Creating a new gift basket can be much like a writer staring at a blank piece of paper. Overcoming the initial vacuum of creating something from nothing is often the hardest part. Yet it needn't be. By keeping the 7 basic principles of gift basket design by your side, you'll have a framework to begin from and you'll be producing a plethora of new and interesting designs in no time.

1. Begin by selecting an attractive, stable container. It may be a basket or something more imaginative like a miniature wheelbarrow or tin. No matter what your container, it must be stable and sit flat when unsupported. A good depth is around 10cm - 15cm.
2. Have a good selection of popular items to choose from when packing the basket. Different sizes, colours and shapes will help fill awkward shaped voids in the presentation. The most popular items to include are chocolates, cookies, nuts, popcorn, pretzels, cheese, crackers, potato crisps, jams, tea and coffee.
3. Start with the tallest items at the back and graduate to the shortest items at the front. Use packing materials and support items such as glue dots, a glue gun and skewers to stabilise heavy or long objects.
4. Keep all labels visible. Don't allow items to sink below the container rim.
5. Finish the design with picks and creative embellishments. These are great for adding balance to a design, but don't overdo it. Embellishments help make a basket appear professional.
6. Wrap your basket in its final covering - cello, a wrap bag or shrink wrap. Cello is usually the most cost effective nad easiest to use for beginners. Use embellishments to cleverly add height or cover any wrapping errors. Take time and care with the bow. The bow is the most important visual element in the entire basket.
7. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. If you don't like your creation, you can always start again. Try out your ideas and see how they look as you create your own unique style.

Don't waste precious time staring at an empty basket. Keep these 7 basic design principles in mind and start creating now!