Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who loves sketching and urban sketching, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas that would surely put a smile on his face this Christmas.

1. Quality Sketchbook: Invest in a high-quality sketchbook, specifically designed for urban sketching. Look for a sketchbook with heavy-duty paper that can withstand a variety of mediums like ink, markers, and watercolors. A sketchbook designed for urban sketching would typically have thick pages, a sturdy cover, and be portable enough for on-the-go sketching.

2. Portable Sketching Supplies: Help your son take his sketching wherever he goes with a portable sketching kit. Include a set of quality sketching pencils, pens with different line weights, and a small watercolor set. A compact sketching set will enable him to capture his urban surroundings and nature's beauty whenever inspiration strikes.

3. Urban Sketching Guidebooks: Inspire your son with books written by experienced urban sketchers. These guidebooks typically feature techniques, tips, and examples of urban sketching to help him refine his skills and explore new creative approaches. Some popular options include "The Urban Sketching Handbook" series by Gabriel Campanario and "Urban Watercolor Sketching" by Felix Scheinberger.

4. Sketching Classes/Workshops: Consider enrolling your son in sketching classes or workshops, either in person or online. These classes can help him refine his skills, learn new techniques, and connect with a community of fellow sketching enthusiasts. Look for local art centers or online platforms that offer courses focused on urban sketching.

5. Art Supplies Subscription Box: Surprise your son with a monthly subscription box that delivers a variety of art supplies to his doorstep. Many subscription services offer curated boxes, featuring unique and high-quality art materials, including sketching supplies. This gift will provide him with new tools to experiment with and keep his creative juices flowing throughout the year.

6. Outdoor Painting Set: If your son enjoys painting en plein air, a portable outdoor painting set would be an excellent gift idea. Look for a lightweight and compact kit that includes essential items such as an easel, paints, brushes, and palettes. This set will allow him to paint outdoors comfortably while capturing the urban landscapes.

7. Personalized Art Portfolio: Help your son showcase his best sketches with a personalized art portfolio. You can have a custom portfolio made with his name or initials embroidered on the cover. This thoughtful gift will not only protect his artworks but also give them a professional and polished look.

8. Sketching Backpack: A dedicated sketching backpack can be a practical and stylish gift for your son. Look for a backpack that has compartments or pockets specifically designed to carry sketching supplies, such as padded sections for his sketchbook, slots for pens and pencils, and secure storage for delicate materials like watercolor pans.

Remember, the most meaningful gifts are often those that reflect your son's passions and hobbies. By selecting a gift that caters to his love for sketching and urban landscapes, you are not only supporting his creative endeavors but also showing that you appreciate and encourage his interests.

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.”