The basic tea kettle has been the recipient of many a modern makeover, from awkward flip-top handles to timer-triggered steeping mechanisms. Menu’s New Norm kettle touts a design upgrade that’s both lovely and functional ($80 at Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store, 365 State St., nr. Bond St., Boerum Hill; 718-522-9848). The pot is sturdy enough for the stove top, while the transparent glass and dunkable, egg-shaped infuser let you monitor the strength of your brew. Find this, along with stocking stuffers, new shops worth raiding, charitable ideas for less material-minded giving, and dozens more presents in our annual holiday-gift guide. [NYM]
