Choosing Age-Appropriate Christmas Gifts for the Budding Artists in your life

The festive season is upon us, and as we prepare to delight the little ones in our lives, finding the perfect present for an artistic child can be both exciting and challenging. 

Whether you’re shopping for a confirmed mini-Monet or encouraging a budding creative, choosing age-appropriate art supplies and tools is key to sparking joy and creativity. 

Here are some ideas to ensure your gifts inspire, engage, and delight, no matter their age or artistic skill level.

1. Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 2–5)

At this stage, it’s all about exploration and fun. Young children love experimenting with colours and textures, so focus on gifts that are safe, easy to use, and encourage creativity without worrying about “staying inside the lines.”

Gift Ideas:

Finger Paints and Large Brushes: Washable, non-toxic finger paints are perfect for sensory play, and chunky brushes are easy for little hands to grasp.

Mess-Free Colouring Kits: Look for water-based or “magic” markers that only work on special paper to save your walls and furniture.

Modelling Clay or Dough: Soft and pliable materials allow kids to create shapes, practise fine motor skills, and learn about 3D art.

Tips: Look for art supplies that are non-toxic, washable, and durable, as young children are bound to explore in unexpected (and messy!) ways.

2. Early Primary Schoolers (Ages 6–8)

By this age, children begin to refine their motor skills and show preferences for certain types of art. Gifts should balance creativity with skill-building and allow them to experiment with different mediums.

Gift Ideas:

Watercolour Paint Sets: Opt for kid-friendly palettes with brushes that introduce basic painting techniques.

Stamp Kits or Stencil Sets: These offer a fun way to experiment with patterns, shapes, and designs.

Basic Drawing Supplies: Sketchbooks, coloured pencils, and erasers make wonderful gifts for kids who love to draw.

Craft Kits: Whether it’s making friendship bracelets or decorating picture frames, craft kits provide hours of engaging activity.

Tips: Look for items that encourage independence and give children the tools to bring their ideas to life.

3. Preteens (Ages 9–12)

Preteens are at a stage where they can take on more complex artistic projects. They’re ready for higher-quality materials that offer greater precision and allow them to express their individuality.

Gift Ideas:

Acrylic or Gouache Paints: Introduce them to professional-looking paints that can be used on paper, canvas, or wood.

Advanced Drawing Kits: Include graphite pencils, blending tools, and instructional books to help develop their skills.

DIY Craft Kits: Think jewellery-making, embroidery, or sewing projects that provide a sense of accomplishment.

Digital Art Tablets: A beginner-friendly drawing tablet could open up the world of digital illustration.

Tips: Include guides or tutorials to help them get started with more complex mediums. Consider items that encourage personal expression, like customisable journals or canvases.

4. Teenagers (Ages 13+)

Teenagers often have a more defined artistic style and may even aspire to turn their hobby into something more serious. Gifts for this age group should help refine their techniques and challenge their creative boundaries.

Gift Ideas:

Professional Art Supplies: Invest in high-quality paints, brushes, or sketching tools. Brands like Winsor & Newton or Derwent are excellent choices.

Specialty Art Books: Look for instructional books or guides on topics like anatomy, perspective, or specific artistic styles.

Easels or Art Desks: A dedicated workspace can inspire focus and creativity.

Photography Kits: If they’re interested in digital or film photography, consider gifting a beginner-friendly camera.

Software for Digital Art: Programmes like Procreate (with a compatible tablet) or Adobe Photoshop can help them explore graphic design and illustration.

Tips: Pay attention to their specific interests, and don’t be afraid to ask them directly about their artistic goals or wishlist.

Other Considerations

Personalised Gifts: A custom apron, paint palette, or sketchbook can add a special touch to any present.

Subscription Services: Art subscription boxes deliver a curated selection of tools and projects, providing inspiration all year long.

Encourage Experiences: Art classes, museum memberships, or workshops can provide skills and inspiration they’ll carry with them forever.

This Christmas, let your gifts do more than fill a stocking—choose presents that nurture creativity, boost confidence, and encourage the young artists in your life to dream big. After all, you never know when you might be gifting the next Van Gogh or Banksy!

Happy gifting, and may your festive season be as colourful as the masterpieces they create.

How to use decoupage to create stunning art piece Christmas gifts using polystyrene heads

What was the genesis for this blogpost? My wife and I visited a charity shop and I saw a decoupaged head that was life-sized. 

I examined it and realised that it was a polystyrene model's head designed for displaying hats and wigs. 

As I have experience with decoupage, I realised that I could make these heads myself and that they would make excellent Christmas gifts.

This is the basic instructions of how you can make them, too.

Decoupage is a fantastic way to create stunning, personalised Christmas gifts, especially with items like polystyrene heads, which offer a unique 3D canvas. Here’s a detailed guide on how to transform these foam forms into festive art pieces using decoupage techniques.

Materials You’ll Need:

Polystyrene heads (commonly found in craft shops or online from some hairdressing supply retailers, Temu or Amazon.)

Decoupage glue (like Mod Podge or PVA glue)

Decorative papers (tissue paper, Christmas-themed napkins, decoupage paper, images cut from newspapers or magazine, or thin wrapping paper)

Acrylic paints (optional for base coat)

Paintbrushes (one for glue application, one for painting)

Scissors

Craft knife (for intricate cuts)

Foam brushes or sponge applicators (for smooth application)

Fine glitter, ribbons, sequins, or embellishments (for extra decoration)

Clear acrylic sealer spray (for a durable finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Polystyrene Head

If desired, paint the head with an acrylic base coat to hide the white foam and create a coloured background for your design. Allow it to dry completely.

Lightly sand the surface if it’s too rough to make the decoupage smoother.

2. Select and Prepare Your Decorative Papers

Choose papers with Christmas themes such as holly, snowflakes, or festive patterns.

If using napkins, separate the top patterned layer from the plain ones. You only need the thin, printed layer.

Cut or tear the paper into manageable pieces. Tearing the edges creates a more natural, blended look.

3. Apply Decoupage Glue

Use a paintbrush to apply a thin layer of decoupage glue on a small section of the polystyrene head.

Carefully lay your decorative paper onto the glue-covered area. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles using your fingers or a foam brush.

4. Layer and Build the Design

Continue adding paper pieces, slightly overlapping them to ensure full coverage. Work in sections to prevent the glue from drying too quickly.

Once you have covered the entire head, let it dry for 30-60 minutes.

5. Seal the Surface

Apply a final layer of decoupage glue over the entire head to seal the design. This will give it a subtle sheen and protect the paper.

For a more durable and shiny finish, you can spray a coat of clear acrylic sealer after the glue has dried.

6. Add Extra Details and Embellishments (Optional)

Use glitter for a sparkling effect: brush a thin layer of glue on selected areas and sprinkle the glitter.

Add ribbons, sequins, or other embellishments to enhance the festive look. You can also glue on small accessories like miniature hats or holly sprigs.

For a whimsical touch, use acrylic paint to draw on features like eyes, or leave it abstract and focus on texture and patterns.

7. Final Touches

Once everything is dry, check for any areas that might need extra glue or a touch-up.

Allow your art piece to dry completely for 24 hours before wrapping or displaying it.

Gift Ideas Using Polystyrene Heads:

Festive Centrepieces: Arrange a few decorated heads in a holiday-themed basket with fairy lights.

Personalised Gifts: Customise the decoupage patterns with themes that reflect the recipient’s interests or favourite colours.

Ornaments: Attach a hook or ribbon to the top and use the heads as unique, oversized Christmas tree decorations.

With a bit of creativity, decoupage can turn simple polystyrene heads into eye-catching art pieces that make for memorable Christmas gifts. Happy crafting!

Host a Festive Family Pet Painting Competition This Christmas!

Christmas brings a special magic to our homes, filling them with laughter, love, and warmth. 

While we’re busy decking the halls and wrapping presents, why not add a touch of creativity to your celebrations this year? 

Hosting a family pet painting competition is the perfect way to bring everyone together for some festive fun – and with pets as the stars of the show, it’s bound to be a memorable event!

Here’s everything you need to know to make your family’s pet painting competition a holiday highlight.

1. Set the Scene for Festive Fun

Transform a cosy corner of your home into an art studio. Lay down a large tablecloth or some newspaper to protect your surfaces, and stock up on basic painting supplies: canvases, paints, paintbrushes, pencils, and even some glitter for added Christmas sparkle. Setting out some mince pies and hot chocolate (or a mulled wine for the grown-ups!) will make it a truly festive experience.

For added cheer, put on some classic Christmas tunes and let everyone don their favourite festive jumpers. It’s not just about painting; it’s about creating an atmosphere that’ll make everyone feel inspired and merry!

2. Choose Your Muse: Featuring Your Family Pet(s)

The star of this competition? Your beloved pet! Whether it’s a fluffy cat, a cheeky dog, or even a fish in a bowl, let each family member paint their unique rendition of the family’s furred or feathered friend. If you have multiple pets, you can even assign a different one to each person or let everyone choose their favourite animal to capture.

For those with young children, consider printing out photos of the pet in different poses or even letting them have a quick sketch session to study the pet’s face and features. This helps build anticipation, especially if your pet has a personality all its own.

3. Establish Fun and Flexible Rules

Keep the rules simple and flexible. The goal is for everyone to enjoy the creative process, not to worry about producing a ‘perfect’ painting. You might set a time limit – say, 30 minutes to an hour – or let everyone take their time. For an added festive twist, allow participants to include Christmas elements, like a Santa hat, reindeer antlers, or a snow-covered background!

A few fun rule ideas:

Age-based categories (younger children, teens, adults) to make it fair for everyone.

Style themes such as ‘cartoon,’ ‘abstract,’ or ‘festive costume’.

Mixed-media entries if someone wants to add collage or glitter!

4. Make Judging a Family Affair

When all the masterpieces are complete, it’s time for the ‘exhibition’ and judging! Each person can display their artwork for everyone to admire. To make things even more festive, consider creating mini trophies or certificates for different categories, like ‘Most Creative,’ ‘Best Likeness,’ and ‘Funniest’. You could even ask a family friend to serve as an impartial judge if you’d prefer!

5. Share the Festive Joy – and the Laughs

Once you’ve crowned the winner, don’t let the fun stop there! Share photos of everyone’s paintings on social media, or even make copies to send in Christmas cards to family and friends. If you’re feeling particularly creative, you could even use a photo-editing app to turn your artwork into a digital Christmas card that features your family’s artistic pet portraits. It’s a fun way to spread the holiday cheer and showcase your family’s unique talents.

6. Keep the Spirit Alive All Season Long

After the competition, hang the artworks up around the house for the rest of the holiday season. There’s something heartwarming about seeing everyone’s interpretations of your family pet adorning the walls. Plus, it’s a lovely reminder of the special family time you spent together.

A family pet painting competition is a simple, cost-effective way to bring everyone together in the spirit of Christmas. It’s a chance to create lasting memories, laugh together, and maybe even discover a hidden artistic talent or two!

This Christmas, let your pets be the muse and your home be the gallery. Here’s to festive fun, family bonding, and a season filled with love and laughter!

Calligraphy Christmas Gift Ideas for the Artistically Inclined in Your Life

mage courtesy delo of Pixabay

As the festive season approaches, finding the ideal Christmas gift can often be a delightful yet daunting task.

Especially when it comes to selecting something special for the artistically inclined. 

If you have a loved one with a passion for calligraphy, you’re in luck! Calligraphy is a craft that continually offers new avenues for creativity, and a gift related to this art form is both thoughtful and unique. 

Here’s a guide to choosing the perfect calligraphy gifts to make their holiday season extra special.

1. High-Quality Calligraphy Pens

Every calligrapher will appreciate a set of top-notch calligraphy pens. If they’re just starting out, a beginner’s set with both pointed and broad nibs will allow them to experiment with different styles. For more advanced artists, consider specialised tools like oblique holders or professional-grade dip pens. Brands like Pilot, LAMY, and Manuscript offer a variety of choices, including refillable pens and nibs that cater to various techniques.

Tip: For a luxurious touch, look for fountain pens with interchangeable nibs that allow them to switch between lettering styles.

2. Speciality Inks

While black ink is a staple, gifting a selection of speciality inks can open up a world of possibilities. Consider metallic inks for shimmer, or eco-friendly inks with unique colours. Watercolour inks or those with pearlescent finishes add depth and sparkle to their work, ideal for festive projects. Some popular options include the Winsor & Newton ink sets, Diamine inks from Liverpool, or Herbin's shimmering series.

Tip: Put together an ink bundle with a few different colours or finishes for an extra-special presentation.

3. Calligraphy Paper and Sketchbooks

Quality paper can make all the difference in calligraphy. Look for smooth, bleed-resistant paper that can handle a range of inks without smudging. Rhodia and Clairefontaine are top brands with a reputation for producing calligraphy-friendly notebooks and sketchpads. For practising letters or flourishing new designs, dot or grid paper is also an excellent choice.

Tip: Consider pairing high-quality paper with a beautifully designed notebook cover or binding for a sophisticated look.

4. Personalised Stamps and Wax Seals

Custom stamps or wax seals add a unique element to calligraphy projects, especially for artists who enjoy creating cards, letters, or decorative pieces. You could order a wax seal with their initials or a motif that has personal significance to them. If they enjoy experimenting with various colours, include a selection of wax beads for them to play with.

Tip: A wax seal set, complete with a stamp, melting spoon, and coloured wax beads, makes for a complete and stylish gift package.

5. Instructional Books or Online Courses

For those keen to expand their skillset, instructional books or online classes are thoughtful ways to encourage growth in their craft. Books like Mastering Copperplate Calligraphy by Eleanor Winters or Modern Calligraphy by Molly Suber Thorpe offer expert guidance and exercises. Alternatively, a subscription to an online learning platform such as Domestika or Skillshare can provide access to a wide variety of calligraphy and lettering classes.

Tip: Choose a book or course aligned with their current skill level, whether they're beginners, intermediate, or advanced calligraphers.

6. Desk Organisers for Calligraphy Tools

Keeping calligraphy supplies organised is key to a productive workspace. Elegant organisers made of wood, metal, or leather can neatly store their pens, inks, paper, and tools. Look for multi-compartment options or customisable setups that suit their collection.

Tip: Add a personal touch by engraving or embossing their initials on the organiser, giving it a unique and practical twist.

7. Lightbox for Tracing and Practice

A lightbox is a valuable tool for calligraphers who like to trace designs or practice consistency in their strokes. Lightweight and portable LED lightboxes make tracing easy, whether they're at home or on the go. It’s a great way to elevate their technique, especially for artists who enjoy creating intricate lettering designs.

Tip: Look for adjustable brightness settings, which make it easier to work with various paper types.

8. Custom Calligraphy Nameplate or Art Piece

For a truly personal touch, consider commissioning a piece from a local or online calligrapher. A beautifully lettered nameplate, quote, or monogram will make a heartfelt addition to their workspace or home décor. It’s a gift that celebrates their craft and gives them something inspirational to look at each day.

Tip: Frame the piece in a style that complements their aesthetic, whether that’s rustic, minimalist, or vintage.

9. Brush Pen Set for Modern Calligraphy

Brush pens are versatile tools for both traditional and modern calligraphy styles. They’re particularly fun for experimenting with expressive, flowing scripts. Tombow, Pentel, and Ecoline offer high-quality brush pens in a range of colours and tip styles. For beginners, a starter set with both soft and hard tips is ideal, while more seasoned artists may appreciate a set of vibrant colours for creative projects.

Tip: If your loved one is new to brush pens, include a practice book or instructional guide with their set.

10. Gift Cards for a Local Art and Craft Supply shop

Sometimes, the best gift is letting them choose for themselves. A gift card to a well-stocked art supply shop or a speciality calligraphy store can allow them to pick out the specific materials they need. They might even discover a new product they hadn’t considered before!

Calligraphy is a timeless art form that brings elegance and beauty into everyday life. By gifting thoughtfully chosen calligraphy supplies, tools, or experiences, you’re encouraging the artist in your life to continue creating and exploring. With any of these gifts, you’re sure to bring a smile to their face this Christmas—and perhaps even inspire their next masterpiece!

I have to admit that I have tried calligraphy but was never able to master it. Hopefully the recipient of your calligraphy gift will be able to do better than I did. My handwriting is so "interesting" that someone praised my shorthand. Imagine their surprise when I revealed that it wasn't shorthand but my own somewhat sloppy scrawling writing! 

Buying Artworks as Christmas Gifts for the Art Lovers in Your Life

The inspiration for this blogpost? My wife and I left one of our favourite cafes and we looked into the window of the small art gallery next door and my wife said: "I should think that some of those art pieces will be given as Christmas presents this year." I agreed with her and then thought: "What a great idea for a blogpost!" And here it is.

For art lovers, few gifts are as meaningful as a unique artwork that speaks to their tastes, style, and personality. 

Whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or limited edition print, giving art as a Christmas gift shows thought, appreciation, and a commitment to finding something truly special. 

If you're considering this creative route, here are some tips for buying the perfect artwork for the art enthusiast in your life.

1. Get to Know Their Artistic Taste

Before getting deep into the art world, it’s important to have a sense of your recipient’s style. Does your friend or family member favour bold, abstract pieces or classic, representational work? Do they enjoy vibrant colours or minimalist, monochromatic palettes? If you’re unsure, try to observe the types of artwork they have in their home, or the artists and galleries they follow on social media.

You could even casually ask about their favourite art movements or artists, noting down any themes, styles, or colours they tend to gravitate towards. By aligning your purchase with their taste, you’ll find a piece that resonates and truly complements their personal collection.

2. Consider Original Pieces vs. Limited Edition Prints

Original artwork can be an incredible, one-of-a-kind gift, but it often comes with a higher price tag. Limited edition prints, however, offer a more affordable way to purchase works by established or emerging artists. Many artists release prints of their original pieces in signed and numbered editions, allowing you to gift a unique work without breaking the bank.

lable in a range of sizes, so you can choose something that suits both your budget and the recipient’s space. When buying a limited edition, make sure it’s signed and numbered by the artist to confirm its authenticity and value.

3. Support Local and Independent Artists

Christmas is a wonderful time to support local artists and independent galleries, and buying directly from these creators often makes a bigger impact than purchasing from larger retailers. Look for local art fairs, pop-up exhibitions, or small galleries where you can find original works by artists in your community.

Many artists also sell directly through their websites or social media platforms, making it easy to connect with them and commission a piece that’s personalised for your recipient. Supporting independent artists not only gives your gift a special story, but it also contributes to the sustainability of the art community.

4. Set a Budget and Explore Options Within It

Art can vary greatly in price, so setting a realistic budget helps guide your search. Here are some options for different price ranges:

Under £50: Look for smaller, unframed prints, art books, or even handmade ceramics from up-and-coming artists. Many illustrators sell affordable prints on platforms like Etsy or directly through their social media pages.

£50-£200: Consider limited edition prints, small sculptures, or art-inspired homeware like textiles and ceramics. You might also find small paintings or mixed media works within this range.

£200+: This opens up possibilities for original pieces, larger limited editions, or even commissioned works. Art fairs and galleries are ideal places to explore pieces in this price range, and they often offer guidance on buying unique works for specific budgets.

Don’t be afraid to ask for a payment plan if you’ve found the perfect piece but need flexibility. Many galleries and independent artists are open to arranging instalments, making fine art more accessible.

5. Research Galleries and Art Fairs

Exploring galleries and art fairs is a fantastic way to discover unique pieces while experiencing a variety of artistic styles. Art fairs are held throughout the UK and offer everything from contemporary to classical works, often featuring emerging artists who offer affordable prices.

If you can’t attend an art fair in person, many events now have online versions where you can browse, chat with artists, and buy pieces from the comfort of home. Some notable UK fairs include:

Affordable Art Fair: Held in several cities across the UK, this fair is a great option for those looking to buy quality artworks without a high price tag.

Frieze London: Though Frieze often showcases high-end art, they also feature emerging artists whose works may fit within more modest budgets.

New Artist Fair: A showcase for emerging artists where you can find original art at affordable prices.

6. Consider Framing and Presentation

If you’re purchasing a print or unframed work, consider having it professionally framed before gifting it. Framing can transform a piece, making it ready to hang and adding a level of sophistication to your gift. Choose a frame that complements both the artwork and the recipient’s decor, whether it’s a simple black frame, a rustic wood, or something more ornate.

If framing isn’t an option, make sure the artwork is packaged and presented thoughtfully. Many prints come in presentation tubes or folders, but you could also include a gift voucher towards professional framing, giving your recipient the freedom to choose a frame they love.

7. Don’t Forget Certificates of Authenticity

When purchasing original artwork or a limited edition print, be sure to obtain a certificate of authenticity. This document confirms the piece’s originality and often includes information about the artist, the title, medium, and edition number.

A certificate of authenticity not only adds value to the gift but also provides a sense of trust and transparency, especially when buying from galleries or art dealers. If you’re buying directly from an independent artist, ask if they provide a signed note or certificate to accompany the piece.

8. Commissioning a Bespoke Piece for a Truly Unique Gift

If you’re looking for something truly personal, consider commissioning an artwork. Many artists accept commissions and enjoy the creative challenge of bringing someone’s unique vision to life.

When commissioning, communicate clearly about your ideas, including details such as preferred colours, themes, or the recipient’s interests. Custom art takes time, so be sure to start the conversation early, as artists often need several weeks to complete a piece, especially during the busy Christmas season.

9. Think About Functional Art

For art lovers who enjoy functional pieces, consider art-inspired homewares, textiles, or ceramics. Functional art can range from beautifully designed pottery and handwoven textiles to unique lighting and art-inspired furniture. These items bring artistry into everyday life and can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Look for local artisans who create handmade goods or explore online marketplaces where independent artists sell items like hand-thrown ceramics, artful cushions, and even one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces that incorporate artistic design.

10. Go Beyond Traditional Art: Explore Digital and Interactive Art

In recent years, digital art and interactive pieces have become increasingly popular. For tech-savvy art lovers, consider digital artwork from platforms that specialise in high-quality digital art, or even a digital frame where they can display rotating artworks. Many artists are creating digital originals and limited editions, which can be displayed on screens or as NFT-based art for a modern, unique touch.

Alternatively, consider interactive pieces like sculptural lamps or light art that transforms the ambience of a room. These pieces can be a fascinating addition to any art lover’s home, combining aesthetics with innovation.

Final Thoughts: The Joy of Gifting Art

Buying artwork as a Christmas gift is a thoughtful and memorable way to celebrate an art lover’s passion. From original paintings to limited edition prints, art can become a cherished possession, holding sentimental value and enhancing any space. With careful consideration of your recipient’s tastes, a bit of research, and a willingness to explore, you can find a piece that’s sure to make their Christmas unforgettable.

Creating inexpensive Christmas wonderland décor for your home

Creating an inexpensive Christmas wonderland décor for your home can be a fun and creative project. You don't need to break the bank to make your home look festive and magical. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

DIY Ornaments: Create your own ornaments using simple materials like paper, felt, or even salt dough. You can paint or decorate them in a festive theme, and they'll add a personal touch to your tree.

Natural Decorations: Use elements from nature like pinecones, holly, and evergreen branches to create beautiful centrepieces, wreaths, and garlands. These are often free and can be found in your backyard or a nearby park.

Twinkling Lights: String lights can transform any space into a Christmas wonderland. Look for inexpensive LED string lights to hang around your home, on your tree, and in windows. You can often find these at discount stores.

Charity Shop Finds: Check out charity shops or second-hand shops for affordable Christmas decorations. You can often find unique and vintage items that will add character to your décor.

Paper Snowflakes: Create paper snowflakes to hang from your ceiling or windows. They're easy to make and add a delicate touch to your décor.

Candles: Candles can create a cosy and warm atmosphere. Look for inexpensive, unscented candles in Christmas colours and place them in decorative candle holders or mason jars.

DIY Christmas Stockings: Make your own stockings using old fabric or felt. You can personalise them with names and decorate them with simple embroidery or fabric paint.

Christmas Cards: Display your received Christmas cards on a string or a ribbon. It's a simple and sentimental way to decorate your space.

Christmas Printables: You can find free or low-cost Christmas printables online, including wall art, banners, and labels. Print and frame these to add a festive touch to your walls.

Repurpose and Recycle: Look around your home for items that can be repurposed into Christmas décor. For example, old glass jars can become festive candle holders, and a plain tablecloth can be transformed with some paint or fabric markers.

DIY Wreath: Make your own Christmas wreath using materials like old ornaments, pinecones, and ribbon. You can often find plain wreath forms at craft stores for a reasonable price.

Festive Table Settings: Create a festive table setting with inexpensive tablecloths, placemats, and napkins. You can also use holiday-themed dishes and cutlery.

Homemade Scented Pinecones: Add a wonderful holiday scent to your home by making scented pinecones. Simply dip them in a mixture of water, cinnamon, and a few drops of essential oils, then let them dry.

Budget-Friendly Tree Décor: Opt for a smaller Christmas tree, or use a table top tree. Decorate it with homemade ornaments, popcorn strings, and inexpensive tinsel.

Holiday Music and Movies: Don't forget to set the mood with Christmas music and films. They're a low-cost way to add to the festive atmosphere in your home. You can find many classical Christmas films on YouTube.

Remember that the key to creating an inexpensive Christmas wonderland is to get creative and use what you have. Incorporate your own personal touches to make your home feel warm and inviting during the holiday season.

STABILO has your gifting Christmas covered

This Christmas, STABILO has stocking fillers all wrapped up! With STABILO you can gift your loved ones a wide range of STABILO products to help their inspiration and boost their creativity flourish.

Brighten up the festive season by using the STABILO Boss Original Highlighters. These iconic highlighters come in a variety of perfect, eye-catching colours perfect for organising and studying,  making them a perfect gift for professionals and students alike.

The STABILO Woody 3 in 1 is the ultimate artistic tool for imaginative young children and is a Christmas gift that is likely to harness and inspire creativity.  Adding even more arty options, the STABILO Pen 68 Max provides endless opportunities! Its 24 vibrant colours, and a premium fibre-top and chisel top, allows you to bring ideas to life and can be used by everyone from beginners all the way up to expert artists. 

From colouring to organising there’s a STABILO product that's great for everyone. Encourage artistic expression and productivity with thoughtful presents for any age. Make the holiday season brighter, one stroke of vibrant colour at a time!

To find out what STABILO has on offer please visit https://www.stabilo.com/uk

Get Crafty this Christmas with Thorndown's Christmas craft packs

Learn why Thorndown’s Christmas craft packs are the ultimate in bespoke Christmas décor for 2023.

Arty homeowners who want to create their own bespoke window decorations this Christmas need look no further than Thorndown Paints’ Christmas craft pack.

The pack, available now for just £20, contains four tins of Thorndown’s special Peelable Glass Paint, plus six nifty festive stencils and an art brush.

Together, the pieces can be employed to create some truly stunning festive window scenes, personalised presents and one-of-a-kind decorations.

Caroline Thornborough, who is Thornborough's Design Director, said: “Christmas is a fantastic time to get stuck into crafting. It’s something the whole family can do together to create something really personal to them and the family. Plus, it’s a great way of making sure your festive window displays are really, genuinely and truly unique.”

The craft packs are also fantastic and ideal for those who are looking to create their own Christmas presents and decorations. 

From tealight holders to sweet jars, they'll all add a personal touch wherever they are used.

The Christmas Craft Packs are available now from thorndown.co.uk priced at £20 each.

For ideas and inspiration, visit: https://thorndown.co.uk/project-category/arts-crafts

For this Christmas, say it with words with Art on Tiles

 Art on Tiles – the bespoke hand painted tile company – is offering a chance for homeowners to express their individuality with a service offering hand painted tiles featuring the wording, layout and even the font of the client’s choosing.

Jonathan Waights, principal artist and founder says: “People can come up with whatever they like - it is a chance to be completely individual, witty or romantic, to quote someone else or make something up. Quotes about food and eating are very popular for the tiles above the stove. Quotes for the bathroom tend to be more romantic – or even a bit naughty.’

The Art on Tiles standard hand painted 5 inch tiles with one letter per tile can be ordered for £10 each and blank matching tiles are also available for £1.20 each. The brick shaped tiles shown here are £12 painted and £2.20 plain, with a moulded border available for an additional £4 each.

This range and others can be seen and ordered from www.artontiles.co.uk or readers can contact Jonathan direct on 01243 552346.

Examples of past commissions:

http://www.artontiles.co.uk/tile-info-Herbs-112

http://www.artontiles.co.uk/tile-info-Words-147

http://www.artontiles.co.uk/tile-info-Aga-tile-panel-words-253

(EDITOR: This will make a Christmas present that will last, in effect, for ever. What a wonderful gift!) 

Say it With Art this Christmas. A specially commissioned painting makes the perfect gift

A specially commissioned painting makes a genuinely unique and unforgettable gift …for Christmas, Weddings and all special occasions. And it’s more accessible and achievable than you might think.

Who hasn’t wracked their brains or exhausted their imaginations over that very important gift for someone very special? How many wedding lists or retirement/anniversary gifts offer the chance to contribute to something truly lasting and meaningful? What would a specially commissioned painting full of personal resonance mean to the one you love?

www.gofigurative.com is an art business with a difference, one which makes buying or commissioning art accessible, enjoyable and satisfying. With a diverse community of talented and skilled figurative artists to call upon, GoFigurative.com can match each client to the right artist and oversee the process from start to finish.

Creating a real partnership between painter and portrait subject (or a beloved landscape, or a still life of treasured objects) GoFigurative.com can enable the acquisition of a unique, bespoke and precious possession that is destined for heirloom status.

A picture’s worth a thousand gifts… so put your ‘art-list’ online

…And if this seems like a fantasy of unaffordable luxury, think again – because of their innovative and flexible online business model, GoFigurative costs, and therefore prices are lower than conventional galleries. The website also makes it possible to share and spread the cost – by setting up a ‘gift list’ online through which friends, family members and colleagues can make payments to contribute toward the special commission.

A hub for skill and talent – a brief outline of artists and case studies

GoFigurative is both an innovative online gallery and a vibrant community for figurative artists, including sculptors, portrait, landscape and still life painters. When commissioning a special piece of art, clients can select from the rich portfolio of renowned artists.

Recent special commissions included the ‘Portrait of Steph’ by Hyenk Martinec, arranged as a 40th birthday present by her partner. Martinec, who loves to mix photorealism with abstraction, is the winner of the BP Young Artist Award in 2007 and 2008 and his work is part of private collections in London, Berlin, Vienna, Prague, Miami and New York.

The master of closely observed interior scenes, Andrew McNeile Jones is also among the GoFigurative artists who take special commissions. He specialises in creating a ‘still life’ of the subject’s favourite objects and mementoes. Recently McNeile Jones created a painting of the bride’s wedding dress and groom’s outfit for the marriage of a couple who had no need of the usual ‘wedding list’ suspects and wanted something very different to mark the occasion and treasure instead. GoFigurative set up a ‘gift list’ for this special commission at: www.gofigurative.com/jasonharshika

Mayor Boris Johnson and Dr. Diana Walford, former Principal of Mansfield College, Oxford University were recent portrait subjects of Helen Masacz. Her work was shown at the Royal Society Portrait Painters Exhibition 2011, winning the Art's Club Award. In 2005 along with other noted artists such as Frank Auerbach, Tracey Emin and Marc Quinn, Masacz was asked by the National Portrait Gallery to contribute work for their 150th anniversary.

BP Portrait Award 2011 nominees Alan Coulson and David Eichenberg are also among the renowned names who undertake special portrait commissions through GoFigurative.com

GoFigurative artist Melissa Scott-Miller specialises in portraits with interesting background detail - for instance, a family group with their house in the background, or perhaps the sitter in his or her favourite room, or in a corner of the garden. Melissa also welcomes commissions for houses, gardens or a favourite view.

Price guide:

Special commissions start from £500 – rising to £10,000 for a large oil on canvas portrait.

FACTFILE:
Go Figurative – The Real Art People
GoFigurative is a unique art company providing bespoke art consulting, sourcing and installation services. An easily navigable website makes art easy to find, buy and even try-out for all kinds of collectors - and a wide range of budgets. Go Figurative was founded by Sally Perry and Janine Collins, a pair of professional high-flyers who have now turned their passion for art into a full-time, thriving venture with a distinctive business model.

GoFigurative
1 Liverpool Street, London EC2M 7QD
Tel: +44 (0) 207 956 2819
www.gofigurative.com