DIY Painted Graphic Laundry Baskets: Step-by-Step Guide for Stylish Storage

Laundry baskets with words on it

I’ve been planning this DIY since last fall and finally made time to finish it for back-to-school season. My partner and I have used baskets like these for our laundry for a while and we love them. Because they’re smaller than the giant college-style hamper I used to have, they 1) actually fit in our room and 2) prevent us from letting laundry pile up for months. These graphic laundry baskets are perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone who wants a functional and funny laundry solution.

Laundry basket that says "so fresh so clean"
A basket and craft materials

Laundry basket with words on it Laundry basket with "F" on it

Paint brush and pink laundry basket

DIY Graphic Laundry Baskets

Total Time: About one hour plus dry time

Supplies

Seagrass or woven baskets with a flat weave (flat weaving helps stickers stick properly)
2″ letter stickers (or your preferred size)
Matte Mod Podge or similar sealer
Foam brush
Fabric-safe craft paint and paint brush (optional)

Directions

1. If you plan to paint any part of the basket, do that first. A painted base adds color and personality—apply one coat, let it dry, then apply a second coat and let it dry completely.
2. Choose the phrase or words you want and plan the layout. Smaller seagrass baskets typically hold two lines; larger baskets can fit more text. Measure or visually center your design before applying letters.
3. Start in the middle of the front side and work outward so your wording stays centered. Press the letter stickers firmly into the weave so they adhere well. Make sure all letter edges are fully pressed down into the flat weave.
4. Once the letters are in place, seal the whole basket—including any painted areas—with a coat of matte Mod Podge. This protects the stickers and painted surfaces from wear. Let the first coat dry fully, then apply a second coat and let dry again.

Tip: If you prefer painted letters for more color options, use the stickers as temporary stencils. Press the stickers onto the basket, trace around each letter, remove the sticker and paint inside the traced shape. You may need two paint coats for full coverage. After the paint dries, seal with Mod Podge to protect your design.

Laundry baskets with words on itLaundry baskets with words on them

Photos by Jeff Mindell

If you’re going to try one, I highly recommend the “Fresher Than You” version—it’s practically a dorm-room classic. If you make these, share your photos and tag the project on social media to show off your work.

p.s. Try a DIY filing cabinet idea for more organization inspiration.