We have a soft spot for crafty kids and therefore, for craft gifts for crafty kids. Whether they love doodling, painting, weaving, sewing, or pretty much anything they can do with their hands, we’ve tried to look for gift ideas beyond coloring books and the same old kits you see everywhere. What’s really special is that these craft gifts know no gender. Or age. In fact, we imagine a few adults in the house might want a shot at some of these cool gift ideas too.
All gifts have been editorially determined by our staff, there is no compensation in exchange for picks. CMP is an rstyle and Amazon affiliate. Discount codes expire 12/31/15.
Child-sized handmade wooden weaving loom kit
Gorgeously handmade in San Diego, from a wonderful father-daughter team. ($72 at Wood Creek Looms)
Build-it-yourself woodworking kit
Lots of tools + smooth pine wooden pieces to get kids started. ($34.99 at Lakeshore Learning)
Shadow printing craft kit
We’d love to see what they come up with using this kit. Plus, it’s better than safety pins through their ears. Say the parents. ($24.99 at Maker Shed)
Janome sewing machine
A perfect first sewing machine for kids. It’s not a toy, but wow, all the colors are fun. ($69.99 on sale at Amazon)
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Artist’s loft bristle brush set
We love this set which was recommended to us by our kids’ art teachers. Throw in some acrylic paints too if you want to make it a little bigger. ($9.49 at Michael’s)
Sumi-e ink wash painting kit
If they’re tired of the same old sketching, this cool craft gift can help change things up. ($19.95 at Doodle Crate or part of a monthly subscription)
60% off the first month of any subscription with code CMP2015
Traveler’s sketch and draw easel case
The ultimate gift for artists who can’t pick a favorite medium. ($134 at Fat Brain Toys)
Beginner’s bookbinding kit
A cool way to make three simple books to use as journals, photo albums, or poetry books. ($40 at Cathy Durso)
Manga double-ended marker set
Instead of watching it on TV, why not draw your own? ($36.62 at Blick)
Design Studio Deluxe Kit
With 225 challenges, this kit should keep kids busy for a day or two. ($35.99 on sale at Maker Shed)
Skillshare Online DIY class
We’ve had fantastic experiences with the online courses here for our kids, all taught by talented instructors. Take a look for a smart experience gift for a really creative child. ($.99 for 3 month membership, ordinarily $8-10 month at Skillshare Online)
Ultimaker 2 GO 3D Printer
Who knows, maybe if they master 3D printing, your kids can make and print out all of your holiday gifts every year after this one. ($1450 at Maker Shed, filaments additional)
