Holiday gift guide for the watercolorist
- Buffy Kaufman
- Dec 2
- 3 min read
The season of sparkle, cozy studio time, and joyful creativity has arrived. If you have a watercolorist in your life, or if you are one yourself, here are my favorite gift ideas that inspire play, learning, and beautiful art moments. Artists of all levels, including teachers and students, will delight in these thoughtful gift ideas. I have added links where helpful and curated a shopping page on Amazon for easy reference. By using this link you support a working artist, and I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
1. Books
Watercolor You Can Do It! by Tony Couch (beginner+)
A trusted favorite for building strong fundamentals. Tony Couch explains watercolor in a clear and encouraging way, focusing on core skills. The book covers composition, value, color choices, and how to create impact with simple shapes https://www.tonycouch.com
Composition of Outdoor Painting by Edgar Payne (intermediate)
Includes diagrams, value studies, and compositional templates that help artists understand how to build stronger, more intentional paintings.
A Blossom in the Desert, The Art and Writings of Lilias Trotter (1853 to 1928)
This book is a beautiful source of inspiration for artists who seek deeper meaning in their creative work. Lilias Trotter’s journals weave together watercolor sketches, handwritten reflections, and observations from her life of faith and travel. Her words offer encouragement to slow down, notice beauty, and let creativity flow from a place of purpose and presence. A thoughtful gift for any artist who values soulful inspiration.
2. Daniel Smith Watercolors
For artists who love exploring color, a curated palette is always a delight. Some standout picks include Amazonite Genuine, Quinacridone Purple, Quinacridone Coral, and Aussie Red Gold. These favorite additions of 2025 bring lively pops of glowing color to your palette. With warm radiance, fresh turquoise tones, and vibrant coral and purple blends, they add energy that will brighten every painting session. Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/watercolorgiftguide
3. Rosemary and Co. Brushes
A good brush is a gift that lasts for years. My top picks include the Series 304 Pointed Rounds and Series 310 Angle Shaders, along with my new favorites for 2025: the Series 311 Dagger Brush and Vegan Smooshing (lifting) brushes. These specialty synthetic brushes are excellent for creating dynamic shapes, and their high quality, ease of use, and affordability make them a true joy to paint with. https://tinyurl.com/buffybrushes?u=BUFFYBRUSHES
4. Color Inspiration and Learning
Color Cubes by Sarah Rene Clark
The new Color Cubes makes color selection easy and fun! These mini palettes help artists experiment with hue combinations, discover surprising mixes, and build confidence in choosing colors. Serving as a colorful reference library sorted by category, they are perfect for sparking fresh creative ideas and supporting watercolor painting.
Foolproof Color Wheel Set by Katie Fowler
This set makes color theory simple and hands-on. Effortlessly pick color combinations and explore ten inspiring schemes. Educate, inspire, and expand your knowledge of color relationships. The color wheel and viewfinder discs are easy and fun to use and come packed in a handy folder for storage. Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/watercolorgiftguide
5. Gift for the Watercolorist Who Has Everything
Pigment Stories: A Book by Jackson’s Art
Perfect for the artist who has everything, this richly illustrated book dives into the fascinating world of color. It offers insights into over 60 historic and contemporary pigments, tracing their journey from prehistoric ochres to modern quinacridones. Discover the hidden stories behind the materials artists use and how they have evolved over time. A captivating read for artists, makers, and anyone curious about the intersection of art, history, and creativity.
6. The gift of learning
Inspire creativity all year long by attending in-person classes at The Green Art House or by becoming a member of my YouTube channel. Gain access to tutorials, reference materials, and exclusive content designed to help artists of all levels develop their skills and explore new techniques. https://www.youtube.com/c/WatercolorPour/join
Merry Christmas!
As you explore these gifts and tools, may the greatest joy of the season come from time spent together—creating, experimenting, and connecting. Whether giving or receiving, may these moments inspire playful, colorful, and meaningful art throughout the holidays. Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with peace, creativity, and cheer. As we celebrate, may the love of Jesus and the hope He brings fill your heart, and may your days and your art shine with His light.
Be sure to share your holiday art finds in the comments! Thank you friends!