How to Make a Gift Basket for a High School Freshman

Everyone loves getting gifts, but putting together a gift basket for a high school freshman could challenge even the most talented gift givers. It may take a bit of effort and research, but it is possible to make a fabulous gift for a high school freshman. With a little research, a bit of creativity and a lot of candy, you can make a basket that any teen would be proud to have. Read on to learn how to make a gift basket for a high school freshman.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tissue paper in school colors
• Paint pens and markers
• Plastic cups
• Small, token gifts
• Ribbon
• Gift tag or card

Profile the Freshman

1. Learn what the freshman likes. Go beyond the basics. Sure, most kids like music. Skip the gift card for mp3 downloads and head straight for locker-sized band posters.

2. Research what favorite foods. A gift basket is required to have some sort of munchies in stock. Bags of chips, peanuts and granola bars are great choices. Aim for snacks she loves.

3. Find out which magazines he prefers and grab a couple issues or purchase a gift subscription.

4. Learn all about the sports she plays or the activities she participates in. Make sure there is something in the basket to represent her passions.

5. Remember the candy. A gift basket for a high school freshman needs candy. Purchase bags of bite sized candy bars and hard candies.

Put the Package Together

6. Use the paint pens to decorate the plastic cups with her name or initials and the school motto. You can also decorate the basket or some of the small gifts as well. Make sure to personalize the gift basket.

7. Bunch up some of the tissue paper and place in the bottom of the basket. Make a solid base strong enough to support the gift items that will go on top.

8. Arrange larger gifts in the middle of the basket. Medium-size gifts should be placed around them.

9. Use the smaller gifts and the candy to fill in the gaps left by the larger and medium gifts. If you run out of room, you can fill the cups or other larger gifts with the smaller items.

10. Set a few sheets of tissue paper under the gift basket. Pull the corners of the paper up to the top of the basket. Secure in place with a length of ribbon.

11. Make a large bow using ribbons in the school colors. Glue, tape or staple in place. Use tape to secure the gift card beneath the bow.

Tips & Warnings

• The first day of high school is the perfect opportunity to give a gift basket to a freshman. It is a great way to show affection and calm first day jitters.

[gophergarden]

on 1/21/2009 Wonderful suggestions! I wish there were more suggestions for what to give a young man, but all in all, this is a good article.

[AbbyNormal]

on 4/23/2008 I love this idea. Thanks!