When it comes to finding the perfect gift, it can often feel like walking through a maze, especially when the person you’re buying for has specific hobbies or interests. One hobby that has stood the test of time and continues to thrive is drawing. Whether your recipient is a seasoned artist or simply enjoys doodling in their free time, the act of drawing can be deeply therapeutic, creatively stimulating, and just plain fun.
However, shopping for drawing gifts for adults requires a little more thought than just picking up a generic set of art supplies. After all, not every artist has the same style or preferences. You don’t want to gift something that might end up collecting dust in a drawer, right? Instead, you want to pick something thoughtful and inspiring-something that will help your recipient grow their craft, ignite their creativity, or simply bring them joy.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how to choose the perfect drawing gifts for adults, how to understand their preferences and needs, the common mistakes to avoid, where to find the best gifts, and how to make your gift truly unforgettable.
10 Drawing Gifts For Adults

1. Drawing Supplies Gift Sets
If you’re looking for a complete and ready-to-go gift for an adult who loves to draw, a drawing supplies gift set is perfect! These sets often include everything from high-quality pencils, charcoal, and erasers to sketchbooks, blending tools, and sometimes even instructional guides. They’re ideal for anyone, whether they’re just getting into drawing or already have a lot of experience. The best part? It takes the guesswork out of choosing individual supplies and makes for a thoughtful, practical gift that any artist will appreciate.
Best Buys:
- Arteza Drawing Supplies Set – 75 Pcs
- Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils Set
- Faber-Castell Drawing Gift Set
2. Sketchbooks and Drawing Pads
Every artist, regardless of their skill level, needs a good sketchbook. These gifts are perfect for the adult who is always jotting down ideas or trying out new drawing techniques. Whether they love working with pencil, ink, or markers, sketchbooks are versatile and essential for practicing and developing their skills. Plus, there are so many options out there with different paper types, sizes, and binding styles, so you can find one that’s just right for them.
Best Buys:
3. Coloring Books for Adults
Coloring books are not just for kids anymore! Adult coloring books are a fantastic gift for anyone who enjoys drawing or wants to unwind with a bit of creativity. These books often feature intricate designs, mandalas, nature scenes, or even famous works of art to color in. They can be a great stress reliever, and some adults even use them to try out new drawing techniques before applying them to more complex pieces.
Best Buys:
- Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book
- Creative Haven Floral Design Coloring Book
- The Art of Nature Coloring Book
4. Drawing Pencils and Charcoal
When it comes to drawing, nothing beats a high-quality set of pencils or charcoal. These are must-have tools for anyone serious about their craft. Charcoal, in particular, is amazing for dramatic shading and adding depth to artwork. Whether your gift recipient prefers soft pencils for delicate details or bold, rich charcoals for expressive sketches, there are plenty of great sets that make excellent gifts.
Best Buys:
- Derwent Graphic Drawing Pencils
- Faber-Castell Charcoal Drawing Set
- Prismacolor Ebony Drawing Pencils
5. Watercolor Pencils
Watercolor pencils combine the best of both worlds-they can be used as regular colored pencils, but once you add a bit of water, they transform into a watercolor-like effect. They’re perfect for someone looking to experiment with a variety of techniques and styles. If the artist you’re shopping for enjoys blending colors and experimenting with new mediums, watercolor pencils are a fantastic and versatile option to gift.
Best Buys:
- Prismacolor Watercolor Pencils
- Derwent Inktense Watercolor Pencils
- Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer Watercolor Pencils
6. Drawing Markers and Inks
For adults who love to draw with bold, vibrant lines, markers and ink pens are the way to go. Whether they prefer fine lines for intricate designs or broad strokes for dramatic pieces, high-quality markers and inks are indispensable. These products offer versatility for both detailed line art and larger, more expressive works. They’re also ideal for adding contrast and depth to any drawing, especially when paired with other mediums like colored pencils or watercolors.
Best Buys:
7. Art Easels
If you’re looking for a gift that will elevate any artist’s workspace, an art easel is a fantastic choice. Easels provide a sturdy, adjustable platform that makes it easier to draw or paint with comfort and precision. Whether the recipient enjoys large-scale work or just needs a solid surface for sketching, there are easels designed for every need. They come in a range of materials and styles, so you can choose one that fits the artist’s space and needs perfectly.
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8. Digital Drawing Tablets
If the artist you’re shopping for is into digital art, a digital drawing tablet can open up an entire new world of creativity. These tablets allow them to sketch, paint, and create using specialized software, giving them an endless range of tools and options. Whether they’re a beginner or a professional digital artist, a tablet like this makes it easy to produce stunning digital artwork while still maintaining that natural, hand-drawn feel.
Best Buys:
- Wacom Intuos Pro Digital Drawing Tablet
- XP-Pen Artist Pro 16 Digital Drawing Tablet
- Huion Kamvas 13 Drawing Tablet
9. Drawing Instruction Books
For anyone looking to improve their drawing skills, a great drawing instruction book can be a treasure trove of knowledge. These books provide step-by-step tutorials, tips on technique, and inspiration for creating new artwork. Whether the recipient is a beginner or looking to refine their skills, there are tons of amazing resources available that can help them unlock their potential and get better at drawing.
Best Buys:
- Keys to Drawing by Bert Dodson
- Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards
- Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth by Andrew Loomis
10. Custom Art Supplies Organizer
Keeping all their art supplies organized is key to a smooth creative process, and a custom art supplies organizer can make a great gift for the artist who has everything. These organizers can hold pencils, paints, markers, brushes, and sketchbooks, keeping everything neatly in place. A thoughtful and practical gift like this can help the recipient stay organized, focused, and ready to create whenever inspiration strikes.
Best Buys:
- Arteza Art Supply Storage Box
- Zig Art & Graphic Twin Marker Organizer
- Studio 71 Art Supply Organizer Box
How To Choose Drawing Gifts For Adults
Choosing the right drawing gift isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. A lot of thought should go into understanding the recipient’s specific interests, their skill level, and the types of art they are drawn to.
Here are some key things to consider:
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Skill Level
- Are they a professional artist or a hobbyist?
- Beginners may appreciate basic supplies or instructional materials, while seasoned artists might prefer high-quality, specialized tools.
- For example, a beginner might love a sketchbook paired with a set of graphite pencils, while an experienced artist may prefer premium watercolors or specialized brush pens.
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Preferred Medium
- Some artists specialize in a particular medium, such as charcoal, ink, watercolors, or digital drawing.
- Knowing their medium will help you pick gifts that complement their style. For instance, watercolor painters might appreciate a set of fine brushes and professional-grade paint, while a digital artist might prefer a stylus or drawing tablet accessories.
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Personal Style And Aesthetic
- Artists often have distinct styles they prefer, whether it’s realism, abstract, or cartoonish drawings.
- Try to match the gift with their artistic voice. If they love detailed realism, they might appreciate a set of fine-tipped pens or high-quality graphite. For a cartoonist, a set of colored markers or sketching pens could be perfect.
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Artist’s Workflow And Organization
- Artists often need tools to stay organized and efficient, especially if they work on multiple projects at once.
- A high-quality portfolio, art supply organizer, or a portable carrying case could be a thoughtful gift that helps them manage their materials.
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Inspirational And Educational Gifts
- If your recipient is always striving to improve, consider gifts like books, online courses, or memberships to art communities.
- A subscription to an art magazine, an anatomy drawing book, or a masterclass with a renowned artist can be a great way to fuel their passion.
Understanding Preferences And Needs
Gift-giving is a deeply personal experience, and it’s even more meaningful when the gift is tailored to the person’s unique tastes. Here are some ways to better understand what an artist might appreciate:
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Ask Subtle Questions
- If you’re not entirely sure what your recipient needs or prefers, try asking casual questions in conversation.
- For example, you could ask, “Have you tried out any new art materials recently”? or ’What”s your favorite medium to work with right now”?
- Pay attention to what they talk about most often-if they mention an art supply they’re running low on, that could be a clue.
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Observe Their Current Supplies
- If you have access to their art supplies (without snooping), take a look at what they currently use.
- Do they have a set of worn-out pencils? Is their sketchbook getting full? These are subtle signs of things they may need replacing or upgrading.
- Take note of the brands they use, too-artists tend to stick to their favorite brands, and a gift that aligns with these preferences will show you’ve done your homework.
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Consider Their Artistic Environment
- Pay attention to their workspace. Are they drawing on a dining table, or do they have a dedicated art studio?
- A portable easel or a comfortable chair for long drawing sessions might be just what they need if they work from home.
- The vibe of their workspace can also give you insights into the kinds of art they create and what supplies might enhance their process.
Common Gift-Giving Mistakes To Avoid
It’s easy to make well-meaning mistakes when shopping for someone with a specific hobby like drawing. To help you avoid some common pitfalls, here’s a rundown of what not to do:
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Don’t Buy Something Generic
- Avoid picking up a cheap, one-size-fits-all art set that feels more like a token gesture than a thoughtful gift.
- Artists are often discerning about their materials. A generic set of pencils, for example, may not meet their quality standards.
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Don’t Buy Supplies They Already Own
- Even if you know they like a particular medium, be sure not to buy items they already have in abundance.
- It’s better to find something they might not think to buy themselves, like a specialized tool or a unique set of high-end paints.
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Don’t Ignore Practicality
- A beautiful, decorative art supply is great, but if it doesn’t fit into the artist’s workflow, it’s not as useful.
- Make sure the gift serves a practical purpose, like organizing their supplies or helping with their process.
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Don’t Overwhelm Them With Too Many Options
- A gift that’s too vast or complicated (such as a set of 100 different colored pencils) might feel overwhelming to an artist, especially if they don’t have the space to store it all.
- Focus on quality over quantity, giving them a few tools they’ll actually use.
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Don’t Forget The Personal Touch
- While practical gifts are important, don’t forget to make the gift feel special. Add a handwritten note or find a way to make the presentation unique.
- Personalizing the gift-like engraving their name on an art supply case-can make all the difference.
Where To Find The Best Gifts
There’s no shortage of places to find high-quality drawing gifts, but knowing where to shop can save you time and ensure that your gift stands out. Here are some of the best places to look:
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Art Supply Stores (Both Online And In-Store)
- Established retailers like Michaels, Blick Art Materials, and Jerry’s Artarama are great places to find a variety of professional-grade art supplies.
- Online platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and ArtStation also offer great options, with the added benefit of customer reviews to help guide your choice.
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Specialty Shops For Unique Items
- If you’re looking for something that’s a little more personal or unique, consider smaller, independent retailers or local artisan shops.
- Etsy, for example, is a fantastic platform for finding handmade or custom art tools, sketchbooks, or personalized items.
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Art Courses And Workshops
- Websites like Skillshare, Udemy, and Masterclass offer access to professional art courses and workshops.
- Gifting a subscription to one of these platforms can be an educational and inspirational gift that keeps on giving.
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Local Art Galleries Or Events
- Local galleries, fairs, and art festivals can be wonderful places to find specialized gifts like unique art supplies, prints, or art-inspired accessories.
- Plus, buying locally supports independent creators, which can add an extra layer of meaning to your gift.
