Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who has a passion for letterpress printing and bookbinding, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas you can consider. These gifts will not only show your support for his interests but also allow him to further explore and enhance his skills in these crafts.

1. Letterpress Starter Kit: Consider getting him a letterpress starter kit that includes all the essential tools and materials required for letterpress printing. This could include a small tabletop letterpress, type blocks, ink, and paper. Such a kit will give him the opportunity to experiment and create his own unique designs.

2. Bookbinding Workshop: Look for local workshops or classes that offer bookbinding lessons. This hands-on experience will provide him with the opportunity to learn new techniques and collaborate with other enthusiasts. Additionally, this could serve as a great bonding experience if you join him in the workshop.

3. Specialized Bookbinding Tools: Enhance his collection of bookbinding tools with some specialized items. For example, you could gift him a bone folder, awl, bookbinding needles, or a bookbinding press. These tools will be invaluable for his bookbinding projects and help him achieve professional-looking results.

4. Antique Letterpress Items: If your son appreciates the history and charm of letterpress printing, consider gifting him antique letterpress items. This could be a vintage type block, a letterpress plate, or an old letterpress machine. These unique and nostalgic pieces will add character to his collection and allow him to create designs with a vintage touch.

5. Bookbinding Books and Resources: Help your son expand his knowledge by gifting him books and resources on letterpress printing and bookbinding. Look for titles that offer in-depth tutorials and inspiration for his craft. Some popular books in this category include "The Art of Letterpress Printing: A Beginner's Guide" by Gerald Lange and "Bookbinding: A Comprehensive Guide to Folding, Sewing, and Binding" by Franz Zeier.

6. Customized Stationery or Journals: Showcase his love for letterpress and bookbinding by ordering customized stationery or journals. Look for local artisans or online shops that offer letterpress printing services. You can personalize the items with his name, initials, or a special message. This way, he can proudly use his own creations or gift them to others.

7. Museum or Gallery Membership: Consider purchasing a membership to a museum or gallery that showcases letterpress printing or bookbinding exhibits. This will provide him with ongoing inspiration and the opportunity to attend workshops and events related to his interests.

Remember, the most important aspect of gift-giving is to show your support and appreciation for his passions. By selecting a gift that aligns with his interests in letterpress printing and bookbinding, you are giving him a thoughtful and meaningful present that he will cherish for years to come.

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.”