Philadelphia - December 19, 2010

5 Gifts for Design Devotees

Morihata's Worldly Wares

Stumbling upon Morihata, located amidst a stretch of gritty blocks, is like discovering a well-kept secret. The inventory of sophisticated goods (many from Japan) makes it worth the trek.

Nakagawa Paper Clips, $18
Though you laud the way your new hire mans the company Twitter account, her workspace is a perpetual mess. Deer-shaped clips will help keep stacks of paperwork under control.

Bonox Podreaders, $39
Grandma may be an octogenarian, but she’s anything but dowdy. Sleek specs that fold compactly will come in handy at her weekly bridge tournaments.

Yoshii Towels, $6-$44
From the sink full of dishes to the piles of laundry, your couch-surfing sister is wearing out her welcome. Pretty pastel towels will drop the hint you’d like help with the housework.

Allex Scissors, $22
You’re stoked that Cousin Claire got accepted to art school (and not just because you edited her admission essay). Send the prodigy off in style with award-winning stainless steel shears.

Sou Sou Tabi Socks, $9
Uncle Bill has cemented his reputation as a serious germaphobe — split-toe footwear will give him peace of mind when he ventures out in flip-flops.

Morihata, 428 North 13th Street (215-238-1328 or morihata.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Morihata

  Good for Gifts, Japanese Awesomeness