#97 The Ultimate Gift Guide for UX Designers: Ideas for Creativity and Productivity

16 min • 19 december 2024

Struggling to find the perfect gift for the UX designer in your life? In this episode of the Future of UX podcast, I’ll guide you through a curated list of thoughtful, practical, and inspiring gifts that are sure to spark creativity and productivity. From tools like Time Timer and Post-it Dry Erase Surfaces to inspiring books like "The Design of Everyday Things", there’s something for every kind of designer.

We’ll also explore unique ideas like LEGO Architecture Sets, AI subscriptions, and wellness gifts like Headspace. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, this episode is your ultimate guide to UX designer-friendly gifts for 2024.

Category 1: Education & Learning

Google UX Design Certificate: A comprehensive online course that covers the fundamentals of UX.
SmashingConf Tickets: SmashingConf is one of the top conferences for designers and developers. It’s a great way to network, learn about the latest trends, and leave inspired. Link to SmashingConf , ux prompt
AI for Designers (Self-Learn Version): Dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the design world with this compact, self-paced course. Perfect for staying ahead of the curve. Sign up for the waitinglist here

Category 2: Tools & Gadgets

Post-it Dry Erase Surface: Turn any surface into a reusable brainstorming canvas. It’s perfect for sketching workflows or jotting down quick ideas. Link to Post-it
Time Timer
Whiteboard

Category 3: Creativity & Relaxation

LEGO Architecture Sets Link to LEGO
Aquarellfarben (Watercolor Set)
Painting by Numbers

Category 4: Typography & Design Trends

Typodarium 2025: A daily dose of typography inspiration curated by global designers. Link to buy
Gradient Calendar by Luzia Hein: Brighten any space with vibrant color gradients and functional design. Link toshop

Category 5: Tech Gifts

Logitech MX Master 3 Mouse: An ergonomic mouse designed for productivity. Link to Logitech
Apple iPad Pro + Apple Pencil
Noise-Canceling Headphones
A High-Quality Camera

Category 6: Subscriptions

Yearly ChatGPT Subscription
Figma Subscription
Website Hosting (e.g., Wix):

Category 7: Mindfulness & Wellness

Headspace Subscription: Link to Headspace
Customizable Aromatherapy Diffuser: Link to Amazon

Category 8: Desk Accessories

Inspirational Desk Posters: Motivational quotes or UX principles for a creative touch. Etsy Search
Personalized Desk Pad: . Link to Lucrin
Nice mugs e.g.: Link

Category 9: Books & Resources

"The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman: A Link to Amazon
"Creative Confidence" by Tom Kelley: Unlock your creative potential. Link to Amazon
"A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI": Discover the fascinating evolution of networks. Link to buy

Other resources

💻 ✨Waiting list for the AI Academy: 6-week Bootcamp to Learn How to Master AI as a Designer

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get notified when doors are opening again⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

👉 0€ AI mini Training for Designers 👈

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn 3 strategies to leverage gen AI as a designer in just 30 min⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Wix Studio:

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