Creative Christmas Gifts 2026: Arts and Crafts Presents for All Ages

Some people are so easy to buy Christmas presents for. Give them a box of paints, a new craft kit or a decent set of pens and they’re happy for hours. Others already have so many art supplies that you’re frightened of buying something they’ve got three of!

I love creative Christmas gifts because they’re something people can actually enjoy doing. Whether it’s a child making their own Christmas decorations, a teenager experimenting with 3D art or an adult who enjoys colouring and painting, there’s something lovely about giving somebody a present that encourages their imagination.

I’ve put together some creative Christmas gifts for 2026, including arts and crafts kits, 3D printing pens, colouring books and presents for people who enjoy making things.

There are ideas for children, teenagers and adults, with a mixture of affordable stocking fillers and bigger gifts for somebody who really loves being creative.

This website uses affiliate links. I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Some of the items included may have been sent to me to feature. Jen x

3D Printing Pens for Creative Kids and Teenagers

3Doodler Start+ Essentials Pen Set

If you’re buying for a child who loves drawing and making things, the 3Doodler Start+ Essentials Pen Set from Smyths could be a brilliant Christmas present.

Instead of drawing something flat on paper, children can create little three-dimensional designs using colourful plastic strands that harden after coming out of the pen.

What I particularly like about this version is that it’s designed with younger children in mind, with no hot external parts. The set includes the pen, 72 strands of filament and an activity guide to help get them started.

I think this would be lovely for a child who enjoys inventing things, building models or generally making a mess at the kitchen table! It’s recommended for ages six and over.

3Doodler Candy 3D Pen Essentials Set

The 3Doodler Candy 3D Pen Essentials Set from John Lewis or Very is a rather unusual present for somebody who loves both crafts and sweet treats.

It’s designed for making three-dimensional creations using special candy capsules, so children can experiment with creating edible designs rather than simply drawing on paper.

I think it’s the sort of present that would make Christmas morning particularly exciting, especially for somebody who enjoys trying something different.

It’s suitable for children aged six and over, with adult supervision recommended. I’d definitely read the instructions carefully, particularly around the candy materials and what is safe to eat, rather than assuming every part of the kit is edible.

SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen Set

For an older child, teenager or adult who enjoys creative projects, the SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen Set from Smyths, Very or Argos could be a lovely gift.

This one works differently from the child-focused 3Doodler Start+. It heats plastic filament and allows the user to create three-dimensional shapes and designs, with adjustable temperature and speed settings shown on an LCD display.

The set includes filament and a stencil guide, so there’s something to get started with straight away.

I think it would appeal to somebody who enjoys model-making, designing little decorations or experimenting with creative technology.

The nozzle gets hot, so it’s important to follow the safety guidance and choose it for somebody mature enough to use it safely.

Art Supplies That Make Lovely Creative Christmas Presents

Ohuhu Hilo Acrylic Markers

If you’re buying for somebody who loves drawing, painting or decorating things, Ohuhu Hilo Acrylic Markers could be a brilliant Christmas present.

Acrylic markers are handy because they allow you to create colourful designs without needing paintbrushes, water pots and lots of equipment spread across the table.

I think they’d be particularly nice for somebody who enjoys decorating wooden shapes, making cards or experimenting with mixed-media artwork.

They’re also a lovely option for teenagers who enjoy art but have moved beyond basic children’s colouring sets.

I’d choose a set with colours that suit the recipient’s interests and check which surfaces the particular markers are recommended for before buying.

A Good Sketchbook and Drawing Set

Sometimes the simplest creative presents are the best ones.

A good sketchbook with some lovely pencils or drawing pens could be a brilliant gift for somebody who enjoys art. If they prefer painting but not drawing then how about a painting by numbers set?

I think it’s particularly nice when you know somebody is always doodling on scraps of paper or filling notebooks with little drawings.

You could choose a sketchbook with thicker paper if they enjoy using markers or watercolours, or something smaller that they can carry around.

Add a decent eraser and pencil sharpener and you’ve got a useful gift without spending a fortune.

A Watercolour Painting Set

If you’re buying for somebody who enjoys painting, a watercolour set could be a lovely present.

I think watercolours are particularly nice for people who enjoy painting landscapes, flowers or little illustrations.

You don’t necessarily need to buy an enormous set. A smaller selection of good-quality colours, some suitable paper and a couple of brushes can be much more useful.

For somebody who’s just getting started, you could add a beginner’s watercolour book or a few simple tutorials to help them experiment.

It’s also worth checking whether they already have favourite brands or materials.

Christmas Craft Kits for Children

Baker Ross Christmas Craft Kits

If you’re buying for younger children, Baker Ross has a huge range of craft kits, including plenty of Christmas-themed activities.

I think these are brilliant for children who enjoy making decorations, cards and little presents for family members.

There are kits for different ages and abilities, so you can choose something fairly simple or a project that takes a little more time.

They’re also useful if you’re buying for siblings or want something children can enjoy together over the Christmas holidays.

I’d check what’s included before ordering, as some kits need additional glue, pens or other materials.

Baker Ross Christmas Decoration Kits

I particularly like the idea of giving children something they can make and then hang on the Christmas tree.

The Christmas craft range at Baker Ross includes decoration-making activities, which could be lovely for children who enjoy hands-on projects.

There’s something quite special about getting homemade decorations out every year, especially when the children who made them are suddenly teenagers and rather embarrassed by their early artistic efforts!

I think these would make nice presents from grandparents or little activities for Christmas Eve.

You could even put together a small craft box with a couple of different kits.

A Make-Your-Own Sweet Bouquet Kit

If you’re buying for a teenager or somebody who enjoys making gifts, a make-your-own sweet bouquet kit could be a fun Christmas present.

It’s a little different from ordinary painting or drawing because you end up with something that can be given to somebody else.

I think it would be particularly nice for somebody who enjoys making presents for friends or putting together little surprises for family members.

You could choose their favourite wrapped sweets and include everything they need to make a colourful arrangement.

If younger children are involved, make sure the materials and tools are age-appropriate, particularly if wooden sticks or sharp scissors are needed.

Creative Books for Children and Adults

NYC Coloring Book by Joel Holland

The NYC Coloring Book by Joel Holland could be a lovely Christmas present for somebody who enjoys colouring, illustration or anything connected with New York.

I think colouring books are particularly nice when the subject is something the recipient already loves.

This one would be a good choice for somebody who’s visited New York, dreams of going or simply enjoys city illustrations.

You could pair it with a set of coloured pencils or markers to make a complete present.

It’s also a nice alternative to buying another notebook for somebody who already has a cupboard full of stationery.

Pop Op: Pop-Up Optical Illusions

If you’re buying for somebody who enjoys unusual books, Pop Op: Pop-Up Optical Illusions could be a brilliant choice.

I think pop-up books are fascinating because they’re a mixture of art, engineering and clever paper design.

This one would appeal to somebody who enjoys optical illusions, unusual illustrations or simply seeing how things work.

It’s the sort of book you can pick up and explore rather than needing to sit down and read from beginning to end.

I particularly like gifts that are a little unexpected, and this is certainly more unusual than another standard colouring book.

KAHLO

For somebody who enjoys art and learning about artists, KAHLO from Prestel could make a lovely Christmas present.

Frida Kahlo’s artwork is instantly recognisable, and I think a book about her would appeal to somebody who enjoys colourful, expressive art.

It’s a nice option for teenagers who are developing an interest in art history, as well as adults who enjoy learning about different artists.

You could pair it with a sketchbook or some drawing materials for somebody who enjoys creating their own artwork.

Pasta Posters

Pasta Posters from Prestel is a rather different creative gift idea, particularly for somebody who loves both food and design.

I think it’s lovely when a present combines two of somebody’s interests, rather than simply being another generic art book.

This could be a fun choice for somebody who enjoys graphic design, unusual illustrations or decorating their kitchen with food-inspired artwork.

It’s also a nice idea for somebody who enjoys collecting interesting books and prints.

Creative Christmas Gifts for Adults

An Embroidery or Cross-Stitch Kit

If you’re buying for somebody who enjoys sewing or needlework, an embroidery or cross-stitch kit could be a lovely present.

I think these are particularly nice because you can choose something that suits the recipient’s interests, whether that’s flowers, animals, landscapes or funny sayings.

For somebody who’s just getting started, I’d choose a beginner-friendly kit with clear instructions and everything included.

More experienced crafters might appreciate a more detailed design or some good-quality materials.

It’s also worth checking whether they prefer counted cross-stitch, embroidery or another type of needlework before buying.

A Paint-by-Numbers Kit

Paint-by-numbers kits aren’t just for children, and I think they can make lovely presents for adults who enjoy painting.

There are some beautiful designs available, from landscapes and flowers to animals and famous artwork.

They’re particularly nice for somebody who enjoys creative hobbies but doesn’t necessarily feel confident drawing something from scratch.

I’d choose a design that matches the person’s interests rather than simply buying the most complicated picture available.

And if they’re likely to want to display the finished painting, it’s worth checking the canvas size before buying.

A Personalised Craft Storage Box

If you know somebody who enjoys crafting, you’ll probably know how quickly the supplies can take over!

A personalised storage box could be a lovely present for somebody who has pens, brushes, threads and other materials scattered around the house.

You could choose a wooden box, a portable organiser or something with compartments for smaller items.

I think it’s a practical gift that can still feel special, particularly if you personalise it with their name.

Just make sure the compartments are suitable for the type of craft they enjoy.

HOZO Precision Tools for Creative Projects

If you know someone who loves making things, whether that’s models, crafts or little DIY projects around the house, these clever tools from HOZO could make a brilliant Christmas present. The range includes the NeoSander for sanding fiddly details, the NeoBlade ultrasonic cutter for precise cutting and the NeoRuler for measuring accurately.

They’re the sort of gadgets that could make a real difference when you’re working on something that needs a bit of patience and precision. I particularly like that they’re useful for lots of different hobbies, from model making to more ambitious craft projects. A lovely idea for someone who already has all the usual crafting supplies!

Creative Christmas Gifts Under £10

You don’t have to spend a fortune to buy something lovely for somebody who enjoys arts and crafts.

A small sketchbook, colouring pencils, stickers, a mini craft kit or a set of decorative pens could all make nice stocking fillers.

I’d also look at the smaller kits from Baker Ross, particularly if you’re buying for children who enjoy making things.

For somebody who already has plenty of supplies, a few good-quality materials they use regularly could be more useful than another large craft set.

You can find more affordable present ideas in my Christmas gifts under £10 guide.

How to Choose a Creative Christmas Gift

I think the most important thing when buying arts and crafts presents is knowing what the person actually enjoys.

Some people love painting but have no interest in sewing. Others enjoy colouring but would never use a 3D printing pen.

I’d also think about their experience and age. A beginner might enjoy a kit with clear instructions, while somebody who’s been crafting for years may prefer better-quality materials or something more challenging.

For children, always check the age recommendations and whether adult supervision is needed, particularly with equipment that heats up.

And if you’re buying for somebody who already has lots of craft supplies, don’t be afraid to ask what they’d like. Sometimes a particular set of pens or a new sketchbook is exactly what they want.

What Are the Best Creative Christmas Gifts for 2026?

If I were buying for a younger child who loves making things, I’d definitely consider the 3Doodler Start+ or a Baker Ross craft kit.

For an older child or teenager who enjoys experimenting, the SCRIB3D pen or Ohuhu markers could be brilliant creative Christmas gifts.

And for adults, I think a lovely art book, painting kit or something connected with their favourite craft would make a thoughtful present.

The best thing about creative gifts is that they offer something to do long after the wrapping paper has been cleared away.

If you’re still looking for ideas, have a look at my Christmas gift guide, Christmas gifts for children and Christmas gifts for families.

Do you enjoy arts and crafts, or are you buying for somebody who does? I’d love to know what creative Christmas presents have been a big hit in your family!

Jen x

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