Gifts for a Tailor: A Curated Selection (Because Why Not?)
It happens every year. Birthdays, holidays, or just random “I forgot to get you something” occasions pop up, and you find yourself staring into the abyss of gift ideas, desperately seeking something that won’t get you side-eyed by the person you’re gifting to. If you happen to have a tailor in your life, you might feel that special kind of anxiety. What on earth do you get someone who literally shapes fabric into form? Apparently, not many people are equipped to answer that question, so here we are. Below is a list of gifts specifically for tailors because, let’s face it, they deserve something.
1. Quality Sewing Scissors
Sure, you can grab a pair of scissors at the drugstore, but let’s not kid ourselves here—these are professionals. They deserve a proper pair of sewing scissors. High-quality, sharp, and ergonomically designed, sewing scissors can make a tailor’s life a tad bit easier, or at least it can help them cut fabric with a little more flair. Look for brands known for their craftsmanship (because apparently that matters), and you could get lucky and win a few points for thoughtfulness.
2. Tailor’s Chalk or Marking Tools
It’s chalk—revolutionary, I know. But here’s the thing: Tailors use chalk and other fabric marking tools to make their work precise. It’s not just an ordinary white chalk stick like the ones you remember from school; they have all sorts of options like gel pens and disappearing ink. If you really want to wow them (because apparently people are wowed by such things), you can even grab a whole set with various colors. How exciting.
3. Measuring Tape
Yes, it’s the super handy tape measure that expands and retracts, but somehow, it can be an unexpected gift. The accuracy makes the job easier, and let’s be real, who couldn’t use another measuring tape floating around the house? A flexible, quality measuring tape can be a thoughtful gesture—or at least a functional one.
4. Tailor’s Ham
This one is a little out in left field. If you don’t know what a tailor’s ham is, you’re not alone. A ham, in the tailoring sense, is a cushion used for pressing rounded areas of garment fabric. It’s like a little foam pillow but for sewing. If your tailor fancies themselves a real artist (and many do) then they’ll appreciate having their very own tailor’s ham. Besides, if nothing else, it’ll at least take up space on their workstation.
5. Fabric Steamer
If a tailor is still using an iron, bless their heart. Maybe it’s because they’re used to the aesthetic, or perhaps they genuinely don’t know that fabric steamers exist. A compact, handheld fabric steamer could be a game-changer—or not. Either way, it doubles as a fancy device for those who have yet to discover the joys of wrinkle-free clothing. While you’re at it, throw in a bottle of scented water, because why not elevate the mundane?
6. Sewing Machine Presser Feet Set
For the tailor truly dedicated to their craft, a set of presser feet is an absolute wonder. There are various presser feet for a multitude of techniques (how exciting, right?). A walking foot? A zipper foot? Fabulous, hopefully, they’ll be used to take the tailor’s skills to the next level. Or it could all end up languishing in a drawer somewhere. Either way, it’s a gift.
7. Fabric Swatches
Tailors work with fabric all day. Is it so out of left field to consider gifting them some high-quality fabric swatches? If they haven’t already developed a fabric hoarding problem, this might just be the perfect kickstarter. Sure, it might be considered rude to gloat about how lovely the fabric would be as a jacket, but you’ll find the right moment.
8. Thread Organizer
They probably have one of these already, but if you want to be the one to break the mundane routine of their life, a thread organizer simplifies things. Color-coded, compact, and possibly even serrated—they’re the organizers of a tailor’s dreams. If you’re feeling especially generous, you could throw in some thread. Who doesn’t love more thread?
9. Sewing Book or Guide
There are endless options here, from comprehensive guides to whimsical sewing adventures. If you can’t find a niche sewing book that suits your specific tailor, pick a classic and call it a day. “The Sewing Book” by Alison Smith is one example. If your tailor enjoys reading about sewing techniques and sewing as an art, then you might just have smashed it out of the park without even trying.
10. Sketchbook and Pencils
Much like fabric swatches, a crafting or sketchbook is going to inspire their creative edge, right? You know, for when they’re not busy sewing garments? Maybe they doodle and design sketches of their next masterpiece. The world is their canvas—so why not provide them with the means to sketch it out? Not that there isn’t paper lying around, but still, having a designated sketchbook is all the rage.
11. Ironing Board Cover
Okay, this might not be on many gift lists, but for a tailor, an upgraded ironing board cover might just bring them joy. The usual wrinkled covers are pretty soul-sucking. Just think about it—a new ironing board cover that’s padded, colorful, and not a bland, grimy piece of fabric? It’s functional and it’s nice to look at. If you can find one with a fun design, that’s a definite plus.
12. Subscription to a Sewing Magazine
Gifts that keep giving are always a solid choice. A subscription to a sewing magazine will undoubtedly keep that tailor in your life updated with trends, tips, and maybe the next great sewing project they’ll never get to. Popular options might include “Sew News” or “The Knitter.” If your tailor is truly committed to their craft, why not indulge them with a magazine subscription?
13. An Experience Class
If you really want to get over the top with your gifting, consider signing them up for a craft or sewing class. Maybe they want to learn a new technique or just get away for a day. Either way, it’s an experience, and who doesn’t love an experience? Just remember to keep things stress-free; the last thing anyone needs is to worry about travel logistics or scheduling conflicts.
14. Personalized Sewing Labels
Everyone likes customized items, even tailors. Personalized sewing labels can add a nice touch to their finished garments. A simple label stating “handmade by…” followed by their name or brand can add a hint of professionalism to their work. It’s simple, it’s thoughtful, and it might even make them feel a bit special.
15. Gift Card to their Favorite Fabric Store
When in doubt, always go for the gift card. Especially at a fabric store. That way, you avoid the stress of not knowing what they already own or what they want. A gift card gives your tailor full range to choose what they need, be it fabric or tools. Who can argue with that?
Conclusion: Just Give Them Something
At the end of the day, the reality is that whatever you give a tailor may ultimately end up in the pile of miscellaneous gifts, but at least you tried. Gifts don’t have to be extraordinary—they just have to exist. Each of these suggestions, while perhaps bordering on the mundane, offers the possibility of making a tailor’s life a bit easier or more enjoyable. So whether you opt for a high-end pair of sewing scissors or settle for a gift card, at least know that the effort counts, even if it doesn’t feel like it.
In a world filled with endless gift options, having a specific focus—like tailoring—can be both a blessing and a burden. So just pick something. Anything. No need to overthink it. After all, the joy is in the giving, or at least that’s what they say.