the remaining part of the plastic jug or use a piece of ribbon. Attach the handle to the sides of the jug using glue or tape, forming an arch shape.
5. Fill the Basket: Once the Easter basket is decorated and the handle is attached securely, fill it with Easter grass, eggs, candies, or any other treats you’d like to include.

Additional Tips:

• Get creative with your decorations by incorporating Easter-themed shapes like bunnies, eggs, or flowers.
• Consider adding a layer of clear tape over the decorations to protect them from wear and tear.
• Personalize each basket by adding the recipient’s name or initials using stickers or markers.

Enjoy crafting your recycled milk carton and plastic jug Easter baskets, and have a wonderful Easter celebration!

7. DIY EASTER BASKETS MADE WITH PLASTIC SODA AND WATER BOTTLES

Repurposing plastic soda and water bottles into Easter baskets is a fantastic way to reduce waste and get creative during the holiday season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own Easter baskets from recycled bottles:

Materials Needed:
Clean, empty plastic soda or water bottles
Scissors or craft knife
Acrylic paint or colored paper
Paintbrushes (if using paint)
Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, markers, etc.)
Glue or double-sided tape
Hole punch (optional)
Ribbon or yarn for handles
Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plastic Bottles:
   Clean the plastic bottles thoroughly and remove any labels or residue. Ensure they are completely dry before starting the project.
2. Cut the Bottles:
   Using scissors or a craft knife, carefully cut off the top section of each plastic bottle to create the basket opening. Make sure to cut straight and even for a neat finish.
3. Decorate the Bottles:
   Paint the outside of the plastic bottles with acrylic paint in your desired colors, or cover them with colored paper using glue or double-sided tape. Allow the paint or glue to dry completely before proceeding.
4. Add Decorative Touches:
   Use ribbons, stickers, markers, or any other decorative materials to embellish the outside of the plastic bottles. Get creative with Easter-themed designs, patterns, or messages.
5. Create the Handle:
   Cut a strip of cardboard from the remaining part of the plastic bottle or use a piece of ribbon or yarn. Attach the handle to the sides of the bottle using glue or tape, forming an arch shape. Alternatively, punch holes on opposite sides of the bottle opening and thread ribbon or yarn through to create handles.
6. Fill the Baskets:
   Once the Easter baskets are decorated and the handles are securely attached, fill them with Easter grass, eggs, candies, or any other treats you’d like to include.

Additional Tips:
Experiment with different bottle sizes and shapes to create unique Easter basket designs.
Consider adding a layer of clear tape over the decorations to protect them from wear and tear.
Personalize each basket by adding the recipient’s name or initials using stickers or markers.
Enjoy crafting your DIY Easter baskets made from plastic soda and water bottles, and have a wonderful Easter celebration.

8. EGG CARTON EASTER BASKET CRAFT IDEAS

Materials Needed:

1. Empty egg carton
2. Scissors
3. Paint or markers
4. Pipe cleaners or wooden skewers
5. Green construction paper or felt
6. Glue
7. Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Cut the lid off the egg carton and trim any excess edges to create a neat basket shape.
2. Paint the outside of the egg carton in bright colors or cover it with colored paper.
3. Cut out flower shapes from the green construction paper or felt to create stems and leaves.
4. Attach the flower stems and leaves to the inside of the egg carton using glue.
5. Decorate the outside of the egg carton with additional flowers, ribbons, or stickers.
6. Optionally, add a handle to the egg carton basket using pipe cleaners or wooden skewers covered in ribbon.

3. Egg Carton Animal Basket:

Materials Needed:

1. Empty egg carton
2. Scissors
3. Paint or markers
4. Googly eyes
5. Pipe cleaners
6. Cotton balls
7. Glue
8. Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Cut the lid off the egg carton and trim any excess edges to create a neat basket shape.
2. Paint the outside of the egg carton to resemble the body of an animal, such as a bunny or chick.
3. Attach googly eyes to the top of the egg carton and use pipe cleaners to create ears or beaks.
4. Glue cotton balls to the inside of the egg carton to mimic fur or feathers.
5. Decorate the outside of the egg carton with additional features, such as a ribbon bow or stickers.
6. Optionally, add a handle to the egg carton basket using pipe cleaners or ribbon.

Additional Tips:

• Let your creativity flow and customize your egg carton Easter baskets with unique designs and decorations.
• Encourage children to join in the crafting fun and personalize their baskets with their favorite colors and themes.
• Fill the baskets with Easter treats like candies, chocolates, or small toys for a delightful surprise.

Enjoy crafting your egg carton Easter baskets, and have a wonderful Easter celebration!

9. RECYCLED CAN EASTER BASKET DIY TUTORIALS

Repurposing recycled cans into Easter baskets is a fun and eco-friendly craft project. Here are some DIY tutorials to guide you through the process:

Tin Can Easter Basket:
Materials Needed:
Clean, empty tin cans (various sizes)
Spray paint or acrylic paint
Paintbrushes (if using acrylic paint)
Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, markers, etc.)
Glue or double-sided tape
Scissors
Ribbon or yarn for handles
Easter grass
Plastic eggs or treats
Instructions:
Prepare the Tin Cans:
Ensure the tin cans are clean and dry. Remove any labels or residue from the surface.

Paint the Cans:
Use spray paint or acrylic paint to coat the outside of the tin cans in your desired colors. Allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding.

Add Decorative Touches:
Once the paint is dry, decorate the outside of the tin cans with ribbons, stickers, markers, or any other decorative materials. Get creative and add Easter-themed designs or patterns.

Create the Handle:
Cut a length of ribbon or yarn and glue or tape the ends to the sides of the tin cans to form handles. Ensure the handles are securely attached.

Fill the Baskets:
Place Easter grass inside each tin can to create a nest-like base. Add plastic eggs or treats on top of the grass to fill the baskets.

Display or Give as Gifts:
Once your tin can Easter baskets are complete, display them as festive decorations or give them as thoughtful gifts to friends and family.

Recycled Soda Can Easter Basket:
Materials Needed:
Clean, empty soda cans
Scissors
Craft knife
Ruler
Marker
Paint or colored paper
Glue or double-sided tape
Decorative materials (ribbons, stickers, markers, etc.)
Ribbon or yarn for handles
Easter grass
Plastic eggs or treats
Instructions:
Prepare the Soda Cans:
Rinse the soda cans thoroughly and let them dry. Remove the top portion of each can using scissors or a craft knife. Be careful when handling sharp edges.

Cut the Strips:
Using a ruler and marker, measure and mark vertical strips along the sides of the soda cans. Carefully cut along the marked lines to create strips of varying widths.

Shape the Strips:
Gently bend each strip outward to create a basket-like shape. You may need to trim the strips to adjust the height of the basket.

Decorate the Baskets:
Paint the outside of the soda can strips in your desired colors or cover them with colored paper using glue or double-sided tape. Allow the paint or glue to dry completely.

Assemble the Baskets:
Once the paint or glue is dry, arrange the decorated soda can strips into basket shapes. Use glue or tape to secure the ends of the strips together.

Add Handles:
Cut lengths of ribbon or yarn and attach them to the sides of the soda can baskets to create handles. Ensure the handles are securely attached.

Fill the Baskets:
Place Easter grass inside each soda can basket to create a nest-like base. Add plastic eggs or treats on top of the grass to fill the baskets.

Display or Give as Gifts:
Once your recycled soda can Easter baskets are complete, display them as festive decorations or give them as unique gifts to loved ones.

Additional Tips:
Be cautious when handling sharp edges of tin cans or soda cans. Consider using gloves or protective equipment.
Get creative with your decorations and personalize your recycled can Easter baskets with unique designs and embellishments.
Fill the baskets with Easter treats like candies, chocolates, or small toys for a delightful surprise.
Enjoy crafting your recycled can Easter baskets, and have a wonderful Easter celebration!

10. UPCYCLED MINI DIY EASTER BASKETS

Creating upcycled mini DIY Easter baskets is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday while reducing waste. Here’s a simple tutorial to guide you through making these charming baskets:

Materials Needed:
Empty toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls
Scissors
Colored paper or scrapbook paper
Glue or double-sided tape
Ribbon or yarn for handles
Decorative materials (stickers, markers, washi tape, etc.)
Easter grass
Mini plastic eggs or treats
Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Toilet Paper Rolls:
   Flatten the toilet paper rolls or cut the paper towel rolls into smaller sections to create mini basket bases. Ensure they are clean and dry before starting the craft.
2. Cut the Paper:
   Cut strips of colored paper or scrapbook paper to fit around the toilet paper rolls. These strips will form the outer layer of the mini baskets.
3. Decorate the Paper:
   Use markers, stickers, washi tape, or any other decorative materials to embellish the paper strips. Get creative and add Easter-themed designs or patterns.
4. Wrap the Paper Around the Rolls:
   Wrap the decorated paper strips around the toilet paper rolls and secure them in place with glue or double-sided tape. Ensure the seams are neat and aligned at the back of the rolls.
5. Add Handles:
   Cut lengths of ribbon or yarn to create handles for the mini baskets. Glue or tape the ends of the handles to the inside of the rolls, forming arch shapes.
6. Fill the Baskets:
   Place a small amount of Easter grass inside each mini basket to create a nest-like base. Add mini plastic eggs or treats on top of the grass to fill the baskets.
7. Optional: Additional Decorations:
   If desired, further decorate the mini Easter baskets with additional stickers, ribbons, or embellishments to add a personal touch.

Additional Tips:
Experiment with different colors and patterns of paper to create unique mini Easter baskets.
Personalize each basket by adding the recipient’s name or initials with markers or stickers.
Get creative with filling the baskets, using mini chocolates, candies, or small toys for a delightful surprise.
Enjoy crafting your upcycled mini DIY Easter baskets, and have a wonderful Easter celebration.