OMG I gotta get a gift! Here are 9 gift ideas that won’t break the bank …

We’re sharing some of our favourites from the Rainbow Store. You can find these items locally, on Etsy and on Amazon through our affiliate links.

1. A deck of cards

What is more perfect that a deck of cards? It will slip easily into a stocking or pocket, and invites you to cozy up with your friends and loved ones to play games. We’ve sourced some rainbow-themed decks but you can find all sorts of amazing decks on our sister site Gifts for Card Players.

2. Make a rainbow hat!

Around our place, it’s expected there’ll be at least one handmade gift! We’ve sourced out two very easy crochet patterns for you to make a cozy rainbow touque. The second image isn’t rainbow but if you make the hat with the rainbow coloured wool it’ll happen! Click on the images above!

3. Rainbow Jewelry

When I first came out, my queer friends gave me a rainbow necklace, “So women will know you’re gay!” they explained. And later that year, at a family gathering, a nephew came up to me and said, “I like your rainbow necklace Auntie, I have one just like it at home.” Well, my my. Gift rainbow jewelry to your friends and family both in the closet and out!

Little Sisters downtown used to carry a fine selection of rainbow bracelets and pendants. Their website currently says they are sold out but you could drop in just to see. Meanwhile, we’re linking up some Amazon sources. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, consider a box of pony beads and some cord - great for making rainbow jewelry of all kinds!

4. Moustache Print Bowtie

Or any rainbow bowtie! We’ve found some great ones at Little Sisters and on Amazon. This is a playful and stylish accessory and a great gift for those who want to add a touch of queer quirkiness to their wardrobe during the holidays. Or, use it as the bow on your gift!

5. A mug for all seasons

You can never go wrong gifting a coffee (or tea) mug. I like to stuff it with treats - small chocolates or even tiny bottles of Baileys. We’ve found some local mugs for you. Mad Genius Designs, based in Kamloops, have pride and neurodiverse products. Cole and Walker Designs are local, have lovely mugs of all kinds, and can be found on Facebook.

6. Tree Trims

OK maybe you don’t celebrate Christmas or the winter holidays with a tree. But lovely trims can be hung anywhere and brighten up dreary winter rooms. With many of my friends, we agree to ‘no gifts!’ but I can always give them a tree trim (because you see, gifting is my love language).

7. Rainbow Shoelaces

This is a simple and affordable gift that is perfect for teens and allies. Add a pop of colour to any pair of shoes. Purchase on Amazon for only $8.99

8. Read the card!

We love this selection of queer greetings and sentiments from Vancouver based Brandy Mars Designs. You can find more on their Etsy site here.

Late addition! We came across these lovely cards from LindseyLindArt (Art and design to amplify, uplift and change the world) today (see gallery below). Lindsey is a Vancouver creative and although her card sets sell for $30, there are 10 in each so that’s only $3 per card right?

9. Books make the best gift of all.

Little Sisters Book Store in Vancouver’s west end is famous for it’s vast collection of books. While many books these days are over $20, there’s still a good collection to be found under. You’re best to drop in and browse but if you’re shy, you can view their selection on their website here.

A final list of links
Queer Crafters can be found here
Queer shops can be found here
Our Rainbow Store can be found here

Jude Goodwin is a queer artist and writer living in Vancouver, BC.

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