40 Small Stocking Stuffers That Will Make a Big Impression This Holiday Season

November 6, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Many would agree that rummaging through your Christmas stocking is one of the most exciting parts of Christmas morning. Hung by the fireplace or at the end of your bed, the tradition of filling an empty sock-shaped bag full of surprises originates from the life of Saint Nicholas. Legend has it that the Christian bishop wanted to help an old man in poverty, by secretly throwing bags of gold coins directly into his daughters’ stockings while they were hanging up to dry by the fireplace. This led to the custom of children hanging stockings or putting out shoes, eagerly awaiting gifts from Saint Nicholas.

The stories of Saint Nicholas’ secret gift-giving later influenced the modern Christmas Eve traditions of Santa Claus. Today, many children (and adults) are still leaving out their stockings in the hopes of finding them filled with all sorts of tiny treats by morning. After all, good things come in small packages.

If you’re looking for unique stocking fillers for your loved ones, this gift guide includes something for everyone on your list. For the artist in your life, we’ve included the Viviva Colorsheets—a portable booklet of watercolor paint sheets. For crafters, there’s plenty of gift ideas to keep them busy, including a hedgehog needle felting project. For photographers, check out the solar photography kit. But if you’d like that creative person to just relax, give them some geode bath bombs to make sure they take some time that’s just for them.