Coming up with some unique gift ideas for artists can be a little bit tough because we tend to dabble in a variety of different things and have our favourite go-to supplies.
A beginner artist might not be so picky about quality, whereas someone more experienced might know the difference between a good paint/paper/brush and a bad one.
As an artist myself, I love it when others gift me supplies and tools that I can use because they really are the gifts that keep on giving!
If you’re buying for a creative person who paints or draws and have no idea where to begin, I’ve put together this list of gifts that would be absolutely appreciated — and your recipient might just be surprised that you knew what to shop for!
Here are some tried and true gift ideas that surely won’t disappoint any beginner or intermediate artist!
Gift Ideas for Artists
50 Ways to Draw Your Beautiful, Ordinary Life: Practical Lessons in Pencil and Paper
This book shares cute illustration tutorials and would be a perfect practice book for beginners, or a great warm up book of exercises for those who just want to put a pencil to paper.
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils - 72 Pack
Prismacolor makes some of the best coloured pencils that are loved by many artists. They make sets of different colours and quantities, so you are able to choose your preference based on your budget.
Arrtx Gouache Paint Set, 18 Colors
This set of gouache paint includes 18 colours that can be mixed or used solo. Gouache is a type of paint sort of in between watercolour paint and acrylic. It's a lovely medium to get into and might be the perfect supply for the artist that seems to have everything.
Not Paint Water Mug
Any artist would appreciate a mug that makes SO MUCH SENSE to them. A cute and handy 15oz mug that any creative person can enjoy.
Sakura Gelly Roll 6pk Pen, White
These make for great add-on gifts! Opaque white pens are used in a variety of mediums to add highlights and white details. This brand is a favourite of mine!
Watercolor with Me in the Ocean
Of course, I have to share one of my books from the series of three Watercolour With Me books. As the author, I am biased, but these books are printed on a textured watercolour paper and include instructions, supply lists, and a light sketch of the subject you'll be painting. Paint right in the book and have fun!
Arteza Alcohol Brush Markers, Set of 36 Colors
Artists can never have enough alcohol ink markers! These are a less expensive version of professional alcohol ink markers (like Copic!) and come in a set of 36.
Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint, Half Pans
I love Winsor & Newton paint and constantly recommend the Cotman line for beginners because of the cost and quality. This set has all of your basic colours that allow for an awesome range of options.
Wonder Forest Watercolour Brush Bundle
Did you know that Wonder Forest makes our own art supplies? This is a bundle set of our best selling Premium Synthetic Watercolour Brushes and a 1" Wash Brush. All of our brushes contain zero animal fur, yet are still as soft and absorbent as those other brands that use real fur.
Hardcover Watercolour Journal – Cold Pressed
This journal is another addition to our Wonder Forest line of art supplies. It is a cotton cold pressed hardcover book with 20 sheets. Perfect for travel or keeping a sketchbook!
Cold Pressed Professional Watercolour Pad
Along with the journal posted above, we also offer a larger 9x12 paper pad with the same amazing cotton paper!
Stonehenge Aqua Black Pad, 140lb, Coldpress, 8 x 10 Inches, 15 Sheets
If you want to surprise someone with something a little different, try this black watercolour paper! It's so awesome to use with gouache (see above for recommendation).
Tombow MONO Drawing Pen, 3-Pack.
These blank ink drawing pens are so useful for so many different things. The ink is permanent so they work well with all artistic mediums and come in a pack of 3 different fine tipped sizes.
Simply Art Masking Fluid
Masking fluid is an art supply that comes in handy when painting. It blocks off areas of paper that you don't want covered in paint, and then pulls off to reveal the untouched paper underneath. Super useful in watercolour when you need to keep white areas white!
Picture/Perfect Light Box for Tracing - Ultra Thin Portable LED Light Pad
An LED light pad is also one of those super handy supplies! It's a thin board that allows you to trace or transfer sketches onto your final piece of paper. Definitely better than holding your paper up to a window!
Nicpro 6PCS Art Mechanical Pencils Set, 3 PCS
Mechanical pencils are always a joy to receive! These 6 or 3 piece sets are super popular and hold graphite lead.
Tombow Mono Zero Eraser and Refill Value Pack
This is the ultimate eraser for removing small details and line work. It's basically like a pen, but an eraser. I couldn't live without one!
General Pencil Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver, 1 Pack, Clear
This small container of brush cleaner and preserver easily cleans paint brushes without damaging the bristles. It makes a great little add-on or stocking stuffer!
Painting with Bob Ross: Learn to paint in oil step by step!
Learn from the master! This book features painting lessons by the master of oil landscapes, Bob Ross!
No-Fail Watercolor: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Painting with Confidence
This is a gorgeous watercolour tutorial book by Mako, a friend of Wonder Forest. She walks you through the basics of watercolour painting and has some beautiful projects to try!
U.S. Art Supply Newport Small Adjustable Wood Table Sketchbox Easel
This little easel is super handy! You can store your supplies in it and set up your painting area wherever you are! Perfect for small spaces or people who like to paint on their travels.
Artlicious Canvases for Painting - Pack of 12
An artist can never have too many canvases. These flat canvas boards are the perfect gift for anyone who paints and come in a variety of sizes.
Marbrasse Wooden Pen Organizer
Artists are known to have so many supplies and nowhere to put them! Being messy kind of comes with the territory. Something like this organizer would be super appreciated and help keep those supplies neat and tidy.
3-Tier Rolling Utility Cart
A rolling cart like this one is another organization supply but SO USEFUL for artists. It's easy to store your paints and mediums in here and wheel it around your work area without misplacing anything.
If you still can’t decide, gift cards are always welcome! Art supply stores like Curry’s, Dick Blick, Michael’s, and even Amazon are great!
Pin This:
Last Updated on