Schumacher Tile & Stone

When you’re trying to find inexpensive, quality gifts this year, don’t overlook Schumacher. “But, Heidi!” you say, “A new kitchen countertop or tile floor isn’t exactly on my ‘inexpensive’ list!”

True.

However, we’ve had a brainstorming session over here, and I think we’ve come up with a few gift ideas that rock (if you’ll pardon the pun). I’ve listed them in order of least expensive down to a few more substantial ideas. Don’t read this if you’re on my Christmas list!

10. Cutting boards made of stone or solid surfacing materials. At $25 for a natural stone cutting board (sizes may vary) and $15 for one made of Corian or another solid surface (12″x12″ oval or 12″x18″ rectangle), these are truly great family gifts. Cheese boards, breadboards; use your imagination, and throw in some goodies to help them test it out!

9. Don’t call this cheating, but a rectangular stone finished like a cutting board also makes a terrific ice cream mixing stone — yes, I am thinking Cold Stone Creamery or Maggie Moo’s. Wrap it up with some ice cream toppings and scoops, and watch the fun!

8. Once again, an 18″x15″ stone has many uses; this time it’s just what any aspiring baker (or semi-pro!) needs for rolling out the perfect pastry dough. Small enough to be chilled in a fridge or freezer, but big enough to roll a circle for a 9-inch pie plate, all that’s left to be desired is some cinnamon or nutmeg and a huge bow.

7. Cutting boards aside, a small finished stone square at around 12″x12″ is the perfect trivet for placing a hot pan or pie plate. Can you smell Christmas dinner yet?

6. Marble bookends are on any bibliophile’s wish-list. There has to be something beautiful enough to compliment the leather covers of their favorite books, and this is it. Any natural stone can be fashioned into a simple and elegant bookend, and small glass accents can give it a little bit of shine.

5. We mustn’t neglect the living room, either; coasters help keep your furniture and tables looking like new. Solid surface materials can give you the light, stylish protection you wood needs. And don’t forget about tile! Four inch square tiles are the perfect size for coasters, and with a little creative juice, you can dress them up with felt backs to go with any room. Slate tiles can be easily labeled with chalk, or white glossy ceramic tiles can be used with dry-erase markers to leave notes or keep track of cups.

4. For a gentleman of your acquaintance, don’t forget about business card holders. Crafted from marble or other natural stone chair rails, you’re just two steps and a gentle curve away from the perfect display. Choose a color that compliments the card, and your gift is assured a place of honor.

3. If you’re thinking of a little bit more, consider refurbishing an antique table or dresser with a new top. Our remnant sale is still in effect, and you can choose from many different colors. Stone adds to the character of an already chic cabinet or desktop.

2. For your back patio, consider a stone table top. Rustic and natural, you can create an eye-catching centerpiece or a beautiful accent to your yard. A smaller option is a coffee table top – to spur your imagination, we have a remarkably elegant design right here in our showroom. A 2cm ogee edge with slender curves to highlight the natural ebb and flow of color in the rock. How about an end table or bedside table?

1. And for gifts that go the extra mile, kitchen appliances are great. Microwaves, coffee makers, built-in refrigerators, trash compactors, and slide-away ovens are all here to see in Kitchen by Designs’ Living Kitchen Showroom. You may think these aren’t typical Christmas gifts, but I assure you — diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but an inconvenient kitchen is everyone’s worst enemy!

If you have an idea for a gift made of natural stone, tile, or solid surfacing, don’t hesitate to let us know. We’re always willing to work with you to make what you need, and we love new ideas!

Heidi Blodgett
Schumacher Tile & Stone

These might also interest you:

• February 15, 2010 -- Presidents’ Day Sale – EXTENDED!
• February 11, 2010 -- Presidents’ Day Sale – Saturday, February 13th
• June 14, 2011 -- Portfolio: Kozmus Black Kitchen Counters
• October 28, 2010 -- Portfolio: Eagle New Home