How To Make
Gift Baskets

Any time you want to give a gift basket to someone, or create one as a donation for silent auction type fund raising, this knowledge can prove invaluable. Endless variety and creativity is possible, once you know the basics.

You can pick up a nice basket at most craft stores or at Trader Joe's or Cost Plus World Market. Stuff the bottom with tight wads of newspaper or parchment paper. Plump a nice bed of colored shred over that (also found at craft stores). Fill your basket with items that fit a theme for your recipient.

Since this site is about wine country and wine lovers, we'll stick to gourmet. Wedge a bottle or two of wine in at the back of the basket. Wedge in medium size items (boxed crackers, cookies) in the middle, with smaller items (cheese, fruit, a small jar of olives or mustard) in the front. Wedge it in tightly and fill in the holes with more shred.

Set the basket on top of a large piece of cellophane (found at floral supply shops) and gather it up tightly at the top. Tie tightly with some string or strong ribbon. Tape the sides of the cellophane towards the back until there are no gaps. Fluff out the top of the cellophane, trimming with scissors as needed. Attach a large, decorative bow or more ribbon.

Now your custom wine gift basket is ready to hand deliver! (Shipping requires more detailed packing to avoid shifting in transit).

Here is a video I found on Youtube which gives a nice little demo on how to make a simple, elegant gift basket, but it doesn't include how to secure the items or wrap them, only how to display them attractively:

If you decide you don't have the patience or the time to customize your own gift basket, click on wine country basket to see a variety of beautiful baskets you can order online.

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