Pour the chips into a heatproof container, such as a measuring cup. A deep cup is the best for this project.
Microwave the cup of chips at half power for one minute. Stir. Repeat in 30 second bursts until chocolate is smooth and fully melted, but do NOT over cook.
Add to the melted chocolate one teaspoon of shortening for each cup of chips. Stir lightly until just blended.
Dip plastic spoons into the chocolate to coat the bowl and about one inch of the handle. If the chocolate starts to harden, microwave 30 seconds at half power.
Ms. CocoaJava's Gift Spoon Design
Lay spoons on wax paper to set.
When chocolate spoons have set, put them in the freezer for 15 minutes. This makes them easier to handle when you start to wrap them.
Take squares of colored cellophane and wrap the coated spoons. Tie with a pretty ribbon.
Once you have mastered the basic technique, you can experiment! Try drizzling streaks of white chocolate over dipped spoons to create a design. Sprinkle colored sugar on chocolate before it sets for a holiday look.
A bundle of chocolate spoons set in a coffee mug makes a nice gift.
Tie a few spoons to a bag of gourmet coffee beans for a coffee loving friend.
Keep spoons on hand during the holidays to use when serving drinks to your visitors.