2017 Gift Guide
Our Gift Guide has ideas for everyone on your list, including…
The Norski who has everything
A) God Jul Bunting by Nordic Inspirations. Welcome friends and relatives to your Christmas celebration with this unique banner. Each piece measures approx. 5.5” x 3.7”. The wording measures 25”, and the jute string is 40” long. $10.88. www.etsy.com
B) Norwegian Flag Quilted Wall Hanging by Mary and Bob Lake of Viroqua, Wis. Bob chip-carved the wooden hanger. Mary pieced and quilted the 100% cotton, 16” x 20” Norwegian flag. Limited edition. $200. store.vesterheim.org
C) Scandinavian Coloring Book by Zeena Shah. Roam the wilds of a Scandinavian wonderland—and color in folk-inspired patterns and illustrations. $14.95. Available from most booksellers
D) Lefse Earrings. Love lefse? Why not wear some? $12.50. store.vesterheim.org
E) Norwegian Mugs by The Uff Da Shoppe. Uff da Ya’ll (not pictured), Uff da Ya’ll Texas Viking, and Tex-wegian. $8.95. www.uffdashoponline.com
F) Post Box in Red. The perfect receptacle to receive The Norwegian American in, this reproduction of a traditional Swedish mailbox will lessen your disappointment on the days you get only bills. $59.95. woodenspoonplano.com
G) Skål! Felted Beverage Tote. Stylish tote keeps wine (or aquavit) chilled. Polyester, 6” x 15”. Available in turquoise, lime, gray, or green. $12. www.ingebretsens.com
H) Nordic Sweater Purses by Steller Handcrafted Goods. Just the right size for a phone, wallet, and chapstick, these purses are made using 100% wool sweaters, vintage buttons, and Nordic trim. $42. www.stellergoods.com
The language learner
A) Norwegian Scrabble Tiles. Play Scrabble på norsk with 100 wood tiles including Å, Ø, and Æ, but not including Q, X, or Z. $12.98. amazon.com
B) The Mystery of Nils, published by Skapago. This textbook is “based on a coherent story instead of dull dialogues.” The amount of Norwegian increases as you go. $31.20. Sold through amazon.com
C) Nordic Vowels Tote. Carry your homework to Norwegian class in your very own vowel cheat-sheet. $19. www.ingebretsens.com
D) Children’s Illustrated Norwegian Dictionary. Made for children 5 to 10 years old, but who couldn’t use a little help? $14.95. scanspecialties.com
E) Beginner’s Norwegian Word Searches. Great for students or kids, this book has 100 puzzles full of words to find. $8. barnesandnoble.com and www.scriveremo.com.
F) Norwegian Rainbow Keyboard Cover. It’s easy to switch to Norwegian keyboard input on a Mac laptop, but less easy to remember where the keys are now. This keyboard cover has you, well, covered. €22.99. philbert.design
Language Classes. If you live near a Norwegian community, odds are you can find in-person classes. Here are just a few:
• Seattle & Edmonds, Wash.: Scandinavian Language Institute sells gift certificates redeemable in winter or spring. $100-150. www.sliseattle.com
• San Francisco: The Scandinavian School offers four terms per year. $350 plus materials. www.scandinavianschool.org
• Pasadena, Calif.: Pasadena Language Center offers Norwegian lessons for all levels. $259 plus a $35 registration fee. www.pasadenalanguage.com
• Minneapolis: Mindekirken offers a Norwegian Language and Culture Program. $165. www.mnlcp.org
• Bemidji, Minn.: Concordia offers an immersion weekend at Skogfjorden, the language camp. $465-510. www.concordialanguagevillages.org
• Chicago: You don’t have to be enrolled in North Park University to take their conversational classes. $200. www.northpark.edu
• New York: NYU teaches classes at Scandinavia House. $550-590. www.scandinaviahouse.org
• New York: Norwegian Language Institute offers courses at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church. $500. www.facebook.com/NorwegianLanguageInstitute
• Boston: The Boston Language Institute offers Norwegian programs as well as immersion programs. $499 plus one-time $35 registration fee or $2,495 for immersion. www.bostonlanguage.com/fl/norwegian.htm
• Anywhere: Many Sons of Norway lodges offer language classes. Check your local lodge to find out.
The world traveler
A) Moon Norway by our own David Nikel. You’ve read about his process all year. Now it’s time to get the book and see if all his hard work paid off! $14.95. Available from most booksellers
B) Take Me To Norway! Passport Holder by Norway at Home. Keep your passport safe and clean in Norwegian style. $21.10. www.zazzle.com
C) 1925 Norwegian Polar Bear Luggage Tag by Historic Image. Based on a vintage Norwegian stamp, hopefully this tag will be enough postage to get your suitcase where you’re going—or at least help you recognize it. $14.90. www.zazzle.com
D) Nordkapp Norway Headphones by Riia’s Designs. Beebop Wireless Headphones are comfortable enough for those long flights, train trips, ferry rides, and so on. The Nordkapp design is just a bonus. $52.72. www.zazzle.com
E) Packing System by Spacepak. The award-winning Spacepak packing system maximizes luggage space by compressing up to two weeks’ worth of clothing in tidy compartments that fit together in your suitcase. $98 for set of three. www.flight001.com
F) Oslo Travel Journal by Alyonastorm. This small journal fits easily in a purse or pocket, so you never miss a chance to record your travel insights. Approx. 4” x 6”. $8.22. www.etsy.com
The nature lover
A) Flag Collar. Sometimes it’s really the dog who’s a nature lover—but you’ll both enjoy walks more with this stylish collar. $15. www.ingebretsens.com
B) Spring Hus (Well House) Bird House by Jack’s Fine Wood Design. Hand-crafted for wrens and made in the style of a Norwegian well house, this bird house can be cleaned out from the bottom through a very handy hinged trap door. $73.50. store.vesterheim.org
C) MC-2G Navigator Compass by Suunto. Don’t get lost! This full-featured compass, designed in Finland, works anywhere on earth. $95. www.rei.com
D) Nordic Walking VIP Poles from SWIX. These quality one-piece Nordic Walking poles include comfortable straps, carbide metal tips (for snow, ice, beach, grass & trail) and natural rubber tips (for pavement, other hard surfaces & indoor use). $69.95. skiwalking.com
E) Seilas Rubber Boots. Built for sailing, Seilas is a comfortable boot that provides good grip on slippery surfaces. Available in many colors. $79. www.vikingfootwear.com
F) Field Guide to Knitted Birds by Arne & Carlos. Because maybe you love nature better when you’re not actually out in it. This book of patterns for knitted birds brought us a lot of joy, and we’re not even knitters. $24.95. Many booksellers
G) Field Guide to the Birds of North America, 7th Edition by National Geographic. If real birds are more your thing, this edition of the best-selling North American bird field guide is the most up-to-date guide on the market. $29.99. shop.nationalgeographic.com
H) High Coast 18 Daypack from Fjällräven. Lightweight 18-liter daypack for light trekking, traveling, or everyday commuting. $55. www.fjallraven.us
Wearable gifts
A) Tomte Nisse Earrings. Two pieces of die-cut wood making the shape of a Tomte (or Nisse). $29.95. scandinavianshoppe.com
B) Oslo Airport Infant One Piece from smashtransit. Represent for Oslo Airport with this vintage-look print, available in several colors. $22. www.etsy.com
C) Norwegian Flag Leggings. Leggings are considered pants now! Rejoice! If you can’t afford a bunad, wear these to your Syttende Mai parade. $67. www.zazzle.com
D) Uff Da T-shirt. What more is there to say? Express your dismay the Scandinavian way. $24. www.ingebretsens.com
E) Marius Onesie from Onepiece. Onesies are not just for babies anymore. The famous Norwegian company now offers them in more colors and designs than ever. $179. www.onepiece.com
F) Olympic Passion Pullover from Dale of Norway. You may feel superhuman while wearing the official sweater of the 2018 Norwegian Winter Olympics team. Dale of Norway designed this sweater using 1950s sports sweaters as inspiration, resulting in a sweater with several interesting design elements, like Norwegian flag stripes inside the neck, falling snow, and traditional versions of the protective Norwegian cross—with a red one over the heart. Available for both men and women. $299. www.thenordicshop.net
G) Rune Ties by Katja Bie. These very special pieces are made using rich colors screened onto beautiful scarves and ties of silk. Each article includes a story explaining its symbols. $65. www.ingebretsens.com
H) Kongsvollen and Garmisch Hats from Dale of Norway. Beautiful Norwegian patterns made of 100% premium natural wool. $54.99 to $64.99. www.scanspecialties.com
The foodie (or drinkie)
A) The Scream Hotpad. Don’t scream! You can use Edvard Munch’s famous work of art to protect yourself from burns. We’re sure he’d be thrilled. $15. www.ingebretsens.com
B) Decorated Gingerbread by Annie Rigg. Once you know how to make the ultimate gingerbread or chocolate gingerbread dough and you have come to grips with Annie’s icing techniques, you’ll be ready to start decorating. Includes more than 25 easy-to-follow recipes for decorated gingerbread characters. $15.95. store.vesterheim.org
C) Intermezzo Blue Snaps Glass by Orrefors. This beautiful glass from Swedish crystal company Orrefors is perfect for the serious aquavit lover. $57.50 each. www.crystalclassics.com
D) Viking Ship Towel & Cheese Slicer Gift Set. Talk about a hungry Viking! This guy can’t stop shoveling cheese into his mouth. Also available separately. $25.95. scandinavianshoppe.com
E) WafflePro Express from Chef’s Choice International. Make traditional Scandinavian waffles in the comfort of your home. If they’re not heart shaped, what’s the point? $96.99. www.scanspecialties.com
F) Full Apron from Hovden Formal Farm Wear. Old photos of Norwegian apron-wearing-women 100 years back was the inspiration for this nostalgic apron. It is made with a sturdy hemp/organic cotton canvas. It has a double-pocket in the front and cross-straps in the back. Available in four sizes. $120. www.hovdenformalfarmwear.com
G) A Taste of Norway: Flavors from The Norwegian American. Of all the new Nordic cookbooks to come out in the last year, our favorite (of course) is the one we put together. We’ve gone ahead and done a small second printing of the book, due to popular demand. You asked for it; don’t disappoint us! Order by Dec. 5 to make sure you get yours in time for Christmas. $34 + $6 shipping (U.S.). www.norwegianamerican.com/cookbook
The kids
A) Lefse Day by Heidi Smith and Kari Throop. A simple story and stylish illustrations that take you through the steps of “Lefse Day.” This is a 28-page, 8.5” x 8.5” book. $14.99. Many booksellers
B) Lakeside Lodge from LEGO. Have fun at the Lakeside Lodge, featuring a balcony, wall lamp, campfire, water lilies, wood-chopping area, and pine tree, plus a detailed interior with a stove, bed, and table. Includes a male minifigure, plus a moose and a frog. $29.99. shop.lego.com
C) Ticket To Ride: Nordic Countries. This stand-alone version of the popular board game features the landscape of the Nordic countries. For 2-3 players age 10+. $41.99. www.amazon.com
D) Elf Hat by Steller Handcrafted Goods. Inspired by the tiny elves of Scandinavian folklore, these Baby & Toddler Elf Hats are made from 100% wool upcycled sweaters, colorful Nordic ribbon, and soft polar fleece. $36. www.stellergoods.com
E) d’Aulaires’ Book of Norwegian Folktales. A collection of classic Norwegian folktales from the authors who wrote and illustrated Ola and Leif the Lucky. $24.95. www.upress.umn.edu
F) Puffin Lunchbox by Blafre. Designed with a print of the endangered Norwegian Atlantic Puffin, this will be a playful addition for your kids’ accessories—or lunch. €13. www.babyshop.com
G) Go Big or Go Gnome by Kirsten Mayer. Illustrated by Laura K. Horton, this is a charming and funny tale about friendship, self-acceptance, and beards! A beard is the biggest point of pride for a gnome, but Al can’t sprout a single whisker. $16.99. www.ingebretsens.com
H) Viking Adventure Game from Norse America. This limited edition award-winning Norse board game is fun for the whole family. $69.95. www.norseamerica.com
Norsk Jul
A) Candelabra by Christmas Classics. An elegant and traditional touch to your Christmas décor! Available in a variety of sizes and colors. $34.99 for five-candle red (shown). www.ScanSpecialties.com
B) You Betcha Ornament by Lakeside Handmade. 3.5” hoop. $15. www.etsy.com
C) Frozen: Olaf Novelty String Lights. Ten Olaf plastic light covers and mini clear light bulbs on an approx. 11.5’ green strand. $23.95. www.oogalights.com
D) Heart Basket Wooden Decoration. A wooden version of the paper baskets we all used to make as kids. 3.5” x 3.25” x 0.5”. $7.50. scandinavianshoppe.com
E) Aquavits! You can now buy Linie and Aalborg again, along with a number of locally produced aquavits. Prices vary. Check your local liquor stores for availability
F) Jute Tree Mat. Continue the heart basket design in this attractive tree mat. 42” diameter. $48. scandinavianshoppe.com
G) God Jul Wrapping Paper from Scandinavian Gifts. $20.80 per roll. www.zazzle.com
H) Tomten Family. What’s jul without tomtar (nisser)? Set of 4: 4″, 3.5″, 3”, and 2″. $20. www.uffdashoponline.com
Stocking stuffers & nibbles
A) Gnome by Little Critterz. Ceramic standing gnome is 1.5” tall. You should have one come over and sit on your desk! $5.50. store.vesterheim.org
B) Oslo Map Bottle Opener from Daisy Mae Designs Shop. This bottle opener features a vintage map of Oslo from a vintage atlas. The map is 1.2” round and protected and magnified by domed glass. The bottle opener itself measures 3.4” x 1.5”. $22. www.etsy.com
C) “Kiss Me I’m Norwegian” Chapstick. Protect your lips with pride. $2.99. www.scanspecialties.com
D) Nidar Jule Marsipan. It might be difficult to choose between these: Nidar Julegris $5.50; Jule Marzipan $10.75; and Jule Marzipan Smågriser $7.50. scandinavianbutik.com
E-J) More Candy! Perennial favorites. Availability and prices on these will vary. Check your local Scandinavian shop or visit the websites of almost any of our advertisers.
E) Kong Haakon—the ubiquitous big box of chocolates
F) Smash!—bugles covered in chocolate; more addictive than it sounds
G) Skipper—authentic licorice
H) Twist—assorted filled chocolates and chocolate-covered caramels
I) Daim—milk chocolate with crunchy toffee
J) Lohengrin—milk chocolate filled with delicious creamy goo
This article originally appeared in the Nov. 17, 2017, issue of The Norwegian American. To subscribe, visit SUBSCRIBE or call us at (206) 784-4617.
