How to Decorate a Plastic Bucket

Choose a theme for your plastic bucket. If you are using it for a special occasion, plan a theme that will match the occasion. If not, then choose a design and colors that will match your home or workplace, or a design that will just be fun to create.

Sketch out the design in detail. Perhaps you want to wrap a ribbon around the plastic bucket, or line the edge of it with seashells. Maybe you would like to cover the entire bucket with polka dots. Sketching it out will help you finalize your design and see which materials you need to purchase.

Decorate the inside of the plastic bucket. For a touch of whimsy, try writing a message on the bottom of the bucket with a permanent marker. Or, create a design or message on the inside of the bucket just below the rim.

Decorate the outside of the bucket. Start with the lowest layer of design. For example, if you are going to cover the bucket with glitter hearts and then add a bow, start with the hearts. Use a glitter pen to draw hearts all over the bucket, and then let it dry completely before you glue the bow to the bucket. Or, use a permanent marker on the outside, just as you might have done on the inside of the bucket. Colorful permanent markers easily write on plastic, but take care not to make a mistake, as the ink cannot be removed.

Decorate the rim of the bucket. This should be done last, as it is the hardest part and can be ruined if you touch it while decorating the outside of the bucket. Trace a line of hot glue around the edge of the bucket, then set decorative items into the glue. Choose items that match the theme of the bucket. If the bucket is going to hold gardening tools, for example, decorate the rim of the bucket with silk flowers.

Add something to the handle. Most plastic buckets have handles. Try adding a raffia bow to the handle, or tie a gift tag to the handle if the bucket is going to hold a gift.