Baby showers and birthdays are often synonymous with generic gifts. Toys, blankets and clothes are all the rage, but they can be tiring. You could make an original gift to the new mother and the little one by creating a unique and beautiful basket.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Choosing the Basket
Step 1. Choose a color scheme
While traditionally pink and related shades for girls and blue and red for boys is a fairly common choice, there is no need to feel obligated to follow this rule. Try to be sensitive to the needs of parents. If they're pretty traditional, you'll be on the safe side with classic colors. If they are more open-minded, they may appreciate more flexibility.
- You can use neutral colors suitable for both genders. Yellow, green, orange and brown are among the most common.
- In general, it is preferable to use pastel and light colors.
Step 2. Choose the basket pattern
You should opt for a motif that is suitable for a child, such as animals, polka dots, stripes, plaid / check pattern, flowers, butterflies, circus and so on. The main goal of the basket is to convey a feeling of joy and uniqueness.
Step 3. Choose a basket
Typically, DIY stores sell cloth, plush, woven and wood baskets. You can also opt for a non-traditional basket: choose a functional object and fill it with other products. A new car seat or a baby bathtub would be ideal if you decide to go this route.
- As for traditional baskets, many prefer smooth and soft ones, so that the child can touch them.
- If you choose a basket made of wood, wicker or similar, be sure to check it for nicks.
- If it has been tinted or painted, make sure it does not chip and is non-toxic.
Step 4. Get everything you need
Choose the gifts you will fill the basket with. Also look for thick ribbon, foam or wooden letters, ribbons, a card or label, cling film, and any other decorations you want to add. Make sure none of the items are toxic and avoid placing small objects in them that could break or be dangerous for the baby.
Part 2 of 3: Fill the Basket
Step 1. Create the base
It's time to get down to business! Line the bottom of the basket with thin tissue paper and filler until it slightly exceeds the top edge. You can also use a soft, plush blanket for this purpose.
Step 2. Include items that will be comfortable for the new mother after giving birth
Lanolin, cotton pads, breast pads, and cocoa butter are all great allies for the mother. Make sure she feels comfortable and happy by giving her some practical gifts.
Step 3. Give away practical items like nappies
Diapers and wipes are not cute or cute, but they are necessary and expensive. Once you have overcome the sympathy and concern aroused by the cute gifts you put in the basket, finding us a pack of diapers will be really appreciated.
Step 4. Try to include something nice or special
The best gift baskets almost always have a personal touch. A gift that refers to a story or a memory you share with parents is always welcome. If you have a child, you can give them a personal item.
Step 5. Include less traditional items
This is where you can add a touch of creativity. Chocolate (and coffee!) Will surely be appreciated when parents have to wake up late at night and want to indulge in something good or have to get up in the morning after a bad night. Gift cards are also pretty popular, but you might look great with an Amazon Prime or Netflix membership.
You can also give a gift card from a site that sells items for mothers and children
Step 6. Ask other moms what they found particularly helpful
Sometimes it is difficult to find the right items to fill a basket. If you think you need to add something, it's helpful to ask other moms which items they found particularly handy, needed, or liked right after giving birth.
Step 7. Read the birth list
Some couples create a wedding-like gift list. If so, you can use it as a guide to prepare the basket. If you buy something, be sure to indicate it, so that parents don't get duplicates.
Part 3 of 3: Decorating the Basket
Step 1. Put on a ribbon and other tweaks
Wrap the handle with thick ribbon, then attach bows to the handle and front of the basket. If you use a tag, tie it to the handle. Place small gifts and cards in the top of the container.
- You could write the baby's name on the front of the basket with foam rubber or wood letters.
- Be careful with cards and gift cards. Make sure they are at the top and front so they don't get lost in the fillers.
Step 2. Wrap the basket
Once finished, wrap it completely with clear or colored plastic foil. You can use a pre-determined size plastic gift bag or cellophane sheet. Place the basket in the center of the paper, grab the four corners and bring them towards the handle of the container. Pile them on top of the basket and secure them with tape and tape.
For a nice effect, use the ribbon you have left over to create a bow or curl it
Step 3. Complete the exterior decoration
If you wish, you can take advantage of it to enrich the basket. In fact, you can add stickers, bows, balloons and personalized lettering on the outside of the container and on the plastic wrap.
Warnings
- Make sure you spell the baby's name correctly. Many common names have several variations, and non-traditional names are also in fashion.
- All materials should be safe and non-toxic for the baby. Read the labels and try to buy products from reputable companies.
- Avoid putting scented products in the basket. They usually enrich a gift, but can irritate baby's sensitive skin.
- If the parents have told you the sex of the child, you can take advantage of this to choose the colors and the theme. If you don't know it, opt for neutral or flexible products.
