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Photography by Meghan Mcneer

Contrary to popular belief, chic baskets are not just for stylish storage. Sure, they’re great to use as a catchall in the laundry room or as a safe place to store the kids’ toys, but have you ever considered how versatile they can be? Whether you need a pendant light, an ice bucket, or just to upgrade your poolside decor, you can find a personalized solution with a basket and a little bit of Rust-Oleum® spray paint.

Select from a kaleidoscope of colors and turn any basic basket into your very own, very useful, work of art that’s suitable for any room. If you’re ready to get a bit crafty, here are three ideas that will transform one simple basket into three very different uses—just grab a can of Rust-Oleum spray paint and get going.

Pendant Light

In case you missed it: Creative

statement lighting

is totally having a moment. Make your own one-of-a-kind piece by turning a basket upside down and painting it a light neutral shade, like Universal® Gloss in Pure White. Universal dries to the touch in 30 minutes, but fully dries in 24 hours. Start by drilling a hole in the bottom of the basket and dropping in a pendant light. Installing an oversized grommet should do the trick to keep it all together. Voila! A custom-made piece that looks way more expensive than it is.

Paint color used:  Universal® Gloss in Pure White

Photography by Meghan Mcneer

Wine Cooler

Warmer weather calls for dining al fresco, but don’t reach for that dated ice bucket to keep your rosé chilled. Instead, turn a basket into a trendy cooler by getting a little creative. Tape off half of the basket, then spray it with a bright, vibrant paint that lets everyone know this is where the drinks will be.

Universal® Matte in Robin’s Egg feels fresh and seasonal, and the 360-degree spray makes it easy to create clean lines and even coverage. Line the basket with a plastic bag (we repurposed the bag the basket came in) to waterproof it before adding ice, and start serving up your favorite drinks.

Paint color used: Universal® Matte in Robin’s Egg

Photography by Meghan Mcneer

Towel Storage

Add some personality to your poolside towel basket with a sunny hue. We’re loving the bright dose of personality Universal® Gloss in Canary Yellow added to this simple woven container. The Universal paint is specially formulated to adhere to any indoor or outdoor surface, so you can be sure it will not only stick, but last on a wicker/wood-like material like this. Plus, it’s a paint and primer in one, so you can evenly coat the basket once and instantly love the result.

Paint color used: Universal® Gloss in Canary Yellow