Stocking Stuffers For Artists

It’s that time of year again when we look for stocking stuffers for the artists in our lives. 

It’s an odd tradition when you think about it, but a fun one.

Way back in the ancient times of my youth, stockings were filled with oranges, grapes, candy, and maybe a tiny homemade toy.

I grew up in a tiny little fishing village in Newfoundland, Canada. Fresh fruit was a novelty back then, so it was a real treat during the holidays. 

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Today, everything seems to be available to everyone, which makes it harder to decide what to buy.

If you have an artist in your life or want to give someone a list of things to fill your stocking with, here is a list of stocking stuffers for artists.

I have updated the list and added a few since last year, so there are 21 stocking stuffer ideas.

You can also check out my Gift Guide for Artists here.

I have included a free printable list of stocking stuffers you can take shopping with you or pin to your fridge to give someone in your life an idea of what to buy for you.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and buy, I may receive a small commission. Please see my full privacy policy for details.

Stocking Stuffers

1. Tubes of Artist Paint

Tubes of paint are the perfect size to pop into a stocking. Acrylics, watercolours, and oils can all be purchased in small sizes, or you can buy sample sizes to let the artist try out new products.

2. Artist Brushes

Paintbrush sets are another great stocking stuffer idea for artists. Tie up loose paintbrushes with some pretty ribbon to make it more festive.

3. Drawing Pencils

You can never have enough drawing pencils. They are frequently sharpened away to nothing, so a new supply is always welcome. See my post on the best drawing pencils for some ideas of what to buy if you aren’t sure.

Colored pencils, watercolour pencils, or pastel pencils tied up with a bow are also great stocking stuffers. Pick primary colours plus black and white if you aren’t sure which ones to buy.

4. Archival Drawing Pens

Drawing pens that are archival are great for ink sketches or line washes. You can choose black or coloured pens in various line thicknesses.

5. Sketchbooks

A small pocket sketchbook is a thoughtful gift to go along with the pencils and pens. There are some beautiful ones available in most craft supply stores and even in some bookstores, as well as on Amazon.

6. Erasers

A Tombow Mono eraser would be appreciated by anyone who draws. It is a slim pencil-like eraser that is great for erasing in tight spaces. It comes in square or round, and you can also purchase refills.

Kneaded erasers for drawing would also be a good gift. They tend to dry out quickly if they aren’t kept in an airtight container, so having a few extra on hand would be helpful

7. Copic Markers

Copic markers are artist-grade, alcohol-based markers that blend easily. A small set or a few loose markers tied up with a pretty bow are a great stocking stuffer for an artist.

8. Charcoal Sticks

Willow charcoal sticks are small enough to fit into a stocking, but ensure they are well protected because they are easily breakable.

You could also purchase regular charcoal sticks or charcoal pencils, or buy a variety for your artist friend to sample. 

9. Magazine Subscriptions

A magazine subscription might be a great stocking stuffer idea for a new artist. There are lots of art magazine subscriptions available at Stampington and Company, online, and some art supply stores. 

10. Unique Artist Gifts

Why not check out some unique artist-themed jewelry for the artist who has everything? There are a lot of online stores that sell unique gifts for artists. Etsy is an excellent place to start.

Keep an eye out for unique gifts at craft fairs and artisan bazaars that are popular in the fall. They can offer unique and interesting gifts such as handmade brush holders, mugs, pins, and other jewelry.

11. Amazon Prime

Since artists spend a lot of money on shipping for supplies, the gift of Amazon Prime might be a good stocking stuffer that will last a whole year. They get free shipping on their supplies as well as a few other perks.

12. Gift Card

A gift card to their favorite art store, such as Blick Art Materials, is also a good idea. That way, they can choose their own gift. I live in Canada, so every year, I get a gift card from my favorite art supply stores, Currys Artist Materials or Above Ground Art Supplies. It’s like having Christmas twice.

13. Gift an Enrolment in a Course

Creative Bug also has a ton of classes for creative people. There are thousands of arts and crafts classes available online.

Skillshare is also another great place to find affordable or even free art classes.

Check with your local college or art group to see which classes are available. Many places offer classes via Zoom or other online platforms if you prefer.

14. A Good Book

Help the artist in your life start their own art library with an art book in their stocking.

Check out my post on Acrylic Painting Books for Artists for some ideas.

You can find books on painting and drawing, artists’ biographies, art history, and much more.

15. A Colour Wheel

A colour wheel and a grey scale are small but valuable tools for artists. They help the artist determine the tone and colour of their artwork. Especially good for a beginner as they learn about colour theory and value.

16. Watercolour Palette

A small watercolour palette is a perfect stocking stuffer size and is a great gift to travel with. Get a water brush to go along with it so your artist is ready to go. You can also buy small sheets or blocks of watercolour paper to complete the set. Great for travelling or painting outside.

17. Artist Apron or Other Wearables

A colourful and fun artist apron is a great gift to help the artist’s clothes stay paint-free. You can even get them monogrammed or make your own if you sew. T-shirts, hats, and other wearables geared toward the artist are also available.

18. Brush Cleaner

Nobody wants dirty brushes, so a tub of brush cleaner is a great addition to a stocking. The Masters Brush Cleaner is the one I use and recommend to keep brushes clean and conditioned. It comes in various sizes and is perfect to help preserve artists’ brushes.

19. Artists Manikin

For a fun and useful gift, get an artists manikin. They come in a variety of sizes and can bend into any pose you want. Good for drawing practice or painting figures.

20. Pencil Wrap

To help the artist carry their pencils why not buy (or make) a pencil wrap? You can get them to carry drawing pencils or a whole set of colored pencils.

21. Alcohol Inks

There are some fabulous new acrylic inks on the market today. Why not get a few small bottles to help spark new creativity?

Free Printable Stocking Stuffer List

I hope these ideas help you to fill all of your stockings. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a few things while you are shopping. 😊 

If you have questions, you can leave them in the comments below. You can also join our free Facebook group, Trembeling Art Creative Corner, where you can ask questions, post your work and get to know some fantastic artists from all genres and skill levels. 😊