Do you have a woodworker in your life? Don’t buy them another grooming kit, pair of gloves, or slippers for the holidays, instead buy them a Christmas gift they will actually appreciate!
Each year I put together a list of Christmas gift ideas for my fellow woodworkers…or rather, for those who are looking to buy them a gift for Christmas. If you need more inspiration than you find below, be sure to check out last year’s list.
#WOODWORKER t-shirt or sweatshirt
Who doesn’t need a new shirt? I mean, you gotta wear something, why not wear a shirt that shows your love for woodworking?
Check out this design. It features #WOODWORKER over the growth rings from an actual log. And it’s available in long sleeve, short sleeve, or as a sweatshirt. Just remember, get the right size. Oversized, loose clothing can be a hazard in the shop.
Bora Centipede collapsible work platforms
If you have a small shop, or your garage doubles as your shop, space is likely in short supply. These work tables collapse quickly and easily so you can store them in a corner when not in use. They are also available in various sizes, from 2’x4’ up to 4’x8’. Throw a piece of plywood or rigid foam on the top and you have a usable table for assembly, painting, layout, or whatever you need.
Heck, I’d get two of the 2’x4′ size so I can use them individually and together to make a larger surface.
iGaging OriginCal digital caliper
Sometimes you need more accuracy that a tape measure can give you. This is especially true when planing to thickness and working with precise joinery methods. A digital caliper can be an especially useful tool for measuring when absolute precision is needed. The iGaging OriginCal digital caliper comes in a variety of sizes and options, and in a price range that, while not the cheapest, is affordable even for the hobbyist.
Wixey Digital angle finder
I have been intrigued by these angle finders since I first encountered them. You can place it on your table saw top, zero it out, and then place it on your blade to find the angle. Wixey claims it is accurate to within .2 degrees, so be sure to measure your angle multiple ways before you commit. It is still more accurate than the analog gauge on most table saws.
WoodRiver wheel marking gauge
Marking gauges are perfect for making exact marks on multiple pieces. Once you set the distance that you need, simply lock it in and you can mark as many pieces as you need. They are great for laying out mortises and tenons as an example.
If you have never seen a wheel gauge in use, be sure to check out this video from Rob Cosman. He is the master of using these marking gauges.
My Therapist woodworking t-shirt
I have often said that woodworking is my therapy, well….there’s a shirt for that! I love the simplicity of this design as it brings back nostalgia for the old hand tools. You haven’t lived until you’ve taken a rough cut board and planed it down by hand…and then taken a hot bath in epsom salts because your muscles are so tired. Still, it’s good, hard work!
If you have any other Christmas gift ideas, be sure to leave them in the comments below!
