When shopping for a birthday gift for a student who aspires to be a designer, it’s important to choose presents that inspire creativity, support their studies, and reflect their passion for design. Whether they are studying graphic design, industrial design, or architecture, the right gift can be both practical and motivating. Below, we’ve curated 16 great birthday gift ideas for students who want to become designers, with a focus on diversity and personalization.
16 Great Birthday Gifts for Students Who Want to Be Designers
1. Digital Drawing Tablet
A digital drawing tablet is an essential tool for any aspiring designer, particularly those interested in graphic or product design. This device allows students to create digital sketches, designs, and illustrations more efficiently than with traditional methods.
Why It’s Suitable: It enables students to practice their design skills digitally, which is an essential part of modern design careers. Digital tablets like the Wacom Intuos Pro or the Huion Kamvas are perfect for students who want to expand their design skills beyond paper.
2. Personalized Sketchbook
A high-quality sketchbook is always a thoughtful gift for a design student. Opt for one that is personalized with their name or initials on the cover. This adds a personal touch while ensuring they have a dedicated space for brainstorming and sketching out their ideas.
Why It’s Suitable: Designers need a sketchbook to capture inspiration and experiment with their ideas. A personalized sketchbook makes the experience even more meaningful, and its portability allows them to sketch anytime, anywhere.
3. Design Books or Coffee Table Books
For students looking to immerse themselves in the world of design, a well-curated design book can offer valuable insight. Choose books that focus on design theory, the history of design, or famous designers and their works.
Why It’s Suitable: These books will not only educate and inspire the student, but they also serve as a decorative piece for their workspace or dorm. Titles like “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon or “The Design of Everyday Things” by Don Norman are great options.
4. Personalized Portfolio Case
A portfolio case is a must-have for any design student, particularly as they begin building their professional portfolio. Opt for one that is personalized, which adds a unique touch and helps the student stand out when presenting their work.
Why It’s Suitable: A portfolio case is practical for organizing design projects and ensuring that presentations remain polished and professional. It can also be used to store artwork, sketches, and project drafts.
5. 3D Printer
If your student is into product or industrial design, a 3D printer can be an excellent gift. It allows them to bring their concepts to life, creating prototypes and models that reflect their creative visions.
Why It’s Suitable: A 3D printer provides endless possibilities for hands-on design work and helps students visualize their concepts in three dimensions. It’s a game-changer for students involved in product design or architectural design.
6. High-Quality Markers and Art Supplies
Design students often need various tools for sketching and illustrating their ideas. A set of high-quality markers, pencils, or paints can elevate their design work and enhance their creativity.
Why It’s Suitable: High-quality art supplies help students create clean, vibrant designs, which is essential for presentations and projects. Personalized sets of markers, colored pencils, or brushes are perfect for those looking to explore different techniques.
7. Online Course Subscription
If your student wants to deepen their design skills, an online course subscription like Skillshare or Udemy can provide access to hundreds of design tutorials and classes. These courses cover a wide range of design disciplines, from graphic design to interior design.
Why It’s Suitable: Online courses provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace. They can explore various design techniques, software tutorials, and industry trends, which will help them stay ahead in their field.
8. Ergonomic Chair
Long hours at a desk can be hard on a student’s posture. An ergonomic chair that provides comfort and support is an ideal gift for any designer who spends a lot of time working on their computer or sketching.
Why It’s Suitable: An ergonomic chair helps prevent back pain and supports good posture, which is essential for students who spend hours working on their design projects. It enhances their focus and overall well-being during study sessions.
9. Design Software Subscription
Many design students use specialized software to complete their projects. A subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud, which includes tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, can be invaluable to any aspiring designer.
Why It’s Suitable: These programs are industry-standard in many design fields, making them essential for students to learn and master. A subscription ensures that they have access to the best design tools as they build their skill set.
10. Personalized Tote Bag
A stylish, personalized tote bag is a great gift for design students who need to carry their sketchbooks, laptops, and other essentials. Choose a bag with a unique design that reflects their personal style and passion for design.
Why It’s Suitable: The tote bag is not only practical but also doubles as a fashion accessory. It gives them a chance to show off their love for design while carrying their materials around campus or to work.
11. Adjustable Drawing Table
An adjustable drawing table allows design students to work comfortably while sketching or working on digital design projects. It can be adjusted to different angles, which makes it ideal for both hand-drawing and computer work.
Why It’s Suitable: The versatility of an adjustable drawing table helps students find the perfect working posture. It also enhances their creativity by providing a stable surface for drawing and digital tasks, making it a must-have in any design studio.
12. Noise-Canceling Headphones
For students who often study in noisy environments, noise-canceling headphones can create a focused, quiet space for creativity. These headphones are ideal for listening to music or design-related podcasts while blocking out distractions.
Why It’s Suitable: Noise-canceling headphones allow students to immerse themselves in their work without being disturbed. Whether they’re designing, studying, or relaxing, these headphones improve concentration and create a more peaceful environment.
13. Designer Phone Case
A personalized phone case featuring a unique design is an excellent gift for students who appreciate both style and functionality. You can choose a case that reflects their interests or features a design created by them.
Why It’s Suitable: A phone case is something students use every day, making it a practical yet stylish gift. Personalized cases allow them to express their creativity, and it serves as a daily reminder of their passion for design.
14. Desk Organizer Set
A well-organized workspace is crucial for creativity and productivity. A personalized desk organizer set can help students keep their tools, pens, and other materials neatly arranged and easily accessible.
Why It’s Suitable: The desk organizer set ensures that their workspace remains clutter-free, which can enhance focus and make the design process more efficient. Personalizing the set adds a special touch to their study space.
15. Adjustable LED Desk Lamp
An adjustable LED desk lamp can provide the perfect lighting for late-night design sessions. Look for one with brightness and color temperature settings, as well as a flexible design that can be adjusted to suit their needs.
Why It’s Suitable: Proper lighting is essential for any designer. An adjustable desk lamp ensures that students can work comfortably without straining their eyes. The right lighting can also help them focus and bring out the best in their designs.
16. Travel Journal
A travel journal is an excellent gift for a design student who enjoys exploring new places for inspiration. It allows them to document their thoughts, sketches, and experiences as they travel, whether it’s for study abroad or local trips.
Why It’s Suitable: The travel journal is a great way for students to capture the world around them. It offers a creative outlet for personal reflection and helps them gather inspiration from their travels to enhance their design work.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gift for a design student doesn’t have to be challenging. Whether it’s a tool to enhance their creativity or a thoughtful personal item, each of the above gifts serves a unique purpose. From digital drawing tablets to ergonomic chairs, the gifts we’ve highlighted are designed to inspire, motivate, and support students as they pursue their passion for design. Additionally, personalizing these gifts adds a special touch, making them even more meaningful for the recipient. No matter the stage of their design journey, these gifts will help nurture their creativity and passion, ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed.