DIY Rope Trash Can or Waste Basket Using a Bucket

The first thing you’ll need is a basic plastic bucket. You can easily find one at a local store or repurpose an old one you have lying around. Make sure the bucket is clean and dry before you start. For a classic, rustic look, natural jute or sisal rope works best, but you can also experiment with colorful or patterned ropes for a more unique touch.

Pro Tip: A wider bucket creates more surface area for the rope, giving it a bulkier and more eye-catching finish.

Before attaching the rope, you can choose to spray paint the bottom part of the bucket for a cleaner, more finished look. This step is optional but adds a nice contrast to the rope. If you decide to paint, apply painter’s tape to the areas you don’t want to get paint on and spray the base with your chosen color. Let the paint dry completely before proceeding.

Pro Tip: Use light, even coats of spray paint to avoid drips or streaks on the bucket’s surface.

Once your bucket is prepped, start by securing the end of your rope at the bottom of the bucket using a hot glue gun. Press the rope firmly into place and hold it for a few seconds until the glue sets. Continue adding glue and wrapping the rope around the bucket in a tight, even coil. Be sure to press the rope into the glue as you go to ensure it sticks firmly.

Pro Tip: Work in small sections to prevent the glue from drying too quickly.

Continue wrapping the rope around the bucket, gluing it down as you go. Make sure the rows of rope are tightly packed together with no gaps between them. This will give the trash can a more polished look. You can decide whether to cover the entire bucket in rope or leave the top edge exposed for a contrast effect.

Pro Tip: If you run out of rope mid-project, simply glue down the end of the first rope, then start the next one where you left off.

Once you’ve covered the desired amount of the bucket with rope, cut the rope cleanly and glue down the end securely. Make sure the top edge is neat and well-finished. If you want a more decorative look, you can create a small handle by looping a piece of rope and gluing it onto the sides of the bucket.

Pro Tip: Use a dab of glue on the cut end of the rope to prevent fraying.

For a decorative touch, you can paint sections of the rope on the outside of the trash can. Use a sponge brush to carefully apply paint to the rope, creating stripes, patterns, or even just a light coating for a more polished finish. You can choose any color that matches your home decor. Be sure to apply the paint sparingly so that it doesn’t soak through the rope and onto the bucket itself.

Pro Tip: Painter’s tape can be used to mark off areas where you want clean lines or specific designs. Let the paint fully dry before using the trash can.

Now that your rope trash can is complete, it’s ready to use! Whether you place it in your home office, bathroom, or living room, it adds a stylish touch to any space. The natural texture of the rope provides a cozy, earthy aesthetic, and the durable materials ensure that it will hold up over time.

Pro Tip: If you want to use the trash can outdoors or in a bathroom, consider adding a coat of clear sealant to the rope to protect it from moisture.