Shopping for teens can feel like walking a tightrope - you want something small enough to tuck into a stocking, but cool enough that it doesn’t land with a thud. The trick is thinking beyond cheap toys or novelty gadgets: look for creative, useful or personalised gifts that reflect their personality. A few thoughtful picks, especially from crafty or artistic ranges, can make a stocking feel unexpectedly special.

That’s why I love bringing in some of our own items when I’m building a teen stocking. For instance, the new Teen Slang Mini Tin is a brilliant warm-up gift: it’s not flashy or childish, but it’s creative and gives them something to make. Each tin features a bold, colourful design inspired by six slang words and symbols teens love most: Leng, Rizz, 6 7, Sigma, Ohio, and the iconic skull emoji! Threading beads, choosing patterns, building bracelets - it’s hands-on and satisfying. For a teen who likes accessories, handmade jewellery, or expressing themselves in a subtle, personal way, this feels much more thoughtful than another pair of socks.

Pair it with something a bit different like the Make Your Own Stitched Tassel Bookmark - small enough to fit in a stocking, but an ideal little project if they enjoy quiet focus or reading. Teen years are full of new books, endless school notes or journaling, and a handmade bookmark adds a touch of individuality. And because it’s a craft rather than a gadget, it’s one of those stocking fillers that feels more meaningful - not instant-gratification, but something that lasts.

If they prefer décor, or want something that gives their space a little personality, consider something like the Make Your Own Stitched Banner Decoration. It’s something they can actually hang up, maybe on a bedroom door, and it’s a little creative project to customise. It’s a nice balance: not overly serious, but not childish either. It says: you’re growing up, you have individuality.

And for teens with an artistic streak, the Pastel Watercolour Pencils Set is a great stocking idea. Creative teens love to doodle, sketch, or journal, and good quality pencils feel like a treat. It’s practical but also encourages self-expression. Compared with many run-of-the-mill stocking fillers, this kind of gift shows you understand what they like, and isn’t just filler.

I find that the secret to good teen stockings lies in mixing useful + creative + personal. A bracelet kit, a bookmark they made themselves, some watercolour pencils, maybe a handmade door hanger. Together they say more than a single expensive gift.