How to Pack Baskets

A gift basket allows you to present a variety of gifts together as one.

Packing a basket, whether for a picnic or to give as a present, is a creative and visually appealing way to transport items. Proper packing of the basket will protect its contents and ensure they reach your picnic destination -- or the gift's recipient -- in good condition. When packing a gift basket, proper packing practices will ensure that the gift is delivered without damage or lost articles.

Things You'll Need

• Packing peanuts or bubble wrap
• Tissue paper or fabric
• Clear packing tape
• Cellophane
• Ribbon
• Picnic blanket
• Ice pack
• Silverware
• Plates
• Flowers
• Vase

Instructions

Packing a Gift Basket

1. Cover the bottom of the basket with a layer of packing peanuts or bubble wrap to avoid damage to the gifts; this is especially important if any of the gifts are breakable.

2. Lay a decorative piece of cloth or tissue paper over the layer of packing peanuts to hide them from view and give the basket an aesthetic touch.

3. Place the largest and heaviest objects into the basket first, as placing them on top of fragile items could crush or damage the fragile items. For example, for a wine gift basket, the bottles of wine would be placed in the basket prior to any chocolates or cheeses.

4. Insert any small or fragile items into the basket. Place them in spots where the larger gifts will not be prone to falling over on top of them.

5. Apply clear packing tape to the objects in the basket if necessary to help keep them all in place.

6. Wrap cellophane around the entire basket to ensure no items will fall out or be lost.

7. Tie a ribbon around the basket or at the top where the cellophane is gathered for a final, finishing touch.

Packing a Picnic Basket

1. Lay out all the intended items for the picnic. Fold the picnic blanket and place it at the bottom of the basket. This will help keep the food items in place and prevent them from being damaged if the basket is dropped.

2. Place the largest and heaviest items into the basket first, such as bottled water, a bottle of juice or wine and dining ware, such as plates and silverware.

3. Insert a cooling device, such as an ice pack, into the basket to keep the contents cool. Place the ice pack in a corner of the basket, or in the section where you plan on packing food that needs to be kept cool, such as sandwiches or fruit.

4. Place the sandwiches or fruit near the ice pack; ensure they are on top of all the heavy items so they won't be damaged.

5. Add the most delicate items last, such as cookies or cupcakes. Place them on top of the other items to prevent them from being damaged by the heavier items. Pack a few flowers and a small vase in the basket; use them to spruce up the presentation of the picnic meal.

References

• Homemade Gift Basket Ideas: Create Gift Baskets with These Homemade Gift Basket Ideas
• Homemade Gift Basket Ideas: Gift Basket Assembly
• Families.com; Packing the Perfect Picnic Basket; Renee Dietz