Last Updated on October 22, 2025 by Dee
Finding the perfect gift for an artist can feel like trying to capture watercolor before it dries — slippery, beautiful, and full of possibilities. Whether you’re shopping for a painter, journaler, or digital creator, I’ve gathered a list of gifts that are actually useful, inspiring, and joy-inducing.
Each of these gift ideas for artists have been tested and loved in my own creative journey — from teaching art for nearly two decades to running my own watercolor and Procreate-filled studio. So grab a cup of tea, put on something cozy, and let’s dive into some truly artsy gift inspiration 🎨
1. A Beautiful Sketchbook
Every artist needs a space to play, plan, and explore — and a gorgeous 300 gsm cold-press watercolor sketchbook is an instant win.
Choose something with thick pages that can handle wet media. It’s the perfect base for doodles, swatches, or full paintings.
👉 If you’re not sure what kind of paper is best, take a peek at my post on how to start a creative sketchbook.
2. Escoda or Princeton Watercolor Brushes
You can never go wrong with a brush that feels like magic. The Escoda Watercolor Brush Set is one of my all-time favourites — soft enough for delicate florals, yet springy enough for expressive lines.
For beginners, the Princeton Aqua Elite range is also excellent (and a little gentler on the wallet).
These brushes are the creative equivalent of a good hug — supportive, reliable, and full of possibility.
3. Canson XL or Arches Watercolor Paper
Artists talk about paper the way chefs talk about knives. The Canson XL Watercolor Pads are brilliant for daily practice, while Arches Cold Press Blocks are ideal for finished work.
If you want to know how to get the most from watercolor textures, you’ll love my beginner watercolor ideas.
4. Faber-Castell Pitt Pens & Tombow Dual Brush Pens
For sketchbook lovers and journalers, pens are pure joy. Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens (sizes M and S) are beautifully pigmented, and Tombow Dual Brush Pens blend like watercolors — without the mess.
Pair them with a few printable templates from my free coloring pages collection for instant inspiration.
5. Procreate & iPad Accessories
For the digital artist, an Apple Pencil, matte screen protector, or Procreate brush set can be life-changing. A new stylus tip or even a cute stand makes creating so much smoother.
If your gift-recipient is new to digital art, share my How to Use Coloring Pages in Procreate tutorial with them — it’s a fun way to start creating right away.
6. Junk Journal Starter Kit
For those who adore paper, glue, and a touch of chaos — a junk journal supply box is heaven. Fill it with ephemera, envelopes, printed tags, and stitched pockets.
You can grab themed kits like my Whimsical Wildflower Junk Journal Kit or join the Artsydee Creation Club for new printable goodies every week.
7. A Quality Desk Lamp or Light Box
Good lighting changes everything. A flexible LED desk lamp with daylight settings helps when painting at night or tracing designs.
For Procreate fans, a light box is fantastic for transferring sketches onto watercolor paper.
If you’re setting up your creative workspace, check out my tips for creating a cozy art studio corner.
8. Ceramic Watercolor Palette
Every artist deserves a palette that looks as beautiful as their art. A ceramic watercolor palette makes color-mixing feel ritualistic — perfect for slow, mindful painting sessions.
I talk more about my favorite palettes and color combos in this watercolor flower painting tutorial.
9. Free Printable Art Resources
Sometimes the best gifts are digital! My site is full of free printable templates and coloring pages.
Print a few and tie them together with ribbon — voilà, a thoughtful handmade gift for a fellow creative.
10. Artsydee Creation Club Membership
If you want a gift that keeps giving, consider a membership to my Artsydee Creation Club.
Members get new junk journal kits, watercolor templates, and Procreate resources each week — perfect for anyone who loves a steady stream of inspiration.
11. Gift Cards from Blick, Jackson’s, or Amazon
Not sure what your artist friend already owns? You can’t go wrong with a Blick, Jackson’s Art Supplies, or Amazon gift card.
They’ll love the freedom to pick their own tools — and you’ll still get the credit for knowing exactly where they shop 😉
12. Acrylic Markers & Metallic Pens
Artists who love detail work will swoon over Posca Acrylic Markers or Sakura Gelly Roll Metallic Pens.
They’re amazing for adding highlights and sparkle to watercolor or junk journal pages.
13. A Beautiful Art Technique Book
Give the gift of slow, cozy learning. Books like Modern Watercolor Botanicals or Everyday Watercolor are inspiring, beginner-friendly, and gorgeous enough to live on a coffee table.
For a printable companion, pair it with my free watercolor flower outlines.
14. Portable Watercolor Travel Set
There’s something romantic about painting outdoors. Compact Winsor & Newton Cotman Travel Sets or Kuretake Gansai Tambi tins are perfect for on-the-go creativity.
Tuck in a mini sketchbook and brush pen, and you’ve got a complete adventure kit.
15. Procreate Brush & Template Bundle
Finally, for digital artists, a Procreate brush and template bundle makes an unforgettable gift. My own Procreate Watercolor Brush Set includes 31 realistic brushes for digital painting.
Pair it with a free Procreate color palette download to help them get started.
🎨 Wrapping It All Up
Art supplies aren’t just tools — they’re invitations to create. Each of these gifts says, “I see your creativity, and I believe in it.”
Whether you go for a premium brush set, a digital art pack, or a cozy journaling kit, remember that every artist values something slightly different — the tactile joy of paper, the swish of a brush, or the buzz of new ideas.
And if you’re an artist yourself… consider this your sign to treat you.
Because honestly? The best gift for an artist is permission to play.
More inspiration for your creative life: