Holiday Gift Guide For The Budding Artist

May 6, 2021

I first used these water brushes in a Pentel Aquash travel painting kit in Japan. The brush body holds water, which was convenient when I painted away from home. See the brushes.

Fine-tip markers

These markers became favorites of mine for their vivid colors. Check the manufacturer's age guidance if choosing them for a child. See the marker set.

Shrinky-Dinks

My kids received a Shrinky Dinks kit as a gift and enjoyed drawing pieces for their dollhouse. The plastic shrinks when heated; follow the kit's directions for preparation and baking. See the kit.

Colored Pencils Set

I still have many of the colored pencils I received as a teenager. They lasted through art school, and my kids and I continued using them. This pencil set is another option to compare.

Rainbow Watercolor Painting Kit

This watercolor kit uses paper with white printed designs that resist the color. It lets the painter explore washes and blending around the pattern. See the kit and its age guidance.

Watercolor Paper Pad

A watercolor paper pad gives someone space to practice with the medium. See this pad.

DK Art History Book

The cover of a book called "Art that changed the world" published by Dorling Kindersley, showing famous paintings in frames arranged on a white background.

I loved reading a DK art history book as a child. It gave me artists and styles to look at while developing my own ideas. See this art history book.

Polymer Clay

Polymer clay can be shaped into small sculptures or jewelry components. Check the product's age, handling, and baking instructions before choosing it for a child. See the clay.

Polymer Clay Techniques Book

A techniques book can help someone explore what to make with clay and how to approach it. See this book.

Drawing Table

I enjoyed having a tilting drawing table as an art student. It's a larger gift, so consider the recipient's workspace and preferences before buying one. See the table.