I’ve never painted a basket before. How do I go about it?

Spray paint is the easiest. Just make sure the surface is clean and dry then spray with a couple of light coats.

http://www.hgtv.com/design/make-and-celebrate/handmade/dress-up-a-plain-basket-with-paint

For a real woven basket or a plastic basket, I recommend spray painting. As you turn the basket, you can more easily get into the nooks and crannies. I set a large cardboard box on its side in the garage. Then I spray into the box. I try to find a pedestal or two of sorts so I can turn whatever I am painting upside down, backwards, in every direction. It’s outside so there is plenty of ventilation, the car doesn’t accidentally get sprayed, and the basket or other item gets complete coverage and a safe place to dry. Best wishes 😇

Use a spray can. :0)

Set some newspaper or a painting cloth under the basket, stand back and spray with a color of your choice. If you paint one basket, you will paint more....it is only the beginning. Have fun!