To receive a gift basket is exciting because it connotes a sense of abundance. A gift basket that is overflowing with wonderful goodies can be consumed or used as the recipient pleases. Receiving one as a gift from someone we know and care about makes us feel a bit like a king or queen – or at least a pampered royal house guest!

If you have ever given a basket as a gift in the past you have likely noticed the profound effect that doing so can have on the recipients. Now, you may be considering making your own while in the comfort of your home and using your own materials.

To get your started on this exciting journey, here are 5 ideas and tips on the art of making gift baskets:

1. Keep on hand the right materials for any occasion:

Once you have made your first basket, you may very well get hooked. Soon, this could become your gift of choice for any occasion. In order to make the entire experience as economical as possible, it is wise to gather together the appropriate materials and tools to have on hand for whenever the basket-making urge arises.

At bare minimum, of course you will need baskets themselves (or basket-like items such as trays or attractive gift boxes). You will also want to have shredded paper, excelsior (i.e., shredded natural wood) or other attractive filler materials. Bonus items include small decorative ribbons and cellophane bags or cellophane wrapping material. Of course, make sure you have a good pair of scissors, as well as both single and double-sided clear tape.

2. To (add) food or not to (add) food – that is the question:

When preparing a particular new creation for a friend, loved one, or acquaintance, a key decision you need to make is whether the basket will be food-themed. The reason this is an important consideration is that depending upon how they are packaged, food items can be perishable. In addition, since people’s food preferences and diets can be so particular, by giving food you may be risking that they will not be able to enjoy your gift as you would hope. On the other hand, a great food basket can be a masterful gift choice. So, choose wisely!

3. Picking the right theme is more than half the battle:

Each basket you create should have a particular theme. Of course, how you choose the theme will depend in part upon the likes and interests of the recipient. But, it will also be determined by your own creativity. Buy small gifts, goodies, toys, etc. for your basket that are in accordance with a theme.

4. Your basket should give the impression of abundance:

As you assemble your basket and start filling it with goodies, be sure to take care to use your filler materials in an expert way. The goal is that, no matter how many gifts and goodies your container has in it, the container should look like it is practically overflowing. This is the secret to creating that coveted sense of abundance that well-designed baskets exude.

5. The little touches are what make these gifts so great:

A final tip: make sure to focus on the little things. Of course, the theme and actual gifts themselves need to please and delight the senses. But, take care to add little touches like ribbons, accents, and other inexpensive goodies around the entire arrangement. These little details make good basket into a great one.

Take these 5 ideas and tips into account as you learn the art of marking gift baskets.

Author Bio: See a collection of unique gift baskets and gift basket ideas at: Gift Basket Buddy.

Category: Arts and Crafts
Keywords: The Art of Making Gift Baskets,5 Ideas & Tips for making gift baskets