Make a Wire Basket
Constructing a wire basket is a creative and environmentally friendly way to demonstrate your talent in craft making talent. A soldering technique, for example, is ideal for designing a rectangular-shaped basket with steel net sides. Soldering is the process of fusing two metals together; providing a permanent bond for your basket. Including a thin wire handle allows you to clutch and carry the basket with comfort. Carry your finished basket to the store or give it as a gift for the fellow artist, shopper or eco-friendly enthusiast in your life.
Instructions
1
Slide on a pair of work gloves, safety glasses and a dust mask to protect your skin, eyes and lungs.
2
Place five wire framing pieces onto a flat work surface: two 8-by-15-inch steel net panels; two 8-by-11-inch steel net panels; and one 11-by-15-inch steel net panel. Dull the edges of each panel with an abrasive sanding pad.
3
Turn on a solder gun and allow it to warm. Rub solder wire onto the gun tip. Wipe the tip clean with a damp sponge.
4
Form one of the 8-by-11 and 8-by-15-inch panels into a letter "L" shape so the 8-inch ends are connected. Touch the solder wire to the connection point between the two panels. Touch the hot solder gun tip to the solder wire to secure the bond. Continue the soldering process with remaining 8-by-11 and 8-by-15-inch panels to create a three dimensional rectangle. Solder the 11-by-15-inch panel onto the bottom of the rectangle.
5
Measure 7 inches toward center from the left end of a 31-inch-long 10 gauge wire. Bend the wire at this point to form a 90-degree angle with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Measure 7 inches toward center from the right end of the same wire. Bend the wire at this point to form a second 90-degree angle. The wire now resembles a "U" shape.
6
Turn the "U" shape upside down. Bend the bottom end of the left rod 1 inch upwards toward center. Bend the bottom end of the right rod 1 inch upwards toward center. The handle is now complete. Hook each end of the handle to the left and right 11-inch-wide sides of the basket at center. Clip away wire mesh fibers on the basket, as necessary, to enlarge the hole and ensure the 10-gauge wire handle fits.
