Dare To Be Domestic

A client asked me to recreate a gift she had seen at a baby shower. It was a basket full of baby clothes strung together that could be passed around the entire party. It was a true showstopper. Ingenious. It’s so creative and easy to make I just have to share. Here’s how you do it:

You will need:

• Baby clothes (at least 40 individual items)
• A deep or wide basket (your preference)
• Glue gun
• Decorative Ribbon
• String for close line (ribbon can also be used)
• Medium sized clothespins
• Spray paint
• Small Items to decorate the basket
• A Baby blanket

I love this project because it’s so easy and makes a big impact. Follow these simple steps:

1. First, purchase clothing for the project. You will have to buy lots of baby clothes. Expect to buy at least forty individual items. Keep in mind how old the baby will be each season. Babies grow fast! A good place to shop for clearance items are places like Target, Babies”R”Us and H&M
2. Next, take a trip to your local craft store for your supplies (see above).
3. Now, decorate your basket. The more festive, the better. I suggest hot gluing trinkets and ribbon to assure they won’t fall off.
4. Next, paint and/or decorate your clothespins. Be sure to allow ample drying time to avoid getting paint on your baby clothes.
5. In an open space, lay out your baby clothes side by side. Take your ribbon or string and run it through all the items leaving about four inches between each item. This steps assure that the clothing will not fall off line. Go through the sleeves, belt loops etc. At each end tie a big bow/handle
6. Next, with clothespins, secure the baby clothes to the ribbon or string that is running through each item. I suggest using at least two for each item. For heavier items you may have to use more clothes pens.
7. Lastly, place your clothesline in the basket buy folding it in an accordion style. Place the last piece in so it is at the bottom. There should be a beginning bow that you should make easily accessible.
8. Finish off your project by covering the baskets contents with a baby blanket tucked into the sides of the basket. Don’t forget to leave the start of the line exposed. Then tie a big ol’ ribbon around the entre basket to hold items in place.

Now you’re ready to be the hit of the party. I suggest presenting your gift last as it will create much conversation.

Be creative when decorating. Choose a theme. Mine was a “Laundry” theme but other possible themes include “Baby Rocker”, “Nighttime” or “Baby Princess”. If you don’t have that crafty thumb and would like me to create this masterpiece for you next baby shower drop me an email. I Dare You To Be Domestic!

Tags: baby shower, crafts, Dare To Be Domestic, Dare To Be Domestic. How-to, DIY, easy, gift