16 unexpected gifts for writers, from creative prompts to an encouraging mug
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- Writers are some of the most creative people, so finding a unique gift can be tough.
- We put together 16 gifts for writers that are clever and motivating, from journals to fun mugs.
- Still looking for a gift? Check out our list of the All-Time Best products we've ever tested.
It's nearly impossible to get through the day without writing. From professional authors to grocery list creators, we all rely on writing to bring the thoughts inside our heads into action.
If there's a writer in your life, they'd almost certainly appreciate a gift that lets them fuel their favorite hobby. No matter their process or interest, these gifts for writers are sure to please even the pickiest wordsmiths.
16 unique gifts for writers that will spark their creativity
A stack of creativity cards when they're stuck
Writer Emergency Pack, $15.99, available at Amazon
Underdeveloped characters? Painful plot points? Just plain writer's block? Whatever their sticking point is, these creativity cards can help them push past it.
A candle that evokes the smell of books
Book Club Homesick Candle, from $34, available at Amazon and Homesick
A writer's environment has the power to completely shape what they're creating. Help them get into their best headspace with scents reminiscent of the smell of old books.
A memoir by one of the all-best best writers
"On Writing" by Stephen King, from $12.99, available at Amazon and Bookshop
Give them a sneak peek into legendary horror author Stephen King's writing process in this memoir-lecture hybrid of a story. If they're a fan of Stephen King's work, you can pair this with one of his bestselling books.
Non-prescription glasses that help with eye strain
Bluelight Glasses (no prescription), from $9.95, available at Zenni
Staring at the computer all day isn't the best for their eyes or their brain, but blue-light-blocking glasses provide a healthier approach to screen time.
A subtle nod to their greatest passion
Typewriter Key Necklace, $70, available at Uncommon Goods
This subtle and sweet necklace will provide them with a more understated way to show their love for writing. Even for non-writers, this personalized initial necklace is a great and simple option to elevate nearly any look.
A monthly book subscription
Book of the Month Membership, from $49.99, available at Book of the Month
The best writers are often the best readers, and if their reading list is ever-growing, they'll appreciate you effectively gifting them a library at their doorstep. Book of the Month takes much of the decision fatigue out of book shopping, giving them a small but diverse selection of books to select from each month. You can read more about the subscription service here.
A paper-saving way to organize
U Brands Magnetic Dry Erase Calendar Board, $9.96, available at Walmart
Juggling multiple projects can be difficult without staying organized. This whiteboard is divided up into a monthly calendar and blank notes section, so they can keep track of upcoming tasks while keeping a zoomed-out look of what's on the horizon. I've owned a version of this whiteboard for over a year and it's definitely helped with organization and time management.
A comfy seat wherever they go
Seat Cushion, $35, available at Purple
This portable seat cushion will help them find a comfortable place to write wherever they go. Gone are the days of stiff coffee shop stools and worn-in library seats.
A journal filled with creative prompts
Piccadilly 300 Writing Prompts Journal, $7.32, available at Walmart
Journaling is an excellent way to make sense of overwhelming thoughts — and journals specifically designed with writing prompts can serve the same purpose for authors. This one has 300 prompts that focus more on fostering creativity than specific writing skills.
A mug that always reminds them of their mission
Future Bestselling Author Mug, $14.99, available at Etsy
Set the tone for their day of writing by reminding them of their purpose before they finish their morning coffee. Plus, you can personalize it by adding their name on the back for no extra charge.
A fun story creation game
The Storymatic Classic, $29.95, available at Amazon
Help them to create a story from scratch with this set of over 500 cards that will practically do the work for them. Great for non-writers and writers alike, this is also a great gift for game night or the next dinner party.
A planner focused self-care
Kick Today in the Butt Planner, $25 available at Dash of Pep
This planner can keep them on track with an extra dose of compassion. It's dateless for customization, helps organize tasks by priority, and has built-in prompts specifically with self-care in mind.
A gift card to their favorite music streaming service
Send them a gift card to Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music Unlimited
Everyone focuses differently: Some need to dive deep into their favorite podcast, others just need any kind of background music, and some need a welcome distraction after writing in silence. Whatever their taste, they're likely to appreciate a gift from their favorite music streaming service.
A set of funny writing pencils
Writing Pencil Gift Set, from $9.69 available at Etsy
For writers that prefer a notebook and pencil to a computer, these pencils come with humorous and inspiring phrases that will keep them going. You can purchase this in a bundle with a notebook or as the pencils alone.
A library of their own
Knock Knock Personal Library Kit, $21.58 available at Amazon
Writers are readers — and whether they're sharing drafts of their own work or lending out their favorite book, this library kit is a cute, custom way for them to keep track of all of their shared stories. Much like a real library, it includes adhesive book pockets, checkout cards, a date stamp, and a pencil.
A humorous wink to writer's block
Writer's Block, $22.50, available at Etsy
This wooden writer's block brings an element of silliness to a typically frustrating process. Writer's block can be challenging to break through, but at the very least, they'll be able to think of you each time they get stuck.
Emily Hein Associate Editor, Health Emily is an Associate Editor for the Health team within the Service Journalism division of Insider. She and her team provide digestible, actionable advice for readers' most pressing health questions. She has a particular passion for mental health advocacy, which has led her to pursue a Master of Social Work degree at NYU (expected 2024).Emily joined Insider back in 2019 as a Story Production fellow, later growing into a Senior Story Producer role. Her years of experience formatting and optimizing stories in Insider's CMS have provided her with a unique perspective on the editorial process, shaping her thoughtfulness as an editor. Prior to Insider, Emily graduated from the University of Michigan, where she studied communications and English. Read more Read lessncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o8HSoqWeq6Oeu7S1w56pZ5ufonyowcidnKxnnJqus7rIp55on5mbwbR5xaipZq%2BinsGmvtI%3D