9 Last Minute Gift Giving Ideas for Book Crafters

Whether you’re new to creating handmade books or a pro, it’s always nice to add a little something new to our work tables, right? Here are a few gift ideas that range from free to $50, so there’s something for everyone’s wallet. Forward this to family and friends who want to add something to your stocking!

Khadi Book Block

I recently ordered several of these pre-made Khadi paper book blocks from Talas and was impressed with the beautiful texture of the paper. There are two sizes and two different textures with prices ranging from $15.73 to $ 31.45. As an added bonus, the packaging is attractive. I’m going to keep them on hand to create last minute gifts.

The Art of the Fold

We have been running a yearlong challenge in my free Facebook group to make projects from Hedi Kyle’s book, The Art of the Fold and members have been impressed by its clear instructions. It gathers together many of her iconic books, such as the Blizzard Book and Fishbone Fold, and there are projects for makers at every level. If it’s not in your library yet, I highly recommend it.

Londonderry Thread Collection

If you find it hard to choose which thread color to buy, then get them all! Colophon Book Arts offers all 27 colors of the 18/3 Londonderry thread for $50. 18/3 thread is great for books with exposed bindings, like the one below. But don’t forget to pick up a block of beeswax because this thread is unwaxed.

Mini Teflon Folder Key Chain

I’m always drawn to anything miniature, so perhaps that’s why I squealed when I saw this little bone folder on a key chain. It’s also a very practical tool if you travel with your bookmaking supplies to classes or retreats. At a budget friendly $4.95, you can pick up a few for your bookmaking friends.

Two Tone Book Cloth

If you’re looking to create a unique book cover, you might like this Duo Book cloth from Colophon Book Arts. It comes in twelve varieties and is priced at $10 for a half yard. I recently used the Henna on the spine of a Secret Belgian binding.

Cotton Ribbon

I love to use the tightly woven cotton ribbon from Studio Carta on my books – they are perfect for exposed over tapes bindings. The one below, November’s Handmade Book Club project, is the 5/8″ ribbon in sky. There are more than a dozen of colors and four widths to choose from, and at $10 for 5 yards or $16 for 10 yards, it’s very reasonably priced.

The Paper Year Calendar

Treat yourself to a year of paper projects with Helen Hiebert’s iconic calendar, The Paper Year, it’s a great way to kick start your creativity each month. You can purchase the calendar alone for $25 or for an additional $25, you get all the paper you need to make the projects – what a great idea!

Punching Cradle

I have to put a plug in for my own punching cradle, which I just restocked. Use it to evenly punch sewing holes in your signatures prior to stitching. It’s collapsible, so perfect for bringing to a class. The price is $30 plus shipping.

Cook Dinner

Finally, for family members on a tight budget, how about they cook dinner once a month or even better, once a week, to allow you uninterrupted time in your studio or craft room to make more books!

Let me know in the comments what crafting supplies are on your holiday wish list.