Christmas is a wonderful and joyful time of the year. One of the ways we show our love and appreciation for friends and loved ones is by making or buying gifts for them. It's the perfect occasion for a homemade gift basket.

Start with a wicker basket and spray paint it red or green. If you prefer, you can paint it gold or silver. Line it with a Christmas napkin or dish towel. You can also use colored shredded paper or tissue paper.

Some ideas for goodies to fill it with are:

candy canes
homemade cookies
homemade candy
chocolate covered spoons (see below)
hot chocolate
chocolate covered pretzels (see below)
cranberry muffins
scented candles
Christmas trinkets
soup and soup mug
teas and coffees
unbreakable ornaments
cinnamon scented candles or cookies
gingerbread candles

Chocolate-covered spoons:

Melt chocolate in the microwave.
Dip plastic spoons until generously covered with chocolate.
Lay them on waxed paper lined cookie sheet to cool down.
Roll in crushed candy canes.

Chocolate-covered pretzels:

Dip one end of a big pretzel stick in melted chocolate.
Roll in either mini M&Ms, colored sprinkles, chopped nuts, or crushed candy cane.
Allow to harden by placing the undipped end down in a drinking glass.
Wrap in cellophane.

Also consider the persons hobbies and interests when filling the basket. You're sure to get a few extra ideas by thinking creatively. Creating a homemade Christmas gift basket will be appreciated by anyone, especially if you fill it with items you know they will enjoy.