Gifting More Than Art Supplies

Blog 48

 

On this Black Friday, which is this year exactly one month before Christmas Eve, I want to give you some tips for buying art materials for the artists in your family.


In times when everything gets more and more expensive, it seems a not-to-be-missed opportunity to save on gifts for yourself or loved ones. However, the number of sales in stores and online are overwhelming.


While I encourage gifting art supplies to encourage everyone to play and experiment for fun and to discover new techniques, materials or ways to express yourself creatively, shopping without a list can fill your or the recipient's cabinets with stuff nobody will ever have the time to use.


Going to an art store or browsing online stores is like being in a candy store, the eyes getting wider and wider with the range of products available. The possibilities are unlimited.


When you buy art materials for a loved one, start by looking around their work area, talking to them about materials they use, looking at flyers together, or visiting an art store with them before the holiday season. It helps to pay attention to the materials they admire.


If the artistic person in your life is taking a class or painting with friends, you could also ask the instructor or one of their artist buddies for advice. Once in the store, choose the best quality you can afford, especially for adolescent and adult artists. You get what you pay for when you buy large sets of cheap art equipment, a frustrating experience. Instead, get a small number of high-quality items.


If you buy for yourself, ask yourself if you need it now, desire something or only want to buy it because it looks like a great deal. If you have thought about trying a new medium for a while, get a small set or a couple of colours to try it out. If you know you want to buy specific items, now might be the time. However, there will always be sales. Sometimes, patience pays off. Last year, I wanted a portfolio folder for my childhood artwork. A couple of weeks ago, it was finally on sale.

2024 Felting Workshops

By gifting art materials, you will provide the opportunity for hours of entertainment and increased creativity. However, registering for a course together will be even more fun to bond and create new memories. If you always wanted to try needle felting, contact me for my winter/spring schedule. I offer gift certificates for workshops and artworks.