So it’s been a couple weeks since my last post. Things have been fairly busy over the last little while with the holidays just one short week away. If you’re anything like myself, you’re probably still wondering what’s the perfect gift for that special someone. This can cause major frustration, especially if you’re shopping for someone that can be hard to buy for (yes I am talking about myself here). With all that said, I thought I’d share a few really unique gift ideas that would make any designer light-up with joy when receiving such a gift.

A Veery Merry Christmas

The fine folks over at veer.com have some wonderful gift ideas that would make any designers day. I would recommend anything from their fine catalogue! Cheaky t-shirts, amazing sweaters and some really cool accessories that scream “I’m a designer.”

A Good Book…or Two…

One of my personal favourites…The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst. It is a must read for any designer out there. Among design circles, I have heard it referenced as “The Bible” for all things type. It covers so much and has answered many of my questions when I’m working with type. This book is a wonderful reference for students and professionals alike. I know that I find myself coming back to it again and again.

Another book that is on my “to read” list is Sagmeister: Made You Look. After seeing Stefan speak at this year’s RGD Design Thinkers, I was instantly hooked. This book covers all of his design work - even the bad stuff as he so mildly puts it. From what I have seen and heard it is a great source of inspiration.

Toys for Boys…and Girls!

Yes, I still love a good toy - especially ones that originate from my youth. I find that they’re great things to collect and place around my desk. They help brighten things up a bit and are great conversational pieces. These are great gift ideas and can be found in most stores. One thing that I have noticed in the last little while is the popularity of all the old toys from my childhood. I used to have them lying around the floor as a kid - now they’re considered to be the trendy new paper-weight.

Coffee

I love coffee. It makes a great gift too! Affordable, classy and very personal - coffee is a great gift idea. I know that coffee is an acquired taste, so I’ll add tea leaves to the mix as well. Most places offer large selections of interesting brews that offer their own unique experience.

These are just few ideas that I had off the top of my mind. I hope they helped you out. If anyone has some other great gift ideas, by all means share them here. I’d be really interested in hearing what they are.