​We discovered that art doesn’t have to happen in the same room for it to be meaningful. Every week, we’ve watched artists of all ages share their drawings, paint alongside us on Zoom, laugh through creative messes, and cheer for each other’s finished work. It’s everything we love about our in-person classes — the encouragement, the growth, the joy — just shared through a screen.

Watch our story here:

Interested in LIVE online art classes?

​Blacklight Magic

​Flashlight Play & Shadow Art

Quiet Glow Play (Perfect for Evenings)

Local Experiences That Make Wonderful Gifts

​ In today’s economy, there’s something especially meaningful about this kind of giving. Instead of adding more “stuff,” grandparents and relatives can gift ongoing activities—like art classes, music lessons, or sports memberships—that help families keep doing what they love without extra financial strain. ​It’s a gift that doesn’t just fill a day—it fills a season with joy and connection.

At Orange Easel, we make art with kids every single day—in studios and at home. That means we know which supplies truly stand up to real creative use (and which ones don’t!). We’ve tested hundreds of brands, paints, markers, and tools in our classrooms, and we’re sharing our absolute favorites for stocking a home art studio. ​ ​These ten picks are economical, long-lasting, and low-mess, making them perfect for creative kids and busy parents alike. Whether you’re building your first art supply shelf or restocking old favorites, these tried-and-true materials will keep the creativity flowing all year long. ​

Orange Easel's TOP 10 for 2025

#1 Liquid Watercolors

These liquid watercolors are our go-to in the studio! We use them for everything—coloring playdough, painting coffee filters, even refilling stamp pads. ​They make bright, vibrant paintings and are perfect for young artists since they’re already in liquid form (no scrubbing at hard watercolor cakes!). Each bottle is a concentrate, so a little goes a long way—and they’ll last you forever.

#2 Alcohol Ink Markers

Unlike regular water-based markers, alcohol markers use an alcohol-based ink that blends beautifully and lays down rich, streak-free color. They’re a favorite in our illustrative drawing classes, where students learn techniques used by professional designers and illustrators. Because alcohol markers can be layered and shaded so smoothly, they’re the go-to tool for comic book and cartoon artists who want that bold, polished, professional look. They are definitely an investment—but that’s what makes a quality set such a special gift for budding teen artists ready to level up their art.

 #3 Artsy Apparel

We wear our favorite team’s gear all the time… so why not show our art spirit too? ​Our Orange Easel retail shop is filled with comfy, creative apparel designed just for artists. From paint-splattered hoodies to clever art quotes and colorful tees, every piece is printed and shipped right from our studio. They make the perfect gift for makers who love to wear their passion—because the arts deserve just as much spirit wear as sports!

#4 Shape Punches

These paper punches are inexpensive, fit perfectly in stockings, and have endless uses—making them a great addition to any home studio. ​Use them to create collage materials, add the finishing touch to a handmade card, or make your own confetti! Plus, for young artists, shape punches are wonderful for fine motor development—they strengthen hand muscles, improve coordination, and build the dexterity needed for confident cutting and drawing later on.

#5 Colored Pencils

We love Crayola for everyday coloring—but when artists are ready to take their drawings to the next level, Prismacolor pencils are the gold standard. They’re soft, blendable, and rich in pigment, allowing for smooth shading and professional-quality results. ​They’re definitely an investment, but a set of Prismacolors can last for years—these are the same pencils many of us took with us to college (and still use today!). A perfect gift for any young artist who’s starting to get serious about their craft.

#6 Washi Tape

Just like paper punches, washi tape is small, inexpensive, and endlessly versatile—perfect for any mixed media art station! ​Young artists can use it to add patterns to drawings, borders to journals, or decorative layers to collages. It’s easy to tear, reposition, and experiment with, making it both frustration-free and creatively open-ended. And as a bonus, peeling and placing tape pieces helps build fine motor strength and coordination in little hands.

#7 Drawing Set

A good sketch set is a must-have for any growing artist! This comprehensive kit includes graphite and charcoal pencils, blending tools, and erasers—all neatly packaged and ready to go. It’s perfect for artists who are still experimenting with different drawing materials or building up their personal supply stash. With everything in one place, it makes sketching, shading, and exploring new techniques simple and inspiring.

#8 Art Club Membership

Once you’ve got the supplies, sometimes you just need a little coaching and community to get started! Our Orange Easel instructors teach live, online classes every week—so you can create right alongside us from home. ​As a Creation Nation member, you’ll also get access to our on-demand library with thousands of art lessons for every age and skill level. It’s the perfect gift for artists who want to keep learning, experimenting, and connecting all year long.

#9 Polymer Clay

Polymer clay is one of our favorite materials for miniature sculpting projects—from charms and jewelry to tiny creatures and food art! It’s a bit more of an investment than basic modeling clay, but a little truly goes a long way when you’re working small. Unlike regular modeling clay that never hardens, polymer clay bakes solid in a home oven, turning your creations into lasting keepsakes. ​The colors are vibrant, the texture is smooth, and the finished pieces are durable—perfect for artists who love to make and treasure their creations for years to come.

#10 Low Temp Hot Glue Gun

Sometimes, only hot glue will do! An ultra low temp glue gun is a must-have for any home art studio—especially for artists who love building and constructing. ​It’s the secret weapon behind all of our cardboard sculptures and popsicle stick creations in the studio. The low temperature makes it much safer for young makers, while still providing a strong, fast bond for all kinds of materials. Once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever crafted without it!

What You’ll Need

​How to Do It

​Creative Variations Want to take it a step further? Try these ideas: Greeting Cards: Fold your paper in half and make mini leaf-printed cards to mail to friends and family. Gift Wrap: Use brown kraft paper and cover it with colorful leaf prints for one-of-a-kind wrapping paper. Leaf Garland: Cut out your leaf prints, punch holes, and string them into a festive fall garland. Glitter Finish: While the paint is still wet, sprinkle a little glitter for sparkle!

Why We Love This Project

​Why “What Is It?” Can Be Tricky

Why These Words Matter

​Try It at Home

1. The 3-Minute Monster

​2. Dinner Doodle Swap

​3. The Snack Superhero

4. Silly Scribble Portraits

5. What’s Missing?

​Drawing 102 Is Built for Growth Over Time

Why Repeat It?

​So When Do You Move to Drawing 103?