subject: Gift Basket Ideas to Make Yourself - 5 Steps [print this page] The gift basket just may be the perfect giftThe gift basket just may be the perfect gift. That is because you can fill one with almost anything and give them to anyone on almost any type of occasion. Their versatility - combined with the fact that you can buy them or make them yourself - just adds to their attractiveness as great gifts.
If you are looking for gift basket ideas to make yourself, here are 5 steps:
1. Keep your eyes out at all times for inexpensive baskets:
To become an expert gift basket maker - or even just a savvy one - requires that you always keep your eyes peeled for good containers you could use as baskets. Once you get into the mindset of a good gift basket maker, all the world is a resource for your containers. Keep you eyes open when you are out and about.
Of course, actual baskets themselves are a great choice, but so are trays, planters, and other containers. As long as they look clean (or can be cleaned up) and can hold stuff, they are a good candidate.
2. Buy or locate other important materials:
Keep your eyes open for other materials you will need to make a good basket. The most important material type is filler material like shredded brown paper, comics paper, or floral foam. Also, excelsior (i.e., shredded natural wood material) makes a great filler.
Other materials to pick up when you have the opportunity are: double-stick tape, ribbon, bows, little decorative items (like tiny toys, etc.) and cellophane bags.
3. Set up an assembly area:
Create for yourself an area in your home you can use to assemble your new creations. Preferably, create a dedicated area that you can use time and again without having to set it up each time. If that's not possible, then anywhere from a workbench in the garage to an open kitchen table will do nicely.
4. Buy small well-wrapped food items and other gifts:
Now it is time to decide upon a basket theme and then to go out and buy the gifts. Ideal gifts for baskets are small, individually-packaged items. A few larger items are fine if they are the "main" or feature gift. Try color-coordinating your gifts, if possible. And, if you can, wrap the smaller items in their own boxes.
5. Arrange like a pro:
Experiment with your placement of gifts, filler paper and decorations until you get it just right. If your basket has a handle, attach items to it - make use of every open space! Tape gifts to each other if necessary. Add bunches of decorative filler. Be sure to add ribbon or decorative bow.
Follow these 5 steps for gift basket ideas to make yourself.
