8 gift ideas for creative people
Trust me, as a creative person who has received gifts like children's paint sets, countless shower gels, and sketchbooks with lined paper and a flimsy 80gsm thickness, I have a pretty good idea of what makes a suitable gift for someone creative. Of course, the most important thing is not the gift, but the thought behind it. But why not make it even better?
1. Professional paint set
Do they cost a lot? Yes. Are they worth it? Absolutely. Someone who paints regularly can really feel the difference between cheap paints and those with a solid reputation. If you’re unsure which are high-quality, here are a few hints: Van Gogh, Winsor & Newton, Renesans, Rembrandt, Pébéo, Michael Harding, Liquitex, Holbein.
Or, as a fail-safe option, a gift card to an art supply store is always a win.
2. Planner or Notebook
Creative people aren’t always about chaos and unpredictability. A nice, quality notebook will always come in handy. Avoid dated planners; instead, go for a classic notebook with at least 100gsm paper and dotted pages. For example, something like this works perfectly.
3. Atmospheric desk lamp
Hello to everyone who hates overhead lighting! I recently found a lamp with three light tones that charges and can work unplugged for up to six hours. Now my workspace looks like this. Plus, it’s compact and elegant.
(Not this one, it’s just an example).
4. Unique candles
Candles are always a nice gift (even better if they’re made from natural wax). Just make sure the person isn’t sensitive to scents—not everyone loves them. Etsy is full of interesting and unusual options if you’re looking for inspiration.
Candle with a cool heading by WisdomHouseCo
Create your own candle set by NichCandlesDesign
Pesonalized candle by DodoGiftPoint
5. Sketchbook
You can never have too many sketchbooks. Here’s a quick guide to spotting one of good quality:
6. Unique accessories
If the recipient has a great sense of style and loves unique things, consider gifting a statement accessory. Think silk scarves, belts, bags with unique prints, or brooches.
Product by ISINOSILK
Product by DesignVira
Product by BrunetkaHarness
7. Self-Discovery game
This type of game involves drawing a question every day for a month and answering it—either on paper or verbally (combine this with a notebook for extra points!). It’s incredibly rewarding to see feedback like,
“I finally realized results are more important to me than the process, so I decided to change my direction”
Sandra Z.
It’s inspiring and makes for a meaningful gift.
8. Air-Dry clay
Instead of gifting a figurine, jewelry dish, stand, or flower pot, give the person the tools to make it themselves! Along with the clay, include primer (used before painting), paints, and a varnish for sealing. Brushes (synthetic ones) and modeling tools are also great additions. Not sure what these look like? I can share a few examples.
Product by LolaSwainDesigns
Product by EmberRenDesignCo
Did this list help you pick a gift? Have you ever received something unexpected or have ideas of your own? Share in the comments!