Construction Paper Baskets These baskets are perfect for Easter or anytime your child wants to store precious treasures! Materials: Construction paper Glue Scissors (or paper cutter for straighter edges) Ruler Directions: Cut 27 ¾ inch wide strips from the length of the construction paper. Be careful to cut the strips straight. It is best to use a paper cutter, but if none is available cut through no more than three sheets at a time to make sure the paper doesn't slip. The examples were made from strips cut with scissors. Cut 10 of the strips in half Place seven long strips side by side on the table Weave a long strip under and over these seven strips leaving an even amount of unwoven strip on each side Continue weaving six more long strips alternating directions You should end up with a + shape with the woven area in the center Continue the pattern of the weave with 4 short strips on one arm of the +. Place a drop of glue at both sides of the short strips after weaving. One end should overhang about ¼ to ½ inch (see picture 1) Picture 1 When all four sides are complete, take the last short strips and fold them in half lengthwise. Unfold and coat the inside with glue then refold over the ends of the long strips (see picture 2) Picture 2 Repeat the last step for the remaining 3 sides Fold the overhanging ends up Fold up one side of the basket and glue folded overhangs to the inside of the other side (see picture 3). Repeat until the basket is formed Picture 3 Glue remaining long strips together one on top of the other. Glue this strip to two sides of the basket (on the inside) to create a handle To get the two-color baskets, you will need 19 long strips of the primary color and 8 of the secondary color. For the smaller baskets cut 3/4 inch wide strips from the width of the construction paper. Experiment with the number and width of strips for larger or smaller baskets. Have fun! Do you have an idea for another Project of the Month for our Crafts for Kids Cubby? We'd love to hear from you. Email our moderators with your suggestions! Copyright © 2002 StorkNet.com. All Rights Reserved.