How to Make an Easter Basket

Making your own Easter basket is a smart way to save money in a recession economy. Not only do you have the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands, you have complete control over the contents of the Easter basket. You can tailor the items included to the recipient's age, lifestyle, allergies, dietary restrictions and special interests. Make it a traditional basket with Easter eggs, candies, and Easter items or design a themed basket; spa, golf, reading, food, or whatever special items would be appreciated.

Easter items can be purchased inexpensively at close-out stores and Dollar Stores. The perfect basket for your Easter creation may be sitting on the shelf at the local thrift store. If you are really a frugal shopper, you might have invested in discounted Easter items after the 2008 holiday and have everything that is needed except for perishable items like candy. Good for you!

The basic supplies needed are: a basket or container, newspaper, filler (artificial grass, paper crinkles, metallic, etc.); contents of your choice, and cellophane or a shrink wrap container kit (optional, but nice if the local discount store has one).

Take the newspaper and crumple up several sheets. Place them in the bottom of the basket to provide support for items and give them height. You don't want your goodies hiding in the bottom of the basket. Cover the newspaper with paper crinkles, or filler.

Fill the Easter basket to the brim with filler. Set the contents in the basket and see how it looks. You may need to push the items into the filler to stabilize them. They can also be taped together, or you can use glue dots to make an attractive display. Move them around until the presentation is pleasing to the eye. Add candies, if you are using them, and check the layout out one more time.

If you are using cellophane, roll out the cellophane and measure enough to cover the basket completely. Leave some extra at the top - it will be trimmed at finishing. Gather the cellophane tightly around the top of the Easter basket. An extra pair of hands is valuable at this stage! While one person holds the cellophane in a tight grip, the other person wraps ribbon tightly right below the first person's hands. Tie a tight knot, have your partner let go of the cellophane, and tie another knot. Trim the top of the cellophane, and don't worry if the edges are jagged. It lends an artistic touch! Add a pre-made bow, and trim any excess ribbon. Viola, you have made your own Easter basket!

If you can find a shrink wrap package kit, just follow the package instructions. Either method will give you a professional looking finish. You can be proud to present this basket to anyone.