Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who loves creating and designing graphic novels, I have some great gift ideas that will inspire and enhance his passion for storytelling and art.

1. Graphic Novel Starter Kit: Help him kick-start his graphic novel projects with a comprehensive set of tools. Include sketchbooks, high-quality pencils, pens, and markers. Consider adding a lightbox for tracing and a drafting board for more precise drawings.

2. Art Instruction Books: There are several books available that provide step-by-step guidance on creating graphic novels. Look for titles that cover topics like character design, panel composition, and storytelling techniques. Some recommended options include "Understanding Comics" by Scott McCloud and "Making Comics" by Lynda Barry.

3. Software for Digital Art: If your son enjoys working digitally, consider gifting him software that will aid in creating his graphic novels. Programs like Adobe Photoshop or Clip Studio Paint offer a wide range of creative tools and capabilities. Additionally, a graphic tablet with a stylus will allow him to draw directly on the screen and simulate a traditional drawing experience.

4. Graphic Novels by Inspirational Artists: Expand his collection of graphic novels by renowned artists and writers. Choose titles from various genres to expose him to different styles and storytelling techniques. Notable names include Neil Gaiman, Alan Moore, and Art Spiegelman. Additionally, you could consider graphic adaptations of classic literature or graphic novels exploring his other interests like science fiction or fantasy.

5. Sketching Outings: Enroll your son in a local art workshop or arrange for a private session with a professional comic artist. This experience will provide valuable insights and techniques while allowing him to interact with others who share his passion.

6. Subscription to Art Magazines: Keep him updated on the latest trends, interviews, and techniques in the world of graphic novels and illustration with a subscription to art magazines like "ImagineFX" or "Juxtapoz." These magazines often have tutorials and artist spotlights that will inspire and motivate him.

7. Custom Art Supplies: Consider getting him personalized art supplies to make his creative process more enjoyable and unique. Custom-engraved pencils or a customized pencil case with his name or initials will add a special touch to his artistic endeavors.

8. Store Credit at Art Supply Shops: Give him the freedom to choose what he needs by providing a gift card to his favorite art supply store. This way, he can select specific tools or materials that will aid in his graphic novel creation, such as special pens or marker sets.

Remember, the key is to encourage his passion and provide resources that will support his artistic growth. By choosing gifts that align with his interests in graphic novels and art, you'll not only demonstrate your support but also help him nurture his talents and creativity.

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

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”