The 4th of July is the perfect excuse to sprinkle a little patriotic charm across your home—from star-spangled accents to pops of red, white, and blue. This year, I wanted to create a 4th of July basket centerpiece that was simple, sweet, and full of personal style—something anyone could pull together with just a few festive touches.

It’s a piece of DIY holiday decor that blends heartwarming nostalgia with budget-friendly style. Even better? It’s an easy 4th of July centerpiece you can make with items you likely already have at home.

A charming basket centerpiece with vintage plates, Cracker Jack boxes, and white flowers sits on a chest draped with an American flag—perfect decor for a 4th of July celebration. Patriotic pillows and small American flags complete the look.

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4th of July Basket Centerpiece DIY

As I was gathering decorations, I couldn’t help but include one of my childhood favorites: Cracker Jack. Do you remember those? I used to get so excited—not just for the caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts, but for the little surprise tucked inside. I’d shake the box, hoping to hear the rattle of a prize, then carefully peel it open to find a tiny toy or sticker. That simple thrill always made the holiday feel a little more magical.

So this basket centerpiece is a little nod to that joy—a fun, festive way to decorate your table while tucking in bits of your own story. Whether it’s all American flags, vintage plates, or pieces from your garden, you can make it uniquely yours. Let me show you how to pull it all together in just a few simple steps!

A wicker basket holds vintage red, white, and blue dishes, a floral arrangement, small American flags, and Cracker Jack boxes. More dishware and patriotic pillows decorate the background, creating a festive, summery display.

Pinterest Challenge

It’s time for another Pinterest Challenge—our monthly get-together where a group of blogger friends and I team up to share fun and creative ideas!

This one’s a creative spin on patriotic home decor, using vintage touches and nostalgic finds.

Our sweet friend Cindy at @countyroad407 starts us off with an inspiring image, and we all add our own spin.

A circular wreath of blue leaves surrounds text: "Pinterest Challenge. One Inspiration Photo, Several Different Styles." Below is a red, white, and blue bunting banner—perfect for easy porch decor. Text at the bottom reads "Hosted by countyroad407.com.

This month’s inspiration comes from the lovely Rachel @theantiquedjourney, who styled a vintage basket with patriotic blooms in a rustic tin surrounded by charming vintage pieces. I can’t wait to show you our take on it and how we brought similar charm and style to life!

If you’re visiting from my friend Missy at @sonatahomedesign, welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I have no doubt you loved her fun 4th of July basket centerpiece.

A charming basket centerpiece features a tin can with Campfire Marshmallows branding, filled with red, white, and yellow flowers, small American flags, and teacups on a wooden floor near a white wall—perfect for the 4th of July.

How to Make a 4th of July Centerpiece

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Yield: 1 Centerpiece

4th of July Basket Centerpiece

A quick and easy centerpiece you can make in under 10 minutes. Gather a few goodis from around the house and lets get started.

Cost$10

Equipment

1 pair of scissors
1 Glue gun with glue sticks

Materials

1 Woven or wire basket any size
2 Mini American flags
6 Flowers white, and blue faux or fresh flowers
1 Small mason jars or vase
1 yard Ribbon striped, burlap, or gingham optional
Assorted red white and blue plates or pinwheels
6 Boxes Cracker Jacks 6 boxes
1 bag Moss
3 large pieces of Styrofoam I used round balls and cut them in half.

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Build the Base for Your 4th of July Basket Centerpiece

Start by choosing a vintage basket with character—a well-loved picnic or woven basket adds instant charm. You can often find beautiful options at your local thrift store, flea market, or even in your own attic. This gives your DIY 4th of July centerpiece a nostalgic and rustic feel.
To give your arrangement height and structure, create a simple riser inside the basket. I used two small wood rounds stacked together, but you could also use an inverted bowl or a stack of coasters—anything to elevate your design.
Next, cut an 8-inch round styrofoam ball in half and hot glue it to the top of the wood round. Then take a 4-inch styrofoam ball, slice it in half, and glue both pieces on top to form a tiered, dome-like base. This gives you a sturdy form to hold flags, florals, and other patriotic decorations securely in place.

Step 2: Make a Cracker Jack Vase with Vintage Charm

Hot glue six Cracker Jack boxes together to form a square, creating a fun, nostalgic vase with classic Americana style. Place a clear glass or mason jar inside to hold your flowers.
Set the vase on top of a few old books to give it extra height and vintage character.
Then, position your largest plate toward the back of the basket to anchor the arrangement. (If the centerpiece will be viewed from all sides, center the plate instead and add a second large plate on the back side.

Step 3: Layer Vintage Plates and Collectibles for Added Charm

Continue layering plates in graduating sizes, placing the largest at the back and working forward. This creates depth and allows the beautiful patterns and designs to shine through.
I used a mix of vintage transferware, but you can personalize your look with any plates that match your style—classic white, patriotic prints, or even mismatched thrifted finds.
If you don’t have the right plates on hand, you can easily substitute with adorable 4th of July pinwheels. I simply added a popsicle stick to the center when assembling the pinwheel, making it easy to insert directly into the styrofoam base. It’s a cute, festive, and budget-friendly alternative that adds a playful pop of color to your patriotic centerpiece.
To add even more character, tuck in bowls, teacups, saucers, or a few novelty pieces for a whimsical, curated touch.

Step 4: Description of Fourth Step

Add moss or burlap to cover your styrofoam and create a finished look.

Step 5: Add Red, White & Blue Flowers and Patriotic Finishing Touches

Now it’s time to bring your DIY 4th of July centerpiece to life with festive blooms! Add a small arrangement of red, white, and blue flowers to your Cracker Jack vase. You can use fresh flowers from the garden or faux stems you have on hand—both work beautifully.
I used faux flowers in patriotic colors for easy styling and long-lasting charm, but feel free to mix in greenery or seasonal blooms to suit your style.
To finish it off, tuck in a few mini American flags for that classic patriotic centerpiece look. It’s a simple detail that adds a big dose of charm and holiday spirit.

Step 1: Build the Base for Your 4th of July Basket Centerpiece

Choosing a vintage basket sets the tone for the entire arrangement—it instantly adds charm and character. I love using pieces with history, and thrifted baskets always have that collected, lived-in look. Creating a riser inside helps everything feel balanced and polished, especially if your basket has deep sides. I used small wood rounds, but you could easily repurpose old Tupperware, mini bowls, or even a stack of books. This step is all about creating a sturdy foundation that brings your display to life.

A rectangular woven wooden basket with a single handle sits on a rustic wooden surface in a cozy, vintage setting.

A rectangular woven basket with a handle sits on a wooden surface. Inside the basket are two round wooden slices. In the background, there is a window and various objects on shelves.

A woven wooden basket on a wooden counter holds two boxes of Cracker Jack and some white round objects. The background shows a window with a blurry outdoor view and shelves with rustic decor.

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Anchor with Height and Layers

Start by placing taller items (plates, flags) in the back (or center, if you’re creating a 360° arrangement), and work forward with shorter items to create depth. Use small wood slices, boxes, or books to lift and layer your decor inside the basket.

Step 2: Make a Cracker Jack Vase with Vintage Charm

This playful element is one of my favorites! Cracker Jack brings back so many memories of childhood summers, parades, and waiting to see what surprise was inside the box. Adding a simple vase inside keeps the look clean and makes flower arranging easy. Elevating the vase on a few old books gives it extra height. You can swap the Cracker Jack boxes for any nostalgic snack tin.

This is such a fun and easy 4th of July craft idea, especially for kids or nostalgic adults alike!

A hand holds a rectangular structure made from stacked Cracker Jack boxes, arranged with open ends facing forward. The boxes are red and blue, and the background is blurred.

A wooden basket on a rustic table holds two Cracker Jack boxes, three white decorative balls, and a blue-and-white plate with a scenic landscape design in the background.

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Be sure to press the plate or backdrop item firmly into the styrofoam to keep it steady and upright.

Step 3: Layer Vintage Plates (or Pinwheels) and Collectibles for Added Charm

This step is where the basket really starts to take shape. I used a few pieces of my favorite red and blue transferware, but the beauty of this project is its flexibility—mismatched thrifted plates, melamine dishes, or even layered paper pinwheels work beautifully. Adding bowls, teacups, or a quirky novelty item adds personality and tells a story. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns or textures—those little imperfections are what make it feel special.

A wicker basket holds vintage red, white, and blue dishes, American flags, festive paper pinwheels, and white flowers, set on a rustic wooden table with a large mirror and farmhouse decor in the background.

A hand holds a paper fan decorated with red and blue stars and dots. The fan has a wooden handle and is set against a background of a wooden table and green textured surface.

A woven basket holds vintage patterned plates in blue and red alongside two boxes of Cracker Jack on a wooden surface, with rustic decor and shelves in the background.

A woven wooden basket holds vintage blue and red patterned plates, with two Cracker Jack boxes standing behind them in the background.

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Add Unexpected Textures

Mix materials like wood, china, burlap, fabric, and paper. A denim napkin or sparkly star garland can instantly elevate the look.

Step 4: Add Red, White & Blue Flowers and Patriotic Finishing Touches

The florals and moss bring everything together and add a soft, festive vibe. I used faux blooms I had on hand, but fresh flowers from your garden would be lovely too. The trick is to keep it casual and fun—like a summer bouquet you’d gather at a farmer’s market. Tucking in a few small American flags gives it that unmistakable 4th of July vibe and ties the whole centerpiece together.

It also makes a festive 4th of July table idea for any casual gathering or patriotic brunch.

A wicker basket filled with vintage blue and red patterned plates and bowls sits on a wooden table, with two boxes of Cracker Jack popcorn in the background and more stacked dishes nearby.

A rustic basket holds two Cracker Jack boxes, blue and red patterned dishes, and artificial white and purple flowers, set on a table with decorative items in the background.

A basket of blue and red vintage dishes sits on straw, with two boxes of Cracker Jack, American flags, and a bouquet of white and purple flowers in the background.

Tip from wendy’s craft room:

Use Double-Sided Tape or Glue Dots for Hidden Support

Use Double-Sided Tape or Glue Dots for Hidden Support
Secure lightweight or awkward items like mini flags, pinwheels, or paper accents with glue dots or double-sided tape. They’re mess-free, easy to reposition, and invisible in the final arrangement.

Tips to Personalize Your Independence Day Basket

Looking to make your basket truly one-of-a-kind? Try these personal touches:

Use a Sentimental Basket
Choose a vintage picnic basket, antique crate, or family heirloom to give it heart and character.
Include Family Photos or Vintage Postcards
Tuck in faded snapshots or vintage 4th of July postcards for a nostalgic, Americana vibe.
Themed Linens, Napkins, or Flags
Line your basket with red, white, or denim-inspired napkins. Bandanas work beautifully too! Add a monogrammed cloth or a special flag from your collection for extra meaning.

A rustic wooden table decorated with an American flag, red, white, and blue tableware, small U.S. flags, flowers, and a red "4th of July" sign, set on a porch with patriotic pillows and blue seating.

Where to Display Your Rustic 4th of July Centerpiece

Your 4th of July basket centerpiece is incredibly versatile and works in so many spaces! I styled mine in a few favorite spots around my home:

On the coffee table in my she shed for a cozy, collected feel
On the front porch to welcome guests
On the back porch glass table for outdoor entertaining

Whether indoors or out, this sweet and simple centerpiece adds the perfect patriotic touch to any space.

A rustic table display features vintage red, white, and blue dishes, small American flags, Cracker Jack boxes, and a large red "4 JULY" sign, with flowers in the background, evoking a patriotic 4th of July theme.

A picnic basket filled with red and blue vintage dishes, flowers, two small American flags, and boxes of Cracker Jack sits on a glass table. A red sign with “4th of July” stands beside it. Patriotic decor is in the background.

A rustic wooden chest decorated with an American flag, vintage dishes, a basket with flowers, two small U.S. flags, Cracker Jack boxes, and a red "4 July" sign, set on a porch with blue siding.

Other Patriotic Projects from WM Design House

If you love this 4th of July table centerpiece, these easy 4th of July centerpiece ideas and crafts are perfect for both beginners and seasoned DIYers:

I have also created a really inexpensive patriotic arrangement in a dough bowl.

Memorial Day Party Ideas- A table decorated fora the party with re,d white, and blue. I checkered table cloth with a picnic basket filled with red geraniums.

That’s all from me! Whether you’re searching for an easy 4th of July centerpiece, a 4th of July craft idea, or simply some patriotic home decor inspiration, I hope this project sparks your creativity and helps you celebrate in style.

Next up is my dear friend Lora @lorabloomquist. You won’t want to miss her creative ideas for making the cutest flags using scrap fabric. Be sure to pay her a visit—and check out the other bloggers’ projects below!

A rustic table display features a festive 4th of July basket centerpiece with red, white, and blue plates, mini American flags, a red "4 JULY" sign in a wicker basket, plus Cracker Jack boxes and flowers to complete the patriotic decor.

Did you make this craft?

We would love to see what you have created, so mention us @wmdesignhouse or tag us using #wmdesignhouse so we can see your creations!

More about me!

Hello, I’m Wendy – a dedicated homemaker with a deep passion for decorating, gardening, cooking, and crafting. I find joy in harmonizing beautiful elements to fashion a space that is both comfortable and inspiring. I will help you create a beautiful home, one project at a time.

Connect with Wendy

9 Comments

Missy says:

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This is a perfect 4th of July centerpiece! I love the beautiful dishes and the Cracker Jack boxes are genius! (Such a great childhood memory!) I never tire of seeing what you come up with, Wendy! Pinned!

Rachel Harper says:

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Wendy
Your take on the patriotic basket is so fun. Love the cracker jacks and your red, white, & blue dishes.

Lora Bloomquist says:

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This is absolutely adorable, Wendy! Love the cracker jack boxes as a vase for the flowers. I wanted to include double bubble gum in mine, but ran out of time to run to the store. 4th of July is perfect for those fun touches. Great design tips, too!

Michelle | Thistle Key Lane says:

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Your 4th of July basket vignette is simply gorgeous Wendy! Thank you for sharing your secrets for displaying your dishes in the basket! I can’t wait to give it a try! Hugs!

Barbara says:

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Wendy, wow!! I was worried when your post wouldn’t pop up yesterday, but it was worth the wait… Your patriotic basket is stunning with all the RWB china tucked & stacked in it, plus the flowers and Cracker Jack box/vase. 🙂 Really beautiful! Thank you for these great ideas. <3

Happy almost the 4th,
Hugs,
Barb 🙂

Niky | The House on Silverado says:

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So much to love about your basket, Wendy. The patriotic plates, the pinwheels, even the moss! I have a basket just like yours that was my mom’s. I use it to harvest produce from my garden, but you’ve inspired me to bring it in and use it in a vignette as well. ❤️ Pinned

Cindy says:

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I adore your basket! I had no idea they even made Cracker Jacks anymore! I remember wishing there were more than 2 peanuts. 😉 Your dishes are fantastic, and the way you styled the outdoor table is magnificent. I know your family will enjoy seeing it. Happy Independence Day, and thank you for joining in. pinned

Rachel @ The Antiqued Journey says:

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LOVE your pretty basket, Wendy!! The basket color itself is SO stunning. Love your take on the patriotic vignette….so fun!!

1. Jen Svendsen says:
  
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  Thnak you sweet Rachel, I am always so inspired by you and your beautiful work.

4th of July Basket Centerpiece: Sweet, Simple & Charming

4th of July Basket Centerpiece DIY

Pinterest Challenge

How to Make a 4th of July Centerpiece