Goodie Baskets Make Great Gifts
By Mari D Dattolo
Who hasn’t admired the uniqueness of a beautifully created gift basket? Learning the secrets of creating that personal gift need not be difficult nor expensive.
Themes and designs for your gifts are limitless. In the spirit of giving, homemade treats are always a favorite. They may include canned fruits or preserves, jellies and jams and cookies or candies.
Although goodies from the kitchen are appreciated, a combination of gifts in any theme can be artistically assembled. A breakfast basket might include pancake or muffin mix, assorted fresh fruits, a pound of a favorite coffee or assorted teas, and a gourmet syrup. For teens, a non-alcoholic beverage with a variety of snacks and candy would put a smile on any kid’s face. Share some holiday cheer with the party entertainers on your list.
A sampling of wines, cheeses, crackers, nuts, candies and gourmet treats make the perfect gift for your favorite host or hostess. If you’ve been collecting an assortment of small or inexpensive gifts, they too can be attractively displayed together in any variety of containers.
So where does this basket designer find the best quality contents? My favorite retail locations for high-end products at low-end prices are at clearance outlet stores. Why would these once expensive items now be so inexpensive? Usually, they’re discontinued merchandise nearing the end of their shelf life. Before you purchase any item, be sure to check the packaging for expiration dates.
Add a keepsake that won’t be consumed such as a pair of wine glasses or mugs to complement their beverages, or perhaps a favorite scented candle or holiday CD? Some products may also display more attractively outside of their original package. Shopping for many with similar tastes? Buy products in bulk and change up the containers or color schemes. Accents such as floral sprigs, assorted wrapped candy pieces or simple holiday ornaments can also dress up your gift’s contents.
Having the components for your gift basket begins the process of constructing it. Options for your container are endless. From baskets, to gift boxes, pots to waste cans, let your resources fuel your imagination! Positioning and placement of the goodies is vital. As a rule, larger products should stand as a backdrop, with smaller items stacked and placed toward the front. The creation step begins with lining your container with newspaper or craft paper. Bringing the lining up to the rim allows all the products to be fully visible to the viewer.
As pieces are built up and stacked, they will require discreet adherence with either package glue dots or tape. As an added dress up, one to two colors of shredded tissue paper can help to coordinate the overall package. A clear cellophane or stronger polypropylene film wraps your package with a window into the treasured contents! After tying your wrap with ribbon or string, the icing on the cake is a handmade wire ribbon bow that coordinates with your selected packaging. If you’re new to bow-making, most craft or hobby stores sell pre-made bows in their floral departments.
As a hobby, a craft or a favorite pastime, designing beautiful handmade gift baskets can be as rewarding to make as they are to receive. Give yourself a chance to enjoy the process-break out your favorite wine, put on some holiday tunes and let the magic begin!
