| By :
Tyler Branson
If the most creative you ever get in gift-giving is deciding who gets what gift card, think again this year. Gift baskets are an easy solution, even for the most difficult people on your list. Gift baskets-being versatile and highly customizable-can be used for any number of occasions, whatever the need. The first step to assembling the gift basket is---you guessed it--- the basket. Most craft stores sell a wide variety of baskets made of wicker, wire, or plastic, and in a wide palate of colors to suit any theme. Another resource for baskets is the secondhand store; chances are the local thrift shop has shelves full of wicker baskets for use by the gift-giver on a budget. For a personal touch, a can of spray paint can work wonders; silver or gold paint over a wicker basket adds a pretty shine to a holiday present. (Make sure to take necessary precautions to paint safely.) The next step to assembling a special and personal gift basket is choosing the contents. This is the giver's opportunity to showcase creativity, to coordinate the contents to a theme, and to demonstrate a knowledge of the recipient's taste. The possibilities are limitless. Consider some of the following ideas for your gift basket: Coffee and Tea---When sealed in air-tight containers, they stay fresh longer. Candy---Try putting it in glass jars for a polished, professional look. Books---Many pieces of literature come in pocket editions, the perfect size for a basket. Ornaments---A great addition to a Christmas gift. Music---Burn a mix CD of all the songs that remind you of the person for a sweet, personal touch. Obviously, these ideas are merely a starting point for the basket; there are about as many perfect gift basket ideas as there are people in the world. Try a pair of earrings for the jewelry-wearer, or a Swiss Army knife for the Eagle Scout. Express yourself and take this opportunity to let someone know that you care enough to know what they like. To keep the items in the basket looking cohesive (rather than just thrown together), vary the sizes of the items; surround larger items with a spread of smaller pieces to achieve this. You can start making the arrangement when the basket and its contents are chosen. A filler item, like shredded paper, in the bottom of the basket makes the pieces look nestled, lifts them up so they can be seen, and keeps them in place so it doesn't just look like a basket of tossed-in stuff. Make sure the labels face out. Add finishing touches for presentation. While some people finish up the decoration with a cellophane covering or a bow, many just decide to leave it as it is. These are all simply helpful suggestions---the point is to express yourself. Just be creative, be thoughtful, and a beautiful gift basket will practically make itself.
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