Five Star Gift Ideas

For a son who has a passion for graphic design, it's wonderful to see their creative side flourish. As you search for a meaningful Christmas gift that will both inspire and support their passion, consider these ideas:

1. Premium Graphic Design Software: Investing in professional-grade design software like Adobe Creative Cloud (which includes programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign) will provide your son with a powerful set of tools to enhance his creativity and skills.

2. Design Books: Graphic design books can be a great source of inspiration and knowledge. Look for titles that focus on design principles, typography, color theory, or specific areas of interest within graphic design. "The Elements of Typographic Style" by Robert Bringhurst or "Grid Systems in Graphic Design" by Josef Müller-Brockmann are two highly regarded choices.

3. Online Courses or Workshops: Consider gifting your son an enrollment or subscription to an online design course or workshop. Websites like Udemy, Skillshare, or CreativeLive offer a wide range of design courses taught by industry experts. This gift will not only expand his knowledge but also provide him with opportunities to learn new techniques and connect with other designers.

4. High-Quality Sketchbook: A sketchbook is the perfect canvas for your son to brainstorm ideas and sketch out designs. Look for a sketchbook specifically designed for artists and designers, with features like heavy-weight paper, a durable cover, and a lay-flat binding.

5. Graphic Design Tools: Enhance your son's design process by gifting him tools specific to his craft. For example, a digital drawing tablet like the Wacom Intuos Pro can greatly improve precision and control when working on digital designs. Alternatively, consider a quality set of graphic design markers or pens.

6. Design-Inspired Prints or Posters: Add inspiration to your son's workspace or room by gifting him some design-inspired prints or posters. You could choose iconic designs or artwork from famous designers or illustrators that he admires.

7. Subscription to a Design Magazine: A subscription to a design magazine like Communication Arts or Print can keep your son up-to-date with the latest trends and showcase the work of talented designers from around the world.

8. Design Tools and Accessories: Consider practical design tools, such as a set of Pantone color guides or a design ruler set. These tools can be both functional and visually appealing, making them a great addition to any designer's toolkit.

9. Customized Business Cards: Help your son establish a professional presence by designing a set of customized business cards. They can be a great networking tool and showcase his design skills at the same time.

10. Design Museums or Exhibitions: Arrange a visit to a local design museum or upcoming design exhibition. Exposing your son to different design styles and periods can spark his creative thinking and provide further inspiration.

Remember, the most valuable gift you can give your son is your support and encouragement. Show interest in his work, ask about his projects, and be his number one cheerleader as he continues to grow as a graphic designer.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”