The 25+ Best Gifts for a Graphic Designer
Pixels, Pantone’s and passion – that’s what makes a graphic designer tick. But what makes them light up? What present can capture the essence of their creative spirit?
It’s not about the price tag or the latest gadget. It’s about understanding design in its soul.
The best gift for a graphic designer? The one who speaks their visual language respects their craft and inspires them.
Think beyond the obvious. A designer isn’t just someone who creates pretty pictures – they solve problems, tell stories and shape perceptions; your gift should do the same.
Give them a tool to express their vision, a spark to ignite creativity or a moment of pause in a pixel-perfect world.
The right gift says: “I see you. I get what you do. And I value it.”
So, are you ready to dive into the colourful world of designer gifts? To explore where function meets beauty? To find something perfect to make a designer's eyes brighter than a well-kerned typeface?
Let’s get started… Because amongst ordinary presents lies extraordinary
Why Gifting to Graphic Designers is an Art in Itself
Let’s face it: Graphic designers aren’t your ordinary gift-getters.
They are detail-oriented, like Sherlock Holmes, maybe even more. A pixel out of place can be seen worldwide for them, but it doesn’t get me started on how they feel about colours. Therefore, when buying gifts for these masters of visuals, you need to bring the heat.
But don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. Whether it’s a birthday present or something you buy just because this article will help steer you in the right direction towards finding that perfect gift.
We will cover everything from state-of-the-art technology to funky office supplies that shine on any designer’s workspace.
The Tech Toolkit: Essential Gadgets for the Modern Designer
Tablets That Will Make Them Fall Over
First on our list of presents for graphic designers: tablets. Not the kind you swallow with water, mind you, but sleek digital canvases that make designers go weak at the knees.
The Apple iPad Pro: A Designer’s Dream
If you want to knock their socks off, go for the iPad Pro – it’s the cream of the crop. Think of giving a Formula 1 car to an F1 fan. With its breathtaking Retina display and compatibility with the Apple Pencil, this portable powerhouse lets your designer friend create masterpieces on the move.
But here’s where things get crazy: they now come with an M1 chip. That’s right, it's the same brain as some MacBooks. Overkill? Maybe – but in the best way!
- WHY IPAD PRO — iPad Pro is the ultimate iPad experience in an impossibly thin and light design. Featuring the breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display, outrageous performance from the M4 chip, superfast wireless connectivity,* and compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro.* Plus powerful productivity features in iPadOS.
The Wacom Cintiq: For The Serious Sketch Artist
If your designer buddy falls into the “I need to feel my stylus on the screen” category, look no further than the Wacom Cintiq. This tablet is renowned for its paper-like drawing experience and unrivalled precision among digital drawing tablets.
Imagine giving a master painter their dream brush – a tool that can genuinely take their craft to new heights.
- Wacom's most natural and advanced pen performance with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, eraser and virtually lag free tracking.Aspect Ratio / Brightness : 16:9/300 cd / m2 (typ)
Portable Monitors: Expanding the Creative Canvas
Did you ever observe a developer attempt to work on one screen? It is like seeing a cook prepare food with just one hand. That’s why portable monitors exist, and they’re great presents for graphic designers who are always on the go.
ASUS ZenScreen: Elegant but Functional
The ASUS ZenScreen is a nifty gadget that will give any system another 15.6 inches of screen space. It's USB-powered, so there won’t be any extra cables ruining your workspace. On top of this, it comes with an intelligent cover that can act as its stand, too. Talk about intelligent design – your designer friend will love it!
- 15.6-inch Full HD portable anti-glare IPS display with an ultraslim and thin design, perfect solution for travel, on-the-go meetings, or business trips.Specific uses for product – Business
Lepow Portable Monitor: Budget-Friendly Brillance
The Lepow Portable Monitor is very cost-effective if you’re trying to save some money (and let’s face it, who isn’t these days?). It boasts a clear 1080p display and works well with virtually any device. Giving your designer pal this would be like giving them a Swiss Army Knife for their digital toolkit.
- [Full HD Portable Monitor ] Lepow 15.6inch portable laptop monitor with 1920*1080 resolution delivers a truly immersive viewing experience that lets you enjoy High-Definition entertainment and gaming. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS portable screen offers a 178°Full viewing angle and Eye Care technology that keeps your eyes from getting tired during prolonged use
Software Subscriptions: A Gift for Life
Now, let’s move on to software, the lifeblood of any graphic designer. It may not be as flashy as a new gadget, but trust me — find the right software subscription, and you’re a hero on Christmas morning.
Adobe Creative Cloud: The Standard
If you want to play it safe, you can’t go wrong with an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. Think of it as giving a chef access to a gourmet kitchen — they have all the necessary tools to create something unique.
But here’s a pro tip: check if they already have one. If they do, think about extending it instead. Practicality + thoughtfulness + showing you understand their needs = triple win.
Affinity Suite: The Underdog
Those who like to root for the little guy should consider gifting an Affinity Suite subscription. It’s been making waves in design communities everywhere as being just as powerful as Adobe — without the subscription.
Affinity Designer is their answer to Illustrator, Photo is their version of Photoshop and Publisher (you guessed it) takes on InDesign. It’s like introducing your designer friend to a killer new band before anyone else has heard of them.
Books That Will Spark Creativity
Can you only work with designers digitally? No, sometimes the most crucial inspiration is from paper and ink. Here are some books to get those creative juices flowing:
Austin Kleon’s “Steal Like an Artist”
This is different from your average design book. It’s a proclamation of creativity in the age of digital technology. Any designer stuck in a rut should take Kleon’s advice like fresh air. This would be great for someone who needs help thinking outside the box.
- By artist and writer Austin Kleon
- A collection of positive messages and exercises to realize your artistic side
- A New York Times Best-seller
- 10 Things nobody told you about being creative!
- ERROR:#N/A
Josef Müller-Brockmann’s “Grid Systems in Graphic Design”
It is a must-have for any designer who loves the classics. It could be seen as a masterclass in layout design, packaged beautifully by book designers. Your designer friend will be pulling quotes from this for years to come.
- 1st Edition
- Hardcover Book
- Müller-Brockmann, Josef (Author)
- German (Publication Language)
- 176 Pages – 10/01/1996 (Publication Date) – Niggli Verlag (Publisher)
Decorating Your Desk Space
There’s no doubt about it: designers spend much time at their desks. So why not give them some things they’ll love having around? Here are a few ideas to help spruce up their creative corner:
Coffee Mug Pantone: For Those Who Love Colour
This isn’t just any old coffee mug – this is an “I eat, sleep, and breathe design” statement piece! Coming in various Pantone hues, it’s the perfect thing for waking up with inspiration among designers.
- IDEAL FOR MACCHIATO COFFEE: This ceramic coffee mug is designed with macchiato lovers in mind. Its 3.4 oz capacity perfectly suits small, concentrated brews like macchiato and espresso. The handleless design enhances the drinking experience, making it an essential addition to any cups set for coffee enthusiasts.
- MICROWAVE & DISHWASHER SAFE MATERIAL: Made from high-quality, durable porcelain, this mug is both microwavable and dishwasher-safe. Its sturdy porcelain construction ensures longevity while making it perfect for everyday use at home or work.
LEGO Architecture Studio: For The Kid At Heart Who Likes To Build Stuff
But who said LEGOs were only for kids? The LEGO Architecture Studio is a grown-up set designed to unbridle creativity; think of it as giving your designer buddy a 3D playground in miniature form. Not to mention that playing with it will be an excellent way to take the edge off during many late nights spent working on projects.
- Architectural Essence – Capture the architectural essence of New York City with this magnificent LEGO set that brings together iconic buildings in an inspirational skyline setting
Wearable Art: Fashion for Those Who Love Design
Graphic designers do more than make art – they eat, sleep and breathe it. So why not let them wear their hearts on their sleeves? Figuratively!
T-shirts with Typeface: For Those Crazy about Fonts
Nothing makes a designer’s heart skip a beat like a clever typography t-shirt. Shirts that declare, “Helvetica is My Homeboy” or highlight the difference between serif and sans-serif fonts are likely to elicit at least a chuckle (and perhaps even an appreciative nod) from fellow design geeks.
- Fun heavy metal font design for designers.
- This premium t-shirt is made of lightweight fine jersey fabric
- Fit: Men’s fit runs small, size up for a looser fit. Women’s fit is true to size, order usual size.
Socks With A Colour Wheel On It: For Stylish Feet
Who said socks have to be dull? Colour wheel socks are fun and serve as a subtle reminder of a designer’s knowledge of colour theory. It’s like having your little secret that only other designers can genuinely understand.
Tech Accessories: The Icing on the Cake
In design, perfection lies in details. And so does finding the right gift. Check out these tech accessories that will light up any designer’s workstation:
Logitech MX Master 3 — The Mouse That Roars
This is more than a mouse; it’s a precision instrument. With programmable buttons and an ergonomic shape that fits like a glove, the MX Master 3 is a Ferrari among computer mice. Your designer friend will never know how they survived without it.
- Ultra-fast magspeed scrolling – Remarkable speed, precision and quietness of electromagnetic scrolling with all new magspeed wheel – up to 90% faster, 87% more precise and ultra-quiet
Das Keyboard 4 Professional — For the Tactile Typist
For designers who appreciate life’s finer things, the Das Keyboard 4 Professional is heaven-sent. It's clicky mechanical switches and sleek design turn every keystroke into pure satisfaction. It would be like gifting a Steinway to a concert pianist – nothing but fingertip luxury.
- 4 PROFESSIONAL MECHANICAL KEYBOARD – The thinnest mechanical keyboard in the world! The combination of tactile feel, the psycho-acoustic experience and incredible craftsmanship all deliver an unmatched typing experience that only Das Keyboard 4 offers. With a Das Keyboard 4, you'll type faster and longer. It feels so good, you won't want to stop.
Eco-Friendly Gifts: For The Earth-Friendly Creative
Sustainability is fundamental in today’s world. Most creators want to reduce the effect their art has on the environment. Below are a few green gift ideas that will make your designer friend and Mother Earth happy.
Recycled Sketchbooks: Trash Turned Into Treasures
It’s somewhat poetic to create beautiful designs on paper made from trash. Not only do recycled sketchbooks provide an excellent surface for sketching and brainstorming, but they also remind people about the sustainable aspects of design.
- Great for use with pencil and suitable for charcoal and pastel
- Clean erasing and highly opaque in 9 x 12 inch size
- 100 sheets of 50 pound/74 grams acid free paper
- Superior construction and heavier weight cover materials than other value priced pads
- Excellent quality papers in generous pads offer exceptional value
Bamboo Tablet: A Natural Feel
Bamboo tablets offer an alternative to plastic-based options, which are more sustainable. These devices biodegrade, are renewable, and are just as useable as those not caring about ecology. It’s like giving them a piece of nature to work with.
Inspiration on the Go: What to Buy a Designer Who Loves to Travel
Designers love travelling, right? Many of them say they gain their inspiration from the environment around them. If you have a friend who loves graphic design and also happens to be an adventurer at heart – here are some gifts that will help them document their creative ideas wherever they are:
Moleskine Smart Writing Set: The best of both worlds
This set is genius. You write on paper with a pen, but it simultaneously digitises everything you’re writing down or sketching. In other words, It’s for those designers who like the tactile feel of putting pen to paper… but also need to keep everything in digital format. Think of it as your assistant that turns doodles into files.
- INCLUDES: Redesigned digital Smart Pen, Smart Notebook with N-coded paper, magnetic USB recharging cable, and 1 pen tip ink refill. Designed with N-Code technology, which allows the Smart Pen to capture each stroke and store a digital copy of your notes.
Moment Smartphone Lenses: Step up their mobile photography game
If your designer friend uses their phone as their primary camera (like most people do these days), then Moment lenses could seriously change their life. These aren’t cheap plastic add-ons either; they are high-quality lenses that attach directly to smartphones for wide-angle, macro, and telephoto shots, giving them a professional-grade camera in their pocket.
- PICK YOUR MOUNT INTERFACES: We have (2) different mount interfaces for Moment Lenses. T-Series is our latest interface and is larger on the bottom to support the latest camera phones. M-Series is our older interface and smaller in diameter, recommended for older camera phones.
Classes and Workshops: Investing in Skills
Gifts can be more than just objects. They could also be knowledge. If you want your designer co-worker or friend to keep doing well, here are a few educational presents:
Lifetime Learning Online Course Subscriptions
There are many courses available online that cover different areas of design, such as Skillshare and MasterClass. With an annual subscription, they will have access to the best classes taught by leaders in the industry. It’s like sending them to school but without any student loans!
Networking Opportunities through Design Conferences
Designers may also find Adobe MAX or AIGA Design Conference tickets beneficial since these events offer chances for learning new things, getting inspired and meeting other creative professionals worldwide in one place. Think of it as if you were giving them a passport, which allows entrance into the backstage area where all things related to design happen.
The Gift of Time: Tips to Be More Productive
In graphic design, time is money. Here are a few presents that may help designers maximise their productivity:
Focused Work Sessions — The Pomodoro Timer
Many designers believe in this time management technique. Shaped like a tomato (pomodoro in Italian), a physical Pomodoro timer looks cute on any desk and proves helpful. It’s as though you concentrated all your energy on one point and then wrapped it into an unusual gift.
- Super easy to use. Ticktime pomodoro timer clock offers a hassle-free experience with its 6 preset countdown times (3, 5, 10, 15, 25, and 30 minutes) activated by a simple flip. Plus, if you need a custom countdown, it's a breeze to set with just two buttons. Revolutionize your time management and ensure every minute is productive.
Creating a Bubble of Productivity — Noise-Cancelling Headphones
For people who work as designers in noisy places, noise-cancelling headphones can become their salvation. They block the sounds out (or let the music in if desired) so deep concentration becomes possible again –– just like having a personal studio for your friend wherever they are.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
Ergonomic Necessities: Comfort for Long Designing Sprees
Graphic design takes hours when sitting in front of a computer. Here are some presents that can help make these marathon sessions more comfortable:
Ergonomic Chair: Supportive Creative Posture
An ergonomic chair of high quality could change everything for a designer who spends all day at their desk. Look for one with adjustable lumbar support, armrests, and seat height. It’s as if you were giving them a comfortable throne from which they can rule their creative kingdom.
Standing Desk Converter: Flexibility in the Workspace
Standing desks are trendy right now, but they can be expensive. A standing desk converter is a cheaper alternative that sits on top of an existing desk, so designers can easily switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. It’s like giving better health and increased productivity all in one package.
The Ultimate Gift: Original Artwork
And if you want to blow them away, give them some art! Find a piece that speaks directly into their creative spirit or supports causes close to their hearts – it needn’t cost an arm and leg either; there are plenty of affordable prints available online, but trust me when I say no matter how much money you spend on this gift alone there’ll never be words enough (or dollars) in return for what such gesture would mean.
A Place for Ideas: Customised Notebook
Designers are known for having countless ideas – so why not provide somewhere for them all to go? A personalised notebook with their name or initials on the front cover not only lets everyone else know whose brainstorming sessions these pages contain but also acts as storage space when travelling between meetings; plus, let’s face it, stylish accessories like these make any outfit complete.
- Stylish Customizable Hardcover: Personalize the PU leather cover with your choice of text, logos, quote or designs. Whether for personal use or as a unique gift, the customization options make this notebook truly special.
Organisation in Style: Personalised Planner
Help keep your designer friend organised with his very own personal planner! Select one with plenty of room for jotting down thoughts and sketching out new designs or plans – maybe throw some important dates around certain career milestones, too, so that he knows somebody cares about his progress.
- Personalized Undated Daily Planner: Personalized Cover, our daily planner has no dates, schedule 6:00 am to 9:00 pm the next day, with a more detailed plan every hour.
When choosing gifts for designers, always remember to think outside boxes while looking inside closets – personality counts most!
Conclusion: Wrapping Up the Perfect Gift
Opting for the best gifts for a graphic designer is tricky. You can go with advanced technology, books that motivate you, or simply those little accessories often found on peoples’ desks but rarely used. Even personalised items are great options, provided they consider an individual designer's style, needs and interests.
The best present should demonstrate your understanding and value for their love for design. It doesn’t have to be the costliest; sometimes, a well-thought-out trinket related to design can be worth more than any expensive gadget.
Therefore, give freely, knowing your designer friend will recognise all efforts to select something that touches their creative spirit exactly. Moreover, this might even lead to getting some free designing work done — just joking! Always remember to pay fair wages when hiring friends involved in such ventures.
Enjoy giving out pixel-perfect gifts, like the designs which inspired them!
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions About Gifts for Graphic Designers
What affordable present could I get for a graphic designer?
A subscription to a design magazine or a set of good pencils is inexpensive and sure to be appreciated by any graphic designer.
Are there any gifts that are considered no-nos for graphic designers?
Avoid generic office supplies or cheap design tools. Clipart books and “design for dummies” type guides won’t be helpful to most professional designers either.
Should I choose a digital tablet or a traditional sketchbook?
Think about the designer’s working style. If they’re always on their computer, go with the digital tablet. If they like to start with paper and pencil, get them a nice sketchbook instead!
Can I give software as a gift?
Of course! Just ensure you know what software they already use so you don’t buy something they have. Both great options are a subscription to a new design tool or upgrading their existing software.
What do you give someone who seems like they have everything?
Consider experiential gifts such as tickets to design conferences, workshops, or museum memberships – these will provide inspiration and learning opportunities.
Is there such a thing as work-life balance for designers?
If so, how can it be encouraged through gifts? A: Yes! You can foster this by giving things like lovely plants for their workspace, subscriptions to meditation apps or even ergonomic office accessories.
What should I get somebody just starting in Graphic Design?
A comprehensive book on the subject would make an excellent choice – alternately, starter sets of different tools could be helpful too, along with subscriptions towards online learning platforms.
How do you find out what someone needs without asking them directly–and spoiling any potential surprise(s)?
By asking around amongst friends/colleagues within the industry, one could potentially uncover whether or not specific tools are lacking or if there might be some aspect of their current setup which could stand improvement.
Can any gift(s) help a freelance designer with their business?
Definitely! For instance, subscriptions towards invoicing software can come in handy, or even sessions with business coaches may benefit those looking to take things up a notch. Likewise, having access to high-quality webcams during client meetings would also be advantageous.
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
