Calling All Cat Lovers! Cutest DIY Rope Basket Ever

The humble DIY rope basket is so easy to put together. Once you know the technique, you can adapt it to make pots, bowls, coasters, or anything, really. I took a basic rope coil bowl and added a quirky twist by turning it into a cat.

The possibilities for design customization to suit your own taste (or a gift recipient’s) are endless. Have fun with earthy tones, multiple colors or neon contrasts. You can even add paints or embellishments. For a kid-friendly version, use hand-sewing and then decorate after with bright, colorful spray fabric paints.

Kitty Cat DIY Rope Basket

Supplies needed

recycled cotton cord or yarn
organic cotton sewing thread
buttons for eyes and nose
sewing machine and sewing needle
optional: fabric paints or pens

Step 1

Starting far enough along the length of the cord to leave an end that will eventually form the tail; Form a loop to start the base coil, over the top of this length of cord.

Step 2

Continue coiling the rope and sewing with a long/wide zig-zag stitch either by hand or by machine, until the base is the diameter you require. You will find it easier to pivot the coil if you raise the presser foot when the needle is still in the inner coil.

Step 3

You can then start to shape the sides by sewing at an angle, creating gently sloping sides, and continue until the desired height of bowl is reached. Pulling slightly on the loose end of the rope will help to form the shape. When you start to shape the sides, hold the tail out of the way so that it isn’t sewn down as previously.

Step 4

To shape the ears, get to the starting point of the first ear bend the rope into the ear shape, sew along the previous coil and then sew into the second point of the ear. Repeat for second ear and then cut cord after you complete the round.