Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who enjoys calligraphy and hand-lettering, there are numerous thoughtful gift options that can help him further enhance his skills and creativity. Here are some ideas that can make his Christmas extra special:

1. Quality Calligraphy Set: Surprise him with a high-quality, comprehensive calligraphy set that includes different types of nibs, ink, and a well-crafted pen holder. This will allow him to experiment with different styles, widths, and techniques in his lettering.

2. Calligraphy Books: There are a plethora of instructional books available on calligraphy and hand-lettering for all skill levels. Look for books that cover various scripts, offer step-by-step tutorials, and provide tips to refine his technique. "The ABC of Custom Lettering" by Ivan Castro and "Modern Calligraphy" by Molly Suber Thorpe are two popular choices.

3. Online Calligraphy Course: Enroll him in an online calligraphy course or membership to a calligraphy learning platform. This will provide him with structured lessons, video tutorials, and access to an online community of fellow calligraphy enthusiasts, where he can share his progress and receive feedback.

4. Personalized Calligraphy Practice Paper: Consider ordering custom-made practice paper with guidelines featuring his name or initials. This will add a special touch to his practice sessions and make the experience more enjoyable.

5. Calligraphy Workshops: Research local workshops or events that offer calligraphy classes. Gifting him tickets to attend a workshop taught by a professional calligrapher will provide him with hands-on learning, exposure to new techniques, and an opportunity to network with other artists.

6. Specialty Inks and Paper: Explore a wide range of calligraphy inks and specialty papers. Experimenting with different colors and textures can add variety to his work and inspire new creative ideas. Look for specialty papers like vellum or handmade paper that give a distinctive feel to his calligraphy.

7. Personalized Calligraphy Portfolio: Encourage your son to showcase his best works in a personalized calligraphy portfolio. This could be a professional-looking binder or folio engraved with his name or a custom-designed logo. It will not only keep his work organized and protected but also make a lasting impression when presenting his lettering samples to potential clients or for personal reference.

8. Subscription to a Calligraphy Magazine: Subscribe him to a calligraphy magazine that features articles, tutorials, and inspiration from renowned calligraphers worldwide. This will keep him up-to-date with new trends, introduce him to different styles, and provide a regular dose of calligraphy inspiration.

Remember, finding meaningful gifts for someone who is passionate about calligraphy requires considering their specific interests and needs. So, take into account your son's skill level, preferred calligraphy style, and any specific tools or materials he might need, and tailor the gift accordingly. The goal is to support his passion and help him continue to grow as an artist.

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.”