How to Make a Cheap Christmas Basket

Fill an inexpensive basket with low-cost gifts.

Christmas baskets are just the thing for holiday gifts, but many people do not like giving them because they are expensive. Save money this year by making cheap holiday baskets yourself. Personalize baskets to suit your recipient's interests or stuff them with holiday-themed goodies instead. Whether creating baskets for coworkers or multiple family members, it is possible to stay within your budget with some smart shopping and packaging.

Things You'll Need

• Baskets
• Damp cloth
• Spray paint
• Gift sets
• Newspapers
• Colored shredded paper
• Small cellophane bags
• Christmas candy
• Twist tie
• Basket cellophane bag
• Rubber band
• Christmas bow

Instructions

1. Clean the basket by wiping the inside and outside with a damp cloth. If your basket is missing paint, it may need to be spray-painted. Use a festive holiday color like red or green.

2. Allow the basket to dry completely before filling it with goodies.

3. Buy inexpensive gift sets like body care products or candle trios. Shop throughout the year to pick up inexpensive gifts on clearance. Buy sets of mini picture frames, refrigerator magnets and personal hygiene items like nail clippers.

4. Fill the bottom of the basket 2/3 full with wads of newspaper.

5. Sprinkle a thin layer of colored paper shred over the top of the newspaper.

6. Fill a small decorative cellophane bag with Christmas candy. Tie the bag with a twist tie.

7. Tuck the bag in the holiday basket.

8. Break up the gift sets and remove them from the packaging. Separate the gift sets by placing one item from each set in the basket. For example, add one lotion, picture frame and a few magnets to one basket. Select items in the same or a similar color to make the basket look more cohesive.

9. Place the basket in a cellophane bag. Gather it at the top with a rubber band.

Tips & Warnings

• Hang a decorative Christmas ornament from the neck of the basket.

References

• The Frugal Shopper: Inexpensive Gift Ideas