Don’t be afraid to update Longaberger Baskets

Come on peeps- I know that I can’t possibly be the only person hesitant to update Longaberger baskets but I am here to tell you, don’t be afraid and just do it. You will be happy with the end results no matter what medium you use to update your baskets.
How to update longaberger baskets

As one of 20+ bloggers participating in the Thrift Store Decor Challenge, I am excited to show you how I updated my Longaberger baskets with some stain and paint.

The Rules:

  • Upcycle an item(s) from a thrift store, resale store, or garage sale 
  • There’s no monthly theme.
  • There’s no budget to stick to

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For those that don’t know the history on these baskets, back in the 1990’s Longaberger baskets were a huge part of the home party scene and they weren’t cheap which was the fuel behind my hesitation on updating my baskets.

how to update longaberger baskets

The baskets were homemade using maple splints that are durable, functional and age well with use. We were told brainwashed into never altering or updating the baskets because it would affect the value of the basket. 

Fast forward to 2019, the Longaberger basket company has gone bankrupt and the baskets have never increased in value. You can find them for a few dollars at garage sales, the thrift store or on Facebook Market Place. 

how to update longaberger baskets

Here’s the problem. I now have way too many of these beautiful baskets packed away and not being used in my house because the orangey color of the stain totally clashes with my decor. 

I love, love, love the design and functionality of these baskets but it was time for me to get brave and not be afraid to update Longaberger baskets. 

How to update Longaberger baskets

Before I started updating my expensive basket collection, I picked up a broken laundry basket at a garage sale for $2. It had some broken splints but was still perfectly functional and a good “test” project. 

How to update longaberger baskets

I lucked out and found a variety of stains on clearance at Walmart. I tested all 3 on the inside of the basket and decided to go with the white wash. 

Like a sponge, the basket soaked up the first coat and dried quickly. I loved the results of the orange stain being covered and you could faintly see the wood grain. 

How to update longaberger baskets

Next I used my stencils along with my favorite green paint, Park Bench from Fushion Mineral Paint, and added the word “wash” to the front of the basket. After the green paint dried, I lightly distressed it with some sandpaper.

How to update longaberger baskets

After this successful experiment, I am ready to pull all of my baskets out of the closet and decoratively organize my whole house. I am definitely not afraid to update Longaberger baskets anymore. 

how to update longaberger baskets

Don't be afraid to update Longaberger baskets.

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11 comments

  1. Amanda says:

    I’m pretty sure I have one of these baskets that my mom gave me years ago. It’s got a few broken spots, so I just have it storing random stuff in a closet. I need to give that baby a makeover! Thanks for the idea!

  2. Angie says:

    I remember these baskets all too well but never bought any. I think they are so much prettier with your makeover than they were before!

  3. Our Hopeful Home says:

    Oh my gosh, you would not believe how many of these baskets I have, all shapes and sizes! One of my best friends was a sales rep so over the years my husband bought many from her for me. I still have a few out, but many are in their boxes in the basement. I hesitated to paint them as well but maybe, just maybe, I’ll do it now:) xo Kathleen

  4. Gail says:

    You’ve discovered a lovely way to display your Longaberger baskets! I love the lettering and color transformations! Great job!

  5. Tammie says:

    Just this past week I updated one of my mom’s Longaberger baskets by dry brushing white chalk paint on it. It looks so much better! Now I’m going to do the same with mine.

  6. Laura says:

    Longaberger is now worthless and the company is debunk…..so do what you want with yours! I buy them at yard sales for $5 or less and I’ve gotten some huge ones lately for $5. Never thought of painting them.

    Yeah, Longaberger is back in business but for how long? And how is the Longaberger family involved? It was a great company when Dave was alive but went downhill after his death. Even the staff would tell you that!

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