Easter Basket Ideas

Okay, I know, Easter isn't until next month. But, I like to shop (a lot), and find good deals early. I hate shopping at the last minute and settling for whatever is left on the shelf. Pick up a couple items each week until Easter and you'll have a great stash of goodies to hand out.

Some ideas for a quilter...

New needles

Fat quarters in spring colors or pretty batiks

Spools of thread in soft, muted pastels

Charm pack of 5" fabric squares

A new quilt pattern

Hand lotion (I love the new Aromatherapy line at Bath & Body Works called Optimism. It's a sunny and bright fragrance...just wonderful. http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3342300&cp=&sr=1&kw=optimism&origkw=optimism&parentPage=search)

A handmade pincushion

A handmade table runner

A beautiful journal

A CD of relaxing music

Meltaway mints in pastel colors

Jordan Almonds (Typically a wedding favor....but why save them for only weddings? They are almost egg-shaped and come in beautiful soft colors!)

Some ideas for your favorite kiddos...

A fresh new pack of crayons or beautiful colored pencils from the art store (Pack them up in a cute little tool box or art bin instead of an Easter basket.)

A small sketch pad or sturdy spiral-bound tablets

Stickers (the Dollar Store has a great selection)

A handmade apron for helping mommy out in the kitchen (Tie the apron to a cupcake mix, add sprinkles and a fun spatula too!)

A handmade pillowcase (This is great item for packaging other goodies! No need to buy an Easter basket! Add a new bedtime book or two, a bedtime snack, and a stuffed animal for a gift with a sweet, thoughtful theme.)

Bubbles

Bird feeder kit

Sidewalk chalk

And of course....the child's favorite candy or treat!