Stocking stuffers for designers: fun gifts they’ll love this Christmas

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for a graphic designer is like choosing the right font; it’s all about the details. Whether they’re obsessed with Pantone swatches, spend too much time debating why the ‘Avatar’ creators chose to use Papyrus, or get lost in the weird and wonderful world of AI, they all deserve something that captures their passion. That’s why we’ve wrapped up a list of 10 playful gifts that we think fellow graphic designers will love. Festive desk additions, downtime doodle aids, and home décor accessories – these ideas will bring a smile to even the biggest Scrooge.

1. Anything Pantone

Pantone is a firm favourite brand for any creative! Now they can start each day with their favourite colour and keep it on theme with their workspace. Copenhagen Design holds one of the most expansive selections of Pantone dipped gift ideas – we particularly like their coloured hip flasks to top up with your favourite festive tipple.

2. Detailed Design Deck

Made by Etsy Shop KnowhowDesigns, the Design Desk is a unique, fun and informative gift for any graphic designer.  Beautifully designed – as you would expect – each of the 52 card faces hold a titbit of information about graphic design. Varying from historical facts to typography and colour theory, the cards act as a practical guide to top up that knowledge, whilst playing post-Christmas dinner card games. We all know Monopoly never ends well…

3. A Tongue in Cheek Note Pad

If your graphic designer friends are anything like our team, notes, scribbles and doodles cover the pages of more loose bits of paper than we can count! The go to style for a new notebook could be leather bound and embossed, but why go for tradition? The selection from WTF Notebooks covers just about every sarcastic title you could need. Guaranteed to bring a smile whenever they use it. Maybe avoid using some of them in meetings though…

4. A Candle to Help Unwind

A candle might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a graphic designer but hear us out. After all, designing takes focus, creativity, and sometimes a little stress relief is exactly what they need to unwind. These perfectly themed scented candles from Etsy shop CeraWicks will turn their home, or workspace, into a calm haven. Bonus points if you pick one of the graphic designer themes ones.

5. 2025 Typography Calendar

The 2025 Typodarium calendaris the daily dose of inspiration for any type-obsessed graphic designer. Each day unveils a fresh typeface, showcasing unique designs from quirky to classic. It’s almost like a mini typography masterclass that sits right on their desk. Plus, tearing off each page feels oddly satisfying. Think of it as the designer’s version of an advent calendar (chocolate not included unfortunately).

6. Some Revealing Reads

Books are always a failsafe gift, whether fact, fiction or ones that are just nice to look at. For graphic designers they can offer inspiration and insight which can be looked at again and again. The History of Graphic Design by Jens Müller and Julius Wiedemann is a thoughtfully curated journey through evolution of design. It’s perfect for those who love learning how graphic design begun. Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon is fun, motivational and packed with tips on reviving creativity to find fresh ideas. Finally, Now You See It and Other Essays on Design by Michael Bierut combines sharp, interesting takes on how design influences everything around us.

7. Creativity for Outside the Office

Creativity outside of the office can often be overlooked when it’s what your 9-5 is based around. Gifts like One Sketch a Day diaries are thoughtful Christmas gifts that remind graphic designers where their love for design came from. Interactive gifts offer an outlet for when creativity strikes without a brief or client deadline in sight. These tools are perfect for capturing ideas on the go or adding a touch of fun to their daily routine. Or to write down the big food shop list when you can’t find a notepad, we won’t judge.

8. Loud and Clear Desk Name

A personalised desk name block may seem a bit boring; why do we want to unwrap work gifts at Christmas? But this one is that little bit different especially for graphic designers. After all it combines function with a creative flair. Not only does it add a little bit of style to their workspace, but it also showcases their personality and profession in one. It’s a gift that’s sure to stand out, just like their designs.

9. Games to Test Brand Knowledge

Although you’d think they’d be targeted to quite a niche audience, the Drumond Park LOGO games are hugely popular in the board game world. They also make great Christmas gifts for graphic designers, blending fun and creativity. By testing your knowledge of iconic logos and branding, they’re a light-hearted challenge that’s perfect for family or friend get togethers. Plus, when you win a game based on your passion, you’re allowed to be a little bit smug.

10. A Precise Puzzle

Now this gift could either be seen a kind or cruel, depending on how patient the recipient is. The 2000-piece gradient puzzle is a Christmas challenge for graphic designers and artists. What better way to put their keen eye for detail to the test? With subtle colour transitions, the puzzle needs razor sharp focus on the finer points of design. It’s a relaxing (though maybe a little frustrating) gift that still gives a nod to their artistic flair.