4 MINUTE READ
If you are looking for advice on how to make your own gift baskets, you’ve come to the right place. Follow along with these 6 simple steps to learn how to make impressive gift baskets from start to finish.
1. Identify interests
Whether you are making one gift basket for a loved one or several for corporate clients, the first step is to identify the interests of the recipient. When you make your own gift basket, you can tailor each element according to their likes. Make a list of what you know about them and consider how you can incorporate their interests into the theme, gift items, and decoration. Not only will it be one-of-a-kind, but it will also make the recipient feel extra special that you took the time to consider their interests and incorporate them into the gift personally.
2. Choose a theme
Now that you have a general list of things your recipient likes, the next step is to choose a specific theme to create your gift basket around. The more focused your theme is, the more unique and special it will be. For instance, if you are making a seasonal fall gift basket, you may choose a particular topic, such as fall baking, pumpkin spice, tailgating, or cozying up at home, depending on what the recipient will most enjoy. A theme creates a story and ties together the gift items and decorations to make a memorable presentation.
3. Shop for gifts
Once you have a theme in mind, you can start thinking about what kinds of gift items you may want to fill the gift basket with. When selecting gifts, consider cost, quality, size, and how well the items fit your theme.
Before you start shopping, it may be helpful to identify a budget. Keep in mind there will be other expenses that will come in later, such as the container, filler, wrapping, and decoration. To make a better gift basket, we suggest choosing a smaller number of unique, high-quality items versus a larger number of cheap or generic items.
For the best presentation, choose items that are an appropriate size and weight to fit in a gift basket container. Anything too large or heavy will be difficult to arrange and present attractively. Instead, select a variety of smaller items that, when arranged together, form a complete and cohesive display. Gift items should pair well together visually and support the overall theme.
4. Select a container
After you have gathered all of your gift items, the next step is to select a container to serve as the gift basket. For this, consider size, shape, sturdiness, and appearance.
Choose a container that is the right size to hold all of the gift items you have purchased. The shape should allow all the items to be seen and help them stay upright. For instance, a short and wide container works best for displaying small items, while tall items may require high walls to support them.
Gift items will also dictate how sturdy your gift basket container should be. The heavier the items or, the more there are, the more support will be needed. Finally, the overall appearance is also important. The aesthetic should match your theme and gift items.
To fit these requirements, there are many different types of containers to choose from. Consider traditional woven baskets, sturdy wooden crates, delicate fabric bins, or any number of unconventional containers such as a metal tin or bucket.
This collection is pictured in a 10 in x 8 in x 4½ in wooden gift basket crate by Carpenter Core.
5. Arrange
Before you can start arranging, ensure you have everything you need. In addition to your gift items and container, you will also need some filler such as tissue paper, crinkle paper, or paper shred. You may also want to have some glue dots or tape to help secure items.
To arrange, first, fill in the base of the container with filler. Then, begin placing your gifts, starting with the tallest items in the back, and filling in with smaller items in front. You may need to play around with the arrangement to find the right balance. For more tips on arranging, check out 4 easy steps to arrange impressive gift baskets.
6. Make the presentation
Lastly, the presentation can make any gift basket even more special. Once assembled, you may choose to wrap the gift basket in clear cellophane. This not only provides security but also provides an unwrapping experience for the recipient. If items are well-secured, you may choose to keep them unwrapped to allow everyone to see the contents easily. Finish with a ribbon, bow, or decorative touch that ties in with your theme.
If you follow these 6 easy steps, you can make your own gift baskets for any occasion and any recipient. Looking for more advice? Check out our blog for more tips and ideas about how to make a better gift basket.