I think the long snipper scissors is a nice thing to pair with the braided thread repair kit. I’m thinking of getting the pair for several little Christmas gifts. http://acmenotions.com/losnsc.html
You could also get the folding scissors, or the thread snippers that come with a cap, for a nice safe travel kit.
I’m definitely getting someone that Emergency Unicorn sound thingy from Archie McPhee! Maybe for H, lol.
https://mcphee.com/collections/unicorns/products/emergency-unicorn
Re: wine markers. They work much better than charms for a simple reason; some folks quickly forget the charm they got even before drinking any wine, but they still can recall their name even after a couple of glasses. Plus, people can get creative with their wine glasses… one local winery has a few sets out in their tasting room, and visitors can post photos of their creations on the winery’s social media pages (copyright issues aside 
).
Do your kids (other family) really do that much mending? I’m the sewer here, and if something needs to be fixed they give it to me. It’s rare. My brother used to have me sew his patches on his referee uniforms, but he hasn’t even asked for that lately, and thread and a needle really won’t do it.
I’ve used the mending kits (usually from a hotel) a few times, but it is very rare. I use black or white or clear thread.
Sadly, with TSA you would probably need to stick with a plastic knife if you want to get thru TSA for travel. So many scissors are confiscated!
I’m with @doschicos - I’ll check back in November!
However I will put my two cents in for an Ikea Frother. They cost like $3 and make it easy to enjoy a “latte” at home or work. Froths GREAT. My kids love them and I now have one at home, one at work, one at the cottage!
I lean towards practical (cooking/camping stuff or things like socks) or consumable items. Not into novelty stuff. Just more crap that will wind up in landfills. I know, bah humbug.
Both my kids enjoy cooking and are at that stage where they are setting up new households so it makes it easy.
Spices are a nice stocker stuffer for folks who like to cook. Keep your eyes out for deals on Penzey’s spices.
Wine Soaps https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/wine-soaps-set-of-4
Chocolate Soaps https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/box-of-chocolate-soaps
Solid Cologne https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/solid-cologne
5-in-1 Tool Pen https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/5-in-1-tool-pen
Bottle Opener made from a real MLB bat https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/game-used-baseball-bat-bottle-openers
Handbag Light https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/automatic-handbag-illuminator
Herb Razor https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/kale-herb-razor
A small but good pair of hair scissors. If you get them small enough they can go in carry-on luggage.
@chercheur - Yes, that’s the place I was trying to remember! Thank you!! And thanks to all the other great ideas!
Penzey spices for your kids who are into cooking. Keep an eye on their announcements - it sounds like there could be some opportunities to grab some specials in the upcoming month.
Ok, just bought 21 of these multicolor braids that will be going to lots of folks this year—no charge for postage (shipped to my Maine hotel)! Nice price. Folks I know are trying to reduce but it will be handy to be able to repair with matching thread, especially for young adults.
https://www.createforless.com/Rainbow-Braid-Thread-by-Collins-1-in.-Flat/pid8617.aspx
I enjoy finding little things that will be useful to many–now I just have to remember them, so they can be used in a few months or I will end up with lots of things here and there.
My kids have HUGE stockings. Maybe I’m mean, But last year I put things like Method hand and dish soap, Barilla pasta, and other consumables they would actually use, along with Cheesecake Factory gift cards, slices of joy (last couple of Black Fridays they’ve offered 2 free pieces of cheesecake for each $25 GC), and other “practical” things.
No - you are not mean, you are a caring and very practical mom! Trinkets, while fun, usually quickly turn into landfill material…
Has anyone used those wool dryer balls? I was thinking of getting some for stocking stuffers if they work. I also came across those little balls you put in tennis shoes to make them smell better. The kids all exercise a lot so maybe those would be useful.
I have wool dryer balls and honestly I don’t think they work as well as dryer sheets.
@psychmomma I have a kiddo who played soccer and ran cross country/track. His feet took a beating, and so did his shoes. I replaced the insoles of his shoes with Superfeet - they are removable and can be hand washed (so no odor!). My spouse (who still plays team sports) is getting a new pair in his stocking this year.
https://www.superfeet.com/en-us/superfeet-shape
https://www.superfeet.com/en-us/insoles-and-sandals/blue (the one we use)
Two thumbs up for Superfeet! They also came in sheepskin-covered version (love that in my boots).
Thin touch screen-compatible gloves. A welcome gift for runners.