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You’ve taken the time to make a special gift basket, choosing the perfect theme and carefully curating each item to fill it. You’ve selected the container and attractively arranged the items.
So, how do you make a gift basket even better? Add a bow to give the perfect finishing touch!
The cherry on top, a bow will make your basket (or container of choice) feel complete and give it an impressive look. It can also tie your theme together, creating a wow factor that will make your recipient even more excited to see what is inside.
Here, we will share some tips on how to choose the right bow as well as examples of different ways to make one for a gift basket.
Choose the right bow
There are several factors to consider when choosing a bow to decorate a gift basket.
First, consider the size of the basket and the statement you want to make. If the basket is small, avoid adding a huge bow that will hide all of the contents inside. If the basket is large, a small one may get lost. Find the right balance to make it most appealing.
A bow should complement the theme. If the basket has a relaxing, spa-like feel, keep it natural and understated. If you’ve created a fun gift, use a bright, colorful ribbon to make it extra festive. The right decoration can enhance the feeling you want your gift basket to give.
Other factors to consider are time and budget. Purchasing pre-made adornments is easier and will save you assembly time, but it can also be more expensive and limits your options creatively. Making them can be more time-consuming, but you may spend less on materials and it gives you more opportunity to customize the gift basket to make it even more special.
Use unique materials
There are many materials you can use to make a bow. Ribbon comes in all sorts of colors, patterns, styles, and textures, so choose one that best fits the style you are going for.
Some materials include shiny satin, sheer organza, coarse burlap, sturdy grosgrain, mesh tulle, and soft velvet.
When making your decoration, you have the opportunity to choose any material or style you want, so get creative to make your gift basket stand out.
Ways to make a bow for a gift basket
There are several ways to add a bow to a gift basket, and some are easier than you may think. Here are some options to give your gift an impressive and memorable finish.
Use a pre-made bow
If you are looking for an easy way to add embellishment without having to make it yourself, there are many pre-made options available for purchase.
Visit your local craft or hobby store or browse online. Using a pre-made version does not in any way take away from a gift basket, as long as you choose the right one. If you’re not confident in your ability to make an attractive decoration yourself, using pre-made is preferable to ensure a polished, professional look.
This collection pictured with a 7 3/16 in. x7 1/2 in. x 3 1/2 in. small wooden crate by Carpenter Core.
Make a ribbon bow
To make a classic bow out of ribbon, there are a few materials you will need. First, choose your ribbon, keeping in mind the size, color, and material that will best match your gift basket. You will also need scissors to cut it to the correct length, and floral wire to hold it in place and attach it to your basket.
This article from eHow includes step-by-step instructions with photos on how to make two different types of ribbon decorations that would work beautifully to enhance gift baskets.
Once made, attach at the top of the basket where the cellophane wrapping comes together, tie directly to the handle of your container, or even secure to a gift item, such as the handle of a mug.
Wrap a bow
Another beautiful way to add a bow is to wrap ribbon around your gift basket. This method can be used with many different types of materials. One way to achieve this look is to wrap it around the base. This works well for a round container. Cut your chosen ribbon to length, allowing for enough material to make it around the basket, and tie it into a pretty finish in front.
Another method is to wrap ribbon around the handle, finishing with a bow on top or where the handle meets the base.
If your container has an open slat or weave design, such as a wooden crate or a basket with a wide weave, wrap material through the openings to add color and texture.
Conclusion
To make an impressive gift basket, add a bow for the perfect finishing touch. There are several approaches, from using a pre-made bow to making one yourself from a ribbon, which you could wrap around the basket in an interesting way. When choosing, consider the size and material that best matches the basket. A well-chosen decoration can (literally) tie your gift together and aid in delivering an unforgettable experience.