Jigsaw puzzlers found their happy place, and their people, during the pandemic. Puzzling was already a thing, but took off even more. Popular puzzles disappeared quickly online and from actual shelves. Inventories have mostly recovered now. And there are all kinds of creative and beautiful jigsaw puzzles to give as gifts to people of all ages this holiday season. For adults, there are puzzles with twists, or that include surprise shapes like animals and clouds amidst the regular pieces. Some puzzles come with playlists to enhance the mood. There are wooden puzzles for little kids that also have sound effects. And there are puzzles with themes meant to appeal to older kids as well.
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This image released by SeriousPuzzles.com shows a variety of puzzles featuring Cavallini & Co’s vintage illustrations of constellations, minerals, jellyfish, mushrooms and other collections, offered in a gift-worthy reusable canister. (SeriousPuzzles.com via AP)
This image released by SeriousPuzzles.com shows a puzzle from Puzzles of Color, the company started by Texas-based siblings Ericka Chambers and William Jones to promote artists of color. The puzzles are standard sizes when finished, so you can easily frame and display them. (SeriousPuzzles.com via AP)
This image released by Piecework shows promotional art for Apres Ski, a thematic puzzle that has an accompanying Spotify playlist on the Piecework website. (Piecework via AP)
This combination of images shows a variety of personalized puzzles offered by Minted. There are square and heart-shaped layouts, and you can pick black & white or color reproductions. It’s a nice way to celebrate family moments. (Minted via AP)
This image released by Melissa & Doug shows the PAW Patrol Take-Along Magnetic Jigsaw Puzzles - Big Truck Pups. The puzzle has two different scenes and a convenient handle for toting. It's a great way to keep preschoolers busy while traveling. (Melissa & Doug via AP)
This image released by Melissa & Doug shows a 48-piece puzzle of the solar system. The sturdy, large pieces make this big floor jigsaw puzzle a fun one for the family to assemble. (Melissa & Doug via AP)
15 fantastic host and hostess gifts under $50
Note candle
You could write a thank you card, but this custom typewritten note candle from Uncommon Goods is an equally thoughtful gift that your hostess can enjoy for weeks. Pick from four scents, and add a personalized message for $36 at Uncommon Goods.
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Jigsaw puzzle
Everyone knows that couple who got really into puzzles during the pandemic and never stopped. Puzzledly specializes in modern jigsaw puzzles for adults. We love this $25 feast-themed 1,000 piece puzzle as a hostess gift.
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Candle-making kit
This candle-making kit from Paddywax is the perfect gift for a host or hostess who loves crafting. Buy it for $50 from Urban Outfitters.
Cotton waffle throw
Can anyone ever have enough throw blankets? These cotton waffle throw blankets from West Elm are the perfect cozy hostess gift for the winter holiday season. Snag one while they’re marked down to $39.99.
Agate coasters
Make your host’s job easier by gifting these pretty agate coasters from Crate & Barrel. A sophisticated set of four costs $49.95.
Reusable bread pan candle
This $28 hostess gift from Anthropologie is a 2-in-1. The lemon-and-strawberry focaccia scented candle can be burned for 12 hours. The oven- and dishwasher-safe ceramic bread pan can then be cleaned and used to bake.
Horoscope mug
Show your appreciation with a handmade mug from Claylicious on Etsy for $33.60. Just pick out the Zodiac sign of your host or hostess.
Hot honey gift set
Hot honey addicts will love this $24.99 gift set from Mike’s Hot Honey. Each set contains two squeeze bottles (hot and extra hot), 2 mini-jars, a tote bag, a recipe booklet and three bottle stickers.Â
Drinking game
This adult version of Jenga from World Market makes the perfect gift for hosts who know how to throw a raucous get together. The $19.99 drinking game comes with shot glasses and wooden blocks engraved with instructions.
Socially conscious socks
Socks might not be the most exciting present when you’re a kid, but a cozy pack is an awesome hostess gift for adults. Conscious Step makes socks that support philanthropic causes, from planting trees to women’s empowerment, so grab a 3-pack for $39.95 to support the cause your host is passionate about.
Chocolate bars
This set of three organic chocolate bars in a pretty gift box is perfect for hosts with a sweet tooth. Grab it from Food52 for $30.
Concrete planter
This minimalist boho planter from MadeByCaitJ on Etsy is only $35. Add some soil and a houseplant to complete the host gift.
Wine stoppers
These chic marble wine bottle stoppers from Williams Sonoma are great for preserving red, white and rosé. Buy the set of three for $39.95.
Oil dispenser
If your host or hostess is also an amazing home cook, gift this handmade vinegar or olive oil cruet from Alletash on Etsy for $50. The triangle shape makes it even more unique.
Linen napkins
Every host or hostess can use an extra set of nice reusable napkins. This modern linen set from Lulu and Georgia is a budget-friendly gift option at $44 for a set of four.
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New York-based writer Kim Cook covers design and decor topics regularly for The AP. Follow her on Instagram at @kimcookhome.
