EASTER BASKET   -- This has been adapted from a craft idea by Debra Hyre

You will need  2 or 2 1/2 litre plastic bottles (mineral water) craft knife, scissors, paperpunch, ribbon, coloured straw or tissue paper, Easter eggs or chocolates

Using a craft knife (children ask an adult to help with this) cut around the plastic bottle about five inches from the bottom.  Trim any uneven edges with scissors.  This will be your basket.

Now cut a ring about 1/2 to 1 inch from around the top part of the bottle you just cut from.  This will be your basket handle.  Measure to see if it fits properly in your basket - you may need to cut off a small length to make it fit better.

Punch a hole at each end of the handle and a hole on each side of your basket where you will attach the handle.  To attach the handle thread ribbons on either side.

Decorate the basket and handles by gluing ribbon or cut-outs from cards.  Fill your basket with strands of coloured tissue paper or coloured straw.  Add Easter eggs or chocolates.

A great gift idea is to make your own custom made gift basket or pot - fill it up with different items that will please the recipient of your gift - add Easter eggs and decorate in an Easter theme with cellophane wrap and yellow ribbons.