Mr. SOTSS just had a birthday and I wanted to make something special for him. I decided to make a race medal holder that could combine two things he enjoys, boats and running.

I started out thinking about what I wanted it to say. After a few days I remembered he told me about a song he enjoys listening to when running and it all clicked when I read the lyrics…

Going the Distance

Going the Distance! How perfect is that? I started out designing the typography on the computer (which was a no-brainer since I am a graphic designer). Then I needed to find the materials. I got the rope (to hang the race bibs) and the boat cleats (to hang the medals from) at a boat store. I had the acrylic paint and brushes to paint the words. Of course I realized I was not going to be able to hand paint the compass on the very rough wood since there was just too much detail. That’s when I realized I could create a custom keychain online (I used Zazzle). Once it arrived I just removed the key ring and then used some Gorilla Glue to glue it down to form the “O”.

nautical rope

Compass

The only thing I didn’t make was the wood plaque. I bought it from Etsy. It was reasonably priced and worth it for me to get a custom size and they even attached hardware to the back to hang it.

Are you creative? Do you like to make gifts for people?
Do you like to shop for gifts for people? Or do you like to give no-brainer gifts like gift cards or cash?

I love gift giving. I get myself worked up though. I try so hard to give someone the perfect gift and it doesn’t always work out. But it’s the thought that counts. 🙂

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