The Gift Basket: Baby Shower Triology Part 3

So now we have some cute handmade projects for the soon to be mommy and baby.  If you have put the time and effort into creating a special gift you need to really show it off by creating a vessel for it to arrive in.  Yes, the traditional bag works just fine, but a basket is something else the mom can use in her nursery for diapers or bathing, etc. 

I have created a basket for you to see  Remember, there are numerous ways to create such a display, but the more stuff you buy the more money you have put into it.  If you make your placements carefully you will have a full basket that shows nicely for a minimal price.  Plus, a basket might be something that you and a friend or work goes in together make.

Let's get started

Supplies:
Basket (easily found at Michael's or a local craft store- keep an eye out for their specials)
1 yard of extra fabric for "fluffing" or tissue paper
Gifts- bath supplies, brushes, spoons, taggies, burp cloths, wash cloths (you get the picture)
1-2 rolls of ribbon to coordinate with theme
Box/cardboard (something to elevate some items)

Take all your purchases and handmade items and lay them out.  You want to put ribbon around small items like the wash cloths or even the spoons.  By laying everything out you know how much room to save for each item.  Do not get a large basket thinking that the larger the better!  Find a basket that might even be a tad to small for all your gifts.  If you spread everything out to far it looks like you don't have enough to fill the basket.

You want to buy items with different textures, shapes and HEIGHTS!!  If everything is the same level in the basket then it isn't interesting.  For example, the ribbon board I have in the back adds color and height, AND gives support to everything in the front.  You could also use a board book or puzzle.

You need to find a somewhat flat box to give you another level in the basket.  If you don't, everything will be way down in the basket and you won't have much of a presentation.  After putting the box/cardboard into the basket cover with your fabric.  Depending on your basket size will determine the amount of fabric, or even tissue if you would rather.

Now it is time to start filling.  Since all your items are laid out just start placing them.  Remember that blankets and burp cloths need some space to be seen since they don't stand on their own.

The taggie is to the front left, burp cloth laying on the board so you can see the applique, spoons adding color to the right with the bath goods, but there is a void front and center.



You stick a BOW in the void!  Notice it blends in because the girl's theme is lavender but the smaller ribbon I used has some "umph" to contribute.

If you have monogrammed gift remember to let the gift receiver see that first off.