Great Gift Ideas for the Do-It-Yourselfer

By Dave Donovan

To take a cue from Jeff Foxworthy, you know you're a do-it-yourselfer when…

• You drool as you walk down the aisles of your local hardware superstore.
• You have stock in duct tape.
• You can never have enough tools or the latest gadget tool.

The do-it-yourselfer in the family is one of the easiest people to shop for on your Christmas list. There are always new tools and gadgets on display at your local hardware store, just begging for a kind, loving owner.

Here are a few gift ideas that every do-it-yourselfer will appreciate and cherish all year long.

• Books – There are so many DIY books available, it's crazy. Any topic, any specialty, huge tomes filled with valuable information on everything from changing a light fixture to rebuilding a bathroom. No self-respecting DIYer doesn't have at least half a dozen of these books and let's face it, there's always room for more. Or, if there isn't, they can always build the bookshelf on page 86.
• Multi-Purpose Tool – I love multi-purpose tools. I can never have enough of them. Why? Because there isn't a job they can't do. I even refer to mine as my "magic tool." Pliers, knives, screwdrivers, ruler, can opener – these are the Swiss Army knives of the future. If your do-it-yourselfer doesn't already have one, get them one immediately!
• Combo-Kits – At the holidays, hardware stores constantly have money saving bundles on sale. These may include cordless drills with extra free batteries or kits where you buy two power tools and you get a third one for free. Keep your eyes out for these deals and get some great tools for a great price.
• A Subscription to a DIY Magazine – Similar to the DIY book gift idea, however, this is a present that comes all year long, delivering monthly ideas and inspiration.
• Tool Boxes – Not only will all of their new tools be in one easy-to-find place, but they'll be protected and ultimately last longer. If they already have a million tool boxes, maybe a tool belt will work better.
• Rugged Hooded Work Jacket – Some jackets are designed to be able to withstand the harsh conditions of working outdoors. This makes a great gift idea for someone who loves working on the outside of the home, regardless of the weather conditions.
• Personalized Garage Signs – There are a number of places online where you can have a personalized sign designed to fit the theme of your garage. It’s a great gift idea for the garage dweller in your life.
• Magnetized Nailholder – This item is priceless, especially when working on a ladder. It features a magnetic dish attached to a wristband. It holds all of the nails, screws, bolts and such so you don't have to worry about dropping them or losing track of which pocket you put them in.

The choices are limitless when it comes to choosing a gift for the do-it-yourselfer in your life. Of course, you can always nudge their hobby along by gifting something you've always wanted completed, like a new ceiling fan or bathroom faucet in addition to the tools they need to complete the job. Just think, that way there can be no excuses!

Dave Donovan is a freelance copywriter living in Atco, NJ.  An electrician for 15 years, an injury forced him to pursue his true passion - writing.