Unique Gift Ideas for the Writer in Your Life

Finding the perfect gift for the writer in your life can be as complex… annoying. I say this as a writer. It is very common that someone doesn’t know what to get me so I somehow end up with a tower of empty journals and an overflowing desk cup filled with new pens. I understand, it can be annoying to buy for us and sometimes one doesn’t know where to start when getting something thoughtful for the word-weaver in their family or friend group. Writers are often particular about their tools and tastes, but there’s a world of thoughtful, creative gifts beyond the basics that will make them feel truly understood. Here’s a guide to inspire your holiday shopping for the wordsmith you adore.

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The Basics (But Make Them Fancy)

1. Pens:
   Writers love pens, but gifting them a luxury pen—like a Lamy fountain pen or a weighted rollerball—can elevate their note-taking experience. Bonus points if you include a refill set in their favorite ink color!
2. Journals:
   A writer can never have too many journals. Opt for a unique twist, such as leather-bound notebooks, journals with prompts, or eco-friendly options made from recycled materials.
3. Books on Writing:
   Classics like On Writing by Stephen King or The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron are staples, but consider books on niche writing topics or even beautiful annotated versions of their favorite novels.

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Step It Up: Gifts That Show You Truly Get Them

1. Subscription Boxes for Writers:
   There are subscription services like Scribbler or The Writer’s Box that deliver curated goodies, writing prompts, and insider tips from published authors every month.
2. Customized Writer’s Toolkit:
   Assemble a personalized kit with items like sticky notes, page flags, highlighters, and correction tape. Include a pouch or box engraved with their name or a quote about writing.
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones or White Noise Machine:
   Whether they thrive in silence or need the soothing sound of rain, a tool to manage their audio environment can be invaluable for focused writing sessions.
4. Specialty Coffee or Tea:
   Many writers are fueled by caffeine. Look for unique blends or quirky mugs (a typewriter-themed one, perhaps?). Add in a high-quality milk frother for the latte-loving wordsmith.
5. Bookends or Shelf Accents:
   Help them organize their beloved writing books or display their work-in-progress stack with quirky bookends shaped like typewriters, quills, or punctuation marks.

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Truly Unique Ideas for the Writer Who Has It All

1. Custom-Made Book Cover Art:
   Writers with published or soon-to-be-published works will swoon over framed custom cover art of their book or even a faux cover design for their work-in-progress.
2. A Writing Retreat Voucher:
   Gifting a weekend at a cozy cabin or a spot in a writing retreat program can give them the solitude and inspiration they need.
3. Quirky Desk Accessories:
   Think vintage typewriter-inspired keyboards, literary-themed calendars, or even a tiny desktop hourglass to time writing sprints.
4. Personalized Word Necklace or Bracelet:
   Have their favorite word, their own name, or the title of their book engraved on a piece of jewelry.
5. A Masterclass Subscription:
   Access to workshops by renowned authors like Neil Gaiman or Margaret Atwood can be an incredible resource and a dream come true for many writers.
6. Unique Inspiration Tools:
   Try something like the Rory’s Story Cubes or a deck of writing prompt cards to help spark creativity.
7. Gift a Domain Name:
   If they don’t already have one, buying them a domain for their writing blog or portfolio is an incredibly thoughtful and practical gift.
8. Customized Wax Seal Kit:
   For writers who enjoy a touch of old-world charm, a wax seal kit with their initials or a literary-themed emblem adds a personal touch to letters or notes.

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Stocking Stuffers for the Literary-Minded

1. Literary-themed socks, tote bags, or pins
2. Magnetic poetry kits
3. Tiny pocket dictionaries or thesauruses
4. Bookplates with their name on them
5. Candles inspired by books or writing (like “Library” or “Freshly Sharpened Pencils” scents)

Of course, these gifts and their usefulness will vary from person to person. However, I think this list is a great starting point or sparking inspiration for that special writer in your life. Whether they’re a poet, novelist, or someone just discovering their voice, there’s something here for every writer to inspire them and remind them that their craft is worth celebrating.

What’s the most creative gift you’ve ever given (or received) as a writer? Let me know in the comments!