Making gift baskets are popular especially during the Christmas season; however they can at times be very costly. But, with some careful planning and self creativity, you can create even your own gift basket that fits within your budget. A personalized gift basket shows your personal creative expression made especially for someone who is close and important to you. This also shows a lot of love, effort and consideration in creating that special gift. A themed basket is a great idea; one that is personalized together with a particular theme. 

Here's how to make one. Try to decide what kind of 'theme' it will be; look for an good sized basket and buy the items that match your chosen theme. Cut around 2 yards of beautifully designed cellophane and lay it down flat on the table surface; place your basket in the middle. Carefully arrange items that you bought inside the basket. You can put some cloth, napkins or a ready-made tissue paper as the bottom tray. Be sure to secure all fragile items to prevent any breakage. Put all tall items in the basket center, while medium items surrounding the tall ones on the outside, and then later the small items in the outer part of the basket. Having some individually-wrapped chocolates or lollies arranged sparingly throughout will add a sweet touch. Slowly gather up the cellophane by pulling up first those with shorter sides, and then pull the longer sides; securing it with a twist tie or tape. Add some colored ribbons; making into a nice bow and add some long curved ribbon tails. If you prefer, you can attach a pre made bow. Attach a gift tag with string or ribbon or simply attach it to the front of the cellophane using tape. If one of the shorter sides of the cellophane is gaping out, you can adjust it by just pulling the cellophane gently at the top then secure it with a piece of tape. Avoid playing with the finished cellophane wrap to get your expected appearance, it may crumple them further. The main concept here is to make the cellophane appear as an array of cellophane 'petals' close to a 'bouquet'. If necessary, you can tidy it up with a pair of scissors.

 Materials needed: Cellophane with clear, printed, and colored designs. A clear one with just a small golden pattern is quite versatile and adaptable for any occasion. Ready-made bows and ribbons are great, but you can also make one yourself. Some other alternative items than can be used as a tray such as: casseroles, dish plates, serving bowls, pie plates, and even cake box base. Gift tags that can be either be attached using some strings or taped to cellophane in the front of the gift basket. Good Luck