Things You’ll Need
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¾" pine board
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¼" pine lattice
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Tape measure
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220 grit sand paper
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Miter saw
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Wood glue
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Brad nailer
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¾" brad nails
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Leather straps with buckle
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Butane torch (optional)
DIY Wooden Bicycle Basket Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
If you're looking to add a touch of style and function to your two-wheel ride, amp up your hip factor with a homemade bike basket. Reminiscent of a vintage crate, this DIY bike basket boasts a nostalgic quality that'll make you the envy of the bike lane.
Cut and Assemble the Basket
Step 1
Materials layout. Image Credit: Photo: Cam Oden
Measure and cut pieces to length using a miter saw: A – ¾" x ¾" x 7 ¼" B – ¼" x 1 ¼" x 9 ¼" C – ¼" x 2 ½" x 9 ¼" D – ¼" x 1 ¼" x 14 ½" E – ¼" x 2 ½" x 14 ½" F – ¾" x 9 ¼" x 14"
Step 2
Sand any rough parts. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Sand any rough edges using 220 grit sand paper.
Step 3
Attach bottom slat pieces. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Working on a flat surface, attach "C" and "E" to "F" (the base of the basket) using wood glue and ¾" brad nails, making sure all corners line up. Use your glue sparingly and wipe away any excess.
Step 4
Nail corner posts in place. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Glue and nail all four "A" pieces in each corner with ¾" nails.
Step 5
Attach top wood slats. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Flip the basket over and attach the remaining "C" and "E" pieces to the top of the posts.
Step 6
Measure for equal distance between parts. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Measure and mark so the middle "B" and "D" pieces are spaced evenly. This will make it easier to line up each piece when nailing.
Step 7
Sand the completed basket. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Sand basket with 220 grit sand paper making sure to remove any rough edges.
Burn the Edges for an Antique Look (Optional)
Step 1
Materials for wood burning. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Place your crate on concrete in a safe area. Always have a hose or fire extinguisher near by when working with a blow torch. Follow the directions for your torch and wear proper safety gear.
Step 2
Start burning on bottom of basket before moving to more visible areas. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Practice on a scrap piece of wood, working to achieve a look with darker areas toward the edges. I always start on the bottom of a piece before moving to a more visible area. Burn until you reach your desired look.
Step 3
Freshly charred basket ready for finish. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Wipe clean with a damp towel and let dry completely.
Apply Finish and Attach to Your Bike
Step 1
Staining materials. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Choose your finish. Minwax Early American stain was used in this project.
Step 2
Applying wood stain to the basket. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Apply stain evenly, following the directions on the can. Wipe clean and let dry.
Step 3
Attaching the basket to the handle bars. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
I attached my crate to the handle bars with two leather bracelets that I found at my local craft store but these could be easily substituted with leather belts.
Step 4
Finished basket. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Make sure the basket is secure before riding your bike. Take a test ride with a few books in the basket to avoid any unwanted surprises .
Step 5
Finished basket on bike ready for summer. Image Credit: Photo: Cameron Oden
Toss in your necessities and you're ready to hit the beach or the Farmer's Market or simply ride about town. Don't be surprised if people stop you to ask, "Where did you get that cool basket?"
Warning
Make sure to throughly test your basket before riding your bike.
