Coffee and tea gift basket

These quick and creative gifts will let you get to everyone on your list ... without running out of time or money. Assemble make-ahead gifts that are ready to go at a moment's notice. Plus, the package is part of the present!

A coffee break never looked so appealing. The java junkie on your list will appreciate this assortment of sipping aides. Fill a wide-rimmed but modestly sized bowl with sugar cubes, and nestle a small envelope of gourmet coffee beans inside. Add a chocolate-dipped spoon if you'd like. Wrap it all up with a pretty ribbon.

for the tea breaker

Give a tea-themed gift fit for a queen mother. Start off with a stylish cup-and-saucer set. Include a bag of a favorite tea and a dainty tea strainer, such as this tiny house, or fill the cup with tea cookies, scones, a cloth napkin, or a sugary stirring stick.

for the cookie connoisseur

Someone with a sweet tooth is easy to please. If you're baking anyway, make an extra batch to give as last-minute gifts. Stash the goodies in an empty paint bucket (available at home stores), which seals tightly to protect freshness. Wrap the outside with jolly ribbon and a few holiday ornaments. To order a cookie-making set, see page 180.

for the movie maven

Know someone who cancels plans in honor of Oscar night? Reel the film buff in with a movie-inspired gift bag. Line the bottom of a translucent-plastic bag with popped popcorn, and fill it with theater-style snacks. Attach movie theater gift certificates or, for a personal touch, offer to treat the recipient to a movie of his or her choice.

for the candle collector

You might not be able to walk in this winter wonderland, but it's still a delight for the eyes. Purchase a clear plastic take-out box at a stationery store, and cut a piece of white foam core to fit in the bottom. Secure a small, festive candle to the foam core with crafts glue. Buy imitation snow from a crafts store, or make your own with rock salt and white glitter.

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for the bathing beauty

Bathtub bliss can come in small packages. Think luxury and wrap an ornate soap dish and a bar of fragrant soap in a soft textured washcloth. Include a homemade bag of soak-enhancers to drop in the bath. You can formulate the bag for the desired moods. We used one part dried lavender for calming, two parts oatmeal for soothing, and one part black tea for disinfecting. Wrap it up in cheesecloth and tie with raffia.

HOW TO CREATE A GIFT CLOSET

Gift-giving expert Leah Ingram, author of You Shouldn't Have! How to Give Gifts They'll Never Forget (Contemporary Books), says she pulls together gifts on the run by keeping a "gift closet." Here's what you need to create your own:

* Note cards: Art supply and stationery stores often have good deals on decorative cards, Ingram says. Stock up on these and attach them for personalized greetings.

* All-purpose gifts bought in bulk: Candles, picture frames, gift certificates to local restaurants, and boxes of chocolate are all good staples to keep on hand.

* A big plastic bucket: Store the gifts in a large container with a lid. (Except the chocolate. Store that in the refrigerator.)

* Cellophane, tissue paper, and wicker baskets: Tuck your gift in tissue paper and a basket, and wrap the package in cellophane. Top off with ribbon and trim.