Holiday Gift Guide
Gifts for the makers, tinkerers, security-minded and small builders in your life. Every item is a placeholder until I’ve picked the exact product — the categories are the point for now.
For the maker
Digital calipers
The fastest way to stop guessing at dimensions — useful for 3D printing, woodworking and repairs alike.
Temperature-controlled soldering station
A controlled tip temperature makes learning to solder far less frustrating than a basic iron.
PLA filament sampler
Several colours to experiment with before committing to a full spool.
For the security-minded
FIDO2 hardware security key
Phishing-resistant two-factor sign-in for the accounts that matter most. Buy two: one spare.
Slide-on webcam covers
Cheap, simple, and a good conversation-starter about privacy.
For kids who build
Microcontroller starter kit
Lights, buttons and sensors — a good first step into electronics with an adult nearby.
Kids’ safety glasses
The first thing on any young maker’s bench.
For the home-trades DIYer
Non-contact voltage tester
A quick check before touching a circuit. (Still turn off the breaker.)
Label maker
Breaker panels, cable bins, shop drawers: future-you will be grateful.
Want something made by hand instead? The shop has field guides and project kits, packed in the workshop.
Some links on this page are affiliate links, including Amazon links: if you buy through them I may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I only list gear I would put on my own bench.