The Best Gifts for DIYers (They’re Not Tools)
For those just starting out on their DIY journey, or for those who already seem to have just about every tool you could think of, choosing tools to gift can be difficult. But the DIY community isn’t just about tools: Makers can use other things besides glue guns and 3D printers to hone their craft. There are plenty of non-tool related gifts that will appeal to everyone, from beginners to DIYers.
Books
Books by DIYers, experts on a particular topic, or personal stories related to a specific DIY topic may be good options. Here are some of my favorites:
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For the renter in your life who wants to become more comfortable, Safe and Sound: A Renters’ Guide to Home Renovation by Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) is the perfect gift. Her focus on empowering everyday people to tackle all maintenance tasks with confidence is peppered with both practical advice and advice on how to overcome your concerns about maintenance needs.
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For woodworkers, Paul N. Hasluck’s book Working with Hand Tools: Basic Woodworking Techniques is a guide to traditional hand tools and woodworking techniques. The book not only introduces readers to tools, but also contains project guides and inspiration for shop setups, including workbenches and clamps that can be made by hand.
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For gardeners, Marcus Bridgewater’s How to Grow: Nurture Your Garden, Nurture Yourself is more than just a treasure trove of gardening wisdom; it is also a calming and inspiring journey filled with interesting personal stories. His book is a must read for anyone who gardens to improve their mental and physical health.
Classes and seminars
Classes and workshops are another great gift for your favorite DIY enthusiast, but matching the class to the skill level and special interests of the recipient is key.
When it comes to online classes , Udemy offers a variety of woodworking and home renovation courses. But for many manufacturers, in-person classes tend to be more satisfying because the materials and tools will be prepared by the instructor, and there will likely be a work station set up for the desired project. These types of classes can be found at local colleges, libraries, workshops, and sometimes private programs run by shops or studios. The nice thing is that this gift of a lesson provides an opportunity for a new DIYer or DIYer to build a community as well as receive instruction.
Creator Membership
A workshop membership for your favorite DIYer who may not have room for a garage or basement shop is a really nice gift. Maker spaces often include access to not only space, but also some tools, so for those who either want to expand their skills, or for those who are new and need to try out different techniques or projects, a maker space may be just right fits. These memberships can range from a $10 day pass to $600 per month, depending on the premises and location, but many tend to cost between $35 and $60 per month.
Tool Library Membership
Another membership you might consider for those who are new homeowners or just getting into gardening or DIY is a Tool Library membership. While some tool libraries are free, others charge an annual fee for access to tools, equipment, and other materials. Memberships can range from $10 to $100 per year, and they often offer repair and maintenance classes as well. They are also a great resource for getting involved in your local community of tinkerers and tinkerers.
Software Subscriptions
Craftsmen, from beginners to experts, often use planning software to design and sketch their projects. This software can also be used to ensure that objects will fit where you plan to place them, as well as to try out layouts and designs before construction begins. While there are several free apps available for this purpose, access to more advanced features can make the software easier to use.
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Sketchup is a 3D rendering program that can be used to draw all the parts and components of a design to scale.
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Realtime Landscaping Pro is another option used primarily for outdoor spaces. This software will allow your favorite gardener to design and visualize plants, decks, sprinkler placements, and even holiday displays using photographs of your home’s exterior to bring it to life.
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For creating detailed diagrams and layouts for more complex projects, Autodesk makes a handy gift for a carpenter, designer or builder. Various packages range from $100 to over $4,000 per year, but the most common DIY tools will cost between $100 and $600 per year.