“GIFT BASKETS”
presented by the Benton Residence

The consumers at the Benton residence wanted to do something special for their doctors and the staff at Staten Island Family Physicians, and Staten Island Hospital Emergency Room where many consumers got the help they needed when the doctor wasn’t in. The consumers decided to make gift baskets to give both facilities. The consumers wanted to thank them for the wonderful service, as well as their kindness. The consumers at Benton decided to bake cookies for their gift baskets since the baskets were given to a group and not individuals.

With many different kinds of celebrations coming soon, you may want to create your own gift basket to give to someone. In May there is Mother’s Day, June brings Father’s Day and a variety of school celebrations and graduations. And for those who really plan ahead, keep this in mind for the winter holidays! No matter what the event is, or who is the honoree, a gift basket can be personalized to fit anyone.

Gift baskets can be made with different themes, such as baked items, toiletries, personal hobbies and interests. Select items you know an individual person would enjoy and vary the contents if giving to a group.

Remember to read through the entire lesson plan before beginning the gift basket project to make sure you have all the necessary materials and are familiar with the steps.

MATERIALS

Step 1: Look around your home for the necessary materials. You will be surprised at how many items you already have. You may even use an old wicker basket and spray paint it a color to match the theme of your gift.

If you choose to spray paint a basket, ask for assistance from a family member or friend. It is important to follow the directions carefully and have proper ventilation from the fumes. If you need to purchase any items have someone assist you in making a list and deciding how much money you will need. You can purchase all decorative materials at the craft store.

Step 2: Decide whether you would like to bake the cookies or purchase them. If you wish to bake the cookies, remember to bake with a friend. It is always safer and you can have a nice time together. Remember to wash your hands before starting any cooking activity. Bake your cookies a day before you assemble your gift basket.

If you decide to purchase the cookies, this may be a good opportunity to practice your phone skills. You can have a family member or friend assist you if necessary. You can order cookies from your local bakery. When ordering, be sure to ask the price and when the cookies will be ready for you to pick up. You can make your gift basket the same day if using cookies you purchase.

Step 3: Once you have all the items needed it is time to complete your gift basket. Gather all the materials at a large table. Cover the table with old newspaper to protect the table. Plug in the glue gun to begin heating. Ask for assistance with the glue gun if you feel uncomfortable using it alone. Select a ribbon to place around the basket. Measure the ribbon two times around the basket so you have enough left over to make the bow. Cut the ribbon; remember it is better to have too much ribbon, you can always trim it later. Wrap the ribbon around the basket, tying a large bow in the front. Do not glue the ribbon in place until you like your bow. This may take a couple of tries before you are satisfied. Then use the glue gun to stick the ribbon to the basket. Put a small amount of glue under the ribbon at the back and on each side of the basket first to hold the ribbon in place.

Next, place the felt or fabric inside the basket where you will arrange the cookies. You can also use paper doilies or a decorative paper towel or two. Remember to wash your hands before touching the cookies, you may wish to use food handlerÕs gloves since you are giving the items as a gift.

Next take the colored cellophane wrap and lay it out on the table. Place the basket in the center of the cellophane. Bring the corners of the cellophane together on the top of the basket. Tie the cellophane together above the basket handle with a twist tie or string. Use a bow or other decoration, like a silk flower, to cover the string. Use the glue gun to secure the bow. Unplug the glue gun.

Other ideas:

Car Care Pack: Get a new plastic bucket and fill it with a large sponge, car wash and wax, a car interior air freshener, and a map of your state or city.

Gardening: Use a terra cotta pot, add a pair of gardening gloves, seeds, insect repellent, and a book on plant and tree identification.

Fun in the Sun: Purchase a small plastic cooler and fill it with sun screen, sunglasses, a frisbee, small packs of potato chips and pretzels, and some soft drinks.

Use your imagination. The possibilities are endless!