A bespoke crossword can be as versatile as you like. It’s something you can give to a group or a loved one, yet it’s personal and unique every time. You can use clues to induce smiles, laughs, or groans, or know which memories will be delightful to prompt and revisit. A thoughtful personalised crossword is wonderful to receive, knowing that rather than pulling from the mass market, someone spent that time creating a personal gift for you.
Create a uniquely personal gift
If you’re thinking about commissioning your own and have a great crossword idea, or would like to order prints, let me know about it!
No Clue About Crosswords?
When thinking of clues, it can be as broad or as niche as you’d like! The only thing to bear in mind is that the recipient should be able to guess it without too much difficulty, and be something they would love to be reminded of. Some ideas to spark inspiration:
Beloved memories and in-jokes
Important people, places or events
Holidays or special countries
Nicknames, pets, or quirks
Hobbies and passions
Career highlights, school days and significant achievements
Music, books, films, and TV shows
Food, beverages and restaurants
Games, activities or sports teams
The Idea
My first crossword was created in early 2024, on my nine year anniversary. We met in design school, graduated together, continue to collaborate, and we both love crosswords. He made me a hard-bound collection, and I’d save a newspaper for a Sunday morning. For that anniversary, I came up with a collection of personal memories and in-jokes that only he knew, and made them into a piece of graphic art. I loved making it, and then solving it side by side, something unique that only he and I could do together.