Maker is such a general term, but that is on purpose, because it means anyone who lives to make stuff. From textile based people (like me!) to 3D printing gurus, to wood workers, etc.
And in my experience, most of us are somewhat generalists. A lot of sewists also do yarnstuffs. A lot of people who laser cut also do woodwork. A lot of scrapbookers also do vinyl work, etc.
Like the term, this list is also somewhat vague, since I can’t guess what all makers might want to do or try out, but it will hopefully give you a jumping off point.
Sound good?
Gifts of Time
Offer to shop for material with them with no judgements allowed unless asked. Dream killers need not apply.
If the craft is something they typically do alone, offer to accompany them, whether that’s bringing your own project in the room to simply be a physical presence and an idea springboard, or if you ask for lessons/suggestions.
Gifts to Buy
Buy them some hardware or tools that could level up their skills with practice. For sewists that could be a serger or coverstitch, for woodworkers that could be a hand planar, etc. Asking them about their dream tools could lead to the perfect gifts!
Get them a kit for a new type of craft. I’ve personally tried basket weaving (underwater was not mandatory) and dyeing fabric, and growing plants. I made some awesome stuff, picked up one new hobby, and gained an appreciation for craftsmen who do it well.
Get them a spot in a local workshop. If they love quilting, but have never done a workshop, buy them a spot for the upcoming quilted tablerunner tutorial, etc. They can meet fellow makers, and hopefully learn something!
Anything you’d like to add? Let me know in the comments below!
Monday – Gifts for a New Sewist
Tuesday – Gifts for an Established Sewist
Wednesday – Gifts for a Yarn Crafter (ie Knitter or Crocheter)
Friday – Gifts to Make for Non-Crafty People (there’s always a few)