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Know someone who reaches for a crossword puzzle whenever they have a quiet moment? Maybe they enjoy tackling the daily newspaper puzzle, working through a challenging book, or showing off their knack for finding the right words. If you’re having trouble deciding what to get them, we’ve made the search a little easier.
Take a look at these gift ideas for crossword puzzle lovers, with plenty of options to suit different tastes.
Gifts for Crossword Puzzle Lovers
1. The New York Times Crossword Page-A-Day Calendar
If they’re always looking for another crossword to solve, this Page-A-Day calendar will keep them happily occupied throughout 2027. It features an official New York Times puzzle for every day, with difficulty levels that gradually increase as the week progresses. Edited by Will Shortz, each puzzle also has its solution on the back, so they can check their answers whenever they get stuck.
2. Blackwing Natural Pencils
One thing about crossword enthusiasts is that they can never have too many good pencils nearby. These Blackwing pencils feature extra-firm Japanese graphite that creates fine, precise lines and doesn’t need constant sharpening. Their natural cedar barrels have a lovely woodgrain finish, while the iconic extendable erasers make them stand out. They’re a lovely addition to any puzzle lover’s desk.
3. Ban.do Newspaper Vase
Talk about a vase that will make a crossword fan do a double take! This Ban.do ceramic vase has a fun newspaper-inspired design, complete with a filled crossword puzzle printed on the outside. Standing 8.5 inches tall, it makes a quirky display for fresh flowers, but can also double as a pencil holder. It’s a charming little addition to their puzzle-loving space.
4. Etwoa Crossword Puzzle Infinity Scarf
Unlike ordinary scarves, this one lets a crossword enthusiast wear their favorite pastime wherever they go. Featuring a classic black-and-white crossword grid print, this lightweight chiffon infinity scarf adds a fun touch to everyday outfits. Its soft, breathable fabric and loop design make it easy to style, whether they’re heading to the library, meeting friends, or simply running errands.
5. Sasttie Reading Pillow
Your friend who’s always working through a crossword puzzle will appreciate having a comfy spot to settle in for a long solving session. This Sasttie reading pillow has supportive arms and firm polyester filling that cushion their back and neck while they sit up in bed or lounge on the couch. The soft, removable cover and handy carry handle make it even more convenient.
6. Bananagrams
There’s a thrill when you get to put your word skills to the test against family and friends, and Bananagrams makes it even more exciting. Players race to arrange letter tiles into their own crossword-style grids, making it a fun change of pace for someone who loves puzzles. It accommodates up to eight players and comes in a handy banana-shaped pouch for travel.
7. GLS Crossword Puzzle Socks
Swap their everyday socks for something that speaks to their love of word games. These novelty crew socks feature crossword puzzle prints, making them a fun conversation starter for anyone who enjoys filling in those little squares. Made with a breathable cotton blend and reinforced heels and toes, they’re comfortable enough for regular wear while adding a playful touch to their wardrobe.
8. Cruciverbalist T-Shirt
What’s a cruciverbalist without a little wardrobe recognition? This T-shirt is made for someone who takes their crossword puzzles seriously and proudly considers themselves a word-game expert. Its simple design makes the message easy to appreciate without being too flashy, while the lightweight fabric and classic fit keep things comfortable. It’s a fun casual addition to their wardrobe and a nice nod to their favorite hobby.
9. Buyify Foldable Lap Desk
It can be hard to get comfortable when solving crossword puzzles for hours, especially when they prefer working from the couch or bed. This foldable lap desk gives them a spacious surface for their puzzle books, notebooks, or tablet, with a built-in cup holder for their favorite drink. It also has a handy phone or tablet slot and folds flat for easy storage when they’re done.
10. New York Times Seriously Hard Crossword Puzzles
If they’re the type who breezes through regular crosswords and always wants something tougher, this collection should keep them busy. It features 200 of the most challenging Friday and Saturday puzzles from The New York Times, all edited by crossword legend Will Shortz. The portable paperback format also makes it easy to take along for a little brain exercise during commutes or travels.
11. Glocusent Bendable Neck Light
Whenever they’re in the mood to tackle a crossword puzzle without turning on all the lights, this bendable neck light comes in handy. It wraps comfortably around the neck, leaving both hands free to write and fill in answers. They can choose from three light colors and adjustable brightness levels, while the rechargeable battery offers plenty of reading time between charges. It’s especially handy for late-night puzzling.
12. Eat, Sleep, Crossword Puzzles, Repeat T-Shirt
No doubt your giftee will get a kick out of the message on this T-shirt: “Eat. Sleep. Crossword Puzzles. Repeat.” With its vintage-inspired lettering and distressed grunge look, it’s a fun way for them to show off their favorite pastime without saying a word. The casual design makes it easy to wear for puzzle nights, relaxed weekends, or whenever they’re busy working through their latest crossword challenge.
13. Pilot FriXion Clicker Erasable Gel Pens
Rather than crossing out mistakes or reaching for correction fluid, crossword enthusiasts can simply erase and try again with these Pilot FriXion Clicker pens. Their special heat-sensitive ink disappears with friction, making it easy to change answers without leaving messy marks on puzzle pages. The six-pack features smooth 0.7 mm gel pens with comfortable grips, retractable designs, and refillable ink.
14. The Big Book of TV Guide Crosswords #2
What better way to combine a love of crossword puzzles with a little TV nostalgia? This hefty collection features more than 250 puzzles inspired by classic television shows from the 1940s through today. They’ll get to test their word skills while revisiting favorite shows, memorable characters, and television trivia from different decades. It’s a fun way to keep their brain busy and take a trip down memory lane.
15. Ember Smart Mug 2
I can almost guarantee that a crossword fan will appreciate having their coffee stay warm while they work through a particularly tricky puzzle. The Ember Smart Mug 2 keeps drinks at their preferred temperature for up to 80 minutes off the charging coaster or all day while docked. They can even adjust the temperature using an app, so there’s no need to rush through their favorite brain teasers.
16. Merriam-Webster’s Crossword Puzzle Dictionary
The key to getting through those stubborn crossword clues is sometimes having the right reference book nearby. Merriam-Webster’s Crossword Puzzle Dictionary packs in 340,000 clues and answer words, including more than 20,000 new additions. It’s organized by alphabetical order, word length, and common categories, making it easier to track down tricky answers. Any crossword enthusiast who loves tackling challenging puzzles will find plenty of use for this one.
17. The Puzzler Book
It’s not often that a book manages to combine entertainment, adventure, and a serious appreciation for puzzles quite so well. In The Puzzler, author A.J. Jacobs explores why people love solving everything from crosswords and riddles to jigsaws and mazes. He even takes part in unusual puzzle competitions and tackles some seriously difficult challenges. Crossword lovers who enjoy the world of puzzles beyond the grid will have a great time with this read.
18. New York Times Ultimate Crossword Omnibus
No more worrying about running out of crossword puzzles anytime soon! This massive collection brings together 1,001 New York Times crosswords covering everything from easier Monday puzzles to tougher Saturday challenges. Edited by legendary crossword editor Will Shortz, it offers more than three years of puzzling entertainment in one book. It’s a real treat for enthusiasts who enjoy having a fresh set of clues waiting whenever they have free time.
19. 3dRose Crossword Puzzle Mug
Here’s a simple way to make their morning coffee feel a little more personal. This 3dRose ceramic mug features a crossword puzzle print on the outside, with a cheerful blue interior and matching handle. Its glossy finish gives it a nice polished look, while the sturdy ceramic construction makes it suitable for everyday use. They’ll enjoy sipping their favorite drink from it while working through the day’s clues.
20. CCOHHFWPD Crossword Dice Game
Almost anyone who enjoys playing with words will get a kick out of this little dice game. It comes with 15 letter dice that players roll before using the letters facing up to create words. They can play solo or bring it out during family gatherings for some friendly competition. The included canvas pouch makes it easy to carry along for screen-free entertainment wherever they go.
21. Gen X Crossword Puzzle Book
If they grew up in the 70s, 80s, or 90s, this crossword book will bring back plenty of familiar memories while giving their brain a fun workout. It features 50 easy-to-medium puzzles covering everything from music and movies to television, sports, and pop culture. Created by human crossword constructors, each puzzle also comes with a fun trivia tidbit, making this a lovely mix of nostalgia and wordplay.
22. Spin Master Upwords Game
Hey, it’s not just about knowing big words! Upwords also rewards players who can spot opportunities to change existing words by stacking new letter tiles on top. This clever word game comes with a rotating board, 100 letter tiles, and enough racks for four players. Crossword fans will enjoy the vocabulary challenge, especially when a simple letter change can turn an ordinary word into a high-scoring move.
23. Mindmade Crossword Advent Calendar
Get them something that makes counting down to Christmas a little more interesting than opening ordinary chocolate-filled windows. This crossword advent calendar hides a fresh puzzle behind each of its 24 windows, with challenges ranging from easy to seriously tricky. They can earn points for solving without looking up answers and keep track of their progress throughout December. It’s a fun seasonal treat for anyone who enjoys testing their word skills.
24. Bird Crossword Puzzle Book
If they’re just as happy identifying birds as they are filling in crossword grids, this book combines two enjoyable pastimes. It features 50 bird-themed puzzles covering different species, habitats, migration patterns, and bird behavior. The large-print 8.5 x 11 format provides spacious grids and easy-to-read clues, while the bird illustrations add a nice touch. It’s a lovely way to enjoy some screen-free entertainment while learning a little about feathered friends.
25. New York Times Supersized Book of Sunday Crosswords
Few things make a crossword lover happier than discovering a fresh batch of puzzles to tackle. This collection delivers an impressive 500 Sunday crosswords from The New York Times, giving them plenty of material for their favorite pastime. Since each puzzle offers a more substantial challenge, they can settle in for longer solving sessions and enjoy working through clues at their own pace.
26. 20th Century Crossword Puzzles Book
If they’re fond of reminiscing about the good old days, this crossword book gives them plenty of reasons to smile while solving. It features larger-print puzzles built around memorable moments from 1900 to 1999, covering everything from music and movies to sports, television, and history. They’ll get to revisit familiar names like Kennedy, the Beatles, and Gilligan while keeping their minds busy with fun word challenges.
27. Star Wars Crossword Puzzles Book
For someone who enjoys both word games and the adventures of the Skywalker saga, this collection brings the two together in a pretty fun way. It includes over 50 puzzles inspired by everything from Sith Lords and Wookiees to lightsaber duels, Tatooine, and the Galactic Empire. With different difficulty levels and colorful illustrations, they’ll have plenty of opportunities to test their Star Wars knowledge beyond the usual trivia questions.
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