Finding the perfect gift for an artist can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re not an artist yourself. With so many supplies, tools, and art styles out there, it’s hard to know what’s useful, what’s high-quality, and what will actually make them smile.
As an artist myself, I’ve curated this guide to help you choose gifts that are practical, inspiring, and genuinely appreciated. Whether you’re shopping for a beginner hobbyist, a seasoned pro, or someone who just loves being creative, here are the best gift ideas to make their artistic life brighter.
1. Quality Everyday Art Essentials (Always a Safe Choice)
Artists go through materials fast, and nothing beats receiving high-quality supplies we actually want to use. These staples are community-tested favorites — safe picks even if you’re unsure what the artist prefers.
Top Recommended Art Supplies:
- Copic, Prismacolor, or Chameleon markers — smooth, blendable color for illustrators.
- Tombow Mono pencils — reliable, clean graphite for sketching.
- Strathmore sketchbooks and paper pads — great texture and durability.
- Gouache sets — vibrant and beginner-friendly.
- Watercolor pencils — perfect for mixed-media lovers.
- Brush sets, sharpeners, erasers, and easels — simple but very useful.
Why this works: Artists always appreciate quality materials. These are guaranteed to be used (and loved).
2. Thoughtful Tools & Accessories They Didn’t Know They Needed
If you want something a bit more unexpected, go for tools that make creating easier, comfier, or more organized.
Great Functional Gifts:
- Lap desks for drawing on the couch or bed
- Tabletop or portable easels
- Travel sketch kits — sketchbook + pencils in a compact case
- Portable light boxes — amazing for tracing and designing
- Storage organizers — carts, drawers, tool rolls
- Customizable notebooks for project planning
- Gift cards to Blick, Michaels, or Joann (artists love choosing their own tools)
- Anime Desk Mat – Vagabond Classic by Blueflaw
Why this works: These items show thoughtfulness and support their creative workflow.
3. Inspiring Books & Creative References
Books are powerful gifts for artists — they fuel creativity, improve skills, and spark new ideas.
Highly Recommended Art Books:
- Interaction of Color — Josef Albers
A classic, must-have color theory book. - A Dictionary of Color Combinations — Sanzo Wada
Wonderful for quick palette inspiration. - Vintage art guides, craft books, and design manuals
- Art journals or sketch diaries
- Beautiful graphic novels (like Akira,Vagabond, Berserk) for visual storytelling inspiration
Why this works: Artists love having a library of inspiration to pull from.
4. Wellness & Self-Care Gifts for Tired Artists
Artists often deal with long hours, burnout, and stiff wrists or backs. Self-care gifts are thoughtful and always appreciated.
Creative-Friendly Self-Care Ideas:
- Weleda Skin Food — a cult favorite for dry, paint-stained hands
- Massage tools — shoulder, wrist, or back massagers
- Aromatherapy candles or incense
- Puzzles for creative rest
- Cute studio décor — plants, art prints, desk lamps
Why this works: These help the artist relax, recharge, and feel supported.
5. Tech & Lifestyle Upgrades for Modern Artists
For digital artists, music lovers, or tech-savvy creatives, these gifts are game-changers.
Top Tech & Gadget Gifts:
- Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones
Perfect for deep focus sessions. - Smart mugs (like Ember) to keep coffee warm
- Ergonomic accessories — wrist pads, posture supports
- Small synthesizers or turntables for artists who find inspiration in sound
- LED lights or ring lights for photographing artwork
- Vagabond Classic iPhone Case – just for the art
Why this works: These upgrades improve comfort and productivity — especially during long studio sessions.
6. Foodie Treats & Creative Snacks
Artists love snacks. We eat while we draw. We sip while we paint. And we definitely appreciate treats that feel a little fancy.
Foodie Gifts Artists Enjoy:
- José Gourmet tinned fish — artisan, high quality
- Ferrero Pocket Coffee — sweet caffeine boost
- Savannah Bee Company honey
- CBD or herbal snacks for relaxation
- Loose-leaf teas or specialty coffees
Why this works: Tasty gifts add joy to their creative routine (and keep them fueled).
Final Thoughts: Choose What Helps Them Create or Helps Them Rest
If you’re unsure what to pick, here’s a simple rule:
Give them something that helps them make art or something that helps them enjoy life outside of art.
Either way, they’ll feel understood, supported, and inspired — and that’s the best gift you can give an artist.
Discover More Posts
Keep exploring stories, insights, and creative notes from my journey as an artist. Check out the latest blog entries and find topics that inspire your own process.
5 Hidden Art Career Killers That Stop Most Artists Before They Even Start — And How to Beat Them
Learn to draw anime-style clouds with this easy, step-by-step cloud tutorial. You’ll pick up tips on shapes, color, and composition—plus get free cloud brushes to use in your own art.
Sketching vs. Drawing: 5 Powerful Insights Every Artist Should Know
Learn the key differences between sketching and drawing—how detail, speed, tools, and intent separate the two and when to use each in your art practice.
How to Find Your Art Style in 3 Simple Steps
Learn how to find your unique art style through a clear three-step process. Discover how to collect inspiration, analyze your influences, and build your own signature look with deliberate practice.