Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who loves bookbinding and book arts, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that you can consider. These gifts will not only enhance their passion for this art form but also provide them with tools and materials to further explore their creativity. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Bookbinding Kit: Gift them a comprehensive bookbinding kit that includes all the essential tools and materials required to create beautiful hand-bound books. Look for a kit that includes different types of paper, binding needles, thread, bone folder, and awl. This will allow your friend to experiment with various techniques and styles.

2. Specialized Bookbinding Tools: Consider purchasing some unique and specialized tools that your friend may not already have. For example, a brass edge ruler, bookbinding glue brush, corner cutting tool, or a Japanese screw punch. These tools will not only enhance their bookbinding skills but also allow them to create professional-looking books.

3. Handmade Paper: High-quality paper is essential for bookbinding, so consider surprising your friend with a selection of handmade paper. Look for different textures, colors, and weights that can be used for different book projects. They will appreciate having a variety of papers to choose from when creating their masterpieces.

4. Bookbinding Workshops: Check if there are any local bookbinding workshops or classes in your area and gift your friend a spot. This will give them the opportunity to learn new techniques, connect with other bookbinding enthusiasts, and gain inspiration for their own projects. It's a gift of knowledge and experience that they will cherish for a long time.

5. Bookbinding Reference Books: Expand your friend's bookbinding library by gifting them some reference books that provide in-depth knowledge and inspiration. Look for books that cover a wide range of techniques, styles, and historical aspects of bookbinding. Some popular titles include "The Art of Bookbinding" by Joseph W. Zaehnsdorf and "Non-Adhesive Binding: Books Without Paste or Glue" by Keith A. Smith.

6. Custom Bookplate or Ex Libris Stamp: A personalized bookplate or ex libris stamp is a thoughtful and unique gift for book lovers. Work with a local artist or find a website that specializes in custom stamps to create a design that reflects your friend's personality and love for bookbinding. They can use it to mark their completed projects or to add a personal touch to their personal library.

Remember, the most meaningful gifts are often those that show you have put thought and effort into understanding your friend's interests. With these gift ideas, you will surely delight your bookbinding enthusiast friend and support them in their artistic journey.

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

Nick Wiers says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“My wife loved the picture she was so overjoyed with it. She said it was the best guide gift she has ever got.”