Gift cards can be a scourge at Christmas, a lazy substitute for the beautifully wrapped present. But at least some are creative – like this one for Mister Lube.  It’s the replica of a dashboard light, by Dave Thornhill of Toronto.  The rest of these, much as I abhor the practice, are also worth a look for their creative art and design.

Detroit Institute of Arts – Michelle Kathryn, Rochester, Minnesota

Safeway Gift Card – Alex Castellanos, Wichita, Kansas

Nike Action Sports – Alex Brubacher, Chicago

Carhartt (outerwear) – Julie McCarthy, Detroit

From Mastermind Toys, Toronto

What if a gift card could be a toy as well? – By Travis Robertson, creative director for Target Corp.