It is better to give than to receive, but sometimes coming up with the idea is a real labor of love, especially if the recipient has a strong design sense. Not just anything will do! So we spent some time brainstorming for you and scouring the web for MCM gift ideas. You know it’s a good gift when you are tempted to keep it for yourself, so these MCM gift ideas all passed that test! You can feel good about giving these to the MCM enthusiasts on your Christmas gift list.
Mini Malm Ornaments
What better way to say Merry Christmas in MCM style than a handmade ceramic Malm-shaped ornament? Pre-order yours from Kate Schroeder Ceramics, and learn more about the artist here.
Toast Wooden Art Piece
Made of recycled wood, including upcycled guitar scraps, this art piece is entirely natural. The different colors come from the different woods themselves—no dyes or paints! The repeated geometric pattern in different scales creates a playful and MCM feel. You can almost hear the retro vibes. Visit blackwellwoodworks for this piece as well as definitely gift-worthy wood clocks. (Read more about artisan Eric Blackwell here.)
Retro Bullet Vase
What to get for the MCM enthusiast that already has everything? Or that’s in your price range? A retro bullet vase is a great MCM gift idea because it remixes the classic bullet planter into a form that fits easily on a tabletop. A great size for succulents or for displaying cut flowers or holiday decor, the retro bullet vase also comes in a variety of retro colors that will bring a smile to the receiver’s face.
Menagerie Whale Bookends
Speaking of bringing a smile to someone’s face, these bookends embody whimsy with an MCM twist. Keep scrolling to see our suggestions for books you can pair with such delightful bookends.
It’s A Mod, Mod World Puzzle
The winter holidays are a perfect time to work on a puzzle, and it’s a great MCM gift idea for families or couples. Sip on some holiday MCM cocktails or munch on holiday cookies while working on this beautifully illustrated puzzle.
Geo Pattern Dominoes
Here’s another family friendly and MCM design worthy gift. Visually appealing in the box, it’s easy on the eyes even when it’s not in play. For more MCM game ideas, see Let the Games Begin with an MCM Games Night!
Talisman Desk Pen
Mid Century Modern industrial designer Eva Zeisel left a legacy of beautiful designs for household objects with a sense of humor and a distinctly feminine twist by drawing on biomorphic forms. Her pen design here is no exception with bubbly curves and simple rings of color on the pen itself, making it a perfect gift for the MCM enthusiast with a desk job.
Sono Ambra Phone Speaker
If you have someone on your list who appreciates minimalism or whose take on modernism leans towards the organic strain of the movement (think Nakashima and Noguchi), this oak speaker is a perfect gift. No plugs, no batteries, no finicky Bluetooth, just wood designed to amplify music from a smartphone.
Tube Candle Holder
Can you ever have enough candles? These elegantly simple taper candle holders are versatile, affordable and the variety of colors and heights also make them a great gift for the MCM collector or entertainer who loves to host classy dinner parties.
Glass Tile Coasters
You may have noticed, but we are real fans of mosaic tile around here. What’s not to like? They’re like the jewelry of the MCM home. If you’re not sure what someone on your list has or doesn’t have already, these mosaic tile coasters are a fantastic option. Any MCM fan can appreciate these clever designs and use these coasters for poolside lounging season.
Wire Letter Rack
Most of us struggle to corral papers on our desks in a way that makes sense and is also visually appealing. A practical and delightful gift for the MCM fans on your list, the wire letter rack is a fun answer to this need and comes in bright and friendly yellow or turquoise.
Claridge Wool Throw
Throws are another great gift idea, and the design of this one will combine with just about any mid century inspired color palette.
Atomic Ranch: Remodeled Marvels
From the authority in Mid Century Modern home renovation, restoration and interior design comes Atomic Ranch: Remodeled Marvels, your guide to understanding, planning and designing your next mid century remodel. Looking to upgrade or revive your mid century diamond in the rough? Ready to make over your home with the Mid Century Modern cool you’ve always envisioned? Atomic Ranch: Remodeled Marvels equips you with everything you need to know to tackle your renovation dreams, avoid project nightmares and craft the stunning modernist gem you’ve always wanted—all in a beautiful, inspiring tome that will look perfect on your coffee table.
Herman Miller: A Way of Living
This 100th Anniversary edition is perfect for the MCM fan who loves deep dives on all things MCM.
Farfalloni Pasta Pot Grips
An amusing and budget-friendly gift, these pot holders can bring a smile to the recipient’s face both when they open it, and every time they cook pasta thereafter!
Book Nook Reading Valet
MCM design is all about designing beautiful and functional things for daily needs, and this reading valet is designed with the bookworm’s needs in mind. (Magazine readers also count! If you need more gift ideas, why not gift a subscription to Atomic Ranch magazine?)
Bitossi 9.5″ Hound-Rimini Blu
For the MCM collector, this lovely little hound comes from the iconic Bitossi Rimini Blu collection. Read more about Bitossi here. Of course, if your recipient is more of a cat person, no problem. There are two cats in the collection. While you can find more vintage Bitossi on sites like Etsy or 1stDibs or even Bitossi itself, ordering from Kasala is perfect for those living in the States who don’t want to pay and wait for international shipping.
Shot Glass Set of 6 Bright Colors
Looking for a stocking stuffer? These brightly colored Fiesta ware shot glasses make us smile. Their vivid colors almost audibly say “Cheers!”
Retired Light Bulb Plate
We couldn’t resist including this one because it’s just so brilliant. (Pun fully intended.) Seriously, though, the shape is reminiscent of a retro Christmas light bulb, and since the design is retired, it’s also on sale while supplies last.
We hope you found ideas to check off some names from your Christmas gift list. Time to get wrapping? Find ideas for MCM worthy wrapping paper. And of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more Mid Century Modern inspiration!
