| How to Put Together a Birthday Gift Basket Posted: 18 Jul 2020 05:00 PM PDT Birthday gift baskets are a fun way to show your friend or family member how much you care about them. You can fill their basket with almost anything, which can make it a little hard to narrow down! Fortunately, if you spend a few minutes thinking about what your loved one likes, you can give them a present that will make their day even more special. [Edit]Picking the Presents - Choose a theme that reflects the recipient's personality. Everyone has unique interests and hobbies, and the person you are gifting your basket to is no exception. Take a moment to remember what your friend or family member likes to do on the weekends, what their favorite food is, or where they like to travel. This will give you a good idea of what to put inside of their basket.[1]
- For example, your friend may like going to the beach, in which case you can buy them flip flops and sunglasses for their basket.
- Or, your family member might like wood-working, so you can buy a tape measure and a few marking pencils for their basket.
- Pick out some of the person's favorite food. Everyone has a favorite snack that they like to munch on during the day. Think about what your friend or family member likes to eat, and grab some of their favorite snacks or candy off the shelves, keeping your theme for the basket in mind.[2]
- Most kids love candy, so adding some chocolate or sour candies to their basket is usually a good idea.
- If the birthday girl or guy is a health nut, consider adding some fresh fruit or trail mix to their basket instead.
- You can make a basket full of popcorn and soda if your friend loves to watch movies.
- If your recipient is a sports fan, try to find some cookies in the shape of a football or a trophy.
- Grab a card game, some snacks, and a bag of candy to give your loved one all the fixings for a game night.
- Add some small decorations or toys. If the birthday person is an adult, pick out some items that they could decorate their home with, like candles or picture frames. If they're a kid, grab some small toys, like a few race cars or some miniature dolls.[3]
- Try to pick out neutral-colored decorations so they can fit in with any color scheme or decor.
- If your recipient is a musician, find some decorative musical notes they can hang on their wall.
- Throw in some lotion or skin care products if your recipient likes that. Scented hand lotion, a small tube of lip gloss, or a bottle of body spray are all great gifts to put in a gift basket. If you know the birthday person likes taking care of their skin or smelling great, these are good items to throw in for a low price.[4]
- You can also make an entire basket out of skin care and beauty products if you know that's what your loved one likes. Pick out some lip balm, a shower scrub, body wash, and a soothing candle for a relaxing and rejuvenating basket.
- Buy a clothing item if you know your recipient's size. Clothes aren't strictly necessary to fill a gift basket, but they can be a practical gift to receive. If you live with your loved one or you're close to them and know their size, consider grabbing a plain T-shirt or tank top in their favorite color.[5]
- You could also pick out some cheap sandals if you know their shoe size.
- If your recipient is a sports fan, grab them a jersey for their favorite team.
- If your loved one is an outdoorsy person, consider grabbing them a raincoat or a flannel.
- Look at the cheap section in the store if you get stuck. Most home goods stores have a small section near the front with small trinkets, activity booklets, or decorations. If you're super unsure on what to get your friend or family member, take a walk through this aisle and see if anything jumps out at you. Try to vary the size and texture of your presents to give your basket more visual appeal.[6]
- Reusable drink cups, fun magnets, planners, and hair ties are always great gifts to buy that almost anyone would love.
- If you live with the person you're making a basket for, take a look at the products they use the most. Deodorant, skin care items, and perfume are all great fillers for a basket.
- Add some yarn, knitting needles, and a little bit of candy if your loved one likes to get crafty.
- Encourage your friend to take a day off by making a basket full of bath salts, lotion, and a face mask.
[Edit]Filling and Decorating the Basket - Grab a cute reusable basket to hold all of your gifts. The basket itself doesn't just have to be a container, it can be part of the gift, too! Look for a wicker, cloth, or plastic basket that your friend or family member can reuse in their home.[7]
- Most home goods stores have cheap gift baskets.
- Line your basket with tissue paper. You can match your tissue paper to the color of your basket or use a bright pop of color to make it stand out. Cover the inside of the basket to make your items stand out more and make the basket feel more like a birthday present.[8]
- Try finding shiny foil paper to put inside for an eye-catching decoration.
- Arrange your items with the tallest ones in the back. To make your basket look pleasing to the eye, lean your taller presents up against the back of the basket, then stack the rest on top of those. Your recipient will be able to see all of their items the moment they look at the basket, which will be super exciting![9]
- Fold cellophane around your basket to make it look fancy. If you want to really step up your basket game, put your basket in the center of a square of cellophane and then fold it up and over the sides of the basket. Leave some extra cellophane at the top and gather it in your hands directly above your basket, then use a ribbon to tie the cellophane together.[10]
- You don't have to add cellophane, but it can elevate the look of your basket if you're gifting some expensive items.
- Wrap a ribbon around the basket to make it look like a present. If you want to play up the birthday theme even more, cut a wide ribbon so that it fits around the outside of your basket. Tie it into a loose bow on the front for a cute added touch.[11]
- You can tie multiple layers of ribbon around your basket if you're feeling fancy.
- Use twine instead of ribbon for a more rustic look.
- Add a card to personalize your basket. For the finishing touch, write out a heartfelt or silly message on a card and address it to your friend or family member. Tape it to the outside of the basket so it's the first thing that they read, or nestle it in between the presents so they find it while they're opening them up.[12]
- You can also make your own birthday card out of card stock. Just fold it in half and decorate the front however you want!
- Birthday gift baskets hold a lot of presents. Focus on finding smaller, cheap items instead of large, expensive ones.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Small trinkets, presents, and food.
- Basket or tub
- Tissue paper
- Birthday card
- Tape
- Ribbon (optional)
- Cellophane (optional)
[Edit]References |
| How to Choose a Kitchen Rug Posted: 18 Jul 2020 09:00 AM PDT Rugs are an easy way to add color and personality to your kitchen without breaking the bank. They can also prevent unwanted slips as you go about your normal routine. However, with all the different shapes, sizes, and colors available, choosing a new rug may seem pretty daunting. Thankfully, it only takes a few minutes to find a rug that best fits the measurements and needs of your kitchen! [Edit]Picking the Right Size and Shape - Accent narrow kitchens with a thin, rectangular rug. Take a long measuring tape and measure the length and width of the galley, or the narrow walking space in your kitchen between the appliances and cabinets. Subtract at least from each side, and use these dimensions to shop for a runner, or a thin, rectangular rug. [1]
- For instance, if your galley is long and wide, you'd want to get a runner that's no more than long and wide.
- Lay rectangular rugs beneath an eating area in your kitchen. Measure the length and width of your kitchen table, island, or any other large table or structure that you'd like to accent with a rug. Add to all sides of the table, and use these dimensions when shopping for a rug.[2]
- For example, if your kitchen table is , you'd want to get a rug that's at least . The extra rug space will factor in when you pull out or push in chairs around the table.
- Larger rugs are great for more expansive kitchens.
- Opt for small rugs as accents in front of your sink and appliances. Shop for small, basic rugs that are roughly or , depending on the size of your kitchen. Arrange these rugs in front of your sink, refrigerator, or any other area where you're on your feet a lot. Rectangular and round rugs can work well for this, depending on your own personal preference.[3]
- There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing a rug shape for your kitchen. What matters most is that you like the rug and the energy it brings to your living space!
- Place a large, round rug in the center of a bigger room to balance it out. Think about the layout of your kitchen—is it pretty closed off, or is it really expansive and separated? If you have a large kitchen, choose a large, round rug that really ties the entire room together.[4] If you're placing the rug under a round table, select a rug that's at least longer than the diameter of the table.[5]
- For instance, if your table is wide in diameter, choose a rug that's at least wide.
[Edit]Selecting a Material - Opt for a flat-weave rug if you'd prefer something that's easy to wash. Believe it or not, rug material can play a pretty important role, depending on what you're looking for in a rug. Choose a cotton, flat-weave rug if you'd like something that's easy to toss in the washer. Since these rugs are pretty tightly woven, you don't have to worry about your pets clawing at the material.[6]
- Choose a polypropylene rug if you're worried about potential stains. Look for rugs made with polypropylene, which is a polyester blend, or some other synthetic material. You can clean and spot-treat these areas really easily, as long as you follow the care label provided with the rug.[7]
- These types of rugs are really useful for high-traffic parts of your kitchen, like the galley.
- These rugs are great for regular kitchens or outdoor dining areas.
- Pick a wool rug as a stain-resistant, cushioned option. Shop for rugs made with wool, which is naturally stain-resistant. Choose this type of rug if you'd like a little extra cushioning in your living space, or if you'd just like a low-maintenance rug.[8]
- Always follow the care instructions provided with the rug when dealing with stains.
- If you can't find a rug made entirely out of wool, opt for a mixed wool rug instead.
- Cover tile or hardwood kitchen floors with a thick, textured rug. Think about the needs of your kitchen, and whether you need a large or small rug in your cooking and eating space. Look for rugs designed with large, thick loops, which add a comforting touch to your kitchen and dining area.[9]
- Thick rugs can provide a lot of cushioning if you're working in the kitchen for a long time.
- For instance, lay out a large, beige rug with a thick weave beneath a smaller, rounded table.
- Secure rug pads beneath your rugs so no one slips and falls. Search online or in a home goods store for rug pads that fit the dimensions of your kitchen rug. Set the rug pads on the floor first, then lay the rug overtop. Always install padding beneath your rugs if you can, as it can save you from a lot of potential trips and slips.[10]
- Place foam mats underneath smaller rugs. Think about how much time you spend in the kitchen—if you tend to stand by the sink or other stovetop a lot, you may want to layer a foam pad above or beneath your smaller kitchen rugs. These pads can provide a lot of extra support if you plan on being in the kitchen for a while.[11]
- These pads work best with small rugs but aren't a great fit for rugs that go under tables or other large structures.
[Edit]Choosing a Suitable Color Scheme - Match your rug with the existing color scheme in your kitchen. Take note of the paint color in your kitchen, along with the colors of your appliances, countertops, and any other decor in your room. Choose a rug that complements these colors and helps tie the room together.[12]
- For example, if you have white paint in your kitchen along with brown and white cabinets, you may want to pick out a brown- or red-patterned rug for your room.
- If you have gray countertops, you can choose a patterned blue and gray rug to go in your kitchen.
- Pick out a warm or bright rug to add some color to the room. Think about your personal goals for the room, and whether you'd like your room to feel colorful or more minimalistic. Play around with different colors, like warm reds or bright blues. Choose a color that you really like, and that you won't mind seeing every day.[13]
- For instance, if your cabinets are light brown or white, you can choose a bright blue or green rug, or some other color that you like.
- Select a patterned rug to add some extra depth to your kitchen. Choose a rug with diamonds, stripes, or another exotic pattern that meshes well with the rest of your kitchen. You can pick out rugs with bright or neutral colors, depending on what you're envisioning for your kitchen.[14]
- For instance, if you have brown cabinets and multi-colored countertops, a subtle gray rug with thin stripes might work well.
- Geometric rugs are a great option that can add a lot of personality to your kitchen.[15]
- Opt for a solid, neutral-toned rug to give the room a minimalist touch. Look for rugs that come in more muted or neutral-toned colors. Choose something that helps add to the kitchen without serving as a distraction, which helps create a minimalistic look overall.[16]
- For instance, gray, white, brown, tan, or black rugs can go really well with a lot of different cabinets and countertops.
- Don't pick out a rug willy nilly! There's nothing wrong with taking your time before deciding on a kitchen rug that you like.
[Edit]References |
| How to Use a Kong Posted: 18 Jul 2020 01:00 AM PDT Kong is a brand that makes super sturdy dog toys that can withstand even the sharpest of teeth. Kong toys are hollow in the middle, so you can fill them up with the treats and food items that your dog likes the most. Make sure you're giving your dog food that's safe for them to eat, and always wash your Kong out after each use. [Edit]Filling the Kong - Mix together kibble and wet dog food to create a thick mixture. Pour about 1/2 cup (64 g) of dry dog food into a bowl and combine it with a little bit of wet dog food. Mix your ingredients together to combine them so they stick together and are easier to spoon into the toy. You can try different mixtures of food depending on what your dog likes. Just be sure to mix solid foods with softer foods to bind the mixture together.[1]
- For example, try combining pureed pumpkin, spinach, and apple sauce for a fall flavor, or mix together turkey, carrots, and cream cheese for a summer picnic. Fruit, vegetables, and purees are healthy choices.
- If your dog is on a restricted diet, talk to your vet before choosing ingredients to put in the Kong.
- Double-check that foods are safe for dogs before including them. For instance, onions, garlic, grapes, and chicken bones are harmful to dogs and can make them sick.[2]
- Spoon the mixture into your Kong until it's 2/3 full. The opening of the Kong is pretty wide, so you should be able to use a normal tablespoon to transfer your mixture. Fill up the toy until it's almost, but not quite, full.[3]
- If you're filling up a small Kong, you may need to use a popsicle stick instead of a spoon.
- Spread peanut butter on top of the Kong to seal it. To seal the Kong to make sure the mixture doesn't fall out, use a knife to gently spread some peanut butter into the top 1/3 of the Kong. Or, if your dog doesn't like peanut butter, take a can of spray cheese and spray it into the very top of the Kong.[4]
- Freeze the Kong for an extra challenge for your dog. If your dog is super good at destroying toys or you want to entertain them for a few hours, put your full Kong into the freezer for about 1 hour to let the ingredients freeze together. Your dog will have to work harder to reach their treats since they're all stuck together.[5]
- This is a great way to give your dog a chilly treat on a hot summer day.
[Edit]Giving the Kong to Your Dog - Introduce the Kong to your dog as a special treat. If your dog has never used a Kong before, they might not be too sure about it at first. Use a kind, sweet voice and tell your dog that you have a treat for them. Drop it on the floor and let your dog inspect it to smell the goodies inside.[6]
- Treat your dog with a Kong as a reward for good behavior. Since the Kong is filled with treats, it makes a great prize at the end of a long walk or a great day at the dog park. If your dog has been super good, you give them a Kong for some treats and a fun toy.[7]
- Kongs hold a lot of treats, so try to use them as a reward in moderation. Talk to your vet about the specific amount of treats your dog should have per week.
- Use the Kong to manage your dog's anxiety or high energy. If your dog doesn't like to be alone or they have a ton of energy all day long, give them a Kong to keep them distracted and entertained for a little while. Since they have to use their brains to get to a treat, it can tire them out and make them feel good about themselves once they've finished.[8]
- If your dog barks a lot when you leave, a Kong can keep them distracted and quiet.
- Prevent your dog from chewing or digging by giving them a Kong. If your dog loves to chew on the furniture or dig holes in the yard, they might need a distraction. Give them a full Kong to keep them occupied and less likely to destroy areas of your home.[9]
- Play fetch with an empty Kong toy. Kongs can be used in the place of a tennis ball if you want to give your dog some exercise. Try throwing an empty Kong toy around the yard as a fun way to expend some energy. At the end, you can fill up the Kong with treats and give it to your dog.[10]
- Kong also makes toys that float in water so you can play fetch on the beach.
[Edit]Cleaning the Kong - Soak the Kong in warm water and dish soap for 15 minutes. Fill a small bowl or bucket with of warm water and 2 to 3 drops of dish soap. Submerge the Kong fully into the water and leave it there for about 15 minutes to get rid of any treat residue.[11]
- Your dog probably cleaned out the inside of the Kong pretty well with their tongue, so you won't have to worry about getting large pieces out.
- Scrub the inside with a bottle brush or a toothbrush. Dip your brush into the soapy water and then wash out the inside of the Kong. Make sure you reach all the way inside of the toy until you reach the bottom.[12]
- Rinse the inside out with warm water or put it in your dishwasher. You can either finish washing your Kong in the sink by rinsing it out, or you can put it on the top rack of your dishwasher and run it through a wash cycle. Kongs are dishwasher safe, so they won't warp or shrink in the hot water.[13]
- Leave the Kong out to dry before you store it. Set your Kong out on a towel with the hole facing outwards so the water can evaporate. Store your Kong in a pantry or a cabinet once it's fully dry so your dog can enjoy their toy again and again.[14]
- Kongs are made to be sturdy and last a long time, even for dogs who like to chew a lot.
- If your dog has never played with a Kong before, they may need a few minutes to sniff it before they start playing with it.
[Edit]Warnings - Always double check that you are filling your Kong with dog-safe food.
- Grapes, walnuts, onions, and animal bones are all harmful to your dog.[15]
[Edit]Things You'll Need [Edit]Filling the Kong [Edit]Cleaning the Kong [Edit]References |
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