Arts & Crafts Gifts for Teens (13–17): The Ultimate Creative Gift Guide (That They’ll Actually Use)
Shopping for teens is a whole different game. 🙃 They’re not looking for “kid crafts,” and they’re not always ready for a full-on professional studio either. They want gifts that feel grown, feel cool, and most importantly… don’t feel like something you picked up in the toddler aisle five minutes before checkout.
Here’s what I’ve learned (as an art teacher + art-obsessed human who has watched kids grow into teens with their own style, taste, and opinions): teens want art supplies that match who they’re becoming. They want tools that help them draw what they see in their head. They want color that blends smoothly. Pens that make their notes aesthetic. Paint that doesn’t look chalky. And if they’re into content creation? They want gear that makes their videos and photos look like the creators they follow.
And the most magical part? Teen art isn’t just “a hobby.” It’s identity. It’s stress relief. It’s a confidence builder. It’s a way to say things that are hard to say out loud. The right art gift can be the thing that keeps them creating through a tough season… or the thing that helps them realize, “Oh wait — I might actually be good at this.”
So below is my teen-specific arts & crafts gift guide for ages 13–17 — from upgraded drawing supplies, to painting sets that feel legit, to digital art tools, to creator gear that supports photography/vlogging dreams. Each item is linked (embedded!) so you can click and go.
(Quick note: some links may be Amazon affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — thank you for supporting my content and helping me keep making free art ideas for kids and families! 💜)
1) A Gift That Immediately Feels “Pro”: Castle Art 120 Colored Pencils (with Zipper Case)
If you want a teen gift that gets an actual “WOAH” reaction — start here. Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils with Zipper Pouch are a serious upgrade from basic school pencil crayons.
Why teens love it
Teens are usually at the stage where they want their art to look cleaner, smoother, more intentional. A bigger pencil set instantly helps with that because:
- They can actually find the exact shade they want (instead of forcing everything with 12 colors)
- Layering and blending becomes way easier
- Their drawings start to look more realistic, more “Instagram-worthy,” and more polished
Best for
Portraits, realism, anime/manga, coloring books, sketchbook shading, fashion design, and any teen who’s building a little art “identity.”
Gift tip
Pair this with a sketchbook and you’ve basically created a portable art studio.
2) Dual Tip Brush Pens: The Teen “Aesthetic” Secret Weapon
If your teen likes journaling, doodling, lettering, making cute notes, designing posters, or doing anything remotely “creative,” brush pens are an instant win. These Dual Markers Brush Pens (36 count) are perfect because they have that “two-in-one” feel teens love.
Why this is such a smart gift
Dual-tip markers are one of those supplies that doesn’t feel childish at all — it feels like a creator tool. Brush tip for lettering and smooth strokes, fine tip for outlines and details. That means:
- Better hand lettering (without needing a million supplies)
- More controlled doodles, mandalas, and pattern art
- Cute headers and “study notes” that teens actually want to make
Best for
Bullet journaling, planners, lettering, doodles, note-taking, and quick sketchbook pops of color.
3) The “Cheat Code” for Better Drawing: Rechargeable LED Light Pad
This one surprises people — but once a teen has a light pad, they use it constantly. A light pad isn’t about “copying.” It’s about learning proportions, improving line quality, and creating cleaner final drafts.
This Rechargeable A4 LED Light Pad is especially nice because it’s rechargeable and portable — which matters for teens who move from desk → couch → kitchen table → bedroom floor. 😅
What they can do with it
- Trace a rough sketch to make a clean line version
- Transfer drawings to watercolor paper without mess
- Practice anatomy, faces, hands, and perspective with more confidence
- Make logos, stencils, and DIY designs for crafts
Best for
Anime artists, illustrators, calligraphy/lettering fans, fashion design teens, and perfectionists (you know the ones!).
4) A Drawing Book That Doesn’t Feel “Babyish”
Some drawing books feel like they’re made for little kids — and teens will instantly reject them. This one feels more “artist” and less “worksheet.”
The Artist’s Drawing Book: Learn How to Draw, Sketch, Shade, and More is a great gift for teens who want structure — but still want to feel like they’re learning real skills.
Why it’s a great teen gift
Teens often want to improve quickly. A solid drawing book gives them:
- Skill-building without pressure
- Practice pages they can actually follow
- Shading, sketching, and technique work that builds confidence
Best for
Beginner-to-intermediate teens, portfolio prep, or any teen who says, “I want my art to look better, but I don’t know what to practice.”
5) Watercolor That Feels Legit: Winsor & Newton Cotman
Watercolor is having such a moment — and teens love it because it looks dreamy, aesthetic, and expressive. But the watercolor sets made for little kids can be frustrating: weak pigment, muddy mixing, and chalky results.
That’s why Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set (10 tubes) is such a beautiful entry point into “real” watercolor.
Why teens love watercolor tubes
Tubes feel professional. They mix better. They’re easier to control. And teens can create:
- Washes, gradients, and moody skies
- Floral studies and aesthetic watercolor doodles
- Portrait backgrounds and color experiments that actually look intentional
Best for
Teens who love calm, relaxing art (or who need a stress-relief outlet).
6) Acrylic Paint That Feels Like a Real Studio: GOLDEN Heavy Body Acrylics
This is a higher-end gift, but if you’re shopping for a teen who paints — this is one of those “core memory” gifts. GOLDEN Heavy Body Acrylics Mixing Set is vibrant, thick, and incredibly satisfying to paint with.
Why this matters for teen artists
Teens are often trying to get results they see online — bold color, smooth coverage, and paint that doesn’t feel watery. Higher quality acrylics:
- Cover better (less frustration)
- Blend better (more control)
- Look more “finished” on canvas
Best for
Canvas painting, mixed media, portfolio projects, and artsy bedroom decor.
7) Alcohol Markers: The Ultimate Illustration Glow-Up
Alcohol markers are a huge step up from basic markers because they blend smoothly and create that “professional” illustration look. If your teen is into:
- anime/manga
- fashion sketches
- character design
- detailed coloring
…this is such a good gift.
Shuttle Art 61 Colors Alcohol Markers (includes blender + case) makes it easy to experiment with gradients, shadows, highlights, and depth.
Important parent note
Alcohol markers can bleed through paper — that’s normal. Pair with thicker marker paper or cardstock, or just put a protective sheet underneath.
8) Digital Art Gift: Wacom Intuos Drawing Tablet (Bluetooth)
If your teen has shown interest in digital art, animation, graphic design, or even just creating cool visuals for school projects… a tablet can be a massive confidence boost.
Wacom Intuos Medium Bluetooth Graphics Tablet is a classic because it’s reliable, portable, and genuinely useful.
Why it’s perfect for teens
Digital art feels modern, relevant, and exciting. Plus:
- They can explore different styles without “wasting supplies”
- They can redo and refine (undo is powerful!)
- It supports creative careers (design, animation, illustration)
9) Content Creator Gifts (For Teens Who Love Filming, Editing, and Creating)
Not every teen wants paint — some teens want cinematic.
🚁 DJI Mini 4K Drone
If your teen loves filming outdoors, sports content, travel vibes, or cinematic shots, DJI Mini 4K Drone is a huge “dream gift.”
🎥 Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera
For teens who want a dedicated camera for vlogging, tutorials, or filming their art process, Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera is a strong pick.
🎙️ DJI Mic Mini (2 TX + 1 RX)
If you want a gift that instantly improves video quality, audio is the move. DJI Mic Mini is amazing for interviews, two-person videos, voiceovers, and clear sound.
10) A “Real Artist Setup” Gift: MEEDEN Tabletop Sketchbox Easel
Some teens don’t need more supplies — they need a space that makes them feel like an artist. A tabletop easel with storage makes art feel intentional and special.
MEEDEN Tabletop Art Sketchbox Easel is such a thoughtful gift because it encourages them to keep creating — and keeps supplies from exploding across your home. 😅
Final Thoughts: The Best Teen Art Gifts Aren’t “Stuff”… They’re Support
If you’re buying for a teen, you’re not just buying supplies. You’re giving them permission to create. You’re saying, “I notice what you like. I’m paying attention. I believe in you.”
Whether your teen is quietly sketching in the margins, painting big emotions on canvas, experimenting with digital illustration, or filming creative projects… the right gift can be the nudge that helps them keep going.
Happy gifting — and happy creating. 💜
Ms Artastic
