At MAC, creativity is all around us and Christmas is the perfect excuse to share a little inspiration. We asked our colleagues to pick their favourite finds from MAC Shop: the gifts they’re hoping to unwrap this year, and the thoughtful treats they’d love to give to someone else.

Rosi, Media & PR Officer

'Queen Stitch' Project Bag | Needlework on Thursday | £10

I recently got into cross stitching over the summer, and I'm obsessed! I met Jen (who created Needlework on Thursday) at one of MAC's arts markets, and she gave me some wonderful beginner cross stitch tips. I also have one of her Birmingham Library-shaped 'needle minders' (a magnet for your needle while you're working on a project), so would love to expand my Needlework on Thursday collection.

'Resting Stitch Face' Enamel Pin | Punky Pins | £8.50

No novelty pin badge has resonated with me more.

Needlepoint: A modern stitch directory in 50 cards | £14.99

My next goal for expanding my cross stitch horizons is to learn needlepoint as well, so this deck of stitch cards feels like a great place to start! This time next year, I would love to have completed a needlepoint cushion kit or two.

Ben, Development Manager

This Must Be The Place Screen Print by Crispin Finn | £25

My flatmates are both huge Talking Heads fans, and this will slot right into our lounge space as a lovely joint Christmas gift. We were lucky enough to see David Byrne together this year, so what better way to commemorate the occasion. 

'Santa Riding a Dinosaur' Hanging Decoration | £14

It's Santa riding a dinosaur, I feel like I don't need to explain myself here! This gift will go to all of my family members who need to liven up their Christmas trees with a little bit of pre-historic festive joy. Sorry Rudolph, you've been replaced.

Lynch on Lynch by David Lynch | £18.99

This one is for myself. David Lynch is one of my favourite film directors, as he is for many others. His musings take us through creativity, the curiosities of the mind and the artistry of eerie, dreamlike worlds. The strange atmosphere of his words and his films make for perfect winter reading. 

Kate, Marketing Intern

111 Places in Birmingham You Shouldn't Miss | £13.99

As a born and bred Brummie, I don't feel like I've seen even 1% of what Birmingham has to offer, and the city my parents knew has changed so much. This would be a gift for my family so we can visit different places on our days out and break our boring routine.

Cross Stitch Kit | £10

This would be for me! I've seen some really beautiful cross stitch pieces on social media lately and want to pick it up as a hobby. It seemed like great value since there's two designs included and I hope to make at least one (passable!) piece.

Luxury Incense | £5.95

I'd gift this to my best friend who loves incense and could always use more! I also like the ethos behind it and the variety of scents to choose from (especially lavender).

Movie Popcorn Bucket List | £10

I think this will be the perfect Secret Santa gift since I want to get my friends into film! I like that it's reusable, so it can be regifted at the next Secret Santa, and think it'll also make a cute decor piece. 

Sally, Director of Development

Play with Matisse | £17.99

For my best friend's daughter: Starting her art education early! I'm hoping she'll grow up to be my little gallery-hopping partner in crime. Got to nurture my future exhibition buddy!

House of Psychotic Women | £29.99

For me, obviously!: Horror films, complex women and a provocative coffee table book? Yes please! Guaranteed to raise a few eyebrows and start some interesting conversations over Christmas dinner.

Sweet Heart Studs | Working Clasp | £10

For my mum: A little pair of hearts. Something sweet she can wear every day and think of me (whether she likes it or not!).

Reflections on Cinematography by Sir Roger Deakins | £40

For my partner: My partner loved seeing the legendary Roger Deakins at MAC and discovering more about the magic behind filmmaking. I love a gift that brings back a brilliant memory, and this is the perfect keepsake (with bonus brownie points for me!).

Deborah, Chief Executive & Artistic Director

BHX Tee in Black | Brumbox | £30

I love this black BHX tee, I’m buying it for my 19-year-old son who is going travelling next year, it’s minimal, effortlessly cool and stylishly Brum!

YES BAB Oversized Tee in White | Punks & Chancers | £32

I’m buying this for myself – the boxy style is very comfy, great for jumping about to Christmas tunes and wearing to Zumba class in the New Year!

YES BAB Rainbow Socks | Punks & Chancers | £15

What gloriously happy socks – my old dad, at 79 will love these, something to make him smile when he puts his slippers on!

Elaine, Retail Manager

Pickle Planter by Bubblegum | £24.95

When your husband is obsessed with pickling AND pottering in the garden this is essential! It's also just a bright, fun piece to have in your home.

Donna Wilson Pencil Socks | £16

I can't lie, these are for myself. I love to draw and I can't bear to wear boring socks so these are on my wish list.

Old Snobs Cross Stitch Kit | Needlework on a Thursday | £30

I have a friend who is obsessed with textile crafting and we also have a million fun memories of old Snobs - this will make her laugh and keep her busy!

Lino Print Art Gift Set | £36

These sets have everything you need to start up with a new art media. I’d gift this to my step son so he has everything he needs to start and a simple how to guide. Keeping us all creating.