Writers are often some of the most misunderstood and mysterious workers. The job is reclusive at face-value, but many are turning to coworking spaces. People view writers as either starving artists or NY Bestseller celebrities.
Gifts for writers can be tricky because many are introverts and less likely to share a wish list.
Use this list of great gift ideas for writers that help sharpen their craft.
1. The Collector
Early writers used an inkwell and quill before the invention of pen or pencils. The presentation of a collector’s edition inkwell and quill will wow any writer.
Fret not about the expense of a collectible. Sets are available for all budgets from a variety of retailers. Making the item too exclusive for the end user can spoil the fun.
Before buying, consider whether the writer will use the set as a display or for various types of calligraphy. Calligraphers might require instruments that can easily be refilled if ink runs out or the pen gets dull.
If the item won’t be used, choose a classic style that can fit in with any decor.
2. The Traditionalist
Ink pens are not to be overlooked when it comes to buying a gift for a writer. Though a boring gift idea for some, writers have a passion for prose that can only be made better with a well-balanced ink pen.
This isn’t a pen found at your local office supply or big box store. Pens lined with 14K gold or stainless steel aren’t offered cheaply. Luxury brands like Mont Blanc and Waterman can run hundreds or thousands of dollars depending on the style.
Preowned options can help you save money. Check auction sites for vintage and other used styles that are still in good condition.
Signature pens are a great option for supporting big future goals like autographing a best selling novel. The writer will appreciate your vote of confidence.
3. The Comedian
Bookends are a staple, budget-friendly gift. The genius of bookends is that they are versatile enough to be useful for a large library or a couple of books on a shelf.
Use your sense of humor to buy a set of memorable bookends. From Samurai Swords to severed heads, bookends can lighten the mood of any room or office.
This gift idea is best when buying for writers you don’t know well. The gift is impersonal yet fun enough to appear thoughtful. That said, avoid bookends if you are buying a gift for someone special in your life.
4. The Showoff
There are many wonderful literary games to get for writers of all personality types. Scrabble is a classic option for people who love word games and showing off their vocabulary.
Once Upon a Time is a board game sure to inspire a competitive spirit. Players use story prompts on their cards to tell a story on the board. The first player to use up all their cards wins.
Crossword puzzles are a staple and can make a great gift if you are buying for a group of writers. They are inexpensive and easy to find.
5. The Procrastinator
Writer’s block is like kryptonite for writers. It’s a temporary zap to creativity and idea flow.
Luckily, there are games that help get rid of writer’s block like Storymatic. This game comes with cards on which dozens of random scenarios and characters are listed. Combining the cards together creates unique scenarios for new stories.
Dixit is another option for writers looking to overcome writer’s block. The game is unique in that it makes players tell stories to one another and compete for whose story is best. The player who convinces everyone that his or her story is best wins the game.
These games have the dual function of allowing you to brainstorm topic ideas and have fun at the same time. Writers who have started a blogspot blog can choose from a long list of creative suggestions.
6. The Book Worm
Writers often get inspiration from other writers. Buying gifts that make reading easier is a good way to help.
The Mighty Bright Book Light is helpful for reading while you travel especially when catching late night flights. The batteries are rechargeable and last days from just a single charge. It’s lightweight at 0.3 ounces which makes no real difference in your carry-on luggage.
Book stands help writers multi-task while they read. Think of the news writer doing research for an article. Standing up reference books while cross-referencing with content found online can save time.
The type of book stand you choose should be based on its use. In offices, choose something durable that holds both oversized and small text. A good stand has clips that can be adjusted to the thickness of the book.
At home in bed, or while lounging, writers may benefit from a book stand that’s soft so it can be held in their laps.
The final choice for a writer with an affinity for books is a book from the New York Times bestseller list. Books can be found according to the genre. Choosing a nonfiction book from this category is a sure win because it provides writers with content they might not otherwise purchase.
The biggest benefit of buying books from a bestseller list is that writers are commonly introverts. Introverts could use conversation prompts and there are few better ways to initiate conversations at events than using high brow pop culture.
Always buy hardcover books as gifts. Writers often have libraries and a paperback book won’t endure over time like a hardcover book. Hardcover is more expensive but worth it in the long run.
7. The Sentimentalist
Journals come in styles to fit any writer. They make a great gift because journals allow writers to jot down notes and inspiration throughout the day or serve as a diary to chronicle life events.
The best journal options for writers are durable and resistant to age. Look for products with treated pages that don’t yellow or get brittle over time. The sentimental writer will want to preserve early ideas and thoughts in their original condition.
Choose a leather bound, handcrafted option with refillable pages to get the most for your money. Refillable pages allow writers to reorganize thoughts as they write or plan storylines.
Planning Gift Ideas for Writers
Gift ideas for writers are easy to find when you understand their workflow. The process wavers very little which means you can replace gifts over time as journals get full or ink pens run their course.
Any gift you would give to a person who works from home typically also works for writers. For more ideas to help you celebrate the holidays with ease, visit our website.
