Make your own holiday gift basket to give.
If you want to give a gift basket but don't want to pay too much, the solution's simple: Learn to make your own.
With the right materials, anyone can make a gift basket. Not only that, you can make it personal and one of a kind. Whether you want a Christmas theme or a computer theme for your gift basket, anything small enough to fit can be incorporated.
Instructions
1. Set a budget. The biggest drawback to making gift baskets is that people will often get so excited about including additional items that they don't know when to stop. Before you even buy the basket, tell yourself how much you're willing to spend, and stick with it.
2. Pick a basket. The basket you choose should reflect your budget; if you've decided to keep your budget at $25 for your gift basket, don't buy a huge basket that you'll be unable to fill for that amount. Consider buying undecorated baskets for your gift baskets: They're cheaper, and you have more control over customizing how they look.
3. Make a list of Items. Before you go out and buy any items for your gift basket, make a list of items you intend to buy. Then add up how much the items on your list will cost and see if that falls within your budget. If it doesn't, scale back.
4. Buy the items. Do this at least three days before you intend to give your gift, in case you're unable to find some items on your list. In that case, substitute comparably priced items.
5. Pick the covering. Cover the inside bottom and sides of the gift basket with a decorative piece of fabric, tissue paper, or even better, tea towels. Not only will it make your gift basket look nice, but it will make sure important items don't fall through the cracks.
6. Fill the basket. After you have a covering in the basket, begin filling it with the items. Put the large items in first, then use the smaller items as accents around them.
7. Wrap it up. While you don't have to wrap your gift basket, it's a good idea if you plan to carry it anywhere. Small items can be sneaky and fall out when you least expect it. Consider wrapping it in clear plastic cellophane. That way, the items in your basket are protected but still visible.
