Like most miniature lovers, you probably have a loved one who breaks out in a cold sweat at the mere mention of a trip to the local mini store. This article is for him (or her).
Never fear, miniphobes - I'm here to help you with your Christmas shopping! You can surprise your dear one with all sorts of useful, thoughtful gifts without ever having to venture into the great unknown. Shopping at your local hardware store can yield a treasure trove of mini delights. (A clever mini lover might even print off the following list, and check the boxes of the items that would be most appreciated to help you along.)
Does your loved one build her own dollhouses? I took a trip to my local Lowe's home improvement store, and here are a few items your mini maker might like to see under the tree this year:
Dremel Multi-Pro Kit - All mini makers need a rotary tool, and Dremel makes it easy with their starter kits. I saw a rotary tool with 72 accessories for about $70, and one with 30 accessories for under $50. There was also a cordless tool for under $40. Be sure to grab the Dremel brochures while you're looking - they're free, and may lead to suggestions for future gift giving.
Rotary Tool Accessories - Does your dear one already own a rotary tool? Accessories make great stocking stuffers. Sanders, grinders, cutting wheels and drill bits in every size and shape were available for $3-$10. Is the tool cordless? An extra battery would be great.
Utility knives and blades - A good knife with a retractable blade is a must for any builder, and can be found for under $10, with blades. If your mini lover already has a knife, give an assortment of blades that fit (check the brand name to be sure).
Small Screwdrivers - I found a great precision screwdriver kit for about $4, with half a dozen of the tiniest drivers in it.
Small Vises - Lowe's had a small clamp on vise, as well as a light duty bench vise, each for under $13.
C-Clamps - You can never have too many clamps. Small 2" clamps start at about $1.50.
Quick Grip Clamps - For a real treat, these adjustable clamps are now available in a small size for about $9 each.
Power Sanders - A luxury that will make your dear one's life easier. Small power sanders start at about $30. I saw a nice contour sander for about $80.
Sandpaper - Another thing you can never have enough of. Focus on the fine and extra fine grades, or choose an assortment with a little bit of each.
Glue - Yes, glue. No matter how much we have, it's never the right kind. Small tubes of wood glue, contact cement, epoxy, super glue, household cement, etc. will always be welcome. Does your mini lover own a hot glue gun? Extra glue sticks will be apprectiated. One of the handiest gifts I've received has been a glue gun holder, which keeps my gun off the table, and extra sticks close at hand.
Masking Tape - Yet another thing we can never have enough of. At my house, masking tape disappears about as fast as I can buy it. Buy an assortment, from wide to narrow.
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