How to Package & Deliver Gift Baskets

Gift baskets are an enjoyable and creative way to present gifts to friends and family while adding a personal touch. Gift baskets allow you to let your creative juices flow and give a gift that is truly personalized. When deciding on the contents of the gift basket, be creative. Tailor the basket to match the personality or interests of the recipient. Some examples of personal gift baskets are college survival kits, holiday baskets, home spa kits, gourmet chocolates, wine and cheese assortments, picnic in the park, bachelor beer basket, night at the movies, tea and coffee and welcome baby baskets.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basket
• Shredded paper
• Scissors
• Ribbon
• Cellophane
• Tape
• Basket ingredients
• Large box (if mailing)
• Filler such as newspaper or bubble wrap (if mailing)

1. Unroll the cellophane, and place it on the table. Flatten out any creases. Place basket in center of cellophane. Pre-cut 6 pieces of tape, and keep them easily accessible. Place the shredded paper in the basket. Fluff it, and spread it out so that it covers the entire floor of the basket.

2. Place the largest item in the center of the basket and push the bottom of the item down into the shredded paper to hold it in place. Add other large items evenly along both sides of the basket. Push all items down into the shredded paper.

3. Take smaller items and scatter them throughout the basket. Do not push them into the paper. Place them gently on top of the paper so that they do not become covered but remain visible.

4. Grab the 4 corners of the cellophane, and bring them up and over the basket so that all 4 corners meet over the center of the basket. While holding the 4 corners together with one hand, take your other hand and gather the cellophane right at the base of the handle. Let go of the 4 corners with your first hand, and tape the gathered cellophane together. Take the ribbon and tie a bow, making sure it hides the tape.

5. If you are personally delivering the gift basket, it is ready to go as is. If you will be sending the gift basket to an out-of-town recipient, choose a mailing option. If you would like to have it delivered by the US Postal Service, pack the basket in a large box.

6. Find a box that is slightly larger than the gift basket. Purchase boxes at the post office or local moving supply stores. The box should be large enough that it does not crush the basket but not so large that it moves around during shipping.

7. Place the gift basket inside the box. Fill in all the empty space around the basket with crumpled newspaper, plastic shopping bags or bubble wrap. Fold up the top of the box. Seal it with moving tape.

References

• Homemade Gift Basket Ideas