Choosing the perfect gift for someone isn’t always an easy task. Sometimes we want to give a gift to someone who we don’t know very well, and we have a hard time figuring out what to get them. Other times we’re very close to the recipient, but we still can’t come up with any ideas.
When you can’t decide on a gift, a gift basket or hamper is the perfect solution. They can be created based on a variety of themes. If you know someone well, you can give him or her a basket that contains favorite foods or supplies for a hobby they enjoy. If not, you can do something more generic like a spa basket or an assortment of different foods.
Many companies sell gift baskets and hampers at premium prices. But you don’t have to shell out big bucks for them. You can often create your own for a fraction of the price. Here are some tips that will help.
* Pick up a cheap basket or hamper. You can find them at most dollar stores for 5 dollars or less. Or if you have one sitting around the house that you don’t use, there’s no harm in repurposing it.
* Avoid splurging on the filling. The fillers you’ll find at craft stores are often surprisingly expensive. Instead of allocating a chunk of your basket budget to something that’s not particularly useful, consider reusing Easter grass. Or you could use shredded newspaper as a filler. If using newspaper, make sure to wrap items that could be stained by the ink with paper or plastic wrap.
* Put lots of home-made items in the basket. Fresh baked cookies mean a lot more than even the most expensive gourmet cookies. And handmade crafts such as a knitted scarf or pair of baby booties hold much more sentimental value than their store-bought counterparts.
* If you plan to include food items, be sure to find out about any allergies or dietary restrictions before you get started. This will keep you from wasting money on things the recipient can’t eat.
* Add some inexpensive items from the dollar store if you like. Depending on the basket’s theme, you might choose candy, toys, scented candles, small picture frames, stationery, playing cards, soaps or something else.
* An inexpensive spool of wide ribbon is often all you’ll need to finish up your basket or hamper. Weave it around the handle or rim, and tie it in a large bow on top. You could also tie it around some individual items if you like.
It’s easy to go out and buy a ready-made gift hamper. But it’s much more frugal, and more fun, to create one yourself. You can include items that you know the recipient will enjoy, and it’s easy to add a personal touch.
