Are you looking for a last-minute gift idea for a guitarist? Have read seemingly every list on the internet trying to come up with something, anything to gift them? Well, look no further, because is a list of gift ideas for guitarists by a guitarist! (And heck most of them are even pretty budget-friendly)
I am just going to head this one off at the pass. Guitarists, by definition, are picky people. Pun intended. I have seen plenty of lists that recommend things like strings, picks, straps, amps, cables, pedals, and yes, actual guitars. Unless the guitarist you are shopping for has explicitly told you in writing, exactly what they use and or want DO NOT buy anything along those lines.
All of those items play into tone and sound, which is extremely personal. As well as, you do not want to buy an amp or a cable, or even picks for a classical guitarist for example. Not to mention, certain types and gauges of strings and picks only really work for certain guitars.
And let’s be real. Guitars are expensive. If you really want to buy one for someone, consider taking them to a guitar store and letting them pick out what exactly they want. Plus, they will think of you and that day every time they play!
So, without further ado, here are some gift ideas for guitarist!
*Post is not affiliated and or sponsored in anyway. All opinions are entirely my own. I get no kickback or anything of the like if you click any links. They are merely provide make any further research easier.*
Capo
A capo is a clever little device that all guitarists need in their supply kit. It is essentially a clamp that moves the top of the guitar down. This changes the key and makes songs easier to play. They generally range in price from about $10-$20, so they make a very nice inexpensive gift.
Tuner
This gift is just as much for the guitarist in your life as it is for you. They could be the best guitarist in the world but if they are not in tune it doesn’t matter. A decent tuner is about $20, but in reality they are priceless.
Tabs and Fake books
Tabs and fakebooks both teach us how to play songs. I would suggest fakebooks for the beginner guitarist. They tend to use easier chords, that result in the same sound and explain a little more about the guitar. Tabs tend to be for more intermediate or advanced players who know a little more about theory and technique. These also make really nice gifts if you make sure to get ones that feature songs or artists that you know they like or want to learn to play. They generally are about $25-$30.
Chord Posters and Books
These are really good reference materials. Yes, all of this available on the internet. But sometimes you just want to kick it old-school for a little, or the internet is down. Either way, it’s nice to have the information available in printed format. Bonus points for posters because they double as wall décor. There are so many different versions of chord books and poster that you will surely be able to find ones that fit both your guitarist and your budget.
Tools and Cleaning Kits
I got the Ernie Ball Musician’s Tool kit for Christmas a couple of years ago and I love it. A good guitar tool kit will have string/wire cutters, a four-in-one screwdriver, a string winder and a couple of hex wrenches. I do not have an experience with specific cleaning kits but I assume they are equally as life changing. They are not really necessities so your guitarist is unlikely to purchase one for themselves, but they are game changing. It’s really nice to know that you have all the tools, all in one place, ready to go when you need them.
A 1/4″ Headphone Adaptor
This is one is for if you have an electric guitarist in your life. These little adaptors allow them to plug any standard set of headphones or earbuds into their amp. The only requirement is they need to be kind with the chord. This another that is also kind of a gift for you, because it means you don’t have to listen to them practice. These would also pair very nicely with a new pair of headphones or earbuds to use them with.
Guitar Related Gift Cards
If all else fails, there are always gift cards! Great options would be definitely Guitar Center, Sweet Water, and Musicians. If the guitarist in your life is into more vintage items, Reverb might be a better fit. Reverb is kind of like Poshmark, Depop, or any other online thrift store, specifically for instruments and musical gear. You could also look into getting a gift card to a local music shop.
And that’s the list! For the guitarists out there what would you add or subtract to your own list? For those who buy for guitarists, what did you find surprising? Let me know in a comment below!
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