So you say that, even after studying my first Arts and Crafts Gifts Guide, you still haven’t found just the right thing for that little Picasso on your list? That’s okay, I’m used to a tough crowd. I have two preschoolers, remember? Gifts for Little Artists, Part II. If you can’t find something here, you’re on your own!
Cool Crayons!, $19.98: Think crayons only come in sticks? Think again, as the latest trend in your preschooler’s favorite art arsenal is the creatively-shaped crayon. I love these adorable block crayons from Lilly’s Kids, $19.98 for a set of 12, or these sweet heart-shaped crayons from Pottery Barn, $9, or these dinosaur shaped crayons, $7.95, or these eco-star crayons, $8.95. But the most practical, easy to hold shape has to be the Crayon Rock, $24.95/64 crayons.
Framed Placemats Coloring Pad, $19/Smencils Set, $18: This set of ten colored pencils come in fun scents like root beer, cotton candy, and grape. They will enjoy using them while they create a lunchtime masterpiece on these clever, “framed” placemats.
Fingerprint Art Set, $12.95: Don’t wipe off the tiny fingerprints – cherish them with this creative kit that lets you turn those tiny fingers into art you will hold on to forever. Or try Ed Emberley’s Complete FunPrint Drawing Set, $19.98.
Stamp-a-Story, $24.99: What a great idea! These rubber stamps feature 33 different images that can be used to create a story. Endless creative potential! I also love these 36 animal stampers, which feature easy to hold animal shapes.
For Future Van Goghs: Encourage art appreciation with these inventive gifts inspired by one of the greats. The Sunflowers in a Box, $19.95, allows kids to create a 3D sunflower bouquet, then arrange them in the box to create a beautiful display. Or pick this Van Gogh Art Kit, $16.95, which allows kids the chance to add their own touches to outlines of the artist’s work, or create their own master works, with the included child-safe pastels.
Original Coloring Books, $6.95 each: These astonishingly detailed coloring books allow kids to create remarkable works of art simply by coloring. Choose from Creature Camouflage, designs, Modern Patterns, Transformations, Stained Glass, Mosaics, and Scapes. Or try these Images books from from Hearthsong, $10.95.
Interior Design Sketch Portfolio, $16.95: Decorators in training will love this portfolio, which allows them to bring their interior ideas to life with the 40 grid-style sketch sheets, 100 stencil designs, and a dozen artist grade pencils.
Make a Book Kit, $19.95: Know a budding illustrator or author. Give them the joy of creating their very own book, with special pages that let them write up to 15 words each, and then illustrate. They simply send the book back and receive a professionally produced version with their name in gold on the cover.
Magical Menagerie, $24.95: While this isn’t exactly an art or a craft, it’s so cute and clever I couldn’t resist. Kids can create up to 20 funky, stand-up animals without scissors or glue.
Professional Quality Art Supplies: MagicCabin is like a treasure trove of art supplies for the serious artist, including intense, shiny beeswax crayons, $16.98, and watercolor paints, $39.98. from Stockmar, Lyra’s colored pencils, including the Aquarelles and the Chubbies, and Bruynzeel Felt Tips, $12.98. Older kids, ages 8 and up, will love finding top-notch art supplies in one beautiful case, $64, from the Metropolitan Museum. Or try this similar set for younger artists, $64.99.
Lil’ Davinci Art Frames, $24.98: Looking for a way to store and display your child’s constantly growing collection of art? These smart frames allow you to display the latest works of art, while storing older pieces below it. Genius!
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