For the crafter. use a plastic storage container for a "basket" and fill with a glue gun and glue sticks, craft glue, acrylic paints and assorted brushes, paint, small nails, small hammer, wooden items to paint and other craft supplies such as beads, pom-poms, wood sticks, buttons, stickers, dried flowers, craft patterns or how-to books.
The baskets, ribbons, bows, tulle netting, shrink wrap, tissue paper and shredded paper can all be purchased in your local arts and crafts store or in the craft department of a department store such as Walmart. Ribbons and bows come in hundreds of colors, fabrics and designs, you can even find ones that match the theme of your gift! If it's a birthday gift, select ribbon with balloons. There are dozens of designs created for all of the popular holidays.

Tulle netting can be purchased very inexpensively at any fabric store. It comes in a variety of colors and looks very elegant wrapped around a gift basket. Tulle netting is the material that is often used on bridal veils. Shrink wrap is a clear, thin wrapping paper. When heat from your blow dryer is directed towards it, it shrinks to fit the shape of the basket. Shrink wrapping is the method that is often used on store bought gift baskets, such as Easter baskets. It is not as elegant as tulle netting but can still make a beautiful decorative basket.

It is a good idea to keep a supply of the items you will need to make a gift basket on hand, so you can quickly and easily create a needed gift at a moments notice. Purchase an assortment of baskets in various shapes, sizes and colors. Stock up on gift items to fill the basket. Some useful gift basket ideas that can be used for many occasions include stationary supplies, bath oils, soaps and lotions, candles, books, toys and candy. The ideas for filling the basket are endless! Use your imagination to create a personal gift basket designed specifically for the recipient or create a gift basket that suites the occasion.