With a Little Imagination, You Can Create Your Own Gift Basket!

Once you know what to put in your basket, the rest is easy! Start by stuffing your basket with newsprint or styrofoam peanuts in a tightly tied plastic grocery bag to just about two inches below the edge of the basket. Cover the stuffing with tissue paper. Next, arrange your items with the larger boxes or bags toward the back. Think of a handheld fan and spread your items out. Finish with the most decorative or special items directly in the front center of your basket. Now, the fun part! Using colored shred or 6 inch squares of tissue gathered at the middle, fill in the spaces between and behind your items. You can also add silk flowers, greenery or little clusters of wrapped candies (with just a dab of hot glue) as decorations. Set the basket in the middle of a large piece of cellophane or tulle (purchased at a fabric store) and gather the corners up to the top, pulling on any slack. Fasten at the top by tying curling ribbon in a tight knot. Now add a big bow, letting the ribbon cascade down along the sides. Voila! A masterpiece!