Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who loves learning about traditional woodworking techniques, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that would surely enhance their passion for this craft. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Woodworking Books: Consider gifting your friend a collection of books written by renowned woodworkers and craftsmen. Look for titles that delve into traditional woodworking techniques, such as "The Essential Woodworker" by Robert Wearing or "With the Grain: A Craftsman’s Guide to Understanding Wood" by Christian Becksvoort. These books not only provide valuable knowledge but also serve as a source of inspiration.

2. Hand Tools: Traditional woodworking often relies on hand tools for precision and creativity. Look for high-quality hand tools such as a chisel set, specialized carving tools, or a Japanese hand saw. These tools will allow your friend to work on their projects with traditional methods and enhance their woodworking skills.

3. Woodworking Classes: Consider gifting your friend the opportunity to attend woodworking classes or workshops. Look for local community colleges, craft schools, or even private instructors who offer hands-on classes in traditional woodworking techniques. This gift will provide your friend with the chance to learn from experienced woodworkers, expand their knowledge, and gain practical skills.

4. Subscription to Woodworking Magazines or Membership to a Woodworker's Association: A subscription to magazines like "Fine Woodworking" or "Woodworker's Journal" will keep your friend updated on the latest techniques, projects, and trends in the woodworking world. Alternatively, you can gift your friend a membership to a woodworking association, such as the Society of American Period Furniture Makers (SAPFM) or the Woodworker's Guild of America. These memberships often provide access to online resources, workshops, and networking opportunities with fellow woodworkers.

5. Custom-Made Tool Cabinet or Workbench: If you are searching for a more substantial and personalized gift, consider commissioning or building a custom-made tool cabinet or workbench for your friend. These pieces of furniture are essential for any woodworker and having one specifically tailored to their needs and preferences would be a cherished and practical gift.

6. Wood Species Sample Set: Woodworkers often love exploring different types of wood and their unique characteristics. Consider putting together a wood species sample set that includes small pieces of various types of wood. Label each piece with its name, characteristics, and usage, providing your friend with a tangible and informative resource for their projects.

Ultimately, the perfect gift for your friend who enjoys traditional woodworking techniques will depend on their level of experience and specific interests. Whatever you decide to give, make sure it aligns with their passion and helps them further develop their woodworking skills.

Or you can get her/him a star map with the date when she/he was born.

Alice Dickinson says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I made a map for my mums birthday and she absolutely loved it. Definitely buying another one soon, probably for another family member or friend”