CRAFTS WITH ANASTASIA-- A LAST MINUTE GIFT THAT DOESN’T LOOK LAST MINUTE

Ever get invited to a Christmas party or open house at the last minute? There’s nothing worse than having to brave the crowds of holiday shoppers at the last minute. Here’s an idea for a last minute gift you can throw together…well, at the last minute -- gingerbread baskets. All you need to do is purchase a few items to have on hand. If you don’t use them this year, you’re sure to use them eventually.

The next time you’re at the dollar store, pick up the following items: a basket, green and red tissue paper, a Christmas potholder and matching kitchen towel, a gingerbread man cookie cutter. At the supermarket, buy a box of gingerbread cookie mix, a tube of frosting, and a box of raisins or bag of chocolate chips. You’ll also want some clear cellophane and Christmas ribbon.

Fill the basket with crumpled tissue paper. Add the other items to the basket. Wrap in clear cellophane and tie with ribbon. The wonderful thing about this gift is that you can make it as simple or elaborate as you wish, depending on the amount of time and money you can devote to the gift. One of the secrets is to choose a basket which, when filled, will give the appearance that it’s brimming over with goodies. A small basket stuffed to overflowing will look more inviting than a larger basket with empty spaces that will need to be filled with added tissue paper. For a more elaborate gift, include a larger assortment of cookie cutters and baking items. You can also embellish the basket by gluing lace around the edge.

The gingerbread gift basket is also an ideal “family” gift when you need to bring a gift to a family with multiple children and can’t afford individual gifts.


What have you done when in need of a last minute gift? Do you keep a stash of gifts handy for last minute needs, or do you dash to the store? Post a comment to be entered in our drawing for a book from our Book Club Friday guest author. -- AP