Welcome!

My name is Yvonne and I will be hosting this online job aid.

I could tell you about what I do but I’d rather show you.

I’m going to need help so you’ll get to meet my cast of friends.

We have one thing in common – we ALL like to have fun and explore new things./ANDHAVE

Meet my friends

Why bother with such a project when there are cheaper versions available for purchase?

You be the judge. Compare and contrast products.

Poor quality contents (ball is deflated)

Cheap filler candy

Single use basket (fraying at several points.)

Lacking in style or visual appeal.

The price tag for this item is $25.00.

Far more attractive than similar retail product.

Minimal candy opting instead for healthy snacks.

Basket is re-useable and of sturdy quality..

The price tag for this item is under $20.

Contents are collected for a specific child, event, or event.

Alternate version

Where to buy materials

There are many places to purchase materials depending on the theme you select. The large craft stores like Hobby Lobby have good sales and clearance items.

Start collecting but first, identify a location where you can store your materials for current and future use..

Probably the most celebrated gift basket is the traditional Easter Basket so for today, let’s focus on that style.

Even if you don’t celebrate Easter, celebrate the coming of spring!

A custom gift basket is a great idea for kids and parents because you can de-emphasize candy and sweets in favor of crafts or small toys.

Ready? Let’s go for it!

Start with a plain basket

Get ready to customize!

There are many basket styles to choose from based on the contents you select.

For mailing, select a flat square basket.

The effect of the basket is generally enhanced by taking the eye up. Kind of like what happens with me.

Did you know?Wicker is easy to spray paint.

There are many paint colors to choose from.

Spray paint dries quickly and can be easily touched up.

For best results take your time. Mask off other items in the area. Don’t breathe the fumes. Allow ample time to air dry.

For a unique and shiny look, sprinkle a bit of glitter while the paint is slightly wet.

Transform any basket in seconds

What’s Filler? Cellophane filler is more expensive but it’s beautiful. Save the good stuff for adult baskets.

Buy wholesale and get thebest deals..

There many varieties and colors of filler.

Start with a Base

Lots of objects can serve as a base or foundation.

Consider a container that you can fill. Reusable items are a bonus gift plus they’re good for the environment.

The basket should look good from all sides.

Don’t be intimidated by lack of imagination! Include items that make kids THINK like legos, small puzzles, card games, etc. Fresh fruit and healthy snacks are great too.

Fill small containers with snacks like raisins, candies, fruit rollups or even change. The tin chocolate coins are very popular and fun to receive.

Gift basket experts agree that a gift basket should appear stuffed because clients want to believe that they are receiving top VALUE for their $$$.

Fill your cellophane bags with Girl Scout cookies, yogurt covered pretzels, chocolate covered raisins, or even jax and a small rubber ball.

Shrink wrap and your options

Per the King of Bling….

Purchase pre-made cellophane bags.

Basket wholesalers often carry this item.

The cellophane serves several functions: •holds the basket contents in place.• Reflects light and heightens

the allusion of “shiny and elegant”.

Gently gather the cellophane at the top and secure with both hands.

Secure the top with a piece of ribbon and gently knot.

Why is the headdress special?

This is an example of wire ribbon

Wind at least 6-7 extensions stapling the first to hold it in place.

After winding the ribbon for 6-7 rotations flatten the circle and snip all 4 sides.

This technique is quite easy to do. The wire in the ribbon gives it body to work with.

Join the snipped sides together and flatten in the middle with your finger.

Use a piece of ribbon to hold the bow in place.

Separate the layers from each other. Alternate sides. This activity takes practice but the result is beautiful.

Every bow is size is unique in size, shape, and color.

As a matter of fact, my mother and my aunt graduated from “Bow School” back in the day (they are 72 and 78 respectively.)

Apparently this was a skill that accomplished young ladies needed to have.

I hope you take away something of value. I certainly enjoyed making this presentation.

Imagination and thoughtfulness is key in any project one undertakes. It’s what separates the okay from the truly unique.

Good luck in whatever you aspire to do. Just do it well.

Thanks from the cast of Toonups

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