Are you tired of buying generic gifts for Father's Day? If you're ready to show your husband, father, or grandfather just how much he means to you, choose one of these thoughtful presents instead.

1. Inscriptions

This is a great way to add a personal touch to everyday gifts. For example, if you're buying him a luxurious robe, you can have it monogrammed with his name or initials. If you're getting him a new tool belt, you can have it personalized with stitching that says "My Dad: The World's Greatest Handyman." 

2. Games, Cards, and Puzzles

Not only will they give you an excuse to come over and spend more time with him, but if your father is getting up in years, studies have shown that brain-boosting games can help him stay sharp and alert. A nice poker set will help him with both entertainment and enrichment.

3. Tickets to His Favourite Thing

Maybe he loves football. Maybe he used to embarrass you by blaring The Monkees as he dropped you off at school. There are all kinds of games, concerts, and comedy shows that you can turn into a fun Father Day's gift, so check in with your local ticket carrier and see what's out there.

4. Scrapbook

Take a walk down memory lane with a scrapbook that follows your family's life from past to present. Include baby photos, movie stubs, prom portraits, old report cards, and anything else that will hold meaning for your dad. When he gets misty-eyed, pull out your trump card: pictures of his old mullet. 

5. Streaming Services

If he isn't already on Netflix, buying him a year-long subscription will give him access to all of his old favourites like MacGyver and Quantum Leap. If he's already familiar with streaming services, there's probably one he's always wanted to try but never gotten around to purchasing, so sign him up.

6. An Essay

You don't have to be in school to write an essay about "Why I Think You're An Amazing Dad" or "The Moment I Knew I Wanted to Adopt Kids With You." If you're stuck for inspiration, just pretend you're writing a sweet caption under a Facebook photo but expand its length and scope.

7. Cooking Classes

This is a gift that will keep on giving, especially for your mom or anyone else who lives in the same house as your old man. It doesn't have to be a fancy, hoity-toity cooking class either; you can sign him up for advanced grilling instruction or a meat lover's course. The key is catering to his specific interests.

8. Novelty Mug

If he's anything like most dads, he can't function without his daily dose of caffeine. Add a little humour to his mornings by getting him a novelty mug that jokes about his life, job, marriage, kids, or hobbies. For example, if he's a carpenter, the mug might say "Sawdust Is Just Man Glitter." It'll be a sweet and silly gift that's still useful.

9. Scratch-Off Posters

A unique dad deserves a unique gift. You can find scratch-off posters for everything from books read, to countries visited, to beers drunk, and they'll make fun, interactive gifts that he can enjoy for months to come. As a bonus, he'll think of you every time he scratches off a new location or brew.

10. Questionnaires

This is perfect for kids and grandkids. On decorative sheets of paper or stationary, print out fill-in-the-blank questions like "I'll never forget when dad and I ____" or "my favourite thing about grandpa is ____." When you've collected a variety of warm, funny, and nostalgic answers, frame them and present them to the recipient.

11. Indulging In His Hobbies

Does he always wax poetic about the beauty of golf? Has he been dragging you to the fishing pond since you were a grumpy six-year-old? Indulge him this Father's Day by combining father/daughter or father/son time with his favourite pastime. He'll be thrilled that you're finally giving it a chance, and who knows? You might actually like it.

12. Monthly Deliveries

Whether it's movies, books, wines or gadgets, your dad is sure to love a monthly delivery of goodies. You can even arrange for them online if you have a long-distance relationship. Who says that you have to be physically present to let your dad know he's in your thoughts?

13. Luxury Items

Anyone can buy their dad a shaving kit for Father's Day, but how many will go the extra mile with a stainless steel straight razor and top-of-the-line grooming products? The same goes for other food, fashion, and household items. Instead of getting it from the department store, get it from a specialty brand. He'll love the luxury as long as he doesn't have to pay for it.

14. Kitchen Appliances

It may not be something you think about, but dad will probably like certain kitchen appliances, you just have to be smart and selective with your choices. For example, he may not care for a toaster, but he might go crazy for a fancy juicer or complicated coffee maker.

15. Personalized Gift Basket

Last but certainly not least, if you lack the time or money to do something extravagant this Father's Day, consider making him a simple but thoughtful gift basket. Fill it with snacks and time-wasters that you know he'll love, and include a heartfelt card that explains just how much he means to you. He'll appreciate both the goodies and the gesture.

These are just a few ideas for great Father's Day gifts. At the end of the day, the most important things will be your love and attention, so don't stress too much about material possessions. It really is the thought that counts.

Photo credits: hands, letters, shaving kit