Best Gifts for Artists 2019
Dear Wonderful, Creative You:
Each year I compile a list of my favorite art related supplies for the year. This year I’ve included supplies to help you make art on the go, empower your artistic voice, decorate your home with original art, and finally take that class with me that you’ve been dreaming about. These are the best gifts for artists in 2019.
Daniel Smith Travel Watercolor Set
I finally treated myself to a new set of very high quality watercolor paints in a travel case, and I couldn’t be more glad I did. They are so portable, and the color can be super subtle, or incredibly intense.
These watercolors make me a happy artist.
Water Brush Pen Set, from Koi – $23
When I am porting my art supplies around town or on a trip, these water brushes are a must. I use them everywhere from the local cafe, to the parking lot, to the plane. Portable art tools help me make more art.
Gift Card for Mindful Art Studio Classes – $50
Sometimes it’s hard to treat yourself. So why not ask for what you really want this holiday? I’ve got mindful, playful art classes starting at $12. Send this post to a friend or loved one looking for gift ideas.
Take my free art journaling class, The Guide to Creative Self-Care & join our community!
Moleskine Art Watercolor Album, Hardcover 3.5 x 5.5 – $13
You know I’m constantly carrying and creating with this little gem!
Uppercase Magazine Subscription – $80 (CAD)
I am so enamored with this magazine! I’ve only just subscribed this year, but it has fueled my art practice with beautiful images and inspiring stories about artists and their process, and articles on pushing past boundaries in your art.
This Gorgeous Print from Illustrator Diana Sudyka, $45
We have been reading a new series of books with my 7 year old called The Mysterious Benedict Society. (We are obsessed with these clever, action and intrigue packed books.) I was also taken with the illustrations and decided to look up the artist. I was tickled to note that I’d seen and admired her work before. What a lovely gift one of her high quality prints would be.
Hand Painted Floral Ornament from Julie Marriott – $32
I mean, I’m not throwing hints to my family or anything, but this would be the best ornament ever.
Find Your Artistic Voice, by Lisa Congdon – $14
Pretty much anything Lisa Congdon writes, I’m into it. I think you should be too.
And if you love art books as much as I do, you can find a full list of my art book recommendations for 2019 right here.
Giveaway!
Finally, I have a little treat for you. The folks at Chameleon Pens reached out and wanted to know if I’d be interested in having their pens as part of my recommended products this year. While I try to use a shot list of supplies ad stay focused on it, you might be in the market for something new – especially an alcohol-based pen that changes color as you work.
I would love to share them with you. So I’m doing a little giveaway. Comment on this post between now and Sunday, December 1st, and on Monday, I’ll choose one random winner to whom I will send the pens!
Just comment below about what art related gift you’d like this holiday season.
Creatively Yours,
Amy
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Amy, the art related gift I’d like most this holiday season is the gift of more time to make ART! As part of my holiday season (especially during the season of Advent) I intentionally set aside time to create something every day. This year I’m doing paper cutting ornaments for family and friends! The TIME focuses me on what is important, quiets my body and gives me joy. The quiet minutes put me in a timeless space that is sacred! Thank you again for inspiring me often in your classes. Hope you have some new classes in 2020. Fondly, Carol
HI Carol:
I love how you’ve set aside more time for you art. Your ornaments are beautiful. I’m so happy you find inspiration here. I have some new classes coming in 2020 – not to worry!
xo Amy
i am asking for a new “paper” this year. It’s called Dura-lar. It’s made of polyester and is supposed to be a really cool surface for colored pencils. It has a frosted look, and gives the drawing a luminous quality other papers can’t. What fun to try new things.
WHOA! Crazy! Have fun!!! xo
Hi Amy!
I am right there with Carol! More time to create, especially during the holidays, would be a dreamy gift! Art is the best therapy for releasing the cares of a busy life.
However, supplies are key! I would love to try out the Chameleon Pens! I’ve heard fabulous things about them and always intrigued by new art supplies.
Happy Holidays!
Renee
How inspiring. I’m starting a cteative process to work with my trauma. All of these look inspiring. I love Moleskin journals. Nice of you to do a give away.
Cheers
I think the gift I would like most is like time with other people to make art together. Maybe like a class with new people to meet, or time to paint with my grandmother.
The art related gift I would most like is some high quality water soluble oil pastels. I have a lower quality, cheaper set and they are not very good. It is true, you get what you pay for!!
The gift I could really use is one of more space. To be able to spread out and make a mess would be divine. I haven’t discovered a miracle product yet, but continue in small ways. I do appreciate the inspiration and ideas you offer.
I would love some art related books, some concept art books from Disney films are on my list. I love seeing how artists out there play with ideas and come to the characters, worlds and designs we love! Its also so interesting to see the many different styles and ideas of different artists collaborate together
Yes, it’s true. Illustrators do some AMAZING WORK! XO
For me, the gift of class time with Amy would be much appreciated this year! This year I hope to take advantage of more of the resources available with Mindful Art Studio. Would also love to try the Moleskine journal.
Betty – I would LOVE to have you in class. Be sure your loved ones know the gift card is on your wish list! xo
Thanks for all these inspirational ideas..love to get your emails.
Thanks Kerri!
Amy,
The best thing on your list is the watercolor paints!! I haven’t really tried painting out in the field. This would give me a great start and some confidence.
Hope you have a lovely holiday!!
Lisa
I would love some gouache from Santa. I have never tried that technique. 🙂
I love reading your blog & get lots of inspiration from you. Keep it up ! I would love to try out the watercolor journal. It looks like a good size for painting on the go & my goal is to do more painting outside. I’m up for the challenge.
I would love to take a class to help myself feel more confident in what I know is inside of me waiting to be created! Thank you and happy holidays to you and yours
-clare
Thanks for the list and giveaway. I’ve now put the DS travel palette on my wish list. I hope to retire soon and have time to do more with art, especially watercolors. Happy Hollydaze!
I have trying to expand the forms and techniques I use in my art to help me be more expressive. I would love to take one of your classes to give what I’m doing some guidance and support. Thank you for sharing your list.
That sounds awesome Louise! Be sure to share this post or the link to the gift certificates with someone you love so you’ll find what you’re looking for inside one of your gifts this season! xo
I’d love the moleskin watercolor book.
I love the thought of Lisa Congdon’s book and a moleskine would be lovely, but I think the DS watercolors top my list.
YEEES! SO so fun Kristin!! xo
I’d like the gift of a trip to your studio as my Christmas gift.
What further experience could inspire my art? To see and touch your work would be such wonderful fuel for my artistic engine.
Ah Heather! Are you local? I do private coaching sessions online and in person. Also – sounds like something in my work reflects and lights up something that is naturally there in YOU. 🙂
I’d love to get a travel watercolor set. They are quite pricey but I love the look of them. Also a gift certificate to a class would be great as it might help me make time to create!
Hi Michelle! Yes – they will last you if you care for them. xo Be sure to send the link for the gift card to your people so you make the classes an easy gift! xo
I’d definitely like a nice watercolor art journal. Working with watercolors is so relaxing and meditative, but you got to have the right paper for them :). Thanks for this chance Amy. Hugs. Ivana
I totally agree, the right materials with watercolors is especially important! xo
I would love a second hand table to be able to create on
That’s a great idea! xo
I’ve found zillions of options for that for free or VERY cheap on Facebook Marketplace
How awesome!
xo
Hi Amy, I have plans to keep a creative journal in 2020, but I’m worried that I’ll run out of inspiration to create something everyday as the year wears on. So I would like the gift of inspiration and imagination, and I find that colour is a great prompt to give me new ideas and help me be creative!
Hey Caro- Oh I love your plan for 2020! I have a class to help you cultivate your own unique art ideas. It’s a self-guided class called The Inspiring Sketchbook. xo
I just LOVED your list! Would love to get the small Moleskine for watercolour as a gift this year. Would be great while on the road with my trucker husband. Must say that these markers you’re giving away would be great travel buddies too!
HI Carole – Sounds like a great plan! xo
Thanks for all your advice, you are always a source of inspiration!
Thanks Lisa!
I would love a sketch book that is sturdy and portable and a new set of pens!
YES – Lana! A sturdy sketch book is the bomb! xo
My gift would be having finally my own space again to be creative without the need to tidy up at dinner time.
I have to have a little more patience…
Hi Marcelle – Oh I hear you. Kitchen tables are wonderful, but the cleaning up in between each session gets tedious. Have you checked out my Making an Art Studio at Home, Even if You Have No Space post? xo
Hi Amy:
This is not your run of the mill wish list! You’ve got some very cool ideas here, and thanks!
I’m adopting your list and adding to it as well.
Oh yay – so glad this speaks to you, Nel! I like keeping my supplies focused, it helps keep my art focused. I usually include some artsy socks, but I figured I’d give it a rest this year. 😉 xo
Thank you Amy for all your beautiful work that you do ! The art related gift i most desire is art courses ! I love getting inspired from watching and learning from many artists styles.
Hi Sandra:
I would LOVE to have you in class. Be sure your loved ones know the gift card is on your wish list! xo
I love these ideas! That watercolor travel set is just perfect, and I will be adding it to my list this year!
Those Chameleon Pens sound so intriguing, and I would love to try them and challenge myself to find ways to incorporate them into my work.
Thanks again for this wonderful list!
Amanda
That sounds super fun Amanda! xo
Dear Amy, thank you so much for all you share. The art related gift I would like most this year would be a set of good quality water colors. I have been “playing” with the Hobby Lobby brand set for about 4 months, just making patterns and blends. I think I am ready to actually begin to move on to truly creating and expressing myself in watercolor. It has been my time spent in playing/creating that has helped me deal with the loss of a few very dear family members in the past 12 months.
Donna – I’m so sorry for your losses, and so happy you have your art. Have you checked out my Painting the Blues video? If not, you might love playing with the watercolor with me. xo
Hi Amy, I am stuck…all the gift ideas are wonderful but I think My #1 pick would be the Uppercase magazine subscription for the new ideas. Being new to the game I need all the practice I can get, seeing and trying new things.
Louanna – It’s SO PRETTY. Every time I get it I just have such fun looking at all the beautiful pictures and feeling the paper. We are so screen oriented, I think holding it in my hands is so important.
xo
Hi Amy:
This holiday the art related gift i`d like most is and made journals and books.
Thank you for this opportunity. Love your work
Noémia Pereira
Hmm, I think my all in request would be for some brief moments of quiet. I live in a busy homeschooling house with five crazy boisterous and creative kids. My favourite gift is a wee bit of quiet to think and draw in. To draw-in and draw. Thankfully, my husband is pretty good at giving this gift in short bursts!
Oh I love the picture you paint here. Quiet moments it is! xo
P.s. I also like the look of that moleskin! LOL
Hi Amy, I always love your annual art gift lists! Im an art book junkie! I would love Lynn Whipple’s book, Big, Bold Blooms!💕
HIIIII TRACY! I’ve missed you! I could see you doing beautiful things with that book. Happy creating! xo
You have already caused me to need more paper and canvas since I have actually been using what I had stashed. So, that’s what I would like to have…and an art journal too. I’m enjoying creating art.
YAY! I’m guilty? Of helping you make more art? YAY! Guilty as charged! Wahoo Susan!!! xo
This year I have on my wish list more time to spend with friends to play together for much needed fun, inspiration and laughter.
Ellen – I love this wish! Pick a date you can make and set it up – even if only one friend can make it – it’s a start. Also, be specific in your invite about why YOU need this time and make it inviting. This has helped me have more success in getting to the root of why we all need and want to prioritize these gatherings! xo
Hi Amy, I’m so obsessed with anything art related that I could write a list that could wrap itself twice around the globe! This year I have been trying to break through my resistance and fears about creating and get into a creative practice. I am also embracing the art journal and I am definitely seeing the benefits of how art journaling can help encourage a sense of play and break perfectionitis. I would love to have a studio that is a set-up, ready -to-go space rather than my current situation of kitchen table where I have to unpack and pack away my stuff. I’d love to be inspired by tins and boxes filled with all variety of wet and dry media to puddle and play with (I’m working on it, investing when I can!) Lastly, but not least, INSPIRATION – investing in online courses to learn and extend my skills and knowledge. The beauty of creative practice is the life-long learning it holds both in terms of skill and in self. I will definitely have one of your courses on my Santa list, and am looking forward to some delicious inspiration to fan the flames of my new found journaling passion!
Hey Nicole – Oh that all sounds so good! Have you checked out my post on creating a studio space at home even if you have no space? And in terms of classes – part of the reason I created the gift card was so that folks like you could put it on your holiday wish list with friends and family. xo YOU CAN DO THIS, NICOLE! YOU ARE AN ARTIST! xo
I absolutely LOVE the little watercolor travel kit! It and the Moleakin watercolor book will be on my wishlist 🤗!
YES – I am having SO MUCH FUN with those watercolors! I’m exciting to use them more over Thanksgiving! xo I think you’ll love them too. xo
Really like your list. I’m going to check some of them out! This year I’m hoping to get some of Karen Campbell’s face drawing books. Love her approach and style. Thanks for the chance at the giveaway! Happy Thanksgiving 🦃
Hi Amy, I just found your web past sunday and I am totally loving it. the art related gift I would LOVE these holidays is CONFIDENCE! basically in me, in the fact that I have talent, and that I can go very far with my art!
Joanna – Welcome! That’s an excellent gift request. Here’s my gift to you – if you like this – write it – post it – keep it in your journal: Art making is about the process. Focus on the process and little by little you’ll get to the gold. XO
You are helping me to reinforce the notion of art every day, even if it is only a tiny bit during devotional time. Thank you!
Jennifer, I’m thrilled to hear that! A little bit at a time goes a long way!
xo Amy
Is the entire Dick Blick store too much to ask? My daughter is a freshman this year in Boston near the store, I couldn’t choose! I wanted it all. My time for art has increased with her gone, I miss her terribly…
Aw, Maureen – it’s so hard when they are gone! And yes, I LOVE that store!!! xo
Hi Amy, I love the travel water colors and the moleskin watercolor album, but honestly, my favorite thing to use are brush pens. I have immersed myself in art journaling and loving it. Hope you have an awesome rest of the week!
So glad the list speaks to you. I love Tombow watercolor markers/brush pens 🙂 I hope you have a wonderful week as well! xo
I think I most want the Uppercase subscription! I love finding new things that inspire me and having some come to my mailbox sounds ideal.
I want Danny Gregory’s latest book and the portable watercolor set. And of course more inspiration to create!!
YES – his book looks awesome. Too bad I didn’t see it in time for my book list! xo
HI Sam! I LOVE having Uppercase in my mailbox!!! It’s such a creative luxury!! xo
Hello, Amy ~ all the items on this list would just be perfect, but the Lisa Congdon book is #1. The days I truly treasure are the ones during which I schedule the time to do something creative. Those are the times that feed me. I so love getting your emails for all the bits of inspiration I find there. Thank you for that.
I hope your Holiday seasons are filled with love.
Warm regards, Roseanne
HI Roseanne! Aw, that’s so sweet! Thank you for your kind words. I SO want that book too! xo
I’ve just started using watercolors again after a 20 year absence. I’m having fun with it. I love your book list and have already read several of them. Thanks.
Oh yay, Carole! I’m SO THRILLED to hear you are back at it! xo
Hi Amy, I am so inspired by your list! In an effort to jump start my creativity I invited a friend over to simply play with art last weekend and we had a great time. I am putting the Uppercase subscription on my wish list ❤️
Oh YAY Barb – that’s amazing to hear! YAY!!! xo
Amy, As always, thanks for your recommendations. I’m looking for gifts and for myself. I like having a professional point me in the right direction. Happy Holidays! Martha
Hey Martha! Oh I’m so happy the list speaks to you! Happy happy holidays to you and your family!
xo
I would love to try the new pens!
Hi Amy, I appreciate you and your endeavor to inspire your readers to create. Over the years I have gotten away from my art and your encouragement has helped me get the “urge” back. Thank you for your list!
Lyn, these messages are always music to my ears. Thanks for taking the time to say so. xo
I’ve been eyeing that Lisa Congdon book for some time, as well as Uppercase. Have you seen the amazing books they put out? I flipped through one at a Quilt Festival booth last year, went back the next day to buy it and they were sold out – still kicking myself over that!
Aw shoot, Wendy! Never too late to order that book online, or put it on your wishlist though, right? xo
Hi Amy!
I love all of these ideas! I have all of the art related supplies that I need, but your Fluid Art class has always been on my bucket list.
What?! You haven’t taken Fluid Art yet? Geez, I’m shocked. I thought you had! I hope your gift card dreams come true! 🙂
Happy Thanksgiving Joanne!
xo
I’ve only recently discovered art through recovery from a breakdown. Two of the most life inspiring happenings in my life. I would love any of the products on your list especially the moleskin album and the watercolour travel box as I have limited income after my breakdown but a soul filled with art waiting to be expressed.
I really need a watercolor sketchbook like the moleskine you recommended. Of course those chameleon markers have been on my wish list for a while, too! That would be an amazing gift to win!
I’m working larger now so I am wishing for a floor easel.
I love your list. I do love my portable Koi water color set but would really love some good paint brushes for water color. Need to send the word to my children. I have brushes but when I got just one good one I really noticed the difference. Between good brushes and good sketching pens It would be a great Christmas for art.
sue
#1. I’d LOVE to go on an art retreat for a week
#2 A small kiln to be able to experiment with metal clay
#3. Some wooden panels to paint on (most realistic 😉)
WOW – BIG dreams Jan – Fun!!
xo
I hadn’t heard of Uppercase before…I just clicked on their sight and now I am enthralled! Knee-deep in inspiration and I’ll be sure to leave a few hints about a subscription :). Thanks Amy, and Happy Thanksgiving.
YAY – glad to fuel healthy addictions! 😉
xo
I also struggle with how to create the time to do art, along with a space dedicated to only art. If I were able to have the space, I could leave out the supplies and finding that extra 5-10 minutes (which morphs into an hour or more) would be so much easier!
I’m just getting started. I would love to see these in action 🤩
Hello. I would love a gift to any kind of art class. I love to try new things!
I’ve been delighted with your story and your art and your loving sharing personality since I first discovered you while I was recuperating from brain surgery. I also had time to spend with you in all platforms while I was recuperating from my heart attack one year later and my uterine cancer a year after that.
Thankfully this year has been much better health wise. Although with all the medical bills I have no money for nice art materials. I work full time in a non profit preschool, so some of my art money is spent on items for the children in my class.
I would love a nice set of pens to work with and hope you will consider me. Thank you for all you do.
Jean – so so glad health has been better for you this year – you deserve it! I wish you much luck in the random drawing!! xo
You had me at the travel set! Thank you for sharing your list.
YAY – so fun Renee! xo
I FINALLY purchased a Moleskin journal this year (thank you for suggesting it!!) and I am hoping for MORE of them. : ) It is the most amazing art journal I’ve ever used.
THEY ARE THE BEST!!! XO
I’m really hoping for some high quality watercolours myself. Also some more Tombow pens to add to my collection. I have a feeling I am just getting a gift card to the art supply shop though. Lol.
That’s a great list, Carole! xo
Hi Amy. I would like the travel watercolour set this year and also
a new moleskin journal. Mine is almost full. I’m working out of town this week and brought my moleskin journal and some Posca pens because I don’t have any travel paints. Thanks for all your inspiration!
That’s fabulous to hear Christine!
xo
Amy, you inspire me with your encouragement to just create a little every day. Love your mark making * so soothing. Happy to have found you.
CA, that’s super sweet. Thank you!
Thank you for this post and list of such wonderful art gifts. I would like all of them on my wish list. I am sending out to my kids and maybe a wish or two will be granted.
Happiness to you and your family during this special season.
That’s lovely Karen! I hope it works! All the best to you and your family too! xo
I have loved reading your emails and seeing your work. My whole list of Christmas ideas this year was all art related. My husband laughed. I think the thing I want most is to have better health. I have been pretty sick the last few months and the fatigue makes it hard to do my very stressful job but also makes it hard to find creative time. I find that getting in as much creative time as possible helps me feel better. Thank you for your inspiring ideas and thoughts. When I have been able to nothing but lie in bed and read I love seeing the creative process in others.
That’s awesome Jeannie! Have you tried playing with simple mark making in the small format journal when you are tired?
xo
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours ❤️
I have so many art irons in the fire I can’t imagine taking something else on except maybe a gift card to use when I get caught up. Right now I’m on cloud nine.
The book “Finding Your Artistic Voice” will be on my wish list this year. I would also like to read “Ninth Street Women”, but that is not on this list. 🙂
The pens do sound fun to try out!
Hey Anne – That’s awesome – want to tell us what Ninth Street Women is??
xo
I also have a long art supply wish list! I want more stencils from Stencil Girl and would love a subscription to their monthly club! Another size of Posca pens, Stabilo woody pencils to try, and some brush markers as my husband and I try lettering together.
I LOVE the Mysterious Benedict Society!!! I work in a children’s library and recommend that all the time. Watch the movies Sneakers and Oceans 11 if you haven’t already. Same fun feel for grown-ups!
Thanks so fun, Amanda, I like Oceans’s 11, I’ll have to check out Sneakers too! Have fun! xo
Such fun to contemplate all these wonderful things and ideas! I have the Daniel Smith set and love it too. I got just one issue of Uppercase to see if I’d really like it. A subscription will be on my wish list. I’m really drawn to the little Moleskine watercolor journal you use and would love one of those. Oh, wait, I think I have one…. somewhere! What I’d really love is the gift of organization – Motivation to get my house in order, and help to do the heavy lifting.
Hey Donna!
That’s a great goal! Have you seen my post on making an art studio at home, it’s got tons of helpful ideas for you. xx
I’ve asked for your Fluid Art class and a set of Posca extra fine markers. An xacto knife of my own would be nice too!. My son has used ours to cut out very thin plastic as an elven rune stencil for his wall map of Middle-Earth. I’m never one to argue with my children’s creativity, but it’s hard to cut paper after the blade’s been used on plastic! And a wee bit of time to use all my new supplies and watch your class would be lovely!
Hi Amy,
I am hoping for some alcohol inks, and nice ‘splurge’ paper. We have an Upcycle craft store and I get as much there as I can but a little splurge would be a wonderful gift! Oh, and glitter paint pens too!
Thank you, Amy! Very generous of you & Chameleon. My husband will appreciate me sending him your list:)
I am more a colored pencil girl, so on my list there would be the new sparkle set from faber castell, and the metallic set from derwent and the new set lightfast from derwent. And as far as courses go I would love to be able to buy your course on paper cutting. You have a free course and it did light a spark in me so I also began learning myself to paper cut. So probably some good paper cut knife would find it’s way on my list.
I would love a travel watercolor set. The Daniel Smith set looks awesome,
I’d love to try the Chameleon Pens! The Moleskin book is my favorite.
What a great list and giveaway! I think a really enormous set of watercolor pencils would be on my list.
Thank you Amy for sharing this wonderful list. I would love the DS travel watercolors and a table/desk to do my art. I currently use my computer desk, but have to clean up in between – frustrating. I will definitely watch your video on making an art studio at home. I’ve seen a video on the Chameleon Pens and they look fascinating to use and I think would definitely add some character to the “mini-masterpieces” and art journals. All of your videos and classes have inspired me so much, I can’t thank you enough for bringing your talent and ideas to the community. Can’t wait for what 2020 will bring. Happy Holidays!!
Andrea – such fun to hear what you are dreaming of! Can’t wait to create more with you in 2020! xo
I just discovered your website and wonderful you several months ago and I can’t tell you how much you have inspired me to get back to my artistic roots. I loved your idea of just taking five minutes a day if that is all you have time for and I started with that. Some days I am happy to report those five minutes spread into 30. I am experimenting with water colors at the moment and my brush pens. I did get a moleskin journal after seeing your creative juices flowing on your pages. I would love a travel watercolor kit and also the Uppercase magazine subscription. I’ll give my loved ones my list and keep my fingers crossed. Now thanks to your encouragement whenever I need a break from my day I find a respite with my art supplies. Maybe someday soon I will be able to take one of your amazing classes too! The chameleon pens look like fun.
YAY Lynn – I’m thrilled I could help inspire your work! xo
Hi Lynn! I’m very excited to announce that you are the winner of the Chameleon pens!!!! YAY! Just shoot me an email with your mailing address and we will get you all set up. Happy creating! xo WAHOO! xo Amy
I’ve heard a lot about these Chameleon Pens lately and they sound intriguing and fun. Also on my Christmas list is a tin of water soluble graphite pencils. Thank you for the tips & giveaway!
Hi Amy,
I would love to get some Golden Open paints to play with on my gelli plate.
Amy, I enjoy you so much. You are an inspiration to me. You lit my creative spark into a roaring flame! Thank you for what you do.
I have been making do with some supplies I already had around, like an old sketch book. My wish is for a new moleskin watercolor sketch book and the travel watercolors and water pen. Those Chameleon pens would be a welcome addition. My dream is for a week or two all alone somewhere beautiful to just be and create.
Alice – I’m so happy that I could inspire you! YAY for roaring flames of creativity! xo
I would like to get my first Moleskine! It’s time!😀
Thanks for the opportunity to try Chameleon pens.
From your list, I’d love the Moleskin Hardcover Watercolor album. On the extravagant side, I’d love a tabouret table to help keep me organized and my studio neat.
I’ve seen the Chameleon pens demonstrated in a crafts shop in a neighbouring village… they are awesome!!!
My wish is to go on having fun making my drawings, my bulletjournal dailies, my greeting cards and the other creative activities I like (patchwork, quilting, and cooking or baking), but also having fun with my family and friends.
I loved Promarkers (while they lasted), as I love the way alcohol markers color! But they lose their pigment too hast. So this Christmas I am hoping to get a set of Posca markers in medium point, black watercolor paper, and more Tombows! Hopefully, Santa will come through! I’d certainly love to try the new Chameleon markers!! 😊💗
I put a pretty big thing on my holiday wish list this year! I’d love any brand of die cutting/embossing machine! Doesn’t hurt to ask right? 😉
Ooh what a fun list! I love to journal and have recently been art journaling so I would love to get the Moleskine journal for watercolors! Maybe I will suggest it to my hubby as a Christmas gift! Love your work and your sharing!
I’d love to get a good beginner watercolor class for Christmas. I have the brushes and a few Prima. Watercolor sets. I just need to learn how to use them .
I’d love a Moleskine watercolor journal. I’ve been using a spiral bound watercolor sketchbook for the last 5 years and it’s time to change things up! I’d also love to experiment with high-flow acrylics and paint pens.
Amy, I owe you a message of gratitude, for you presence on social media, your creative soul, and for keeping art and inspiration in my life!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
Carol – this message means so much to me, thank you! And your wish list is so fun! xo Happy Thanksgiving!
I’m hoping for some acrylic paint pens!!
OMG Amy first off I LOVE the spread of leaves you have in this email. The layers are wonderful. Sooo inspiring. Next you have just nudged me to forget gift shopping for others and order things for myself. The Uppercase subscription, another watercolor journal, more art books. I too wish for more time to create. Thank you for all you do to prompt us to go and make something even if it is just for 2 or 3 minutes. Big hug to you.
Aw, thanks SUE #2! SO funny that Susan Guillory, from the Gathering of the Creatives both commented at the same time! Thanks for your kind words and I’m so happy so many things speak to you here. Hugs to you and Happy Thanksgiving! xo
Amy, I love your lists and keep copious notes! So glad I discovered you this year and had a chance to learn from you at The Gathering of the Creatives!
Susan – how fun to have you around here at Mindful Art Studio! I’m so glad you like the list too. Here’s to more fun in 2020! xo
I have my eyes on Lyra graphite crayons, RF pigment sticks, and some Rosemary and Co. Brushes! Would love to go to Italy for a workshop! Oh, yes I could think of about 20 more things easily!!! Somebody stop me!
I would choose first, the travel water colors but next would like the magazine subscription.
This selection is like a great buffet-so any things
from which to choose!
YAY – Joyce, I’m so happy this list speaks to you! xo
Great gift ideas! And I’d love to try those pens!
I’ve been folowing your instagam for some time, and although I’m inspired by it, I always put something ahead of creating … My wish for Christmas is that I create more and don’t get distracted by everything else! And a whatercolor set would be nice too 😀
Hey Carla! I’m so happy to have you over here on the blog? Have you taken my free art journaling and creativity class The Guide to Creative Self-Care? I made it to help folks in exactly your spot get started (or re-started). xo
I want to have a decent space to create art. I live in a small house with several other people and we have very limited space so finding space to work can be a real problem. My biggest plan for the new year is working out a space to make art.
Hey L! Have you checked out my post on this very issue? How to make an art studio at home, even if you have no space? It’s got tons of great ideas. xo
xo
Sooo hard to choose..truth is I long for a Moleskin. So loyal, so sensual, so simple, so me.
I am Moleskin!
Thank you, Amy. Your generous spirit is so alive.🙏💕🌀
Jo that sounds like a great gift for your wishlist. Be sure to pass on this post so it comes true! 🙂 And thank you for your kind words! xo
Doing art on the go would be great. I’ve only recently reconnected with my creative spirit. Looking forward to more creativity in my life!
What I want most is the courage to begin filling a blank page with ideas and not be caged by the fear of failing to produce a polished product.
Hey Dian! Oh, I totally hear that. I have found that really helps me with this is to use my journal as a catch all for my ideas. If you are looking for some guidance with this, I have a great self-led retreat all about it – The Inspiring Sketchbook. Happy holidays!
I have just started Art Journalling and would love a small journal and water colour palette or coloured pen set to take with me always so I can doodle when inspiration hits me. Tapping into my creative side has been instrumental in dealing with my mental and physical health issues in the past year, it calms my soul.
Hey Tanya: Yes, art IS good for the soul. All the best to you in your beginnings. Have you taken my free art journaling class? xo
I would really love to have a taboret someday. Aside from that, I always love getting new types of art media to play around with.
The art supply I would like is pastels. I’ve never worked with them and would like to try.
I’m completely enthralled with your artistic ideas. I can never have enough art books, especially learning new mediums and new techniques. I love my little moleskine watercolour paper book. It’s so beautiful that I don’t want to waste the beautiful paper. I’ve drawn a few things, small motifs, flowers, painting over ink. I would love to see what the Chameleon pens can do, I hope you’ll pick my name! Thank you for the opportunity ❤️
Hi Amy, I am going to go ahead and gist myself an art trolley to help me in my art space. I have recently had to squash myself into a smaller space and am finding it hard to have all my supplies on hand. I love getting watercolour paper as gifts. Last year I got a couple of pads which helped me to actually use them instead of feeling so precious about them.
Yes! Having sufficient supplies is so helpful! xo
🙂 I’d like a gift certificate to an artist supply store so that I could get a good set of basics like the watercolor set you mentioned.
I just started water colors and making my own Christmas cards. Having so much fun being creative and exploring all mediums. Such joy.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I’m thankful for your art, inspiration and teachings Amy! I appreciate you! My wish list would include a nice watercolor block. I’d like to try Arches brand and have multiple so I could try working on a few at a time. But I am clearing table space to try taping multiple sheets of paper down instead of waiting for those blocks. I would also like to try some daniel smith water colors too! I have one tube called Rose of Ultramarine and I LOVE IT!
Happy Holidays everyone!
~Shay
OOo yay! A giveaway! First, Happy Thanksgiving. Second, I have used your previous travel guide as an easy set up to make marks in between changing diapers and making snacks for my three boys (age 5 and down.) It’s been especially helpful! I love the ideas in this blog post and already purchased Lisa Cogdon’s new book (merry x-mas to me!) I’d love to be chosen to try out the new alcohol ink pens!
Thank you for this awesome site!
Great list. I’m having fun making some of my own supplies – been making paper for awhile and now I’m trying to make ink – FUN! Current book making project is to actually use up some of my awesome supplies – not just admire them 😉 I’d love to be able to take one of your classes!
This year I am asking for new watercolors! I have wanted newer more professional ones for a while and I think it’s a great gift idea! Thanks for all of your inspiration!!
I would love one of the art books on my list or the wood burning kit I have my eye on. New tools and information for my creative mind. 😁
Those sound super fun, Julie! xo
Hi Amy,
The number one gift on my list this year in your ‘Dreaming of Color’ course!
Your free course achieved something I’ve been striving for my whole life…it showed me how to let go of the perfectionist (with zero art in her life), and now I frolic in the chaos of imperfection. This is spilling into all aspects of my life in the most positive way.
Thank you! Megan
WOW – I love this so much! YAY! Thanks so much Megan, that means a lot. I hope you get your wish! xo
I’ve heard about these- I’d love to give them a go. My Christmas wish will be creative time, much like everyone else, lol. Time is always the most precious gift, isn’t it?
HI!! I have been following for a few years now! I love to look at gift lists for artists. Right now I am looking in to different kinds of projectors? I want to get better at drawing the pictures I have taken and people in general. I actually contacted you a long time ago when I saw a picture you had drawn because in your drawing she looked like she had Vitiligo. Something you didn’t mean to do but you nailed it! I have Vitiligo.
HI Kimberly! HI!!!! Oh I was thinking about that comment the other day. I saw a wonderful little program via the Ellen Show with a model and aspiring actor with Vitiligo. Sounds like a fun gift! A drawing class would be a good thought too! xo
I would like to have more confidence to create, and to continue to connect with artists like the wonderful community here. I like moleskin journals and I would love to try high flow acrylics. Taking another of Amy’s classes would be so cool.
Have a creative, joyous season, Everyone! 🥰
Hey Elin – that sounds fun! Be sure to share the link for this post with your loved ones so they know how to gift you a class! xo
Every one has been raving about Daniel Smith watercolors! I would love to try them out. I am hoping Santa might bring me a few. I have never tried alcohol markers, but would love to try them. I am trying as many mediums as I can, still trying to find my style. Love your classes, Amy. Your fluid acrylic class was my first step back into the creative world. Thank you!
YAY – fun list Deva! 🙂
I am wanting to add shimmery water colours to my supplies!
Amy, My deepest desire is to have more creative friends to collaborate with! I love the give and take of inspiration. So I guess in the practical form it would be books like the one by Lisa Congdon.
Thanks for inspiring me 🙂
Sue Jacobson
Sue I totally hear you! In my experience you need to keep talking to different people about your desire to start an art group until it sticks! xo
This year I would love a HUGE Amazon gift card so I could purchase all of the art supplies on my list. Ha! Not too much to ask huh?
Have a blessed holiday!
Thanks, Amy for these fantastic ideas. I’m hoping for a really good compass and protractor set to work on some zentangles and doodles. Sometimes having a high quality basic tool feels very luxurious! Keep spreading the art love!!!!
I totally agree! xo
Hi Amy! Thank you so much for your inspiring posts. I am continually encouraged by your heartfelt and down-to-earth thoughts and advice. The creative gift I would like this year is for me to gift myself with regular creative play time. With so many home and work responsibilities, I’ve put off my art for so long that I cannot even remember what it’s like to just PLAY and have FUN! Here’s to doing just that tomorrow!! Thank you again!!
Celine – this sounds like a great plan~ I’m so happy that you are off and running!
xo
Hi, Amy! Thanks for all the great inspiration this year and I look forward to seeing what you have in store for us in 2020. I’ve had “A Big Important Art Book (Now With Women” in my wishlist for months and am hoping to find it under the holiday tree this year. Cheers!
Journals!! 😀
Thank you so much to everyone for all their wonderful ideas and comments! We have a randomly chosen winner, and it’s Lynn! Congratulations Lynn – just reach out with your home address and I’ll send off those pens to you! xo