Reader Q: Little Girl Gifts?
This is such a sweet little email, I asked Lisa if I could share it with all of you in hopes of hearing your feedback on finding the perfect gift for little Sally.
"Hi Holly, My almost nine year old is "passionate" (her word) about design, specifically interior design and architecture. I would love to come up with some gift ideas for her birthday that show her that I totally get her. I have found some architecture design type toys, but they haven't been very well reviewed, so I am hoping for some more real life ideas. I have a crafting business, so she has access to lots of art supplies and a sewing machine already. Her birthday is in June, so I have a little time. Thanks so much." -Lisa.
I'm not a mom, but I was a kid once so here are my thoughts. Maybe you can enroll her in a summer workshop at a local art school where she can be creative and meet other kids. Or take a mother/daughter class. You could also host an at home creative workshop with her and her friends where all work on a project together, like a giant painting on a canvas or cloth.
Does she like dolls? I recently found a project in Cookie magazine showing how to make a flat pack doll house out of foam board and it looked super fun, budget-friendly, and easy. (Directions here.) You can customize the walls with your own little works or art or purchase wrapping paper or dollhouse wallpaper online. Maybe she can make her own Barbie Design Firm or something. You can add a mini inspiration board and little fabric swatches and such, some desks, you know have fun with it.
You could also ask her if she'd like to redecorate her bedroom with some DIY projects -- a linen covered inspiration board, chalkboard paint on the door, a new corner for arts/crafts with storage, etc. Another idea is a day trip (or a girls weekend, depending on your budget) to a nearby city and go to museums and then stop for cupcakes somewhere. Find a photobooth and have your pictures made, that's always fun. I used to do this with my mother all the time, she would stick out her tongue and also strike these funny model poses and I really liked seeing her silly side which photobooths seem to always inspire -- giggles and smiles.
For gifts, try Mahar Drygoods. Also there's a gift guide for children on etsy, maybe you could give her a little loot bag of assorted things that are handmade?
Anyone else have some creative ideas for Lisa?
(images linked above to sources)