Gift Ideas for Needlework Artists
Giving Impressive Presents to Creative People
Fiber artists are typically so generous that their projects are given out to almost everyone they know. But, what if it's their turn to receive?
Fiber Artists characteristically share their completed projects with everyone they know. So, on the flip side, what would they like to receive? Be imaginative, and try to give them something as creative as they are.
Sure-to-Please Gifts
Sewing Chest: Who doesn't need more storage? Any needleworker would love a nice sewing chest. Choose one that matches the recipient's decor and that doesn't need to be put away. That way, the work is always ready but never messy.
Calendars: It’s impossible to count all the calendars out there that relate to the fiber arts. Some feature needlepoint, sewing, tatting, embroidery, cross-stitch, weaving, or a mixture of all of them. This is a can’t-miss gift, even if the artist has one already—there are always other rooms of the house that need calendars. Worried it might be a duplicate? That’s all right—duplicates can always be used as working copies.
Subscriptions: Does the crafter in question have any magazine subscriptions within the field of fiber arts? If so, any current subscriptions may be extended by a year or more. If not, there are all kinds out there. For example, "Needlepointers" is the official magazine of the American Needlepoint Guild, and comes free with membership in the guild.
Still not sure which subscription to fill? Take a trip to your local craft store or bookstore, visit the magazine aisle, and collect a dozen or so subscription cards. Place them in an envelope, and give the gift of "choice."
Magnifying Glass: Most fiber artists, especially those who practice needlepoint, could use a close-up view at times while working. Since shading is so important in embroidery, a mounted magnifying glass is almost a necessity. It certainly would be a relief for tired eyes and detail-orientated artists.
Natural Lighting Lamp: Full-spectrum lighting is a relatively new concept to needlework, but its impact is significant. Table-tops and floor lamps are available to increase visibility, and they have the added benefit of preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD.)
Membership to Local Guild: This is a great idea, but be sure to talk with the recipient before finalizing anything. Although membership doesn’t put any extra pressure on its members, confirm that being part of a group is welcome. If so, most needleworkers would love finally getting into the needlepoint or sewing guild.
For the Adventurous: Has the desire to design, show, or compete been expressed? Why not pay the entry fee into a competition? For a truly special gift, include travel and lodging arrangements for a few days while the contest is underway and on display. This is beyond doubt a once-in-a-lifetime gift for most people, and it will never be forgotten.
Tricky Gifts: Proceed Only with Caution
Some gifts, while they seem like good ideas, may not be the best choices. It depends on how well the buyer knows the recipient.
Threads and Fabrics: Threads, floss or fabrics are typically not great gifts. Needleworkers often have strong preferences. Unless these are well known, stay away from threads or fabrics as a gift.
Needles, Hoops and Notions: There are some exquisite needles and hoops out there. The problem is that they come in every size and color, and again, unless the gift’s recipient is very clear about wanting an item specifically, it will be difficult to narrow down exactly what to buy. This is an area that is very intimate to crafters, and is better left for them to pick out themselves.
The Never-Fail Gift
After weighing all the options, if the perfect gift has still not surfaced, a gift card to the crafter’s favorite store will always work. Online sites have gift certificates as well. Gift certificates (unlike monetary gifts) still recognize the artists for their work, but allow them complete freedom.
More gift ideas: Gift Ideas for Yarn Artists , Add Embroidery to Projects , Crochet Stocking Stuffers
