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My Top 10 Favorite Gift Ideas for Artists

If you're like me, you love giving gifts, but sometimes find yourself stumped on what to give! I decided to make a list of my top 10 favorites for that artist in your life. Trust me, they'll thank you!

*You can find the first 8 items at Dick Blick, and I've already organized them into one group so they are easy to find. If you use this link, I do get a small commission, but it doesn't cost you any extra. Thanks!

Chris's Gift List For Artists at Dick Blick

1. Paint Brushes!

My favorite brand is Royal SableTek by Langnickle, "brights". They are so versatile and have the perfect "spring" in them for oil and acrylic paints. I find I use sizes 20 and 26 a lot!

2. Rembrandt Oil Paints

These are sooooo juicy and vibrant! They are a little on the pricey side, but they are high quality, they go such a long way and are totally worth it.  Some of my favorite colors that I use a lot are "Transparent Oxide Orange", "Transparent Red Medium",  and "Phthalo Turquoise Blue" (add it to a little titanium white and you get an absolutely gorgeous turquoise sea color!)

BTW, my favorite Acrylic paints are Golden Open Acrylics. They simulate oils in that they stay wet much longer than traditional acrylics and easier to manipulate!

Colors similar to the above oils that I like are Transparent Red Iron Oxide, Quinacridone Red, and Phthalo Green.

3.  Kiss Off Stain Remover

This stuff works great...it even got Cadmium Red Light paint out of my white carpet! It claims to take out oil paint (wet or dry), grass stains, grease, copy machine stains and other mystery spots. I take it with me when I travel, as well!

4. Winsor & Newton Sketcher's Pocket Set Watercolors

Speaking of travel...I highly recommend doing a little watercolor sketching while on vacation, or just out and about. It's a great way to preserve memories and just be in the moment! This is a nice small size that still allows you to paint with a variety of colors. Pack it with a journal, and you're all set!

5. Travelogue Watercolor Journal

To go with your watercolor set! A smaller size of course is easy to carry on the go.

6. Tube Wringer

This is one of my absolute favorite art tools...just when you think you can't get any more paint out of a tube, just put it in the tube wringer and you'll be amazed at how much more paint you can squeeze out!

7. Ott Light

Lighting is super important for an artist to mix up the right colors. The Ott lights simulate daylight...the best light for artists!

I have both a floor lamp and a clamp on.  I need to add this one to my own wish list though...it has a place to hold your ipad and a charging station!!

8. Ampersand Gessobords

These are my absolute favorite surfaces to paint on. I love the "tooth" ("texture")...not too smooth but has just the right grip. I love all sizes, but tend to lean towards the square format. Beginners will appreciate starting smaller, so I would suggest an 8x8.

9. Original Paintings

As an artist, I myself enjoy collecting from other artists! BTW, use code VIPPATRON at checkout to get 10% off my paintings!

Purchase Chris's Paintings Here

10. Journey Artist Retreat or Workshop

The Ultimate Gift for the artist in your life....and you could join them! This is the most incredible way to get recharged and inspired while learning as well.

Check out  my Journey Retreats and workshops!

oh...and I've got ONE MORE fabulous gift idea that will last all year...

11. My Online Monthly Paint Course...Unlocking Color Secrets Season 2!

Get just one month or the entire year...Each month a new full length painting lesson will arrive in your artist's inbox, with lots of artist tips and bonus videos to help them grow. This course is for adults and teens, all levels, oils and acrylics!

Take me to the Online Lessons!

I hope this gift list has been helpful and given you some great ideas for that special artist in your life!

Chris's Gift List For Artists at Dick Blick

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