Creative Gifts for Writers This Holiday Season: Thoughtful Ideas to Inspire and Delight
December 13, 2024
When it comes to gift-giving during the holiday season, writers can be a little tricky to shop for. They tend to have specific tastes, and many of the tools they use for their craft—such as notebooks and pens—are often already well-stocked.
So, what do you get for the writer in your life that feels unique, thoughtful, and inspiring? The answer lies in gifts that fuel creativity, encourage productivity, and offer fresh inspiration.
From personalized keepsakes to unusual accessories, here are some creative gift ideas that will bring joy to the writer in your life this holiday season.
1. Custom Typewriter Key Necklace
A personalized typewriter key necklace is a beautiful and sentimental gift for any writer.
These necklaces feature actual typewriter keys, often repurposed into jewelry, and can be customized with the writer’s initials, a favorite word, or a meaningful symbol.
This is a wonderful way for them to carry a little piece of their passion for writing with them wherever they go.
Plus, it’s a great conversation starter that any writer will appreciate!
2. Personalized Leather Journal
A high-quality journal is an essential tool for any writer, and a personalized leather journal can take it to the next level.
This gift is perfect for capturing those spontaneous ideas, daily thoughts, or even for writing first drafts.
Look for journals that are beautifully crafted with premium leather, smooth paper, and customizable features like a name or a special message engraved on the cover.
The experience of writing in such a journal will surely inspire creativity and make the writer in your life feel extra special.
3. Literary Tea or Coffee Sampler
For writers who enjoy a warm beverage while they work, a literary-themed tea or coffee sampler is a fantastic gift.
Some companies offer teas inspired by famous novels or authors, such as “Don QuixoTEA” or “Anne of Green Gables” green tea.
Another option is to curate your own collection of artisanal teas or gourmet coffee beans. Add in a quirky mug with a literary quote, and you’ve created the perfect cozy writing experience for your loved one.
4. Books on Writing
What better way to support a writer than by giving them a book about writing?
There are plenty of inspiring and insightful books on the craft of writing, from practical guides to thought-provoking works on the creative process. Consider classics like On Writing by Stephen King, Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott, or The War of Art by Steven Pressfield.
These books not only offer advice and motivation but also serve as reminders of why your writer loves to write in the first place.
5. Vintage Map or Literary Poster
Many writers find inspiration in the places they write about—whether real or fictional.
A vintage map of their favorite literary setting or a detailed map of a town they love can be a thoughtful gift that adds a personal touch to their writing space.
If your loved one is a fan of a particular book or author, consider gifting them a literary poster with quotes, illustrations, or references to their favorite works. These artistic pieces can motivate creativity while also adding character to their writing environment.
6. Personalized Book Embosser
For the writer who has a personal library full of books, a personalized book embosser can make a thoughtful and unique gift.
These embossers leave a custom imprint inside the cover of each book with the writer’s name or a special inscription.
It’s a small but meaningful way for them to mark their literary territory and show off their love for books in style. Plus, it adds an extra layer of joy (and assurance that their book won’t get lost) when sharing or lending their books to others.
7. Creative Writing Retreat Voucher
Give the gift of a writing retreat—a dream experience for many writers.
A creative writing retreat offers the writer a peaceful environment to focus on their craft, away from the distractions of daily life.
These retreats often provide a combination of quiet writing time, workshops, and opportunities to connect with other like-minded writers.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway in the mountains or a week-long session at a secluded beach house, a writing retreat is an inspiring gift that will nurture both their creativity and productivity.
8. DIY Bookbinding Kit
For the writer who loves hands-on projects, a DIY bookbinding kit offers the perfect creative outlet.
Bookbinding allows them to craft their own journals, notebooks, or even create beautiful copies of their writing.
These kits often include everything they need to create personalized books—from materials like paper, glue, and thread to detailed instructions.
It’s a great way for writers to combine their love of storytelling with a creative, artistic activity.
9. Customized Writing Space Decor
A writer’s space is essential to their creative process, and decorating it with personalized, literary-themed items can inspire new ideas.
Consider giving them a customized piece of writing space decor, such as a sign with their favorite literary quote, a framed print of their favorite book cover, or a whimsical “Writer at Work” door sign.
Thoughtful decor can help them feel more connected to their writing space and create an environment that nurtures creativity.
10. Literary Subscription Box
Subscription boxes are the gift that keeps on giving, and a literary-themed subscription box can offer a delightful surprise for a writer each month.
These boxes often include a mix of books, writing tools, and literary-themed items that cater to the writer’s interests. Popular companies include The Bookish Box or OwlCrate, which offer both books and exclusive merchandise, such as writing notebooks, book-themed candles, and limited-edition items.
Subscription boxes can help keep the writer in your life inspired long after the holidays have passed.
11. Personalized Writer’s Mug with Motivational Quotes
A mug might seem like a small gift, but for a writer, it can make their writing time more enjoyable.
Consider gifting them a personalized mug with a quote that reflects their writing journey.
Whether it’s a classic line from their favorite author or a motivational quote about the writing process, a mug can provide a daily dose of inspiration.
Writers often savor their morning cup of coffee or tea while getting their ideas flowing, and a mug that speaks to their love of writing makes that time even more special.
12. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Many writers need peace and quiet to focus on their work, but let’s face it—life is full of distractions (and noise!). A pair of noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer, helping writers tune out background noise and immerse themselves in their thoughts.
Look for a pair that offers excellent sound quality, comfort for long writing sessions, and effective noise reduction. Brands like Sony, Bose, and Apple offer some of the best options for writers who prefer to block out the world while they work.
13. A Vintage or Antique Book
For a writer who loves to read as much as they love to write, an antique or vintage book can be an unforgettable gift.
Whether it’s a rare first edition, a classic novel from their favorite author, or a beautifully bound book with a unique cover design, this is a gift that will feel like a treasure.
Not only will it serve as a source of inspiration, but it will also be a wonderful addition to their bookshelf. If you’re looking for something truly special, try to find a book that ties into their writing interests or a novel that has influenced their work.
14. Ergonomic Writing Desk Chair
Writers often spend hours sitting at their desks, and comfort is key to maintaining productivity and avoiding strain. An ergonomic desk chair designed for long hours of writing can make a huge difference.
Look for chairs that offer adjustable armrests, lumbar support, and cushioning to provide both comfort and good posture.
Some popular ergonomic chair brands include Herman Miller, Steelcase, and Autonomous, all of which are designed to make sitting for long periods easier and more comfortable.
15. Desk Organizer or Writing Accessories Set
An organized workspace can lead to a clearer mind, so a stylish desk organizer or writing accessories set can make a thoughtful and practical gift.
Look for elegant options that help them keep their writing tools, books, and notes organized.
A pen holder, paper tray, or even a matching set of notebooks, pens, and paper clips can help keep their workspace neat and inspire productivity. Some sets even come with unique features like a built-in wireless charging station.
16. Subscription to Writing Tools & Resources
For the writer who loves to have the best tools at their disposal, a subscription to a service like Scrivener (writing software), Grammarly (editing tool), or MasterClass (writing classes from famous authors) can be an invaluable gift.
These subscriptions will help them with the technical side of writing, whether that means organizing complex manuscripts, polishing their prose, or learning new techniques from established authors.
17. Custom Bookplates
For the writer who loves books, a custom bookplate is a personal touch that makes their library feel even more special.
A bookplate is a small sticker or label that can be placed inside the cover of a book to indicate ownership.
You can have a bookplate personalized with the writer’s name or a custom design.
Bookplates are a charming and thoughtful gift that writers will appreciate, especially if they have a growing collection of books that are precious to them.
18. Themed Bookends
If your writer is like the writers at TWFH and has a large collection of books, bookends make an excellent gift.
Themed bookends, such as those shaped like vintage typewriters, quills, or literary characters, can add personality and charm to their bookshelf.
Not only will they help keep books organized, but they’ll also serve as a decorative accent that reflects the writer’s interests and passions.
Wrapping It Up
This holiday season, give the writer in your life a gift that sparks their imagination, supports their creative process, or simply makes them feel appreciated. From personalized accessories to inspiring experiences, these creative gifts will not only delight them but also encourage their passion for writing.
So, whether it’s an item to help them write, a gift that offers a fresh perspective, or something to make their writing space feel more like home, the best gifts for writers are those that inspire them to keep crafting the stories, essays, and poems that mean so much to them.
Happy holidays, and may the creative spirit be with you and your favorite writer all season long!
