Deciding on the Gift

• 1). Check the registry. Expectant parents usually register their babies at several stores. This will help you know what kind of gifts the family needs or wants. You can choose to simply purchase a gift and personalize it, or make something inspired by the registry list.
  
  
• 2). Ask the parent. Parents can help you determine what gifts are in the baby's best interest, what colors would work best in the child's nursery, or what size or clothing is best for the baby.
  
  
• 3). Decide whether you want to purchase or create your gift. There is nothing wrong with personalizing a pre-made gift. However, handmade gifts like clothing, blankets, mobiles and stuffed animals are always appreciated.
  
  
• 4). Consider making or purchasing stuffed animals---the softer, the better. Babies never seem to have enough stuffed animals. They are generally inexpensive and can be made for even less money. With a little polyfiber fill, felt, and a little time on a sewing machine you can make a stuffed animal that they are sure to enjoy. These can also be personalized very easily with clothing or tags.
  
  

Adding Your Personalized Message

• 1). Consider embroidering. Embroidery is not as daunting as a task as you might think. Craft stores often sell guides and transfers that you can use as a guide for your stitching. Consider embroidering the baby's initials or birth date on the gift. You can also stitch a phrase or inspirational quote for the child to appreciate later.
  
  
• 2). Try an iron-on transfer. Using ordinary photo editing programs on your computer, make a design and print it out on transfer paper. Consider using the child's picture or other baby-friendly image that will add meaning to the baby's gift. Once you print the image, follow the transfer paper's instructions on adhering the image to your gift.
  
  
• 3). Using pictures of the baby, design a small scrapbook or picture frame. Then decorate the frame or scrapbook as desired with paint, tissue paper, flowers, beads, glitter or any other craft supply to create a truly unique gift that will preserve precious memories.
  
  
• 4). Don't forget the card. No, the baby won't be able to read it but it can be saved as part of the gift. Offer a personalized message with the date the gift was given.