If you have a friend or family member who’s passionate about about welding, why not help them pursue their hobby with a welding related birthday or holiday gift? For all us non-welding people, picking something out can be tricky. With that in mind, here are some awesome gifts for the welder in your life.
Welding Consumables
For the ‘un-initiated’, a welding consumable is an item that when used or consumed during the welding process requires replenishment. Examples include welding wire or rod as well as components of the welding gun itself.
Since some welding equipment does wear out over time, replacement items make great gifts and are inexpensive. Items such as nozzles or tips (for MIG welding) need to be replaced fairly regularly and are sold individually (nice for stocking stuffers) or in larger kits. Anti-spatter Nozzle Gel can extend the life of these consumables and also makes a great inexpensive gift.
Likewise, even an occasional welder will go through plenty of welding wire or rod. For wire, you may need to take a quick peek at the model number of the machine just to make sure you purchase something compatible.
Rod is typically universal so just the type is needed. Good all around rods are 6010 and 6011. Holders and cases for rod also make great presents as most rod is sensitive to moisture and humidity.
For the TIG guy/girl, tungsten electrodes can be purchased as well as replacement kits for the torch itself. Again, you may need to snap a picture of the machine first so you can buy the right stuff.
An Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet
If your loved one is using an older flip-type helmet it’s time to bring them into the modern day with an auto-darkening welding helmet. These models don’t require lifting the visor up every time they need to inspect the weld. Instead, the glass in these high tech helmets is completely clear until a welding arc is detected.
The bright light hits the sensors in the helmet, causing the glass to immediately darken. It’s a really great item that keeps the welder safe while making it easier to work. You can find information about these amazing welding helmets here or ask the sales associate at a store that carries welding equipment for their opinion.
Safety Gear
While your welder friend or family member likely has gloves, a welding apron, and other safety gear if they’ve been welding for a while, these items do wear out after some use.
If you’ve taken a look at their welding duds and have noticed that they’re looking a little worse for wear, replacing them is a great gift. Even if you’re not sure if they’re ready to retire their current safety gear, it never hurts to have a backup or even different style of glove and jacket for different welding processes.
Both gloves/gauntlets and jackets come in various thicknesses and compositions. Having a different set for different temperatures or activities can help keep the welder in your life cooler and comfortable and still safe.
Specialty Tools
Welding Table or Bench
A hobbyist, especially one just starting out, may not have fully stocked their workspace. They may need a better welding table or bench, a stool to sit on, or even some storage shelves.
While some may prefer to build their own, those tight on space may find it easier to purchase a smaller cart-type table that can easily be moved when not in use. Many are adjustable and assembled in place, making them perfect for wrapping and placing under the tree.
Welding Books
For a beginner, there’s no such thing as too much knowledge about welding. There are many different books out there that can help a new welder learn different techniques, and they all make good gifts.
If the welder in your life already has a good number of beginning welding books, you can always look for project books. These books provide a how-to guide to create a number of different projects, including furniture and artwork.
Welding Apparel + Gift Items
No reason to spend a fortune if you’re looking for something small. Every welder will appreciate a nice welding oriented T-Shirt. Our favorites are “Welding: it’s like sewing, but with fire” or “I make sparks fly.” Same goes for coffee mugs and many more small items that can be personalized.
Or how about some welding artwork for the workshop or garage? Anything from small welding sculptures to framed pictures of welding (or of your welder in action) can put a nice crafty touch to the space.
A Gift Card
Gone are the days when welding supplies and accessories are only available at local specialty stores or the large home improvement chain. Everything from welding machines to even shielding gas is available online so why not a gift card?
It may seem impersonal to some people, but if you know your welder can get something they truly need, they’re sure to appreciate it.
Final Thoughts
These are just some basic gift ideas for a welder. Always keep the recipient’s personality, sense of humor, and needs in mind when selecting a gift. If you do, and if your gift comes from the heart, they’re sure to appreciate it (even if you absolutely nothing about welding).
