Welcome to FBOTU‘s third annual 12 Days of Geekmas Holiday Gift Guide! What is Geekmas, you ask? What is Geekmas? Why, it’s only the most magical time of the year, when geeky children of all ages get what’s coming to them! So, for 12 delirious days, Fanboys of the Universe will help you find the perfect gift for the special fanboy or fangirl in your life. Or for yourself. You should definitely get something nice for yourself, because—hey—you’ve been very good and/or naughty this year, and both behaviors deserve a little reward now and then, don’t you think?
Be sure to check back every day between now and December 23 to see all the swag we’ve chosen for this year’s guide! Happy Geekmas!
FBOTU’s 12 Days of Geekmas 2011 Holiday Gift Guide is available here.
The 411 No Straight Lines collects four decades of ground-breaking LGBTQ comics in one book, with a diverse group of creators tackling complex issues of identity and a changing society with intelligence, humor and imagination. Comics creator and historian Justin Hall has put together an important and moving collection here, recognizing the decades of LGBTQ stories told through comics, long before Green Lantern‘s Alan Scott or Archie’s Kevin Keller came along. For $23 at Amazon or Barnes & Noble, No Straight Lines offers hours of fun and insightful reading.
Geekmas Karma
No matter who you’re shopping for this season, they will love this book. In addition to being entertaining and engrossing, it’s also a wonderful encapsulation of the gay experience over the past four decades. And, believe me, gay history is anything but boring, so you’re going to be a star when this beauty is unwrapped. It’s also the perfect gift for any students, teachers or aspiring comic book creators, too. Pick up a copy for yourself, while you’re at it.
Day 11
: Diesel DC Comics Intimates
The 411
Whether you’re feeling like a masked vigilante or a diabolical mastermind, Diesel has you covered in their limited edition collection of Batman-inspired trunks. Made of a soft cotton blend that allows for excellent mobility and support while retaining its shape, this trunk is a great fit for any comics fan. Plus, if you’ve always wanted to wear superhero underpants, but didn’t want to go the obvious route, the design is not only bold and fun, but seriously stylish. Choose Batman, Bane, Joker or Two-Face. Available for $34 online and in select retail stores.
Geekmas Karma
With underwear, you can either be practical or sexy. Stuff a pair of these in his Geekmas stocking, along with a pair of socks, and you’ve got a practical gift. Wrap these up in a long silk ribbon, along with some body paint, and you’ve got a sexy gift and a hot time on a cold winter’s night. Plus, whenever he wears them, he’ll think of you…and Batman. Not bad, right?
Day 10
: Her Universe Jewelry and Apparel
The 411
It can feel like a bit of a boy’s club around here, I know. “Boys” is right there in our title. But make no mistake; we love our geeky sisters! And we want to give them presents. Her Universe is the vision of Ashley Eckstein, actress and voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. She founded Her Universe to create merchandise for female sci-fi fans. Her Universe is a place for fangirls to step into the spotlight and be heard, recognized and rewarded. Check out the entire line of “Geek Chic” jewelry, apparel and more at HerUniverse.com.
Geekmas Karma
I’ve been going to comic book conventions for almost two decades now, and the biggest change I’ve seen over the years isn’t that comics are taking up less and less space on the convention floor. No, it’s that more and more women and girls are joining in the fun. The “geek girl” revolution has begun! I’m sure you must have a geeky gal pal or two in your life. If they’re tired of wearing boxy t-shirts made for men just to show their love for their favorite fandom, Her Universe is here to help. Pair a set of Rebel Alliance earrings with a Princess Leia hoodie, and you’re done. (God, I want that hoodie.)
Day 9
: Lou Scheimer: Creating the Filmation Generation
The 411
From humble beginnings and resources, a legendary creator rises to shape and influence an entire generation of children. This is the inspiring, funny and frequently poignant tale of Lou Scheimer, the man behind Filmation. More than just a biography, the book serves as an encyclopedia of Filmation’s greatest hits, from Archie to Fat Albert to He-Man and She-Ra, and everything in between. Brimming with personality, Creating the the Filmation Generation documents a remarkable era, not only in children’s programming, but in the life of a true original. Written by Lou Scheimer and Andy Mengels, Creating the Filmation Generation is available for $20 at Amazon.
Geekmas Karma
Have a member of Generation X on your list? You will be a Geekmas hero if you give him or her this book. Whatever you think you know about Lou Scheimer and Filmation, there are tons of surprises and stories here that you’ll never find on Wikipedia. It’s also the perfect gift for anyone interested in pursuing a career in a creative field, no matter what generation they are. Pair this with a DVD set of any of Filmation’s properties, and you’ve got the perfect Geekmas gift.
Day 8
: Death Star Ice Sphere Mold
The 411
Did you happen to catch Martha Stewart on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon before Thanksgiving? She made a batch of holiday cocktails and extolled the virtues of pressed spherical Japanese ice. When Martha extolls something, I listen. So, I went on a quick Google search to find Martha’s Japenese ice press, and found it I did. It’s $200 at Williams Sonoma. They also have larger sizes for up to $1,000. Just when my hopes of having cocktails with ice balls started to fade, I got a friendly little email from the folks at ThinkGeek. Want spherical ice balls? How does $9.99 sound? And…they’re shaped like the Death Star! Sold, sold, sold. Made of heat and cold resistant food-safe silicone, you can also make chocolate Death Stars or soap Death Stars. Plus, it’s dish washer safe! So, save yourself hundreds of dollars and head over to ThinkGeek. And please don’t tell Martha.
Geekmas Karma
If you’re running a little behind on your gift-giving, or if you’re exchanging gifts with someone before New Year’s Eve, this is the perfect gift. I’m going to make a whole bucket full of Death Star ice balls for my New Year’s Eve party. As with a couple of other items on the Geekmas list, this will also make an affordable and unique host/hostess gift. You can make any cocktail or beverage more intergalactically menacing with the addition of the Death Star. Or turn it into a party game and see how many ice balls you can fit into your mouth. Just make sure you have someone on hand who knows the Heimlich maneuver. Depending on the circumference, I can usually get two balls in my mouth pretty easily.
Tune in tomorrow for Day 9 of FBOTU’s 12 Days of Geekmas 2012!
Day 7
: Kevin Keller Collections (Archie Comics)
The 411
I had the privilege of hosting a panel at New York Comic-Con this year, featuring Dan Parent, the creator of Archie’s Kevin Keller. Dan was extremely gracious, humble and patient, especially with fawning fanboys like me. After the panel, I was genuinely surprised at the number of people who came up to me and said this was the first time they’d heard of Kevin. Resisting the urge to express my shock, I instead gathered them close and said, “Let me tell ye about a boy named Kevin Keller and how he changed the world.” Overstating it? Not at all. Kevin Keller, the first openly gay character in Archie Comics, is nothing short of revolutionary. Handled with great care by Mr. Parent, Kevin has taken Riverdale and the comics world by storm. If you’ve missed any issues of this ground-breaking series, now’s your chance to catch up! Archie Comics is offering two collections of Kevin’s adventures thus far. It’s the perfect way to bring yourself or a loved one up to speed on Kevin’s story. You can get both collections at the Archie Store for just $21.98!
Geekmas Karma
Kevin Keller needs to be in your collection. He needs to be on your coffee table, on your bookcase, on your mid-century modern Lane credenza. He’s that important. This is also a great gift for ANYONE on your Geekmas shopping list, and I’ll tell you why. Everyone grew up with Archie. Even if they only picked up an occasional issue, Archie is as much a part of growing up as Disney or Nickelodeon. So anyone you give these books to will already have the background they need to dive right in and re-visit Riverdale. Or, if you’re really looking for bonus Geekmas Karma points, how about buying a couple of extra copies and donating them to your local library or LGBTQ youth center. Help Kevin change minds, hearts and the world!
Day 6
: Agent Coulson’s Vintage Captain America Trading Cards
The 411
Just when you thought you were over the tragedy of Agent Coulson, guess what? You can relive the heartbreak over and over with this collection of Agent Coulson’s Vintage Captain America Trading Cards! In this beautifully packaged set, you get a presentation booklet, certificate of authenticity and not one, but TWO sets of cards. Two? Why two? Well…you get Agent Coulson’s original “near mint” set that Steve never had time to sign, as well as a second set…stained with blood. Yes, you read that right. You get a bloody version of the cards, too. I think $40 is a pretty reasonable price to pay to keep Coulson’s memory alive, don’t you think? Available at eFX Inc.
Geekmas Karma The Avengers was huge in 2012, so there’s bound to be a mega-fan somewhere in your life who would love/hate to have a constant reminder of Agent Coulson’s sacrifice for the team. I’m getting choked up just thinking about it. Unique and probably unexpected, this set is sure to make an impression. Who knows? Maybe whoever you get it for will be inspired to assemble some heroes to take down a psychotic demi-god. All thanks to you! Yay! You saved Geekmas!
Day 5
: Lumpy Space Princess Action Figure and “Hey Girl” T-Shirt
The 411
Oh. My. Glob. Can we just declare Adventure Time‘s Lumpy Space Princess a gay icon already? Not only is she proud, independent and fierce, she’s also fashion-forward. Come on, she rocked a dress made out of a plastic bag! To honor LSP, we have two selections for your consideration. First, the new 5” action figure from Jazwares! Little LSP comes with her very fashionable luggage, the symbol of her independence from her controlling parents. She also has a can of beans, proving how resourceful she is and how well she’s doing on her own. (Take that, Melissa!) The LSP action figure is around $14 and is available at online retailers, toy stores and comic shops. Next up is the “Hey Girl” t-shirt ($25 at Redbubble). Immortalizing the classic (and often imitated) exchange between LSP and Turtle Princess, this 100% cotton American Apparel shirt comes in an array of colors and sizes. Pair it with the action figure for the perfect LSP holiday gift!
Geekmas Karma
The Adventure Time fan in your life is going to LOVE having an LSP action figure to pose on his or her desk. Plus, the shirt can go anywhere, from convention to comic book store to gay bar. Wherever they wear it, they’re going to start conversations and hear a chorus of “Hey, girl!” Anytime you can give a gift that generates interest and feedback, that’s a bonus. You might want to get one for yourself, too, in case you’re tempted to borrow the shirt back from time to time.
Day 4
: Chewbacca Messenger Bag
The 411
Straight from the runways of New York, Paris and Kashyyyk, carry your laptop, iPad or books just like a Wookiee with this fabulous and fashionable Chewbacca Messenger Bag. (It’s not a purse!) Featuring beautiful and humane faux leather and Chewie’s iconic bandolier strap, the bag measures 15 inches wide by 10 inches tall, making it a perfect fit for whatever you’re lugging around the galaxy. With three storage compartments, a zippered inside compartment and additional pockets for your phone, keys and more, the bag also comes with both magnetic and buckle closures. The Chewbacca Messenger Bag is available for $90 at Entertainment Earth and other online retailers.
Geekmas Karma
If you have a geek in your life, odds are they attend at least one convention of some kind per year. How awesome would they look sporting a Chewbacca Messenger Bag around the convention floor? They could probably even get Peter Mayhew to sign it! Or, if not at a convention, this bag is going to look ultra-cool at work, on the subway or in the halls at school. The design makes it recognizable enough to fellow Star Wars fans, but subtle enough to pass as a nice-looking, professional bag, as well. Finally…that bandolier is removable, so you could always strap it on and surprise him with a little sexy cosplay before you give him the messenger bag. Yes, I went there.
Day 3
: He-Man & She-Ra (Faux) Christmas Sweater
The 411
What do you get the He-Fan or She-Raver who has everything? How about a festive holiday sweatshirt, just like they wear on Eternia! Designed to look like the traditional Christmas sweater your Gramms might give you, this comfy sweatshirt features Grayskull champions She-Ra and He-Man, serving some serious Sears Portrait Studio realness against a lovely winter background. It’s the perfect fashion choice for any holiday occasion, especially Hanukkah. You can add this gem to your wardrobe or the wardrobe of your favorite fanboy/fangirl for just $35 at 80sTees.com.
Geekmas Karma
This sweatshirt is pure kitsch, with a heaping helping of adorable on the side. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, sweet gift for a new boyfriend or girlfriend, this is it. Pair it with a sexy pair of boxers or flannel pajama bottoms, and you’re sure to get a little fashion show on Christmas morning. Or, if your sweetie is a little too cool for old school, then throw in a pair of hipster glasses, and you’ve got an ironic commentary on the commercialism of Christmas. Either way, someone’s shouting, “I have the power!” throughout the holidays, and isn’t that what the season is all about?
Day 2
: Embroidered TARDIS Coasters (Doctor Who)
The 411
If you’re looking for something unique and handcrafted for the Whovian in your life, and knitting a 25-foot scarf is out of the question, here’s the perfect solution. This set of four square cork coasters features embroidered images of the Doctor’s iconic blue police box traveling through time and space. Each of the four coasters has a slightly different orientation of the police box, and the embroidered fabric is artfully sewn to the cork coaster. Elegant, artistic and, above all, unique, this set is a perfect addition to any Whovian home. Available for just $20 at Doktor Nix’s Mercantile and Medicine Show on Etsy. Hint: Buy through their Facebook page for $2 off your order!
Geekmas Karma
Hello, sweetie! In the interest of full disclosure, I bought a set of these coasters myself. I’m always looking for the perfect geeky host/hostess gifts to take to parties and dinners, etc. At this price, these gorgeous little coasters fit the bill. However, once I got them, I couldn’t part with them. It can be a challenge incorporating geeky elements into interior design, but this set is so sophisticated and stylish, they fit in perfectly. Whether on the bar, the coffee table or desk, they look great. If you don’t end up keeping them for yourself, then by all means, give them as a host/hostess gift or as a stocking stuffer. Anyone you give them to will treasure them, I’m sure. Plus, you’ll get bonus points for thinking outside the (blue) box with such a unique and thoughtful gift.
Day 1
: Jayne’s Hat (“The Message,” Firefly)
The 411
“Man walks down the street in that hat, people know he’s not afraid of anything.” This officially licensed Firefly product is a careful reproduction of Jayne Cobb’s infamous hat, the one that was lovingly crafted for him by Mama Cobb. If your own mum isn’t the knitting sort, and you haven’t picked up the skill yourself, this is the perfect solution. The colors and design have been carefully chosen to reproduce the onscreen look of Jayne’s hat. The hat is yellow, orange, and red and is 100% acrylic laplander. One size fits most. At $24.99, it’s a great mid-range Geekmas gift! Available at ThinkGeek.
Geekmas Karma
This is one of those gifts that will score you major Geekmas Karma points with your Firefly-obsessed friend or loved one. Plus, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Whenever they wear it, a small segment of the population will recognize it, smile knowingly and nod, and they’ll get that warm and fuzzy Whedonesque feeling we all crave. Pretty cunning, don’t you think?
FBOTU’s 12 Days of Geekmas 2012: Day 12
By Chance
December 23, 2012 at 7:16PM EDT
Welcome to FBOTU‘s third annual 12 Days of Geekmas Holiday Gift Guide! What is Geekmas, you ask? What is Geekmas? Why, it’s only the most magical time of the year, when geeky children of all ages get what’s coming to them! So, for 12 delirious days, Fanboys of the Universe will help you find the perfect gift for the special fanboy or fangirl in your life. Or for yourself. You should definitely get something nice for yourself, because—hey—you’ve been very good and/or naughty this year, and both behaviors deserve a little reward now and then, don’t you think?
Be sure to check back every day between now and December 23 to see all the swag we’ve chosen for this year’s guide! Happy Geekmas!
FBOTU’s 12 Days of Geekmas 2011 Holiday Gift Guide is available here.
: No Straight Lines: Four Decades of Queer ComicsDay 12
The 411
No Straight Lines collects four decades of ground-breaking LGBTQ comics in one book, with a diverse group of creators tackling complex issues of identity and a changing society with intelligence, humor and imagination. Comics creator and historian Justin Hall has put together an important and moving collection here, recognizing the decades of LGBTQ stories told through comics, long before Green Lantern‘s Alan Scott or Archie’s Kevin Keller came along. For $23 at Amazon or Barnes & Noble, No Straight Lines offers hours of fun and insightful reading.
Geekmas Karma
No matter who you’re shopping for this season, they will love this book. In addition to being entertaining and engrossing, it’s also a wonderful encapsulation of the gay experience over the past four decades. And, believe me, gay history is anything but boring, so you’re going to be a star when this beauty is unwrapped. It’s also the perfect gift for any students, teachers or aspiring comic book creators, too. Pick up a copy for yourself, while you’re at it.
: Diesel DC Comics IntimatesDay 11
The 411
Whether you’re feeling like a masked vigilante or a diabolical mastermind, Diesel has you covered in their limited edition collection of Batman-inspired trunks. Made of a soft cotton blend that allows for excellent mobility and support while retaining its shape, this trunk is a great fit for any comics fan. Plus, if you’ve always wanted to wear superhero underpants, but didn’t want to go the obvious route, the design is not only bold and fun, but seriously stylish. Choose Batman, Bane, Joker or Two-Face. Available for $34 online and in select retail stores.
Geekmas Karma
With underwear, you can either be practical or sexy. Stuff a pair of these in his Geekmas stocking, along with a pair of socks, and you’ve got a practical gift. Wrap these up in a long silk ribbon, along with some body paint, and you’ve got a sexy gift and a hot time on a cold winter’s night. Plus, whenever he wears them, he’ll think of you…and Batman. Not bad, right?
: Her Universe Jewelry and ApparelDay 10
The 411
It can feel like a bit of a boy’s club around here, I know. “Boys” is right there in our title. But make no mistake; we love our geeky sisters! And we want to give them presents. Her Universe is the vision of Ashley Eckstein, actress and voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. She founded Her Universe to create merchandise for female sci-fi fans. Her Universe is a place for fangirls to step into the spotlight and be heard, recognized and rewarded. Check out the entire line of “Geek Chic” jewelry, apparel and more at HerUniverse.com.
Geekmas Karma
I’ve been going to comic book conventions for almost two decades now, and the biggest change I’ve seen over the years isn’t that comics are taking up less and less space on the convention floor. No, it’s that more and more women and girls are joining in the fun. The “geek girl” revolution has begun! I’m sure you must have a geeky gal pal or two in your life. If they’re tired of wearing boxy t-shirts made for men just to show their love for their favorite fandom, Her Universe is here to help. Pair a set of Rebel Alliance earrings with a Princess Leia hoodie, and you’re done. (God, I want that hoodie.)
: Lou Scheimer: Creating the Filmation GenerationDay 9
The 411
From humble beginnings and resources, a legendary creator rises to shape and influence an entire generation of children. This is the inspiring, funny and frequently poignant tale of Lou Scheimer, the man behind Filmation. More than just a biography, the book serves as an encyclopedia of Filmation’s greatest hits, from Archie to Fat Albert to He-Man and She-Ra, and everything in between. Brimming with personality, Creating the the Filmation Generation documents a remarkable era, not only in children’s programming, but in the life of a true original. Written by Lou Scheimer and Andy Mengels, Creating the Filmation Generation is available for $20 at Amazon.
Geekmas Karma
Have a member of Generation X on your list? You will be a Geekmas hero if you give him or her this book. Whatever you think you know about Lou Scheimer and Filmation, there are tons of surprises and stories here that you’ll never find on Wikipedia. It’s also the perfect gift for anyone interested in pursuing a career in a creative field, no matter what generation they are. Pair this with a DVD set of any of Filmation’s properties, and you’ve got the perfect Geekmas gift.
: Death Star Ice Sphere MoldDay 8
The 411
Did you happen to catch Martha Stewart on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon before Thanksgiving? She made a batch of holiday cocktails and extolled the virtues of pressed spherical Japanese ice. When Martha extolls something, I listen. So, I went on a quick Google search to find Martha’s Japenese ice press, and found it I did. It’s $200 at Williams Sonoma. They also have larger sizes for up to $1,000. Just when my hopes of having cocktails with ice balls started to fade, I got a friendly little email from the folks at ThinkGeek. Want spherical ice balls? How does $9.99 sound? And…they’re shaped like the Death Star! Sold, sold, sold. Made of heat and cold resistant food-safe silicone, you can also make chocolate Death Stars or soap Death Stars. Plus, it’s dish washer safe! So, save yourself hundreds of dollars and head over to ThinkGeek. And please don’t tell Martha.
Geekmas Karma
If you’re running a little behind on your gift-giving, or if you’re exchanging gifts with someone before New Year’s Eve, this is the perfect gift. I’m going to make a whole bucket full of Death Star ice balls for my New Year’s Eve party. As with a couple of other items on the Geekmas list, this will also make an affordable and unique host/hostess gift. You can make any cocktail or beverage more intergalactically menacing with the addition of the Death Star. Or turn it into a party game and see how many ice balls you can fit into your mouth. Just make sure you have someone on hand who knows the Heimlich maneuver. Depending on the circumference, I can usually get two balls in my mouth pretty easily.
Tune in tomorrow for Day 9 of FBOTU’s 12 Days of Geekmas 2012!
: Kevin Keller Collections (Archie Comics)Day 7
The 411
I had the privilege of hosting a panel at New York Comic-Con this year, featuring Dan Parent, the creator of Archie’s Kevin Keller. Dan was extremely gracious, humble and patient, especially with fawning fanboys like me. After the panel, I was genuinely surprised at the number of people who came up to me and said this was the first time they’d heard of Kevin. Resisting the urge to express my shock, I instead gathered them close and said, “Let me tell ye about a boy named Kevin Keller and how he changed the world.” Overstating it? Not at all. Kevin Keller, the first openly gay character in Archie Comics, is nothing short of revolutionary. Handled with great care by Mr. Parent, Kevin has taken Riverdale and the comics world by storm. If you’ve missed any issues of this ground-breaking series, now’s your chance to catch up! Archie Comics is offering two collections of Kevin’s adventures thus far. It’s the perfect way to bring yourself or a loved one up to speed on Kevin’s story. You can get both collections at the Archie Store for just $21.98!
Geekmas Karma
Kevin Keller needs to be in your collection. He needs to be on your coffee table, on your bookcase, on your mid-century modern Lane credenza. He’s that important. This is also a great gift for ANYONE on your Geekmas shopping list, and I’ll tell you why. Everyone grew up with Archie. Even if they only picked up an occasional issue, Archie is as much a part of growing up as Disney or Nickelodeon. So anyone you give these books to will already have the background they need to dive right in and re-visit Riverdale. Or, if you’re really looking for bonus Geekmas Karma points, how about buying a couple of extra copies and donating them to your local library or LGBTQ youth center. Help Kevin change minds, hearts and the world!
: Agent Coulson’s Vintage Captain America Trading CardsDay 6
The 411
Just when you thought you were over the tragedy of Agent Coulson, guess what? You can relive the heartbreak over and over with this collection of Agent Coulson’s Vintage Captain America Trading Cards! In this beautifully packaged set, you get a presentation booklet, certificate of authenticity and not one, but TWO sets of cards. Two? Why two? Well…you get Agent Coulson’s original “near mint” set that Steve never had time to sign, as well as a second set…stained with blood. Yes, you read that right. You get a bloody version of the cards, too. I think $40 is a pretty reasonable price to pay to keep Coulson’s memory alive, don’t you think? Available at eFX Inc.
Geekmas Karma
The Avengers was huge in 2012, so there’s bound to be a mega-fan somewhere in your life who would love/hate to have a constant reminder of Agent Coulson’s sacrifice for the team. I’m getting choked up just thinking about it. Unique and probably unexpected, this set is sure to make an impression. Who knows? Maybe whoever you get it for will be inspired to assemble some heroes to take down a psychotic demi-god. All thanks to you! Yay! You saved Geekmas!
: Lumpy Space Princess Action Figure and “Hey Girl” T-ShirtDay 5
The 411
Oh. My. Glob. Can we just declare Adventure Time‘s Lumpy Space Princess a gay icon already? Not only is she proud, independent and fierce, she’s also fashion-forward. Come on, she rocked a dress made out of a plastic bag! To honor LSP, we have two selections for your consideration. First, the new 5” action figure from Jazwares! Little LSP comes with her very fashionable luggage, the symbol of her independence from her controlling parents. She also has a can of beans, proving how resourceful she is and how well she’s doing on her own. (Take that, Melissa!) The LSP action figure is around $14 and is available at online retailers, toy stores and comic shops. Next up is the “Hey Girl” t-shirt ($25 at Redbubble). Immortalizing the classic (and often imitated) exchange between LSP and Turtle Princess, this 100% cotton American Apparel shirt comes in an array of colors and sizes. Pair it with the action figure for the perfect LSP holiday gift!
Geekmas Karma
The Adventure Time fan in your life is going to LOVE having an LSP action figure to pose on his or her desk. Plus, the shirt can go anywhere, from convention to comic book store to gay bar. Wherever they wear it, they’re going to start conversations and hear a chorus of “Hey, girl!” Anytime you can give a gift that generates interest and feedback, that’s a bonus. You might want to get one for yourself, too, in case you’re tempted to borrow the shirt back from time to time.
: Chewbacca Messenger BagDay 4
The 411
Straight from the runways of New York, Paris and Kashyyyk, carry your laptop, iPad or books just like a Wookiee with this fabulous and fashionable Chewbacca Messenger Bag. (It’s not a purse!) Featuring beautiful and humane faux leather and Chewie’s iconic bandolier strap, the bag measures 15 inches wide by 10 inches tall, making it a perfect fit for whatever you’re lugging around the galaxy. With three storage compartments, a zippered inside compartment and additional pockets for your phone, keys and more, the bag also comes with both magnetic and buckle closures. The Chewbacca Messenger Bag is available for $90 at Entertainment Earth and other online retailers.
Geekmas Karma
If you have a geek in your life, odds are they attend at least one convention of some kind per year. How awesome would they look sporting a Chewbacca Messenger Bag around the convention floor? They could probably even get Peter Mayhew to sign it! Or, if not at a convention, this bag is going to look ultra-cool at work, on the subway or in the halls at school. The design makes it recognizable enough to fellow Star Wars fans, but subtle enough to pass as a nice-looking, professional bag, as well. Finally…that bandolier is removable, so you could always strap it on and surprise him with a little sexy cosplay before you give him the messenger bag. Yes, I went there.
: He-Man & She-Ra (Faux) Christmas SweaterDay 3
The 411
What do you get the He-Fan or She-Raver who has everything? How about a festive holiday sweatshirt, just like they wear on Eternia! Designed to look like the traditional Christmas sweater your Gramms might give you, this comfy sweatshirt features Grayskull champions She-Ra and He-Man, serving some serious Sears Portrait Studio realness against a lovely winter background. It’s the perfect fashion choice for any holiday occasion, especially Hanukkah. You can add this gem to your wardrobe or the wardrobe of your favorite fanboy/fangirl for just $35 at 80sTees.com.
Geekmas Karma
This sweatshirt is pure kitsch, with a heaping helping of adorable on the side. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, sweet gift for a new boyfriend or girlfriend, this is it. Pair it with a sexy pair of boxers or flannel pajama bottoms, and you’re sure to get a little fashion show on Christmas morning. Or, if your sweetie is a little too cool for old school, then throw in a pair of hipster glasses, and you’ve got an ironic commentary on the commercialism of Christmas. Either way, someone’s shouting, “I have the power!” throughout the holidays, and isn’t that what the season is all about?
: Embroidered TARDIS Coasters (Doctor Who)Day 2
The 411
If you’re looking for something unique and handcrafted for the Whovian in your life, and knitting a 25-foot scarf is out of the question, here’s the perfect solution. This set of four square cork coasters features embroidered images of the Doctor’s iconic blue police box traveling through time and space. Each of the four coasters has a slightly different orientation of the police box, and the embroidered fabric is artfully sewn to the cork coaster. Elegant, artistic and, above all, unique, this set is a perfect addition to any Whovian home. Available for just $20 at Doktor Nix’s Mercantile and Medicine Show on Etsy. Hint: Buy through their Facebook page for $2 off your order!
Geekmas Karma
Hello, sweetie! In the interest of full disclosure, I bought a set of these coasters myself. I’m always looking for the perfect geeky host/hostess gifts to take to parties and dinners, etc. At this price, these gorgeous little coasters fit the bill. However, once I got them, I couldn’t part with them. It can be a challenge incorporating geeky elements into interior design, but this set is so sophisticated and stylish, they fit in perfectly. Whether on the bar, the coffee table or desk, they look great. If you don’t end up keeping them for yourself, then by all means, give them as a host/hostess gift or as a stocking stuffer. Anyone you give them to will treasure them, I’m sure. Plus, you’ll get bonus points for thinking outside the (blue) box with such a unique and thoughtful gift.
: Jayne’s Hat (“The Message,” Firefly)Day 1
The 411
“Man walks down the street in that hat, people know he’s not afraid of anything.” This officially licensed Firefly product is a careful reproduction of Jayne Cobb’s infamous hat, the one that was lovingly crafted for him by Mama Cobb. If your own mum isn’t the knitting sort, and you haven’t picked up the skill yourself, this is the perfect solution. The colors and design have been carefully chosen to reproduce the onscreen look of Jayne’s hat. The hat is yellow, orange, and red and is 100% acrylic laplander. One size fits most. At $24.99, it’s a great mid-range Geekmas gift! Available at ThinkGeek.
Geekmas Karma
This is one of those gifts that will score you major Geekmas Karma points with your Firefly-obsessed friend or loved one. Plus, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Whenever they wear it, a small segment of the population will recognize it, smile knowingly and nod, and they’ll get that warm and fuzzy Whedonesque feeling we all crave. Pretty cunning, don’t you think?
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