A Hands-On Guide to Gift Baskets

Gift baskets need not include actual baskets.
Variations on the container itself open up
new possibilities for presentation.

Elegant packaging can also increase perceived value
of your gift basket. An inexpensive metallic or glass bowl,
for example, looks more costly than a wicker basket.

Certain items may look more plentiful in a wide, shallow basket, whereas others may necessitate a deep, narrow model.  Sometimes a container can be eschewed entirely.  Several boxes stacked on top of each other, tied with wire-trimmed ribbon, give the appearance of a heaping pile of presents.  Plant pots are appropriate for spring surprises, and diaper bags are welcome gifts for baby showers. 

Almost anything can be transformed
into a clever, pleasing presentation.