The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists and Creatives

I love nothing more than a practical gift I can actually use. If it’s a gift that will make my art easier, then it’s priceless.

Below are a list of items in various price categories that I either own, or would like to own. The ones I own have more than paid for themselves. These are items that I think all artists and creatives can use. A lot of them may not seem super glamorous, but they are gifts us artists can really nerd out to.

$25 and Under

Echo Dot: I use this in my studio every day to listen to music and set reminders while I work. I think it’s the perfect gift for creatives because it’s the ultimate focus tool. It also allows you to go hands-free and leave your phone in the other room while you’re working. For a more expensive version, you can get one with a screen.

An Inspiring Book: Books are the best gifts. The ones below have changed my relationship with my art and, therefore, are priceless:

• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (for anyone struggling with connecting to their art, and the big picture)

• Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon (for anyone struggling with finding their personal style)

• The Crossroads of Should and Must by Elle Luna (for anyone who needs some courage to pursue their art)

• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield (for anyone having trouble showing up for their art and focusing)

A Great Mug: What artist doesn’t drink tea or coffee while working. I’ll let you in on a little secret - artists love mugs with lids because we’ve all accidentally dipped our paintbrush in our coffee before. Also, the larger the mug the better. For those artists who work long hours in their studio, try a heated mug.

Utility Cart: I did a bunch of interviews with my fellow artists last year, and this was a favorite that kept coming up again and again! Everyone had and loved their IKEA utility cart. They said it was great for rolling supplies around while they worked. I use a small bar cart in my studio for the same purpose, which can be another option. For a creative option, you can fill with supplies before gifting.

A Houseplant: Don’t underestimate the good vibes a plant can bring to a studio space. Not to mention, it’s a great subject to paint. I recommend something very low-maintenance, like a money tree. Also it’s supposed to bring financial prosperity.

$50 and Under

A Great Candle: While I work, it’s not just about the music, but also the smells. I love the Capri Blue candles from Anthropologie, especially the Pumpkin Clove and Spiced Cider ones.

Stendig Wall Calendar: This is the main attraction on my studio walls. It’s practical and beautiful. What creative can’t be a little more organized and on top of dates?

A Handmade Artist Smock: This one is on my wishlist. I love how you can pick the recipient’s favorite color.

A Beautiful Paint Palette: Most artists don’t afford themselves the luxury of a nice palette. Just search “ceramic paint palette” on Etsy, and be amazed at all the options available. I love vintage egg platters too.

Inspiring Coffee Table Book: Us artists love books with things to illustrate. One of my favorites is Natural History: The Smithsonian Ultimate Guide to Everything on Earth. It’s perfect for anyone looking for inspiration, containing literally everything on earth you could paint.

$100 and Under

Commercial Paper Cutter: I firmly believe every artist needs one of these. I didn’t realize how badly I needed one, until I bought it and used it every day. It has CHANGED MY LIFE. I have the 24x24 inch one.

Skillshare Membership: At $99, you can give a creative the gift of classes for the entire year. You can’t put a price on knowledge. I’ve learned some of my best techiques by taking Skillshare classes. For a more expensive option, Masterclass is great too.

$200 and Under

Campaign Pin Board: I recently purchased this for myself to hang in my studio, and it has been a game changer. Seeing my originals hanging up gives me confidence in my work, and I actually think it inspires me to create more. For a cheaper version, I love a good old-fashioned bulletin board. These gold clips from Amazon go perfectly with it, and won’t damage your work.

A Beautiful Work Lamp: West Elm takes the cake on these, but I also love IKEA work lamps or shopping vintage. I get really excited about a wall lamp if it has a switch on top for convenience.

Desk: Never underestimate the power of a good work desk. It can transform a regular person into an artist just like that! For artists and creatives, I like a white desk so you can take pictures of your work on a neutral background. Also, it doesn’t take away from the colors you’re using in your work. I also like a desk with a drawer or two to hide supplies. If you are buying for someone else, try to go as plain as possible.