The holiday season is all about giving, and what better way to celebrate than with Christmas gifts that inspire creativity? Whether you’re shopping for a dedicated artist, a casual hobbyist, or someone looking to explore their creative side, these artsy gift ideas will help you make a lasting impression.
Don’t forget to check out my other Christmas gift guides for more ideas under $20 —your perfect crafty gift idea could be just a click away!
30+ Arty Christmas Gift Ideas for Under $50
15+ Christmas Gift Ideas for Artists (Under $100)
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Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol B Markers (24 Pack)
The Ohuhu Honolulu B Alcohol Markers earned top marks in my recent marker comparison, standing out as the best alcohol markers available. Their excellent tip quality and smooth blending capabilities make them a joy to use, whether you’re creating bold designs or adding fine details. With a wide range of colours, these markers are ideal for shading, layering, and experimenting with artistic techniques, and make for an excellent gift for anyone looking to expand their creativity toolkit this Christmas.
‘Bite-sized LayerCake’ Bundle
By Jane Davenport
Painting with these LayerCakes by Jane Davenport is like painting with liquid silk. It’s a uniquely smooth paint that blends and layers beautifully. The two sets, ‘Sweet Treats’ and ‘Secret Ingredients,’ feature 10 rich colours each, designed for layering and detailed work. These paints stand out for their creamy texture and intense pigmentation, making them a joy to use. The tins are also nice and compact, making them great for artists on-the-go, or for working in smaller spaces. This bundle is a thoughtful Christmas gift that will encourage creativity and elevate any artist’s toolkit—and it’s sure to look fantastic wrapped up under the tree!
The Color Cube
By Sarah Renae Clark
For the colour enthusiast in your life, the Color Cube is a brilliant way to inspire creativity and explore a huge range of beautiful colour combinations. Inside, you’ll find 250 colour palette cards showcasing an image for inspiration (like animals, nature, or architecture) along with a set of 5-6 colours featured in that image. Each card is unique and simplifies the process of choosing colour combinations that look good together, removing the guesswork from creative projects. Whether you’re designing, painting, or refreshing your wardrobe, the Color Cube is an invaluable resource that has already helped many artists realise their creative potential with confidence. Available in Volume 1 and Volume 2, each box contains 250 unique cards and makes for a thoughtful Christmas gift for anyone passionate about colour and creativity.
Steal Like An Artist
By Austin Kleon
Fresh ideas are every artist’s secret weapon, and this Christmas, you can gift the ultimate resource for unlocking them! Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon is a quirky, down-to-earth guide all about embracing the creative process by “stealing” inspiration from others and remixing it to make something entirely your own. With a mix of practical advice and witty wisdom, Austin shows that creativity thrives on persistence, experimentation, and finding new angles. This book offers a refreshing perspective on the creative journey and makes a thoughtful gift for anyone ready to tap into their artistic potential this Christmas.
3D Wooden Puzzle Bookend
By Tzgsonp
Add a tiny world to your bookshelf with the 3D Wooden Puzzle Bookend. This clever design comes as a puzzle you assemble yourself, transforming book organisation into a creative project. Once you’ve pieced it together, you’ll have a sturdy, stylish piece to showcase among your books. Perfect for puzzle lovers, DIY enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys hands-on projects, it adds whimsical charm to any shelf or desk. A ‘book nook for your book nook’—this Christmas gift is the perfect mix of creativity, practicality, and hands-on fun
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Aqua Markers (18 Pack)
The Goldfaber Aqua markers work like regular markers when dry, but turn into stunning watercolours with just a touch of water. After testing all the watercolour markers I could get my hands on, these markers by Faber-Castell were my pick for the best on the market. They’re vibrant, easy to layer evenly, and the tips are high quality. While they’re a bit too moist for something like a colouring book, they work like magic on watercolour paper. If you’re buying just one set of watercolour markers, these are the ones I recommend. They are a thoughtful and creative gift for any artist this Christmas.
A5 Lined or Dotted Journal Bundles (4 Pack)
By Sarah Renae Clark
These quality A5 journals are the gift that combines creativity with practicality, perfect for the writer or artist in your life. Choose the dotted journals for creative planning and sketches, or the lined journals for heartfelt reflections and thoughtful notes—either way, these journals are made to inspire. The high-quality paper holds up to pens, markers, and even some light watercolour, making them great for everything from lists to quick sketches. Picture this bundle paired with a favourite pen, ready to capture big ideas, little notes, or memories from the holiday season. Thoughtful and practical, it’s a gift that keeps on giving long after the tree comes down.
Derwent Sketching Set
If you know someone who’s ready to dive into sketching or looking to level up their skills, the Derwent Sketching Set makes for the perfect Christmas gift. This set has a great mix of pencils that let you work with everything from fine, detailed lines to deeper shading. The smooth texture makes it easy to layer and blend, while the rich pigments give your sketches a nice depth and contrast. This set is a thoughtful gift that inspires creativity and invites artistic exploration, and will look great wrapped under any Christmas tree!
Gelli Arts Stamping Kit
A Gelli Plate is a playful introduction to monoprinting that doesn’t require a press or special setup—perfect for anyone eager to explore printmaking. The process is so intuitive, it’s like a creative adventure with every pull of a print—no two are ever the same! This kit opens up endless possibilities for vibrant, layered designs, whether you’re adding to a journal or creating personalized artwork. This kit comes with everything you need to get started—a Gelli Plate, acrylic paints, and a brayer for smooth ink application. Pair it with some blank paper or cards, and you’ve got everything needed for custom wrapping paper, greeting cards, or unique prints for art journals. It’s a fun, easy way to spark creativity, making it a perfect gift for anyone who loves art.
Diamond Paintings
By Diamond Art Club
Diamond painting is a fun, calming way to get creative, and these Diamond Painting Kits are a great introduction to this addictive hobby. Each kit comes with a pre-printed canvas, along with all the colourful “diamonds” and tools you’ll need to bring your sparkling design to life. It’s like a mix between painting and cross-stitch, with each diamond creating a tiny, shimmering piece of the picture. Whether you’re gifting it to someone who loves arts and crafts or someone looking for a new, relaxing project, this kit is sure to bring a smile to their face, and the satisfaction of a beautiful finished piece. Perfect for anyone who enjoys hands-on, mindful activities!
Jelly Gouache
by Himi
Jelly gouache is a fun new medium for the artist who’s tried everything else. They’re a creamy paint – a little different from typical gouache because they stay wet in the palette. This is a great starter set with a range of vibrant colours, perfect for a first dive into the world of jelly gouache. Protected in a convenient carrying case, this set makes a thoughtful and practical gift for anyone eager to explore a whole new world of gouache painting.
Party In A Paint Box Paint Kits
Turn an ordinary Christmas into a creative celebration with the Party in a Paintbox kit! This all-in-one set has everything needed to paint like a pro, whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to unwind with a fun project. Inside, you’ll find high-quality paints, brushes, and easy-to-follow instructions that make it simple and enjoyable to create beautiful art. It’s perfect for a girls’ night, a cozy date night, or even some solo time to relax and get creative. No art experience? No problem! The kit’s laid-back approach makes it easy to dive in and enjoy the process. Pair it with a glass of wine (optional, but highly recommended), and you’ve got the ultimate way to create something special and memorable. This is the perfect gift for anyone looking to have fun, get creative, and maybe even discover a hidden artistic talent this Christmas.
The Creative Act: A Way of Being
By Rick Ruben
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin, is a transformative exploration of creativity, offering insights into the process and mindset of one of the world’s most celebrated music producers. Rubin’s reflections encourage readers to view creativity not as a singular skill but as a way of being—woven into the fabric of everyday life. With a focus on mindfulness, intuition, and the deep connection between creation and self-expression, this book is a thought-provoking guide for anyone seeking to tap into their own creative potential. It makes a thoughtful gift for those who want to cultivate a more intentional and inspired approach to creativity, whether through art, music, or everyday actions.
The Making Art for Joy’s Sake Watercolour Palette
By Kristy Rice
The Making Art for Joy’s Sake Watercolor Palette is the perfect gift for anyone who loves vibrant, rich colours. It features 12 carefully selected colours, designed to produce hundreds of colour mixes even a beginner could use. Never chalky or grainy, Kristy’s watercolor paints are beginner friendly, but professional quality with every brushstroke. Whether adding delicate details or bold colour, this palette turns every project into a creative adventure. Pair it with some good brushes or a sketchbook, and you’ve got a complete gift that invites endless artistic exploration.
The Art for Joy’s Sake Brush Collection
By Kristy Rice
Speaking of great brushes, these watercolour brushes from Kristy Rice are the perfect companion to her watercolour palette, or a wonderful stand-alone gift for any art lover. I’ve been using these brushes for all my watercolour art, and I love the variety of sizes and shapes, and the high quality. Each brush includes an inspirational quote on the side, and they come in a cute case, making them great as a gift for someone creative. Whether they’re working on a detailed portrait or a larger landscape, this set gives artists the tools they need to refine their technique and bring their ideas to life.
Artistro Extra Fine-Point Paint Pens (42 Pack)
If you know someone who loves to get into the finer details of their artwork, these Artistro Extra Fine-Point Paint Pens are perfect. With a sharp 0.7mm tip, they make it easy to create intricate designs on just about any surface—whether it’s wood, glass, fabric, or canvas. They’re mess-free, simple to use, and ideal for adding those little finishing touches that really make a piece pop. These are my personal go-to pens for highlights and details on my colouring pages, and they never disappoint. Whether they’re into DIY projects, customising gifts, or just refining their art, these pens are sure to be a hit this Christmas.
Paper Quilling Kit
By Yurroad
Turn simple strips of paper into stunning 3D designs—this paper quilling kit has everything you need to get started. It comes with a range of pre-cut colourful paper, an electric slotted tool for easy rolling, tweezers for perfect placement, a glue plate, and plenty of shaping tools. With just a little rolling and twisting, you can create everything from delicate flowers to intricate patterns—and even entire scenes! The kit includes a storage box to help keep everything organised as you craft. This kit is a thoughtful gift that’s sure to provide hours of creative fun, making it a perfect project for any DIY lover looking to try something new this Christmas.
Artistic Figurines
By Today is Art Day
Why just admire art when you can hang out with the artists—miniature style? Bring a bit of creativity into any space with these artistic figurines, each one celebrating the lives and styles of some of the art world’s most iconic figures. Whether it’s the bold, unforgettable Frida Kahlo or the timeless genius of Leonardo da Vinci, these figurines are little masterpieces that bring art history right into your home. Crafted with great attention to detail, many come with fun accessories or features that highlight the character’s personality, like a ‘removable bandaged ear’ for Vincent Van Gogh. With 9 unique figures to choose from—including Claude Monet and even The Scream—they’re perfect for the shelf, desk, or wrapped under the Christmas tree.
Paintable Pictures – Paint by Numbers – Pet Edition
Looking for a gift that’s both creative and heartwarming? The Paint Your Pet Paintable Pictures kit is perfect for the fur-baby mamas and papas in your life. This fun and unique kit lets you turn a beloved pet’s photo into a colourful masterpiece. Simply upload a picture, and the kit provides a high-quality colour-by-number style print and all the paints you’ll need to bring any furry friend to life. It’s an easy way to create a personal work of art—no artistic experience required! This kit makes a thoughtful Christmas gift that’s sure to bring smiles and a little extra joy this holiday season.
Tim Holtz Alcohol Ink Starter Kit
The Tim Holtz Alcohol Ink Starter Kit has everything you need to dive into the mesmerising world of alcohol inks and start creating right away. The playful unpredictability of alcohol inks makes every project a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. It’s a wonderful discovery of colour as the inks dance and swirl in unexpected ways. This kit includes vibrant inks, a blending solution, and tools to help you experiment. You can use it to craft unique backgrounds for cards, personalise décor, or even explore abstract art. It’s a fun and easy way to unleash your creativity, making it a fantastic gift for anyone who loves trying new crafting techniques this Christmas.
The Colouring Planner
By Sarah Renae Clark
These Colouring Planners offer a unique blend of organisation and creativity, designed to help you stay on top of your schedule while adding a personal, artistic touch. With beautifully detailed illustrations throughout, this planner invites you to add your own colour, making planning a fun and relaxing experience. Available in both dated and undated formats, in Compact or Classic size – and every Planner comes packaged in a beautiful gift box! These Colouring Planners make a thoughtful gift for anyone looking to bring colour to their organisation.
Derwent Inktense Coloured Pencils Set (24 Pack)
These Derwent Inktense Coloured Pencils are in a category of their own. Unlike regular watercolor pencils, Inktense pencils deliver an intense colour that becomes permanent once activated with water and dried. Their colours are more vibrant than you’d expect for a watercolour pencil, and they’re a lot of fun to use. You can layer them in a way that’s not possible with regular watercolour, and they are a great for mixed media. For someone who already owns and loves the Inktense Pencils, you can also purchase these as Inktense blocks, to be used more like a paint palette (but in stick form) for a different experience. I’m yet to find someone who doesn’t enjoy these pencils!
Winsor and Newton Designer Gouache
Gouache is known for its smooth texture, vibrant colours, and excellent coverage. It’s like the love child of watercolor and acrylic—opaque and vibrant like acrylic, but with the smooth, reworkable quality of watercolour. Unlike other paints, gouache dries matte, giving your artwork a rich, velvety finish that looks amazing in person or on camera. The Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache is a high quality set that’ll inspire new projects and bring fresh energy to any artist’s workspace. Whether they’re an experienced painter or new to the medium, a gouache set is a fantastic gift for unleashing creativity.
Resin Beginner Kit
By Let’s Resin
The LET’S Resin Complete Starter Kit is a beginner-friendly way to dive into the magical world of resin art. Packed with everything you need—from high-quality materials to easy-to-follow instructions—it’s perfect for crafting beautiful, personalised pieces right out the box. Whether it’s unique jewellery, custom home decor, or festive ornaments (imagine little resin ornaments for the tree!), this kit makes experimenting with shapes and designs easy and fun. The resin cures to a smooth, glass-like finish, giving every piece that polished look. If you’re looking to encourage someone’s creativity this Christmas, this kit is an excellent gift—just think of the joy on their face when they create their first piece!
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Pencil Gift Set
The Faber-Castell Goldfaber Coloured Pencils Gift Set is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to draw or colour. This high-quality set includes 17 Goldfaber Coloured Pencils, 2 graphite pencils, a Pitt Artist Pen, a sketch pad, an eraser, and a sharpener—everything needed to dive into creative projects. These are amazing quality coloured pencils that are great for blending, layering, or adding details. The set is even packaged in a nice sleek tin that’s portable for some holiday crafts, and it’s easy to tuck under the tree! For anyone arty or creative, it’s a brilliant Christmas gift idea to brighten those cosy winter afternoons.
Gansai Tambi Watercolour Paints
By Kuretake
The Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolor Set is a gift that any artist or crafter will appreciate. These handcrafted Japanese watercolours have a creamy, smooth texture that sits somewhere between gouache and traditional watercolours. They’re known for their rich, vibrant colours and unique opacity—more so than typical watercolours. This makes them great for adding depth, creating bold, saturated effects, or painting solid, vibrant Christmas ornaments (because nothing says festive like a red that actually looks red). Whether they’re capturing the glow of Christmas lights or adding bold, colourful accents to holiday cards, these paints will help their creativity shine this season.
Uni Posca Coloured Pencils Set (36 Pack)
Most people know Uni Posca for their markers, but did you know they also make incredible pencils? Made with the same high-quality Japanese craftsmanship, these pencils offer a smooth, rich texture that delivers vibrant colour to every layer. They’re the kind of premium coloured pencils that artists would love to have but might not splurge on for themselves, making them a perfect surprise under the tree. Whether your artist is looking to add subtle shading to cosy winter landscapes, or bring a fresh, artistic touch to holiday cards, these pencils add a little luxury to every stroke—and that’s always a win during the holidays!
All-in-One Calligraphy Set
By Speedball
Want a gift that’ll add a little elegance to someone’s holiday season? The Speedball All-in-One Calligraphy Kit is a fun way to dive into the world of beautiful lettering. Packed with everything you need—pens, nibs, inks, and practice sheets—this kit makes it easy to start creating personalised holiday cards, gift tags, or handwritten notes with a touch of magic. Perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their work, invitations, or creative projects, this set is an amazing way to dive into the art of calligraphy this Christmas.
Acrylic Paint Organiser & Storage
For the artist who has all the art supplies already, help them organise them! This compact and stylish organiser is perfect for neatly arranging acrylic paints, inks, or craft supplies, ensuring everything is easy to find and ready for use. There’s no point having hundreds of supplies if you can’t find them, so a storage system like this can help to display their favourite items and inspire them to use up some of the wonderful supplies they already have. A practical and thoughtful gift, it’s ideal for artists who value a clean, organised, creative space to let their inspiration flow.
Ecoline Brush Pen (15 Pack)
These Ecoline Brush Pens are a great find for anyone who loves working with watercolour. These exceptional watercolour markers are packed with rich, highly pigmented colours that flow beautifully on watercolour paper (though they are less suited for general colouring, or cheaper paper). The tips are very high-quality, they’re great at blending between colours (both with and without water) and they work even better with water! These markers were finalists in my recent HUGE marker test, so if you know someone who would love some proper watercolour markers this Christmas, these are a great choice.
Arrtx Coloured Pencils Set (126 Pack)
The Arrtx Coloured Pencils are one of my favourite alternatives to Prismacolor pencils. They are easy to blend, feel smooth, and are really nice to use. These pencils deliver a premium feel and experience whether you’re colouring intricate details or creating soft gradients—all without the hefty price tag. Their great range of vibrant colours go on beautifully, performing exceptionally well even when compared to other budget-friendly options. And since Arrtx has managed to create coloured pencils that are both good quality AND affordable, it can be hard to resist getting a big set!
Paint By Number Kit
By Canvas By Numbers
These Paint by Number Kits offer a creative, relaxing, and (most importantly) a guided way to craft beautiful artwork. Each kit comes with a numbered canvas, pre-mixed acrylic paints, and 3 brushes—everything you need to bring a masterpiece to life. Perfect for anyone looking to unwind and tap into their artistic side, these kits deliver satisfying results without too much pressure—just match your colours to the numbers and away you go! You can even make them extra special by uploading a photo to create a custom kit, transforming your favorite moments—like a beloved pet or a memorable family photo—into a stunning work of art. These kits make a wonderful gift for anyone who enjoys getting hands-on with creativity, but appreciates a little extra guidance (because lets face it, sometimes a blank canvas can be a little daunting).
Looking for more ideas? why not try these:
- Easel
- Art Subscription box
- Artistic Apron
- Stamps
- Stencils
- Tracing Light Box
- Art Class (Online or Physical)
- Washi Tape
- Shaped Hole Punches
- High Quality Eraser
- High Quality Sharpener
- Sketchbooks or paper pads
- History of Art books
- Art Storage solutions
- Gift Cards to craft stores
- Subscription to Favourite Art YouTuber
The holiday season is the perfect time to nurture creativity, and with these thoughtful and affordable Christmas gifts, you can inspire your loved ones to explore their artistic passions. The tools, materials, and other artsy gifts in this list offer endless possibilities for creative expression. And with every gift, you’re not just giving a material item—you’re encouraging the joy of making, creating, and bringing ideas to life!
If you’re looking for even more gift ideas, don’t forget to check out these other guides for Crafty Christmas gifts under $20 and $100! No matter your budget, there’s something for every artist in your life to help them embrace their creative journey. Happy gifting, and may the holiday season be filled with art, inspiration, and endless imagination!
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