Six of the best alphabet motifs

1Lisa Marklew Button covers, pounds 5.00 each or pounds 22 for a set of five Disguise boring buttons with these smart ceramic covers. A metal clip at the back slips over existing buttons so you can move them from shirt to shirt or change your message to suit your mood. Contact ceramicist Lisa Marklew on 0171-916 2368 for details.

2 Alphabet note books, from pounds 6.99, Paperchase Smart gold and black stencilled canvas covers on the outside and smooth cream paper, indexed for addresses - or plain for notes - on the inside. Call 0171-580 8496.

3Whittards Breakfast bowl and plates, pounds 10 for six Whittards launched their alphabet range earlier this year as a bit of an experiment, but everything has sold so well that they are planning more. The current range includes mugs, teapots, dinner plates, side plates, and soup plates. All items are dishwasher safe, and if you find your local branch has sold out don't panic as more stocks are coming in the new year. Call 0171-924 1888 for mail order and telephone enquiries

4Scrabble Cufflinks pounds 14.99 a pair, Heals These scrabble tile cufflinks make the perfect present for the man who has everything except buttons on his shirt cuffs. Tel 0171-636 1666 for nearest store.

5Mugs, pounds 6.25, Heals Anything initialed makes an ideal last minute present and these cream mugs with dark indigo letters are no exception. Tel 0171- 636 1666 for nearest store.

6Paris Ceramics Animal alphabet tiles, pounds 500 + VAT for set of 26 This alphabet range - in Paris Ceramic's crackle glaze - was inspired by children's book illustrations from the turn of the century. Great in the kitchen, bathroom or nursery. Call 0171-371 7778.