If you’ve been around here long enough, you know how much I love fostering a creative community! There’s something magical about watching creativity bloom, especially in kids. So today, I’m sharing a list of thoughtful gifts to inspire your mini maker’s imagination.

We’re skipping the pre-made kits and leaning into tools and materials that give their imagination room to lead. You’ll also find a few unique ideas you might not have thought of—because when kids get their hands on something special, you never know what magic they’ll create!

The Basics

Sometimes, the simplest tools spark the greatest creativity. Here’s a list of foundational supplies that no mini maker’s toolkit should be without:

1. Glue
   While glue might not seem like the most exciting gift, it’s an absolute essential for any creative project. If you’re a parent to an artist, you know how quickly this get used up!
   • For younger creators, stick to classic glue sticks or washable school glue.
   • Consider upgrading to a hot glue gun for older kids. I recently discovered a game-changing glue gun that stands upright, heats up in just 30 seconds, and automatically shuts off after two minutes of inactivity. LINKED HERE Bonus: It has a simple red/green light to let you know it’s hot!
2. Paper
   A mini maker can never have too much paper! From colorful construction paper to uniquely patterned scrapbook paper, the possibilities are endless.
   • Don’t overlook basic cardstock—it’s versatile, sturdy, and perfect for folding, molding, making cards, and more. This is the pack we get regularly LINKED HERE
   • Recycled paper or old book pages (find at any thrift store) also add a creative, eco-friendly twist to projects. Consider asking friends and family for used magazines as well.
3. Scissors
   Invest in a pair of good-quality, kid-safe scissors. For younger makers, choose blunt-tip options, and for older kids, upgrade to a sharper pair for more precise cuts.
4. Markers, Crayons, and Pencils
   A variety of drawing and coloring tools is a must for any creative child. Add in some specialty items like metallic markers, watercolor pencils, or chalk pastels for extra fun. Here are a few fun options to consider:
   • My go to for classic markers is always Crayola (Classics or thin) – in my experience they color smoother, more true in color and don’t dry out as fast.
   • We recently added the Colors of the World Crayola markers and they were a fun addition.
5. Tape
   From regular Scotch tape to colorful washi tape, having a variety of tape opens up their possibilities. Washi tape, in particular, is a hit for adding fun patterns and textures to projects, the set I linked is a mix of patterns and solids.
6. Paint
   Stock up on kid-friendly, washable paint for younger artists or watercolor and acrylic paints for more advanced creators. Don’t forget a palette and a set of brushes to complete the gift!
7. Sketch Book or Journal
   Encourage freehand drawing and brainstorming with a sketchbook or journal. It’s perfect for doodles, planning projects, or keeping a record of their creative journey. Find the journal designs I created here, for options!
8. Storage Box
   Creativity thrives when supplies are easy to find and organized. A sturdy storage box is a perfect addition to keep everything in one place.
   • Look for a compartmentalized box or a tackle box with adjustable dividers for smaller items like markers, glue sticks, and scissors.
   • A clear or labeled box makes it easy for your mini maker to see what they have at a glance. We use these with the flip handles to keep everything close tight. Plus a couple options stack so nicely!
   • Bonus: Having everything organized encourages clean-up and teaches good habits!

These basics may seem simple, but they’re the foundation for endless creative adventures. Add a few to your gift list, and you’ll be giving the gift of imagination, exploration, and pure joy.

Unique and Special Add-Ins

These creative gifts go beyond the basics, offering exciting possibilities for imaginative projects. They’re perfect for sparking new ideas and making your mini maker’s creations even more special:

8. Special Markers
   Add a wow factor with metallic markers, dual-tipped brush markers, or watercolor markers.
   • A note on watercolor markers, I feel they are a great way to start with water colors, giving more control and less clean up.
   • Paint Markers Take creativity off the page! Paint markers work beautifully on rocks, wood, windows, and other non-paper surfaces. They’re a must-have for any adventurous artist. We have a colored set and a handful of white.
9. Fun Pens
   From gel pens in bright colors to pens with glittery ink, unique writing tools can inspire everything from doodles to creative journaling.
10. Clay
    Clay projects are always a hit in my Mini Makers Workshops! Whether it’s sculpting miniatures, making ornaments, or crafting keepsakes, clay is endlessly versatile.

• Air Dry Clay: Easy to work with, it hardens naturally or can be baked for faster results.
• Sculpey Polymer Clay: This is my favorite! Slightly firmer, it allows for precise molding and dries in the oven for a polished finish.
• Colored Clay Sets: Perfect for making vibrant miniatures or skipping the painting step altogether. Sticking with the Sculpey clay for the colors too, even my daughter noticed a difference.

11. Popsicle Sticks and Skewers
    Yes skewers too, right from the grocery section. These simple tools are so versatile! They can be used for making frames, building small structures, or creating art with intricate designs.
12. A Collection of Recycled Materials and Containers
    Creative kids see potential in everything! Gather items like:

13. Photo Printer
    The HP Sprocket has been a game-changer for us! It’s simple to use and refill, and it prints sticker-backed photos that are perfect for crafting, personalizing gifts, or making photo collages.
14. Ribbon
    Ribbon has endless creative possibilities! From bows to weaving projects, it adds flair and texture. Don’t forget fabric scraps and yarn, which work wonderfully for similar uses.
15. Magnetic Paper
    A super fun way to create custom fridge magnets! Kids can draw, paint, or cut out designs to turn their art into functional pieces. This is what we have been using and happy with, LINKED HERE

I could go on forever! If you are looking for more ideas PLEASE reach out I would love to hear more about your Mini Maker and offer ideas. What else would you add to this list?

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These unique and special add-ins elevate creativity to a whole new level, inspiring endless projects and possibilities. Which ones will you add to your mini maker’s gift list?