It’s November, and that means the countdown is on to December traditional gift-giving holidays. That wonderful time of year brings a special spirit in the air of excitement and anticipation. Often focused on gathering with family and friends to laugh, to eat and to celebrate, thoughtful gifts can make joyful memories and express our care for one another.

Choosing that perfect gift to convey how much we value the recipient takes some time and thought. You want to put yourself in the recipient’s shoes; what would they potentially buy for themselves.Most people don’t want you to spend a lot of money, they just want to know that you’ve thought about them and what they might like. A helpful article from 2019 on CNN.com, shares five rules of gift giving that provide a good commonsense guide to follow. 

When it comes to unique and affordable gifts that might be unexpected, yet well-received, we’ve got some items on our shelves we think you will like. But first, let’s also talk about how crafting is good for you. 

The Benefits of Do-It-Yourself

There’s a reason why our shop’s name is “DIY;” we cater to those who like to put their hands on a project to complete. According to Leisure Arts (and in an article in Psychology Today), “Crafting is also a therapeutic hobby for all ages and skill levels. It can have an immediate and incredible effect, giving consumers the chance to slow down and switch their focus and providing people with a new mental space to direct their attention, manage stress, and improve self-esteem and authenticity. Plus, crafting allows for consumers to improve fine motor skills and cognitive functioning. Perfect for all, crafting is a great intergenerational activity, allowing parents and children the opportunity to unplug from a screen and work together on a new project.”

Will this be the year you give gifts that not only tap into the recipient’s sense of creativity, but could actually give them a boost of wellbeing?

Exercise the Brain

Escape from the rigors of everyday life when you put your brain to work on our line of Project Genius_Ⓡ puzzles. More than a toy, these beautifully curated puzzles will inspire creativity and stimulate senses. Play them alone or make it an intergenerational challenge where kids and adults together can work through the solutions. (Hint: If you’re stumped, you can always visit the Project Genius website for solutions.) These high quality items are perfect as a stocking stuffer or standalone gift. We’ve got a good selection of products for you to choose from. 

Put Your Personal Stamp On It

Maybe the coming year will be a good one to encourage someone to try out a new hobby — one that even has the potential to become a “side hustle,” to earn a little extra income. You could set up your recipient to do that by giving them a metal stamping kit. From personalized jewelry to dog tags and key rings to decor and more, our ImpressArt kits are a great way for beginners to learn how to metal stamp. Metal stamping enthusiasts say once you’ve done it for the first time, you’ll be hooked! Of course, it is also appropriate for older children, too. Imagine how proud they will feel when they can make their own personalized items for themselves and their friends.

Zowie! Kids and Adults Alike Will Flip for These Gifts

Want a sure thing?! You can never go wrong with these Metal Earth_Ⓡ gifts that feature the best of popular culture. Got a Harry Potter_™ fan? How about giving a Hogwarts Express or the Golden Snitch? What about Star Wars_™? Get ready for the recipient to go crazy when they open an R2D2 model or the “baby Yoda” model from The Mandalorian.

Of course, where would we be without superheroes from Marvel and Batman like Deadpool and the Bat Signal?! Know a Trekkie? You’re going to be their favorite when you give them their own Starship Enterprise model to build. And, for a real throwback, let’s “Yabba Dabba Do,” along with Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble in their very own Flintmobile. You’ve just gotta see our more than 60 Metal Earth models, where you’re sure to find something for everyone!

All that, and you can also take a look at our good selection of paints, patinas and raw materials, as well as whimsical cutouts and much more. Get a jump start on your holiday gift list now and come see us Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1745 NE Columbia Blvd. in Portland. We’re waiting to help you check off all the gifts on your list.