DIY Floating Basket Hack: Beautiful Results Under $30

Create a DIY Floating Basket

Table of Contents:

How to Create a DIY Floating Basket for a Photoshoot

If you’ve admired those Instagram-worthy floating baskets used by influencers and travelers, you might be surprised to learn how easy it is to make your own. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on a pre-made basket, this guide will show you how to create a DIY floating basket with simple and affordable supplies.

Why Make Your Own DIY Floating Basket?

A pre-made floating basket can cost anywhere from $300 to $700. However, by taking a creative approach and using everyday items, you can achieve the same luxury look for under $30. Whether planning a photoshoot or just wanting to elevate your poolside brunch, this project is perfect for creating memorable moments.

Supplies You’ll Need for Your DIY Floating Basket

To create a DIY floating basket, gather the following supplies:

  • Wicker Basket: Found at stores like Marshalls or home goods shops. Try to get one that’s large enough to hold food and drinks. (Approx. $24 on clearance)
  • Pool Noodles: Essential for buoyancy, these can be sourced from the Dollar Tree for $1 each.
  • Glue Supplies:
    • Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
    • Tight Bond or Gorilla Glue for stronger adhesion
  • Box Cutter: Useful for trimming pool noodles.
  • Optional: Spray adhesive for a quick-drying bond.

Step-by-Step Guide to Create Your DIY Floating Basket

1. Prepare Your Basket

Choose a large, open wicker basket. You can adapt it for this project even if it has sections.

2. Attach the Pool Noodles

  • Cut the pool noodles into sections and glue them around the basket’s base.
  • Start by applying the Tight Bond glue for long-lasting adhesion and reinforce it with hot glue to hold the pieces in place temporarily.
  • Align the pool noodles to create a secure, even flotation layer.

3. Alternative Approach: Pool Floatie

If working with pool noodles becomes tricky, switch to a toddler-sized pool floatie (20 inches in diameter). Glue this to the bottom of the basket using spray adhesive and Tight Bond for durability. Let it dry for at least an hour or overnight for best results.

Final Touches and Testing

After the glue has set, pump air into the floatie and test the basket in water to ensure it stays afloat. This step is essential for confirming the basket’s stability before using it in a photoshoot.

Conclusion

Creating a DIY floating basket is an easy, budget-friendly way to achieve those stunning, influencer-style photos. With a few simple materials, you can save hundreds of dollars and add a unique touch to your next photoshoot or pool day.

DIY not for you? You can purchase a premade floating basket here.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of glue for this project?
While a hot glue gun is quick, using a stronger adhesive like Tight Bond ensures the structure holds when exposed to water.

2. Where can I find a suitable basket?
Stores like Marshalls, HomeGoods, or discount outlets often carry wicker baskets at affordable prices.

3. Will the pool floatie be visible when the basket is in water?
If you align the floatie correctly, it will sit just under the basket and remain out of sight during use.

4. How long does it take to make the basket?
The project takes approximately 1-2 hours, including drying time.

5. Can I use different floatation devices?
Yes, you can experiment with other floatation devices as long as they provide the necessary support.

Watch the full video below.

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Key Timestamps in this video:

00:00 – Introduction
Discussing Instagram-inspired floating baskets and the decision to DIY one for a photo shoot.

00:20 – What Are Floating Baskets?
Explaining the popular floating baskets used for travel and photo shoots.

00:44 – Exploring Cost and DIY Approach
Opting to create a floating basket instead of purchasing one online for $300-$700.

01:04 – Materials Needed
Listing the items required: a wicker basket, pool noodles, glue gun, glue sticks, and a box cutter.

01:50 – Budget for the Project
Breaking down the cost of materials, totaling $28 for the entire DIY project.

02:27 – Initial Assembly Plan
Describing the method of attaching pool noodles to the basket for buoyancy.

03:07 – Challenges with Pool Noodles
Struggling with adhering pool noodles using hot glue and switching to a new plan.

04:00 – Switching to a Pool Floatie
Choosing a toddler-sized 20-inch floatie and adjusting adhesives for a sturdier bond.

04:50 – Final Assembly Process
Using tight bond glue and spray adhesive to attach the floatie securely.

06:00 – Letting It Dry Overnight
Allowing the assembly to dry overnight to ensure stability before inflation.

07:00 – Testing the Final Product
Inflating the floatie and preparing it for use in water, pending lighting conditions.

07:28 – Closing Remarks
Wrapping up the DIY process and previewing its use during the upcoming photo shoot.

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