Looking for a Perfect and Thoughtful Gift? (Great stocking stuffer, too!)

SHOWCASE YOUR CREATIVITY: MAKE A HOLIDAY GIFT BASKET FEATURING YOUR HANDMADE CARDS.

If you’re looking for a thoughtful, affordable gift for the holidays, the answer is closer than you may think. Chances are you’ve already given your handmade cards as gifts, and you know they are always appreciated. Now take that idea to the next level. Create a basket featuring your cards and other small gifts you pick especially for the recipient.

STEP 1: Gather six to ten of your best handmade cards. You may include all of one kind (like thank you) or a variety of styles such as happy birthday, congratulations, and thinking of you. Make sure the style of your cards is one that will have maximum appeal to the broadest possible audience, or that has specific appeal to a specific recipient.

STEP 2: Find a basket or box in which to place your cards. Dollar stores are a good resource. Line with wrapping paper or use colorful basket filler.

STEP 3: Include the extras. The book, Words to the Rescue, the sentiment guide for the tongue tied, is a clever complement to your cards. This book helps readers write short messages inside greeting cards, for a variety of occasions. You may also include a pen, postage stamps or even candy.

STEP 4: Wrap your basket in clear cellophane. Or simply attach a bow and gift card. What a thoughtful gift!

Congratulations. You’ve just created a masterpiece…a handmade gift that shows your creativity and can’t be bought at the store. Give one to relatives, friends, neighbors, teachers, anyone who sends greeting cards … which is just about everyone. You are guaranteed to receive rave reviews!