Five Star Gift Ideas

Finding a gift for someone who loves urban sketching is a fantastic idea! To truly make it personal and meaningful, you could consider the following gift ideas for your grandpa this Christmas:

1. Sketching Supplies: One of the most essential things for an urban sketcher is a good set of sketching supplies. Look for a high-quality sketchbook that is specifically designed for urban sketching. Consider a sketchbook with heavyweight paper that can withstand various mediums like pen, pencil, and watercolors. You could also get him a set of professional-grade sketching pencils, pens, or markers in different thicknesses to enhance his artwork.

2. Urban Sketching Guidebook: Help your grandpa refine his skills and explore new techniques with an urban sketching guidebook. Look for a book that provides step-by-step instructions, demonstrations, and tips to capture the essence of urban scenes. There are many popular books available, such as "The Urban Sketcher: Techniques for Seeing and Drawing on Location" by Marc Taro Holmes or "Urban Watercolor Sketching: A Guide to Drawing, Painting, and Storytelling in Color" by Felix Scheinberger.

3. Portable Easel or Tripod: A portable easel or tripod stand would make sketching on location much more convenient for your grandpa. Look for a lightweight and compact option that is easy to carry around. A versatile tripod with adjustable legs will also allow him to set up his sketchbook at different angles for comfortable sketching.

4. Field Bag or Backpack: An urban sketcher always needs a reliable bag to carry their art supplies while exploring the city. Look for a field bag or backpack that offers multiple compartments and pockets to organize sketchbooks, pencils, brushes, and other accessories. Choose a bag with comfortable shoulder straps or even a sling bag design for easy access during sketching sessions.

5. Museum Membership or Art Class: Consider gifting your grandpa a membership to a local art museum or art association. This will allow him to explore various art exhibitions, attend workshops, and interact with other artists who share his passion for sketching. Alternatively, you could enroll him in an art class or workshop focused on urban sketching techniques. This would provide him with the opportunity to learn from experienced artists and enhance his skills even further.

6. Customized Sketchbook: For a truly personalized gift, consider getting a sketchbook customized with your grandpa's name or a meaningful quote engraved on the cover. You could also have a few pages pre-printed with some of his favorite urban sketches or family photos, making the sketchbook truly special and unique.

Remember, the most meaningful gift comes from your thoughtfulness in choosing something that aligns with your grandpa's passion for urban sketching. Whatever you decide, your grandpa is sure to appreciate the time and effort you put into finding the perfect Christmas gift for him.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Lacy McNerlin says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“It was absolutely beautiful! I literally cried putting it into a a frame . It’s for my boyfriend for Christmas and I can’t wait for him to see it! 100/10 recommend! Thank you so much ! Will definitely order again for another occasion!”