Thanksgiving Gift Basket Ideas

This year my sister-in-law is having Thanksgiving at her house. I will be making a few dishes to bring, but I'd like to get her a nice gift too. As I searched the internet for some ideas I came across this site of decorative baskets. And not only did it give me some ideas for a gift my sister-in-law might enjoy, it also inspired me when thinking of gifts for teachers, gifts for wedding and baby showers, and also Christmas gifts for friends and family.

I love the idea of gift baskets, but I also like the idea of the basket itself being another useful gift. Here are some really wonderful ideas:

Just look at this basket, it's an umbrella stand!


Once emptied of gifts, these mail baskets would be very useful!



I also love the idea of this magazine wall basket.




This one was called a 'wash day' basket but I can see it being used to hold guest towels, or in an entryway to store scarves, hats, and gloves.




And my favorites are these tote and purse baskets!

I love the idea of filling any of these baskets with personal items for those you know well. And if you don't know your hostess all that well, you can always fill it with practical items that can be used again and again such as small kitchen needs, salt & pepper shakers, oven mitts, dish towels, tablecloths, napkins & rings, etc.
Or it could be filled with scented candles and candle holders, coasters, stationary, or items that are more 'traditional' gift basket ideas such as candy, fruit, nuts, cookies, and cheese & crackers.