25 Best Gifts For Aspiring Artists To Fire Up Their Creativity In 2023
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Aspiring artists come in all shapes, sizes, and mediums. But there's one thing they all have in common: a never-ending quest to fire up their creativity.
If you're looking for the perfect gift for an aspiring artist in your life, look no further than this list. From books to art supplies, there's something here for everyone. No matter your budget, you're sure to find the perfect present for that special someone. Who knows, maybe you'll even find something for yourself.
Our Top Picks
Best Gifts for Visual Artists
Visual artists are people who create art that is intended to be seen, touched, or both. It includes painters, sculptors, photographers, filmmakers, and architects.
One of the benefits of visual art is that it can help people to communicate their ideas. Additionally, it can be used as therapy to help people show their inner thoughts and feelings. Here are some of the best gift ideas for visual artists:
1. Best for Newbie Painters: Meeden Deluxe Artists Painting Set with Easel
This Deluxe Painting Set by Meeden is one of the best gifts for newbie painters to discover their true potential. We love the full-sized but portable and easy-to-assemble hardwood French easel. The non-slip rubber feet stabilize the telescoping tripod easel, while the built-in drawer helps to organize paint supplies.
We also appreciate the included regular acrylic paints, metallic acrylic paints, oil paints, and watercolors, so your friend can practice on different mediums without spending more money. There are black and white canvases of varying sizes, a canvas pad for oil or acrylic, a watercolor pad, and three sets of quality brushes in individual zip-up cases.
Related: The Best Easels
2. Best for Sketch Artists: Castle Art Supplies Drawing Pencils & Sketch Set
We love this 40-piece drawing set for its affordability that doesn’t compromise quality. It comes with graphite pencils, charcoal pencils, pastel pencils, graphite and charcoal sticks, blenders, and other accessories.
This set also includes a fold-out tutorial to get you started with charcoal and graphite art. You’ll never go wrong giving this gift to any aspiring sketch artist!
Related: The Best Sketch Ideas
3. Best Art Set for Kids: US Art Supply Deluxe Art Set
Any child will love to receive this deluxe art set that includes colored pencils, pastels, cake watercolors, a brush set, graphite pencils, sketch pads, and a watercolor pad. It also comes with a plastic palette, a sharpener, a ruler, and a color chart, all organized in a sturdy wooden box.
We like US Art Supply because they produce quality and affordable items. All the trays in this art set are removable, and the drawing supplies are non-toxic. In addition, the pads are acid-free and won’t cause discoloration of your drawings.
4. Best for Colored Pencil Artists: Soucolor Colored Pencil Set
Soucolor is one of the few affordable colored pencil sets tagged as suitable for professional artists and beginners. We have a strong fondness for the sturdy metal container that holds all the 180 colored pencils, arranged in layers with a plastic tray.
The soft lead makes these colored pencils easy to apply and sharpen since they resist breaking, crumbling, and cracking. It helps to rearrange the pencils according to the color family for easier identification.
Related: The Best Colored Pencil Drawing Ideas
5. Best for Alcohol Marker Artists: Chalky Crown Alcohol Markers
These alcohol markers carry a good color selection at a very affordable price, making them the best gift for a newbie illustrator. Though the set has only 30 alcohol markers, you can layer them to create more colors.
The bullet and chisel nibs are very helpful for getting fine detailing and filling large areas. Meanwhile, the color-coded caps make the markers easier to identify. We love the quick-drying ink so that you won’t have issues with blotches and smudging. The resulting artwork speaks volumes for its quality!
Related: The Best Marker Drawing Ideas
6. Best Book for Watercolor Artists: Watercolor Workbook
The Watercolor Workbook is an excellent gift for anyone who loves watercolors and wants to learn how to paint botanical subjects. The workbook includes step-by-step projects designed to help beginners learn the basics of watercolor painting, including how to mix colors, load a brush, and paint wet-into-wet.
We like how the book uses thick paper that won’t cause any bleed-through. You may want to throw in a good set of watercolors to complete your gift to an aspiring watercolor artist.
Related: The Best Watercolor Paints
7. Best Book for Oil Painters: Painting with Bob Ross
Bob Ross is a world-renowned painter who has inspired millions of people to pick up a paintbrush and give painting a try. We are fans of his step-by-step approach, which is perfect for beginners and his encouraging words make the painting process seem effortless.
This book is a great gift for anyone who has ever wanted to try painting but never knew where to start. Ross's painting techniques allow the colors to blend seamlessly and create a soft, dreamlike quality. His unique approach to painting is what sets him apart from other artists, and this book is a great way to introduce someone to his work.
Related: Oil Painting Techniques
8. Best for Paint Pouring Artists: Shuttle Art Acrylic Pouring Paint
This best gift for aspiring artists includes 36 bottles of acrylic paint, silicone pouring oil, a flower strainer for creative pouring, and accessories to keep your workspace clean.
We are delighted with this set's thoughtful packaging, which includes 4 bottles of white and 2 bottles of black paint since they’re the most in-demand colors. The smooth-flowing paint results in flawless cells to get the perfect framed art, phone cases, and other pouring projects.
9. Best Accessory for Creative Pouring Art: Angela & Alex Acrylic Pouring Strainer Set
Pouring paint is a relatively new art form that has taken the painting world by storm. There are a few key elements to successful pouring, and one of them is having the right supplies.
This strainer set is the best gift for aspiring artists who don’t have enough experience with acrylic pouring. It includes an assortment of strainers you can use to add designs to your pouring art. Even kids will find them very easy and fun to use. Plus, the price of this comprehensive set is unbeatable!
Best Gifts for Calligraphers
Calligraphy is a skill that anyone can pick up with a little bit of practice. If you know someone passionate about calligraphy, then you know how important it is to have the right tools for the job. The best gifts for calligraphers are those that help them to be more creative and productive in learning this timeless art form.
10. Best for Faux Calligraphy: Piochoo Calligraphy Pens
The Piochoo calligraphy set has 8 lettering pens of varying nibs and sizes. The water-based ink is fast-drying, non-toxic, and odorless, making it safe even for kids. Anyone who wants to learn faux calligraphy will love them.
Aside from calligraphy, you can also use these pens for drawing, sketching, writing, and doodling. We also recommend this set for card-makers for writing various fonts. It is affordable and versatile, and the pens apply smoothly. You can also try it with modern calligraphy fonts.
Related: What is Faux Calligraphy?
11. Best for Professional Calligraphers: Axearte Glass Dip Pen Set
We have never tried glass dip pens for calligraphy as they are less common than alloy steel. But Axearte’s durability boosted our confidence, especially when adding flair to invitation cards.
This set includes 14 bottles of high-quality inks in different colors. Aside from the ink bottles, you also get 2 glass dip pens, a pen holder, and a cleaning cup. One of the pens writes thicker lines than the others, so you get two thicknesses in one set.
Related: Learn Modern Calligraphy
Best Gifts for Digital Illustrators
Digital illustration has become a popular method for creating artwork due to its many advantages over traditional methods. For one, digital illustrators can easily create and experiment with different looks without worrying about the cost or time involved in making changes.
Additionally, digital illustrations can be easily shared and printed, making them ideal for personal and professional use. If you know an aspiring artist interested in exploring digital illustration, here are the best gift ideas:
12. Best Drawing Tablet: Huion Inspiroy H640P Graphics Drawing Tablet
Turn your smartphone into a digital machine with the Huion Inspiroy drawing tablet. Thanks to its wide compatibility, you can use it on your desktop computer, Mac computer, and Android smartphone using an OTG connector.
This drawing tablet has 6 customizable express keys to redirect you quickly to a different function. The battery-free stylus makes navigation easier without the encumbering charging cable. The pen also comes with 8 replacement nibs for your comfort and assurance.
We appreciate that this tablet is compatible with various graphic software, including Corel, Manga Studio, Clip Studio, Adobe Photoshop, and Illustrator.
13. Best for Tracing: A4 Ultra-thin Portable LED Light Box Tracer
Aspiring animators will love this tracer LED box because it makes the motions of figures easier to follow, especially when making frame-by-frame drawings of a scene. Illustrators, cross-stitchers, stencil artists, quilters, and calligraphers will also adore this portable light box.
We recommend adjusting the light to your comfort when using the light pad. We just wish it was rechargeable so we could use it without needing an electrical outlet.
Related: The Best Light Tables
14. Best for Illustrators and Designers: Yaheetech Drafting Table
The Yaheetech Drafting Table has a sleek, modern design that will look great in any home or studio. It's also very sturdy and well-made, which is important for any artist who wants to be able to use their supplies for years to come.
Whether your giftee is an aspiring illustrator or graphic designer, this drafting table is perfect for laptops or sketchbooks. We’re not particularly fond of its fabric drawers, so we recommend getting storage trays that can fit in the drawer slot.
Related: The Best Drafting Boards
Best Gifts for Graphics Designers
Graphic design is a highly creative field that allows designers to express their ideas and communicate messages through visual means. It is also a highly technical field, requiring designers to have a strong understanding of the latest software and technologies. Here are some of the best gifts for graphic designers:
15. Best Trackball Mouse: Logitech Wireless Trackball Mouse
The Logitech Wireless Trackball Mouse is a state-of-the-art device that allows graphic artists to use all their fingers for easier navigation. You can connect it via Bluetooth or a USB receiver.
It is a highly precise mouse with a comfortable grip that gives users more control over their work. We are impressed with its long battery life, which can last up to 24 months when using an AA battery or up to 6 months with a rechargeable battery.
16. Best Shortcut Keyboard Skin: HRH Illustrator AI Hotkey Skin for MacBook Pro
This skin covers the entire top surface of your MacBook Pro's keyboard with a durable silicone film printed with Illustrator hotkeys. The result is a beautiful accessory that will make any aspiring digital artist's workspace more functional.
We love this gift idea because you don’t need to memorize the commands as they are readily visible on your keyboard! And because it's precision-cut to fit your MacBook Pro perfectly, it also protects your investment from scratches and spills.
17. Best for Eye Protection: livho 2 Pack Blue Light Blocking Glasses
When the aspiring artist in your life spends hours on his computer, iPad, or drawing tablet, you know how much blue light they’re absorbing. You don’t have to worry about their eye health if you give them these blue light-blocking glasses.
These glasses come in different designs that suit men and women, but we recommend getting the clear variant for designers and artists. You can also get family sets that include blue light-blocking glasses for adults and kids.
Best Gifts for Jewelry Crafters
Jewelry-making is the art of creating jewelry from scratch. It can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it takes time, patience, and practice to perfect.
One of the biggest advantages of jewelry making is that it allows you to be creative and uniquely express yourself. You can design your pieces or create replicas of existing designs. You can also use various materials to create jewelry, including metals, gems, and glass. Here are the best gifts for jewelry crafters:
18. Best for Bead Jewelry Makers: Quefe Jewelry Making Kit
If you have a kid or friend who finds jewelry-making fascinating, you should give them this jewelry-making kit. This set includes crystal beads, charms, and other accessories for making bead necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and anklets.
With 48 bead colors to choose from, any aspiring artist can make fabulous accessories that will make them a star among friends. These crystal beads are from natural stones, so your bead jewelry won’t fade after some time.
19. Best for Charm Bracelet Makers: Coo & Koo Charm Bracelet Making Kit
This cute jewelry kit is the perfect gift for aspiring artists who love unicorns, mermaids, and charms. Children can make necklaces and bracelets from this set which they can share with their friends.
What we love most about this gift set is that anyone can make it without tools or glue. You only need to thread the beads on the bracelet and necklace, then screw on the lock beads to finish the charm jewelry.
Related: The Best Epoxy Tumbler Kits
20. Best for Resin Jewelry Makers: GoodyKing Resin Jewelry Making Starter Kit
This high-quality jewelry starter kit is perfect for aspiring resin jewelry makers. It includes epoxy resin and hardener, several molds, gears, glitters, gold flakes, and other accessories.
The materials are non-toxic and odorless, and the degassing properties make them effective for creating a clear and smooth finish on your resin projects. This set is very affordable, something that we appreciate about this kit. To make the resin jewelry seamless, you only need a heat gun to remove the gas bubbles.
Related: The Best Embossing Heat Guns
Best Gifts for Nail Artists
Nail art is a creative way to decorate your fingernails or toenails. It has become popular in recent years and is a great way to express your personality. There are many different ways to do nail art, and you can use various colors, designs, and techniques. Here are the best gifts for aspiring nail artists:
21. Best for Nail Design: Teenitor Nail Pen Designer Set
This nail pen is an excellent gift for aspiring nail artists because it offers endless possibilities to improve their projects. Who knows? It may also be the start of a good career in cosmetology.
The set includes all the necessary supplies and tools, such as design brushes, dotting pens, rhinestones, striping tapes, and foil stickers.
We appreciate that the brand went out of its way to include non-toxic and eco-friendly materials in this kit. You’ll need a UV light to cure the nail polish and the top coat, and you’re good to go!
Related: The Best UV Light for Resin Crafts
22. Best Acrylic Nail Art Kit: Holybo Acrylic Nail Kit
Can’t get enough of nail art? Get your loved one this acrylic nail kit! This set is complete and has everything an aspiring artist needs to get started. The colors are beautiful and vibrant, the quality is excellent, and the price is unbeatable.
It comes with practice fingers, French tips, carving powder, glitters, and other supplies and tools to get your nails done.
Best Relaxation Gifts for Artists
We all know how important it is to keep our creative juices flowing. And what better way to do that than by giving aspiring artists a gift that will help them relax and get inspired? There are plenty of great relaxation gifts for artists out there, but we've rounded up the best ones to help you get started.
23. Best Hand Massager: Lunix LX3 Cordless Hand Massager
Some artists suffer hand injuries, especially after countless hours handling brushes, pencils, and other art supplies. This may include carpal tunnel syndrome and finger numbness, among others. A hand massager may lessen the pain of the injury or even prevent it!
The Lunix LX3 cordless hand massager is an excellent gift for aspiring artists to help relieve them of hand pain or fatigue. The batteries keep the massager portable so you can bring it on trips or to the studio.
We love the heated massage that applies to the hands, wrists, and fingers with different intensities. The vibrations are very relaxing, and you’ll feel better after 7 days of continued use.
24. Best Hammock Chair: Highwild Hammock Chair
Let your aspiring artist friend spend hours unwinding on this hammock chair! The soft cushion supports the weight while the suspended hammock rocks softly to allow better relaxation.
We like that the hammock uses beige canvas but repels dirt, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning it often. The cushions support your back, and the non-slip rings keep your hammock from slipping off its sturdy spreader bar.
25. Best for Lower Back Pain: Seat Cushion Pillow
If you know someone who loves to paint, draw, or sculpt, then they will probably appreciate a gift that helps them do their work more comfortably.
This product has been designed to provide comfort and support for people who spend a lot of time sitting down. It is also great for those with back pain or other problems that make it difficult to sit comfortably. This pillow is made of memory foam, which conforms to your body and provides support where you need it most.
First-time users might find the seat cushion too hard or uncomfortable, but give yourself enough time to adjust to the cushion. Remember that this is an orthopedic chair; manufacturers suggest a minimum of 1 week to get used to it.
Final Verdict
Creativity can sometimes be hard to come by. However, with the right tools and inspiration, anyone can produce beautiful works of art.
From traditional mediums like paints and sketchbooks to modern tools like tablets and keyboards, we’ve got something for everyone on this list. So whether your loved one is just starting their creative journey or they’re a seasoned pro, we guarantee you can find the perfect gift among these offerings!
Best Gifts for Aspiring Artists Buying Guide
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Creative Inclination
Aspiring artists can be difficult to shop for because they have specific tastes. But once you know their preferences, you can narrow your choices to give them the best gift giver. Look for presents that will help aspiring artists develop their creativity further, such as art supplies, books on creativity, or even a subscription to a creative magazine.
For example, those who like to work with watercolors will love the best gifts for watercolor artists. However, giving an oil painting set to someone who loves acrylics could only end in disaster.
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Skill Set
A beginner artist will need a few key supplies to get started. A good set of pencils, pens, markers and a sketchbook or drawing pad is essential. Some other basics include watercolors, acrylic paints, and modeling clay. These items will help your budding artist explore different mediums and find their preferred way of creating art.
If you know your giftee already has some art experience, consider gifts that will help them improve their skills. For instance, a set of high-quality paints or brushes would be much appreciated by someone who loves to paint. Or, if they love sculpting, maybe a new set of clay tools would be the perfect present.
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Budget
How much can you afford to spend on a gift? It's important to find something affordable but also good quality. There are plenty of great gifts for aspiring artists that don't break the bank.
If you're working with a tight budget, don't worry! There are still many excellent gift options out there. Remember: it’s not the gift; it’s the thought that matters. Getting them something practical for their creative pursuit is more than enough.
Gifts Ideas for Artists FAQ
How do you choose a gift for an artist friend?
It's tricky because you want to encourage their creativity without buying something they already have or won't get used to. Here are a few tips to remember when choosing a gift for an artist friend:
- Know their favorite medium. If they prefer oil over watercolor, it is best to choose gifts in that direction. Don't go overboard unless they hint at trying a new medium.
- Consider their needs. Get to know the aspiring artist in your life more personally. Also, get them good-quality art supplies, especially if they can’t afford one.
- Subscribe to an online class. This is especially helpful for newbie artists who want to improve their drawing or painting skills. Before you buy a subscription to an online painting class, ask your friend which art form they prefer.
- Give them a gift card. If you still don’t know what to get your artist friend, you can give them a gift card instead.
- Ask them what they want. It's the best way to start your search for the perfect gift. Once you know what medium they're interested in, you can begin to look for gifts that will help them grow in their chosen field.
How do you give a painting as a gift?
You can purchase a pre-made painting or commission an artist to make a painting for you. You can also do a painting yourself! No matter what route you choose, giving a painting will surely be appreciated. Here are some tips before deciding to give a painting as a gift:
- Know their extent as an art collector. While some people may appreciate a hand-painted gift from a family member or friend, others may only want to receive artwork from professional artists. If you don’t know the person’s taste in art, it’s best to ask them directly or do some research before purchasing.
- Understand their house’s theme. You want the painting to match their home’s style and energy. Consider the colors in their home, and try to find a piece that will complement or contrast well with them. If you know what kind of art they like, that’s great! But if not, think about the things they are generally drawn to. Do they prefer natural scenes or cityscapes? Abstract or realistic paintings? Vibrant colors or more subdued hues?
- Find a subject that matters to them. It could be a place they love, their favorite pet, a family member, or even themselves. Then do some research and find an artist who paints in the style you think they would like. If you're unsure, look for artists local to the area where the gift recipient lives. You can also find prints of famous paintings that the person may like or commission an artist to do a painting from a photo.
- Choose something unique. Originality is important to many artists, so gifting a one-of-a-kind painting or a limited edition print shows you understand and appreciate their art form.
- Frame the painting. If you're giving a painting as a gift, make sure it's in a frame. The frame doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be clean and simple. If the painting is small, you can find frames at thrift stores or even dollar stores.
What should you buy for a beginner artist?
First, you need to consider their level of experience and skill. A beginner artist may not need or want all the same supplies as a more experienced one. Second, think about what type of art they enjoy creating. This will help you zero in on specific items that would be most useful to them.
One great gift for a beginner artist is a set of high-quality paints. This will give them a chance to experiment with different colors and shades and find the ones they like best. Another thoughtful present is an art book or two, which can provide inspiration and guidance as they learn.
For those who prefer to work with their hands, a set of clay or sculpting tools would be a welcome gift. And finally, every artist needs a good place to store their supplies - so why not get them a nice art case or portfolio?
Why Trust Glytterati?
Our team of editors is passionate about art and craft projects, so we only recommend products that we genuinely believe in. We provide honest, unbiased reviews of the best art supplies, and we often consult with industry experts to make our content professional and friendly, even for beginners. So if you're looking for new ways to continue your creative streak, we can help!