The Ultimate Artist Gift Guide for the Creatives in Your Life
Find the perfect gift below for your loved one. And remember that art is for anyone and it has been shown.
The holiday season is the perfect time to spoil the creatives you love with tools that fuel their imagination — but it’s also the perfect moment to invite anyone to explore art. Whether someone is already an established artist, or they’ve been secretly wanting to try a new creative hobby, these gifts offer an easy and joyful entry point.
And if you’re hoping to connect with your kids during winter break or simply add more fun to your family time at home, these art supplies can turn quiet afternoons into memorable moments. From cozy indoor painting sessions to on‑the‑go sketching during holiday travels, this curated guide offers thoughtful, high‑quality gifts that spark creativity, encourage experimentation, and bring people together.
Whether they’re seasoned artists, total beginners, or little ones who love to make a mess, these gifts are intentionally chosen to inspire, delight, and support creativity at every stage. And beyond being fun, making art has real benefits: it reduces stress, boosts mood, supports mental clarity, and offers a grounding break from screens and everyday overwhelm. A small creative moment can make a big difference — for anyone.
For the artists in your life:
Canson Notebook and Sennelier Watercolors
Canson XL Series Mixed Media Pad
A versatile, durable sketchbook that can handle watercolor, ink, markers, and dry media. This pad is perfect for artists who like to experiment without worrying about ruining paper. Why it’s great: Affordable, sturdy, and beginner-friendly while still appreciated by pros. Pair it with: Micron pens, water brushes, or a set of beginner watercolors.
Canson notepad using Sennelier watercolors (see below)
Princeton Real Value, Series 9100
These synthetic brushes offer great spring and control, ideal for watercolor, gouache, and acrylic. Why it’s great: High quality without the price tag of pro-level brushes. Pair it with: A brush soap or travel brush case.
Csy Art Supplies Handmade Watercolors Paint Set
Beautifully pigmented, artisanal handmade paints perfect for artists who appreciate craftsmanship. I am suggesting the metallic set because it’s so much fun, but truly any of their sets are great! Why it’s great: Unique colors and textures you can’t get from mass-market brands. Pair it with: A premium cotton watercolor paper.
Perfect for outlining, sketching, or adding details over watercolor. Why it’s great: Crisp, clean lines and quick drying. Pair it with: A mixed media sketchbook or a set of brush pens.
Vibrant liquid watercolor brush pens ideal for lettering and expressive sketches. Why it’s great: Intense colors + smooth flow. Pair it with: Marker paper or a water brush for blending.
A luxury watercolor brand beloved by professionals. Why it’s great: Honey-based formula = luminous, rich pigments. Pair it with: Arches watercolor paper or a porcelain palette.
Love, love these watercolors!
A pocket-sized photo printer perfect for journaling, scrapbooking, or creating quick references. Why it’s great: Instant prints + Bluetooth convenience. Pair it with: A creative journal or decorative washi tapes.
My traveling essentials: Viva Color Sheets, Sennelier Watercolors, and my Planner!
For traveling:
Faber-Castell Clic & Go Artist Water Cup
A collapsible water cup that’s sturdy yet compact. Why it’s great: Space-saving and durable. Pair it with: A portable paint set and water brushes.
Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set, Field Travel Set
This compact set is perfect for plein-air painting. Why it’s great: Trusted brand, solid pigment load, ideal for beginners and enthusiasts. Pair it with: A travel watercolor journal.
Ultra-portable, eco-friendly watercolor sheets. Why it’s great: Featherlight and intensely pigmented. Pair it with: A water brush pen.
Small Watercolor Travel Notebooks
Cute travel-sized pads for painting on the go. Why it’s great: Convenient and easy to carry.
Keeps brushes organized and safe. Why it’s great: No more bent bristles in backpacks. Pair it with: A set of travel watercolor brushes.
My planners, journals, to-do lists, recipe book, and sketchbook! …
They are great for artists, especially the sketchbook! Check them out and support this artist. I will thank you from the bottom of my heart!
For the little ones:
Still love these little ameba like drawings from my youngest from a long time ago!
I love spending time drawing or doing crafts in general with my girls! I love this drawing from a while back.
Pocket Watercolor Painting Book
A fun and simple introduction to watercolor. Why it’s great: Controlled mess + self-contained setup. Pair it with: A small brush set safe for kids.
48 Watercolor Brush Pens Premium Set
Perfect for young artists who love bright colors. Why it’s great: No need for water cups; low mess. Pair it with: A large mixed media pad.
Great for sculpting and sensory play. This clay is my absolute favorite! Why it’s great: No baking required. Pair it with: Kid-friendly sculpting tools.
Posca Acrylic Paint Art Markers
Ok, my kids love these markers but they are not just for kids! Why it’s great: Works on anything — rocks, wood, canvas, plastic. Pair it with: Mini canvases or wooden shapes.
Books:
In Watamu, Kenya reading Big Magic!
Wreck This Journal by Keri Smith
Interactive, messy fun that encourages creativity without perfection. Pair it with: Fun stickers, washi tapes, and markers.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
A beautiful reminder to live a creative, brave life. Pair it with: A journal for capturing new inspiration.
Find Your Artistic Voice by Lisa Congdon
A guide for discovering your unique creative path. Pair it with: A self-paced online art class.
Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
A must-read manifesto on embracing influence and creativity. Pair it with: The entire trilogy: Show Your Work! and Keep Going
This gift guide is all about encouraging the artist in your life — whether they’re just starting out or seasoned professionals. Each item is chosen to inspire creativity, make their process easier, and bring more joy to their art practice.
If you have any art supplies that you love, please share them below! I’d love to hear about them!
Happy gifting, and may your holidays be filled with creativity!
Ana