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Showing posts with label Gifts. Show all posts

Coasters Express Your 4 Most Basic Emotions

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CoastersProduct Name: Chat Coasters
Price: $14.90
Who would like this?: Netspeak nuts with brand new coffee tables.
Brazilian design company Meninos has unlocked the secret to the entirety of human emotion, which can be distilled into four distinct expressions: OMG, LOL, WTF and FAIL.
Their set of four colorful, rubberized coasters expresses the essence of human communication in the Internet age while also protecting your coffee table from rings and stains. They're washable, flexible and lightweight, making them a great stocking stuffer for the holiday season.
Chat Coasters
Image: Meninos
And they're thought provoking: What expression best sums up the tale of Oedipus Rex? WTF, of course. The deaths of Romeo and Juliet? Epic fail. The ongoing saga of Toronto mayor Rob Ford? That's a great big LOL.
Seriously, think about it. Falling in love is really just one beautiful OMG moment when you realize you're smitten. WTF is a versatile expression of confusion, anger and disbelief — and in its abbreviated form it's profanity-free. And Schadenfreude is really just the pleasure you take in watching others fail.
Chat Coasters
Image: Meninos
You can get creative with these coasters, too. Use them to spark epic debates on the nature of netspeak or the origin of "Fail" as a standalone term. Subtly hint to a houseguest that her "hip" new hairdo isn't doing her any favors by assigning her the "WTF" coaster. Hold them up next to your mouth like a text bubble in Instagram snaps for super-serious social commentary. The stratosphere's the limit.
Meninos offers a range of whimsical, "fun and functional" items for tech enthusiasts such asGame Pad coasters and a strangely adorable Pulp Fiction pillow.
All of Meninos's items cost $50 or less — most are even under $20 — so you can buy them as gifts, or just stock up for yourself, guilt-free.

Cubebot Is a Puzzle for Kids and Adults Alike

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Cubebot-thumbnailProduct Name: Cubebot Puzzle
Price: $28
Who would like this?: Kids ages 12 and up, or people who want to add some fun to their desk
In a holiday market filled with figurines and ever-popular Transformers toys, parents may be looking for a less violent and more imaginative toy to put in their kid's stocking. Look no further than the Cubebot Puzzle — a cute little robot that is sure to make anyone's day, no matter what age.
Made by Areaware, this wooden sculpture comes in a small box, is folded up into a 3.5-inch cube and, with a little maneuvering, becomes a 9.5 by 13.5-inch robot companion.
What works well about Cubebot Puzzle is that the toy has a great range of movable joints and thus has a wide range of poses and motions. It is great for playtime since there are no harsh chemicals or paints used — every part of the robot is made with sanded cherry wood. The joints are held together with resilient, tear-proof elastic that is sure to hold even during the roughest play and is hidden in the joints of the robot, so it's not a choking hazard.
It is easy to pack up Cubebot and take it on the go — just fold it back into a cube and pack it away in a purse, briefcase or backpack. It even costs the same as many Transformers action figures, but without the complex, breakable pieces or the insanely complex instructions it takes to turn them back into a car.
wooden robot box
Image: Flickr, Sebastian Sälzle
For those in an office setting, the Cubebot Puzzle makes for a great conversation starter and easy desk art. Because of its simplistic design, it looks less like a toy and more like a minimalist work of art. Its range of poses allows for a new intricate position every day which makes for a good distraction from rigorous (or tedious) work, though not too distracting. It's also great for company Secret Santas or gift exchanges since it's a non-gendered item and can be used for a number of purposes.
There are also different types of Cubebot Puzzles. There are the Cubebot micros and the small Cubebot that are available in blue, green, orange, red, pink, violet, yellow and multi-colored. You can also opt for the Cubebot Guthrie or Cubebot Julien, as well.
So whether you're buying a toy to inspire imagination and experimentation for a child, or just looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for an adult in your life, the Cubebot Puzzle is sure to delight and amaze whomever you decide to give it to this holiday season. You might even be tempted to buy one for yourself.

Kickstarter-Funded Tool Kit Fits in Your Wallet

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Tuls-thumbnail
Product Name: Tuls
Price: $22 (stainless steel); $33 (titanium)
Who would like this?: Minimalists, geeks, dads, craftspeople, smartphone addicts
Tools are heavy; Tuls, on the other hand, are the size of credit cards, and they'll fit in a wallet just the same.
New England-based company Onehundred, which is obsessed with providing everyday products through "simple, thoughtful design," created these flat tools out of titanium and stainless steel. Originally a Kickstarter campaign that cleared its funding goal of $1,500 within two hours (and raised more than 25 times as much), the Tuls project takes care of day-to-day problems requiring basic tools.

Each sturdy, wallet-sized tool is known affectionately by a first name, and has its own range of specific purposes, whether it's to tighten a bolt or open a beer.
Tuls Family
Image: Onehundred Here's the breakdown:
  • Ollie: Ollie is by far the most inclusive member of the Tuls family. This jack-of-all-trades is ready for anything, complete with standard and metric wrenches, rulers, squares, drill guides, a spoke wrench, protractor, pry bar, hex drive and bottle opener. What more could you need?
  • Stan: Stan is the perfect gift for techies and Netflix addicts. It contains two holes to wrap both a power cord and earphones. The best feature, however, is the vertical slot to hold 10mm-thick devices, acting as an on-the-fly smartphone stand to play games, watch videos and charge.
  • Lucy: Lucy is a slightly simpler version of Ollie, designed for the garage. It contains metric, standard and spoke wrenches, in addition to a coarse screwdriver, hex drive, tire spoon, pry bar and, of course, the trusty bottle opener.
  • Roul: Roul has metric and standard rulers, drill guides, squares, a protractor, plumb bob and pry bar. No bottle opener on this one, though — according to Onehundred, Roul is optimized for the workshop, woodworking, carpentry and crafts. It's great for measuring rod stock, lengths and angles.
  • Opie: In the Tuls family, Opie is the simplest member, but it still holds that same minimalistic elegance. This one just serves as a straightforward bottle opener, and with a small keyring, it's suitable for keychains and lanyards.
Tuls Ollie and Stan
Images: Onehundred Tuls are about as thick as a U.S. dime, and just as strong, too. They're also under the 7-inch length restriction for tools allowed in airplane carry-ons, making them great travel accessories.
If there's a craftsman, carpenter, techie, minimalist or even just a practical loved one in your life, consider Tuls this holiday season.

Desktop Nap Pillow Is Perfect for Catching ZZZs on the Job

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Desktop Nap Pillow Is Perfect for Catching ZZZs on the JobAscani_ostrich-11

Product Name: Ostrich Pillow
Price: $99
Who would like this?: Power nappers, sleep lovers, workaholics, insomniacs ... better question: Who wouldn't like this?
We all have that friend who constantly complains about being tired. Put your money where their mouth is this holiday season by gifting them with this out-of-this-world awesome Ostrich Pillow, a product that will make you look somewhere between nerdy and nerd-chic.
Whether on the go or at the office, this pillow is perfect for instantly converting your desk or the airport cafeteria table into a comfortable place to catch a quick snooze. Far more comfortable than your average neck pillow, you'll feel so at ease with your head in its new case that you'll be opting for more time under the hood.


The thoughtfully designed pillow has four holes: two for your arms, one for breathing from your nose and mouth, and one for your neck. It's available in three colors: sleepy blue, sunset siesta and mellow yellow.
If you're looking for a lighter option, a simpler pillow is available which just wraps around the head and eyes, called Ostrich Pillow Light, which will support your face if you find yourself reclining on a window or wall. If you're shopping for a younger family member, try the Ostrich Pillow Junior, a small version of the original pillow.
The Ostrich Pillow came to exist through the fruit of a successful Kickstarter campaign last year. Its designer, the UK-based studio Kawamura-Ganjavian, raised nearly $200,000 to bring the pillow to market, which was more than double its $70,000 goal.
The bottom line: This gift is great for someone who loves cutting edge, thoughtfully designed products, as well as someone who could care less about the new and shiny and just would just like a gift to improve their life an teensy bit.
Ascani_Ostrich-5

Impress Your Muggle Friends With a Magic Wand TV Remote

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Impress Your Muggle Friends With a Magic Wand TV RemoteMagic wand tv remote

Product Name: Magic Wand TV Remote
Price: $78.99
Who would like this?: Harry Potter enthusiasts, D&D superfans and other would-be wizards; television junkies; those afraid of buttons.
Remote controls are for Muggles. If you're still convinced that your Hogwarts acceptance letter got lost in the Owl Post, then you need this Magic Wand TV Remote from Kymera, as seen on ThinkGeek. Made of springy willow and containing the heartstring of one particularly saucy dragon, it's the perfect addition to any living room. Instead of having to push tiresome buttons, you can swish and flick your way through hours of your favorite entertainment (we're thinking Bewitched, Hocus Pocus, Lord of the Rings, and of course all eight Harry Potter Movies).
Magic Wand tv remote
Image: Kymera If you thought fights over who gets to hold the remote control were bad before, this wand remote will have family members dueling over more than just what program to watch.
Users can program the wand to recognize 13 different gestures. Change the channels by swishing side to side, or flick up to increase the volume. Since it's compatible with almost all TVs, DVRs and pretty much anything else controlled by a remote, you can become master of all the electronics of your house, even program from multiple controls. It's the true Elder wand, perfect for you or the Potterhead in your family.
So pull on your Harry Potter Snuggie, make up a pot of Butterbeer, and load up Sorcerer's Stone. It's gonna be a magical night.
And remember: It's Levi-OH-sa, not Levio-SA.
WARNING: Do not use in proximity to Whomping Willows, in front of Muggles, or before the age of 17. May not work properly against "brother" wands (those made with core ingredients from same magical creature.) For optimal conditions, use only with family member the wand "chooses."

All-in-One Leash Makes Dog-Walking a Treat

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All-in-One Leash Makes Dog-Walking a TreatDog leash plus

Product Name: Dog Leash Plus
Price: $26
Who would like this?: Tech-savvy dog owners; professional dog walkers; man's best friend
Picture this: Jenna's standing in her kitchen on a late Saturday afternoon, browsing dinner recipes on her iPad, when her Jack Russell terrier trots into the room. "Hi, Max," she says. He looks up at her and barks once — just like she trained him. He's ready for a long walk.
Instead of scrambling to find the various accoutrements needed — waste bags, tote filled with treats, water bottle, etc. — she grabs the Dog Leash Plus, dubbed the "Swiss Army knife of dog leashes," and heads out the door.

The Dog Leash Plus comes in four colors — black, green, blue and plum — to match any walker's or dog's style. The flashlight requires three AAA batteries (not included), while the clock requires an LR41 cell battery (included). The leash itself is the standard 16 feet, and works with a locking mechanism: Simply push the button to lock, and push up to unlock (see the Vine video above).
The Dog Leash Plus is practical, stylish and convenient. For the upcoming holidays, consider giving it as a gift to techie friends or relatives of any age, who might benefit from some organization in their daily walking routines, or maybe even an increase in time for more exercise.
Keep in mind that the Dog Leash Plus, like most retractable leashes, is intended for small and medium-sized dogs, so your aunt with the German shepherd probably isn't the best recipient for this gift.
The Dog Leash Plus in Action

Starbucks Brings Back $450 Laser-Etched Gift Cards

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Starbucks Brings Back $450 Laser-Etched Gift CardsStarbucks

What do you get the coffee drinker who has everything? Consider Starbucks‘ version of the “Black Card”— a limited-edition, $450, fancy looking gift card, ideal for that special someone who can’t bear paying with something as pedestrian as cash, credit or even an app. For the second holiday season in a row, the coffee chain is offering its over-the-top metal gift cards, which go on sale at Gilt.com starting Friday at noon.
Before you spit out your latte, consider that this may not be as ridiculous as it sounds. Superfluous, yes, but the gift/reward cards come with $400 in Starbucks credit (enough for 200 coffees!) and offer the highest-level rewards membership. The company claims that the $50 difference doesn’t even cover the cost to produce each card, “so there really is a strong value to the customer,” spokeswoman Linda Mills said in an email. She went on: “It’s completely handmade and features an artisan rose metal base with rose-colored coating. Starbucks lettering is laser-etched on the front, and since it’s in such a small quantity, we do incur quite a bit of expense to produce them.”
Recent history suggests the chain is on to something. Last year, Starbucks offered 5,000 cards in a stainless steel color, and USA Today reports they sold out in about six minutes. Recap: That’s $2.25 million worth of gift cards in 360 seconds. (Now you can spit out your latte.) This year, only 1,000 of the cards will be sold — for a total of $450,000 — because Starbucks wants it to be “a very premium, exclusive offering.” Well, it sure beats a fruitcake.

20 Incredible 3D-Printed Gifts

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20 Incredible 3D-Printed Gifts

Makerbot, one of the companies pioneering the mainstreaming of the 3D printer market, was acquired by Stratasys, another 3D printing heavyweight, in June for $403 million. For many tech industry observers, the deal signaled a shift in 3D printing’s profile as a novelty technology for hobbyists and prototyping tool for manufacturers — a shift toward a future in which the technology may permeate every facet of everyday life.
However, the advent of 3D printing offers such a broad range of possibilities that some are still trying to understand its ramifications. 3dgift Gramohorn II

1. Gramohorn II

These HTC One smartphone speakers may be pricey, but for those who appreciate the seamless marriage of old and new, the audio tool can double as an art piece. Perhaps the best feature of the Gramohorn II is that it doesn't require power to operate; its double phonograph-style design offers all the sound amplification you're likely to need from a smartphone.
Price: $1,6133dgift Protos Custom Glasses

2. Protos Custom Glasses

It was only a matter of time before 3D printing was harnessed to give us cooler glasses. If you want your frames to truly stand out, these should be your first stop. The company offers 3D-printed frames specifically tailored to the shape of your face -- some of our mugs don't fit into a cookie cutter template -- or your choice from a variety of premade styles. Blizzident Toothbrush

3. Blizzident Toothbrush

Dental hygiene doesn't have to be a chore. This 3D-printed toothbrush cleans all your teeth in just six seconds. Chomp down and rush out: Keeping your pearly whites clean has never been so easy. However, keeping the Blizzident clean and germ-free seems like it might be an entirely separate chore. 3dgift 3D-Printed Nails

4. 3D-Printed Nails

Whether you're a Halloween diva or a year-round trendsetter, these ornate nail attachments are definitely conversation starters. The makers are currently accepting orders for the nails and plan to ship them to buyers sometime after January 2014, but that shouldn't stop you from placing your bid now. 3dgift Infinite Sisu iPad Stand

5. Infinite Sisu iPad Stand

Making art on the iPad is increasingly common, so it's only natural that your tablet stand mirrors your aesthetic bent with a little old world-style sculptural flair. It's not adjustable, so it's best suited for propping your tablet up on a desk, but if you're looking for an adjustable stand, the options are a lot less interesting than this. 3dgift SunShade 1.0

6. SunShade 1.0

If you own Google Glass, then you know how bright lights can make reading through the device's tiny lens difficult. This little attachment solves that problem in an instant. By covering the tiny square lens on Google Glass with a custom shade filter, images and text instantly become clearer, regardless of the environment or lighting situation. 3dgift Shot Glass Crawler

7. Shot Glass Crawler

Why not mark your celebration with a set of shot glasses? OK, so the design may look a little like that creepy hand from The Addams Family, but you can just tell your friends that it's a Game of Thrones souvenir from the "Red Wedding" scene.
Price: $373dgift iHook iPhone 5/5S Car Holder

8. iHook iPhone 5/5S Car Holder

Drivers who already made the move from dashboard navigation systems to iPhone will welcome the arrival of this easy-to-install smartphone cradle. Of course, you should never text and drive, but if you decide to stop along the side of the road, this little iPhone holder makes smartphone map viewing just a bit easier. It's also handy for your co-pilot sitting in the passenger seat.3dgift Pod à Porter Neckband for iPod Shuffle

9. Pod à Porter Neckband for iPod Shuffle

Until Apple releases its rumored iWatch, this is probably the coolest way to carry around an Apple device during a run or workout session. The necklace is really just an elaborate holder for the iPod Shuffle, but its design makes it look like an entirely new device.
Price: $293dgift Crania Anatomica Filigre

10. Crania Anatomica Filigre

For those who cherish all things spooky, regardless of what other people may think, this skull is hard to pass up. It comes in several sizes, from handheld to almost full scale, but if you don't want to freak out your coworkers, we suggest a smaller one.
Price: $95 (price ranges based on size) 3dgift Illuminati iPhone 5/5S Cover

11. Illuminati iPhone 5/5S Cover

You've already linked your iPhone to all the numerous data-sucking services in the App Store, so if you're nervous about data privacy, this case can let you harbor conspiracy theories with tongue firmly planted in cheek. The manufacturer claims this case is layered in real gold, a design aspect that will likely win brownie points with the bling-obsessed.
Price: $39.873dgift Sterling Silver Heart Pendant Necklace

12. Sterling Silver Heart Pendant Necklace

When high-end department store Neiman Marcus gets into the 3D-printed jewelry business, it's safe to say that 3D printing has gone mainstream. You can have this necklace emblazoned with your loved one's initials, too.
Price: $2953dgift iPhone Cupholder Dock

13. iPhone Cupholder Dock

On the list of things that commuters claim they can't live without, coffee and iPhones rank high. This tool lets you put both within easy reach during your drives to work. It's not the most high-tech solution, and if you don't have built-in cup holders, you'll have to buy an attachment. But for many motorists, it offers a safer alternative than keeping your smartphone on your lap while steering.
Price: $44.873dgift Grumpy Cat Bust

14. Grumpy Cat Bust

If you don't know Grumpy Cat, you have been living under a rock. The feline is an unstoppable Internet phenomenon. The original printed version of Grumpy was solid, making the item heavier and bit more costly. This version, however, is hollow and affordable for even the most cash-strapped cat lover. Submit now and grab this totem to the almighty cat, and perhaps you will be forgiven for ever doubting Grumpy Cat's power.
Price: $31.893dgift EarPod Attachments

15. EarPod Attachments

A common problem with Apple's earbuds is their refusal to stay in place, especially while running. Place your EarPods into these special holders, attach them to the inner fold of your ear and enjoy a more snug fit. Sure, Apple design chief Jony Ive probably wouldn't approve, but this item delivers a clever solution while maintaining the EarPods' lightweight feel.
Price: $7.493dgift Obama Riding Raptor With Machine Gun

16. Obama Riding Raptor With Machine Gun

It doesn't matter which political party you pledge allegiance to, any model of a United States president riding a raptor holding military weaponry is automatically a collector's item. The item is currently just a model, but it comes fully colored and ready for your snark. Just glue the machine gun to the figure's hand, as recommended by the manufacturer, and you'll be off to the raptor races.
Price: $249.993dgift Curve Flash Drive Brooch

17. Curve Flash Drive Brooch

USB drives are easy to use and handy in a pinch. Keep your most valuable digital assets safe by carrying them around on this super convenient clip-on. The low-tech creation uses the USB port opening to attach itself and give you an easy way to keep track of your stored data.
Price: $4.683dgift Steve Jobs Bust

18. Steve Jobs Bust

Steve Jobs may no longer be with us, but his memory still lives on. This playful homage to the late innovator reminds you to "think different." Created by the Dutch design studio Sevensheaven, its pixel art usually found in old-school video games and Lego set creations.
Price: $99.333dgift Medium Mesh Purse

19. Medium Mesh Purse

Some fashionistas may balk at 3D-printed jewelry, but it's hard to deny the uniqueness of this mesh purse. The purse, which is made of white nylon plastic, has a matte finish and a "slight grainy feel," according to the manufacturer. The straps come in several lengths in case you want to adjust the purse to suit a particular look.
Price: $953dgift iPhone 5/5S Cover With Moving Gears

20. iPhone 5/5S Cover With Moving Gears

A smartphone with 100 apps just isn't geeky enough for some power users. For these showoffs, this iPhone 5/5S case with working gears is just the technophile accessory to let everyone know where your passions lie. The gears don't do anything cool like power your iPhone by generating solar energy, but the mesmerizing turns of its synchronized movements likely make it worth the price and extra bulk.
Price: $23.66

Whether newly elaborate jewelry designs made possible by the technology or the ever-growing variety of 3D-printing machines themselves, which have become increasingly affordable, only the most diehard luddite would deny that 3D printing is poised to change many aspects of our lives.
It's pretty easy to go out and buy a 3D printer and start churning out your own creations, but not everyone has the money (or time commitment) that such creations require.
For those curious consumers still on the sidelines, not yet ready step up and make their own 3D printer creations, we've compiled a list of some of the most interesting 3D-printed items that can be purchased as gifts for the holidays.
Some are amazingly practical, while others are simply designed to add a bit of whimsy to your day. But they all use the magic of 3D printing, offering an early look how the technology could change the look and feel of a wide range of consumer products over the course of the next few decades.
Take a look at the 20 3D-printed gift ideas we've assembled in the gallery above and let us know if you think you're ready step into the era of 3D printer-created swag.

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