Arts & Crafts Gifts for Big Kids (Ages 8–12): Creative Gifts They’ll Actually Use
Shopping for kids ages 8–12 is a whole different ballgame. They’re not “little kids” anymore — but they’re also not quite teenagers. They’re thoughtful, observant, opinionated, and increasingly aware of quality. They want supplies that feel real, not babyish. They want tools that work well, look cool, and let them make art that feels impressive.
This is also one of the most important creative stages. Big kids are developing artistic confidence, personal style, and perseverance. They’re learning that practice matters. They start caring about details — shading, layering, color choices, and finishing a piece instead of rushing through it. The right art supplies at this age don’t just entertain; they shape how kids see themselves as creators.
But here’s the tricky part: if an art gift feels too juvenile, it gets ignored. If it feels too advanced, it becomes frustrating. The sweet spot is supplies that feel grown-up but are still approachable, durable, and forgiving. That’s exactly what this gift guide focuses on.
Whether you’re shopping for a creative kid, a reluctant artist who just needs the right tools, a classroom gift, or a homeschool art upgrade, these arts & crafts gifts for big kids (8–12) are tried, tested, and genuinely loved.
Disclosure: Some links below are Amazon affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Ms Artastic and helping me keep free creative content available.
✏️ Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set (50 Count)
No sharpening. No broken tips. All creativity.
If there is ONE art supply that consistently gets used by kids ages 8–12, it’s colored pencils — and these are a total win. The Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set feel magical to kids. They twist up smoothly, never need sharpening, and don’t suddenly snap mid-drawing. That alone makes them a favorite.
These pencils are fantastic for:
- Drawing and sketching
- Coloring books (advanced ones too!)
- Shading and blending practice
- Classroom art projects
- Travel and quiet-time art
They’re also perfect for kids who hate stopping mid-project to sharpen — which is most kids.
🎨 Amazon Basics Colored Pencils (48 Count)
Affordable, smooth, and surprisingly good
If you want a slightly more traditional pencil with a soft, blendable feel, the Amazon Basics Colored Pencils are an excellent option.
These are great for kids who:
- Want richer color payoff
- Are learning layering and blending
- Prefer a more “artist-style” pencil
- Need a solid set for school + home
They’re budget-friendly but don’t feel cheap — which matters a lot at this age.
📓 Soucolor Spiral Bound Sketch Book (9 x 12)
The sketchbook that makes kids WANT to draw
A good sketchbook changes everything. The Soucolor Spiral Bound Sketch Book has thick enough paper for colored pencils, markers, and light paint, while still being easy to flip through and revisit.
Why sketchbooks matter at this age:
- They encourage daily drawing habits
- Kids start tracking improvement
- Mistakes feel safer
- Creativity becomes personal
This one is big enough to feel serious, but not intimidating.
✨ ARTISTRO Acrylic Paint Markers (24 Count)
For rock art, signs, crafts, and personalization galore
Paint markers are incredibly exciting for big kids. The ARTISTRO Acrylic Paint Markers let kids paint without brushes — which feels both magical and empowering.
They’re perfect for:
- Rock painting
- Card making
- Craft projects
- Decorating boxes, signs, and canvases
- Adding details to mixed-media art
They dry quickly, cover well, and feel like a “real artist tool.”
🖊️ Crayola Fine Line Markers (40 Count)
For detail lovers, doodlers, and planners-in-training
If you’ve got a kid who loves tiny details, patterns, comics, journaling, or “making everything aesthetic,” these are gold. The Crayola Fine Line Markers are smooth, vibrant, and great for line work.
They’re excellent for:
- Mandalas and patterns
- Comic drawing
- Journals and planners
- Coloring with control
📚 Drawing Books That Actually Teach (Without Being Boring)
Big kids LOVE learning tricks that make their art look better fast.
👉 How to Draw Anything in 3D teaches depth, perspective, and illusion in a super approachable way.
👉 How to Draw: Easy Techniques for Kids Ages 9–12 is a fantastic confidence builder.
🧶 The Woobles Crochet Kit (Beginner-Friendly & Addictive)
A creative skill kids LOVE learning
If you want to introduce a new creative hobby, the Woobles Crochet Kit – Pierre the Penguin is AMAZING. Kids learn patience, focus, and problem-solving — and end up with a tangible finished project they’re proud of.
🎄 Final Thoughts
Art gifts for big kids are about more than supplies — they’re about identity, confidence, and joy. These tools help kids slow down, focus, express themselves, and create something that feels meaningful.
If you want the complete gift guide from baby to teen, you can find it here:
👉 The Ultimate Christmas Kids Arts & Crafts Gift Guide (Baby to Teen)
And if you’re looking for free art lessons to go with those supplies (perfect for home, homeschool, or school breaks):
👉 https://www.artasticcollective.com/free
Happy creating,
Ms Artastic 🎨✨
