How to Use Shrink-wrap for Baskets

Shrink-wrap, a cellophane wrap that shrinks when heated, makes your gift baskets look professional if it's done right. The wrap comes in a continuous roll, bags that fit around baskets or individual pieces. This is an easy project that takes only a few minutes. However, because you need a heat gun, it is not recommended for children.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Heat gun
• Ribbon
• Scissors

Using Shrink-wrap Sheets for Baskets

1. Cut the shrink-wrap large enough to go all the way around your basket.

2. Place the shrink-wrap over the top of the basket and fold it underneath. Fold over one side, then the front, the other side and then the back. Place it on a table. Make sure you do not have a tablecloth on the table.

3. Tilt the basket to the back, and, using your heat gun, heat the bottom for 10 to 15 seconds, moving the heat gun back and forth. Then set it back down on the table.

4. Tilt the basket to the front and heat the bottom again for about 10 seconds. Do not hold the heat gun in one position; keep moving it.

5. Set the basket down and quickly run the heat gun back and forth over the basket part and then the top. The wrap will get tight. Do not overheat it, or it will split or get a hole in it.

6. Place a ribbon around the basket and tie a bow on the top.

Using Shrink-wrap Bags for Baskets

7. Place the basket in the shrink-wrap bag. The bags come in several different sizes. Keep the bag's seams on the bottom of the basket so you won't see them when it's finished.

8. Pleat the bag on the sides and gather at the top over the basket. Tie the gathered wrap with ribbon.

9. Using the heat gun, start at the bottom and work your way up. Minimize the pleats to the sides so you can still see through the wrap in the front of the basket. Move up as you see the section you're working on tighten up.

10. Adjust the ribbon around the gathered wrap, which should now be stuck together.

Resources

• Shrink Bags