| Everybody loves chocolate and chocolate gift | | | | you are left with just the top layer. Using either |
| baskets filled with luxurious, gourmet goodies are | | | | PVA glue or specialised decoupage glue, stick the |
| a particularly lovely and thoughtful present. | | | | images in position. When dry,cover the pictures |
| However, buying a chocolate gift basket from a | | | | with several thin layers of PVA or decoupage |
| shop can be expensive and you may be | | | | finish. You can choose the napkins to match the |
| restricted in your choice of the chocolate that is | | | | holiday season. For example, for an Easter gift for |
| included. Not everybody likes gourmet chocolate. | | | | Grandma, use cute little chicks and bright spring |
| Some people may have dietary requirements | | | | colours. |
| such as diabetic, low or no sugar, low fat or | | | | - The same method can be used with fabric.This |
| dairy-free chocolate. Making your own chocolate | | | | is particularly effective if you intend to line the |
| gift basket allows you to create a very | | | | basket with the same fabric. |
| personalised gift - you can include only their | | | | - Silk flowers,bows and ribbons can be stiffened |
| favourites. | | | | by dipping into fabric stiffener.Allow to dry and |
| So how easy is it to make your own chocolate | | | | stiffen, then glue onto the basket with a hot glue |
| gift basket? Very easy following these simple | | | | gun. 3) Add filler (shredded tissue paper or |
| steps. | | | | coloured paper) to coordinate with both the |
| 1) You will need a basket - remember it will need | | | | basket and the wrappings of the chocolates. 4) |
| to be deep enough to hold filler as well as the | | | | As an alternative to filler, line the basket with |
| chocolates. | | | | fabric. |
| 2) The basket can be left plain, especially if it a | | | | 5) Arrange your selection of chocolate goodies |
| beautiful wicker or willow basket, or you want a | | | | and wrap with cellophane |
| rustic or country look.You could also decorate the | | | | Gift baskets can also include chocolate themed |
| basket.Here are a few decorating tips; | | | | articles like chocolate scented candles, soap, and |
| - To paint the basket,use a spray acrylic paint so | | | | bubble bath. For winter gifts add some hot |
| that coverage is even. Depending on the type of | | | | chocolate, chocolate sprinkles and marshmallows. |
| basket, stencilling can look very effective. | | | | Some shops will put the recipients name on the |
| - Find some napkins with images that you like. Cut | | | | chocolate (especiallY Easter Eggs) or the |
| out several images and peel away the plys so | | | | wrappings to make a truly personalised gift. |