Art Sets and Supplies for Young Artists

7 Art Gifts for Kids & Aspiring Young Artists

Art Gifts for Kids & Aspiring Young Artists

If you have a kid or young person in your life who is interested in drawing or painting, you probably want to encourage their artistic inclination. However, it can be tricky to come up with creative and artsy gifts for these aspiring young artists. Luckily there are plenty of art gifts for kids that are fun, inspiring, and perfect for a younger age set that is still learning and exploring their artistic skills.

We’ve rounded up a bunch of these gift ideas for artists in this article. We cover the basics like art supplies and sketchbooks, along with instructional books, and gifts to inspire creativity. While these gifts are targeted at children, many of them work for teens and preteens that love art or are learning to draw and paint for the first time. Check out the gift ideas for young artists below.

Art Gifts for Kids and Young Artists

Art Sets and Supplies

Art Sets and Supplies for Young ArtistsThe first thing a young artist or kid needs to work on their art is art supplies. What you will buy for your aspiring artist depends on their age and interests. For a child who is interested in drawing, you may buy a set of drawing pencils and colored pencils. An older drawer may enjoy pastels, gel pens, or markers. If your young artist wants to paint, there are many sets of watercolors or acrylic paints available.

Find out what mediums your little artist is interested in exploring and buy them the art supplies to help them express themselves. If your child is super new to art or likes doing everything, we have your solution for the perfect art set gift after the jump.




Art 101 Kids 179-Piece Art Set with Easel

If the aspiring artist you need a present for likes all kinds of art, then this is the perfect art set to get. It’s made especially for kids so it’s affordable, has a portable carrying case to keep everything organized, and features enough variety in the 179 pieces to let your young artist try everything.

The supplies in this set include crayons, colored pencils, oil pastels, watercolors, markers, and even paper. It also has a sketching pencil, paintbrush, palette, and sponge. The set also comes with a built-in easel, so your child can work like a “real” artist. This is a great starter set and a good choice if you’re looking for art gifts for kids.


Sketchbooks

Sketchbook for Young ArtistsOnce your kid has the art supplies they need, they’ll need something to make the art on. Once of the best gifts you can get an aspiring artist who is interested in drawing and painting is a sketch book. This allows them to practice and hone their skills, as well as inspire creativity.

While you may be looking for a certain price point or looking for sketchbooks that have a certain color cover, there’s something more important you should have in mind. You need to make sure the paper in the sketchbook will work with the medium your young artist will use. If they’re just going to sketch and draw with colored pencils you can buy almost any sketchbook. But if they’re going to use charcoal, watercolor, or markers, you must make sure the paper is appropriate for that. There’s a lot of options available, so you’re sure to find something your kid will love.


Dover How to Draw Books for Young Artists

Written specifically for kids and young artists, these drawing books by Barbara Soloff Levy are extremely popular for children learning to draw. They break down complex drawings into simple shapes, helping a kid go from a blank page to a beautiful piece of art, while teaching basic drawing skills that will be the foundation of future art and drawing.

Popular titles in this series include instruction on drawing people, pets, flowers, insects, and more. These books are so affordable, it’s easy to pick up a few of them so your artistic child can learn to draw all of their favorite kinds of things. Pairing these books with a sketch pad and some new pencils makes a great gift for any aspiring young artist.


You Can Draw in 30 Days

This instructional drawing book is targeted at older artists, so it makes a great gift for preteen and teenagers that are too old for the Dover books. Written by Emmy award winning PBS host Mark Kistler, this book gives easy step-by-step instructions to draw over 500 images. The tips and tricks in this book help an artist learn how to create the illusions of depth and three dimensions in any drawing.

While this book can be used at any pace, it’s designed to be done in 20 minutes a day for thirty days. Even busy teens can improve their drawing skills by following these lessons. Anyone can go from no skill at drawing to creating realistic objects, buildings, and even people. This is a great gift for any new artist.


642 Things to Draw: Young Artist’s Edition

Sometimes artists need a little inspiration to fuel their drawings. This book is perfect for that, filled with 642 imaginative and unexpected prompts to sketch and draw meant specifically for young artists. Prompts include creative ideas like “purple lightning,” “baking Olympics,” and “a porcupine with a blue Mohawk.”

Each page is a blank canvas with a simple prompt written in plain text. It’s up to the artist to let their imagination fill the page. All they need are pencils, crayons, or markers and a little creativity. In the end, this book will become a precious keepsake of their drawings and art.

There’s also a version of this book for young writers.


Pocketdoodles for Young Artists

This pocket sized books is great for inspiring young artists on the go. This prompt book focuses less on developing artistic skills and more on developing creativity and having fun. The prompt pages feature half finished pictures, story prompts, or simple drawing prompts.

The Pocketdoodle books make unique art gifts for kids because it works for a lot of different types of creativity, and it’s good for young writers as well. Pocketdoodles is great for road trips and long plane rides, keeping your kid busy and creative. Plus, if they love this one, there’s a whole series of Pocketdoodle books to keep inspiring their imagination.


Is the young person you’re shopping for also interested in writing? We have a bunch of unique and fun gifts for young writers.

Need more gift ideas for your children or grandchildren? Check out these articles:
Weather gifts for kids

Yoga and meditation gifts for kids

Space and astronomy gifts for kids

Gardening gifts for kids

Best hoverboards for kids

Activity trackers for kids

The best action cameras for kids

Best Software for Writing a Book or Novel

The Best Software for Writing a Book or Novel

The Best Software for Writing a Book or Novel

So you’re ready to write a novel. Maybe you’ve done it before, or it’s your first time, or you’re preparing for Nanowrimo. There are so many ways to approach it: pen to paper, sit down in front of the typewriter, or just open Microsoft Word on your computer. But it is really that simple?

When dealing with a novel-length work or even a book series, there are characters to keep track of, plus settings, timelines–it can be a lot of information. And the writing itself isn’t necessarily easy to do in a traditional word processor, especially if you have an unconventional writing process or are dealing with five to six digit word counts. Also, there’s the pre-planning: outlining, notecards, brainstorming.

Before computers, the entire process involved a lot of notebooks, papers, typewriters, and pens. Now thanks to the plethora of software currently available, the novel writing process is a lot easier–especially to keep everything organized. Here’s what we consider the best software for writing a book, from coming up with the idea to the final manuscript.

Software for Writing a Book or Novel

Our best book writing software recomendations:


Scapple – Brainstorming Software

Scapple Brainstorming Software for Writers
Every story, novel, or book starts with an idea. From that tiny seed, the writer grows an entire story with characters, plot, setting, and realistic dialogue. But it’s a long road that can take months or years. When you first start fleshing out your idea, you need a lot of freedom to brainstorm and explore your ideas. That’s where Scapple comes in.

This software from the makers of Scrivener is more than just mind-mapping software. Literature & Latte describes it as a freeform text editor where you can make notes anywhere. Imagine brainstorming in a notebook or on a piece of paper. You can write anywhere, any size, draw borders, connect ideas, and let your thoughts flow onto the page. Scapple works just like that, but since you’re working on the computer, the size of your page is unlimited. Your “page” can grow as you flesh out your ideas and add more notes.

Scapple is very easy to use. You simply have to double-click to add a new note, and then drag and drop them to rearrange or make connections (visualized by lines). If you want to take advantage of the more advanced features you can change the fonts, colors, and borders of your notes. It’s also fully compatible with Scrivener, so once you’re ready to start writing you can have your notes and story in one program. Literature & Latte offers a 14-day free trial so you can see if Scapple works with your creative process.

Versions: Mac, Windows




Aeon Timeline – Visual Timeline Software

Aeon Timeline Software for Writers
Aeon Timeline is the software I didn’t know I needed until I saw it. I’ve always done my timelines by hand using notebook paper (sometimes multiple pages taped together). What that means is if anything ever changes with the timeline or I screw up, I have to redo the whole thing! And then there’s a lot of math involved to figure out the ages of characters and how much time has passed and it just gets so messy. Aeon Timeline solves all of this is a clean and easy to use software.

This software was designed specifically for writers to help with planning your novel or just keeping track of which character was where, when. It not only allows you to enter when events happen, but you can also track backstory, and assign certain characters to events. Categorize events by story arcs to help organize different parts of your novel. My absolute favorite feature is that if you put in a birthdate or year for your character, it automatically calculates the character’s age for each event (no more math!).

Other awesome features include creating custom calendars for fantasy or scifi stories, bookmarking key moments, zooming in and out of your timeline, and filtering events. If you create timelines for your stories, this is hands down the best software to use.

Aeon Timeline is also compatible with Scrivener, so you can sync your timeline with your novel file, meaning you can plan your timeline and your outline simultaneously using both (which is absolutely amazing!).

Versions: Mac, Windows


Scrivener

Scrivener Novel Writing Software for Writers
If you ask me, Scrivener is the best software for writing a book. Sure, when it comes time to actually write your novel, you can use just a plain old word processor. Or you can use Scrivener, which is a powerhouse software that covers the entire writing process: research, outlining, character sketches, writing, editing, and even exporting to ebook for self-publishing. Scrivener does almost everything you could want.

It’s hard to boil down into a couple hundred words all of the amazing things that Scrivener does (the Literature & Latte site can give you a full breakdown), but I’m going to hit some of the major features.

The corkboard takes the traditional index card approach to planning a story and digitizes it, making it so the index cards themselves become the sections of your books which can be broken down into chapters or scenes. Rearranging them also rearranges the order of the scenes in your book in one simple step. If you’re a more traditional outliner, Scrivener has a tool for that as well that uses the same drag and drop method. To write and edit your scenes, you can view each section separately or use Scrivenings mode to view the whole document at once. Use the built-in targets and statistics to set daily goals for yourself and see how you’re doing as a whole.

Scrivener also has special features and templates for writing non-fiction and screenplays as well. This is the software every writer should own.

Versions: Mac, Windows, iOS

Buy Mac & Windows version from Literature and Latte
Buy Mac Version from Mac App Store
Buy iOS version from Apple


Dragon Naturally Speaking Dictation Software

This software is unique on our list because it’s not specifically for writing a book and not all writers will benefit from it. However, Dragon is such an amazing software that I have to mention it for the writers who will absolutely love it. Dragon is a dictation software that is perfect for any writer who likes to think out loud or verbally tell their stories. It’s also great for writers who think faster than they can type or write.

Dragon is compatible with your favorite word processor. You just put your cursor in the document and start talking. Telling your story to your computer can help you be more creative and break through any writer’s block.

I highly recommend buying the Premium version, which has a feature that transcribes audio files. This means you can record audio files using a digital voice recorder or your smartphone and have the software record it later. That means you can “write” your novel at any time, including while commuting to work, walking outside, or doing chores around the house.

Using Dragon can help you be more productive and get more done. It’s also great for people who suffer from carpal tunnel or like to write thousands of words a day and give their hands a rest.

Versions: Windows, MAC


ProWritingAid

Prowritingaid Editing Software for Writers
Finally we are at the end of our writing journey and this last recommended software is for the editing and proofreading part of your novel writing process. While the spell checker in your word processor will catch glaring typos, it will miss other issues with your writing. ProWritingAid catches errors and also helps improve your writing.

In addition to spell checking, it will find commonly confused words, correct grammar and punctuation issues, and make sure your capitalization and hyphenation is consistent throughout your document. The really awesome features are the ones that improve your writing. ProWritingAid will highlight passive verbs, overuse of adverbs, repetitive sentence structure, overused words, repeated words and phrases, vague and abstract words, and also cliches and redundancies.

ProWritingAid is great for any writer but is an absolutely essential tool for self-published writers, bloggers, and anyone who writes content for the web.

They have a free version or you can get the premium version with includes interactive editing and the ability to use it with Scrivener and Microsoft Word, which is a huge timesaver.

Versions: Web, compatible with Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Scrivener, and Chrome


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Essential Software for Writing Your Novel or Book

That’s our recommendations for the best software for writing a book. Of course, there’s a whole lot more that goes into the process than just finding software to use. You’ll need inspiration to keep you going, especially through difficult drafts. You’ll also need to build a writing habit and routine to make sure you put in the time each day to write your novel. That’s the hard part but with this software, you’ll have the tools you need to make it happen.

Planning on participating in NANOWRIMO this year? Check out these NANO resources and essentials.

If you’re not ready to go fully digital with your writing process yet, check out these killer journals and these crazy and fun pens to add a little extra creativity to your process.


50 Amazing Gifts for Book Lovers for 2024

It can be tricky to find an original gift idea for an avid reader or bookworm. They already own a lot of books, so sometimes you need to think outside the bookcase for a gift they’ll never forget. If you’re struggling for a gift to get your favorite bookworm, don’t worry. Here are 50 creative and original gifts to give the book lover in your life.

1. Card Catalog: 30 Notecards for the Library of Congress

30 beautiful reproductions of notecards from the Library of Congress. Comes in a replica card catalog drawer.


2. Leg Bookmarks

Leg Bookmarks Reader Gifts

Handmade bookmarks featuring the legs of beloved characters such as the Wicked Witch of the East, Harry Potter, the Hobbit, and more. Close your book and it looks like their legs are sticking out! Super cute.

Check out more unique bookmarks for readers.


3. Novel Teas – Tea Bags with Literary Quotes

Includes 25 individual teabags with literary quotes. Would go perfectly with the next item on our list…


Continue reading 50 Amazing Gifts for Book Lovers for 2024

50 Creative Gifts for Writers for 2024

Stumped on what to get the writer or aspiring author in your life for Christmas, their birthday, or any other gift-giving occasion? This mega-list includes creative, cool, and fun gifts any writer would love to receive.

1. The Writer’s Toolbox


An entire toolkit of creative games and exercises to inspire the right side of your brain.

Click here for more tools to combat writers block.


2. Typewriter Charm Necklace

Typewriter Necklace Gift for Writers


Writerly jewelry: sterling silver typewriter charm on a silver chain necklace.

Check out more typewriter gifts.


3. Typewriter Coaster Set

This is a practical gift with a fun twist. This five piece coaster set looks like an antique typewriter! it comes in a metallic stand that looks like a typewriter and features four coasters that look like antique typewriter keys. This is perfect for a living room or office to protect surfaces from rings caused by coffee mugs (or even adult beverages). Any writer would appreciate this fun gift.


4. Aqua Notes – Waterproof Notepad


The best ideas always come in the shower and are often forgotten before the writer can towel off. Now none of those brilliant lines will be lost! This waterproof notepad is perfect for jotting down dialogue, character names, and the perfect ending for their bestseller!

Click here for more clever gift ideas for writers.


5. Lined Paper Necktie

Lined Paper Necktie Writer Gift


Let your writer guy show his passion with style. This necktie features a print that is lined like a sheet of loose leaf paper. This tie is perfect for English teachers or office workers who dream of quitting their job and writing full time.


6. Writer’s Block Journal


This clever journal is made to look like a block of wood to help inspire any writer to get past their writer’s block and finish their story.

Click here for more journal gift ideas.


7. Clip On Cup Holders


Let’s your favorite author safely clip their cup of coffee or tea to the side of their desk, preventing any disastrous spills on their manuscript.




8. Grass Blade Pens


These pens are made to look like blades of grass and create a unique display to brighten up any writer’s desk. Pair them with these flower pens to create a desktop bouquet.

Check out 15 more quirky and fun pens for writers.


9. Twiddle Fiddle Toy


The Twiddle is the perfect desk toy for a writer to fiddle with while they contemplate fixing their latest plot hole.


10. Field Notes Memo Books


The perfect pocket sized notebook for any writer to jot down their brilliant ideas.


11. Desk Foot Hammock


Let the writer in your life rest their feet as they type out the next hundred words of their novel. This desk foot hammock will let them stretch out and focus on their words.


12. Hourglasses for Writing Sprints


These sandtimers are perfect for timing writing sprints, so if the writer gets caught up in their words, they won’t notice the time is up and will keep going. This set comes with a 30 minute and a 5 minute hourglass.


13. Fisher Space Pen


Writers at any angle and in zero gravity, and underwater–perfect for the novelist that likes to write laying down. Comes in 12 different colors.


14. Mobile Laptop Standing Desk


Write the next great American novel like Hemingway–by standing! This portable laptop standing desk lets you write in any room in the house while standing.


15. Quotation Mark Earrings

Quotation Mark Earrings Writer Gift


These cute quotation mark earrings will give inspiration to new, snappy dialogue every time your writer wears them.


16. Wonderbook: The Illustrative Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction


The definitive guide to writing imaginative fiction, exploring creative visuals sure to inspire the writer in your life.


17. Bookaroo Pen Pouch

This handy gift for writers is great to give as a stocking stuffer or pair with a cool journal. The Bookaroo is a pencil holder that can attach to any book or journal, so a pen is always at hand with inspiration strikes.


18. Leather Journal Gift Set


Every writer needs a good journal, and this gift set is a gorgeous option. This handmade leather journal from Moonster comes with a pen and a gift box ready for wrapping. Perfect gift to inspire any writer to start their next story.


19. Folding Bluetooth Keyboard


This full-size QWERTY keyboard folds up for easy portability in a purse, messenger bag, or backpack. Pairs with any Bluetooth enabled smartphone or tablet.


20. Writer Patent Prints Art Set

This is a stylish set of vintage prints perfect for any writer’s office or library. Each print is of the original patent for the typewriter, mechanical pencil, fountain inkwell, and the pencil sharpener. These 8×10 prints are ready to frame and make a lovely gift set.


21. Winsome Wood Small Writing Desk with Drawers


Every writer needs a dedicated space to craft their prose. This handsome wood writing desk is perfect for writers who use a computer, typewriter, or write by hand in a notebook. It also features a cubby hole and drawers for storage.


22. Pilot Fountain Pen


Enjoy writing by hand with this sleek and elegant fountain pen from Pilot. Don’t forget to include a journal for your writer.


23. Under Desk Eliptical Trainer


Help the writer in your life stay fit with this under desk eliptical trainer. They can finish their novel and stay in shape at the same time.


24. “Go Away I’m Writing” Sign

Go Away I'm Writing Sign for Writers


The perfect way for the aspiring author in your house to signal that they are busy writing the next great American novel and should not be disturbed.


25. Writer’s Block

writers-block-wood


A literal embodiment of the Writers Block that plagues most writers. Perfect for kicking or throwing out the window in moments of frustration.


26. Fist Pen Holder


Help your writer contain their desk odds and ends with this unique pen holder. This fist holds pens, pencils and more. The wrist is magnetic to keep paperclips at bay. Adds a bit of playfulness to a writer’s desk.


27. Fountain Pen Earrings

Fountain Pen Earrings Writer Gift


Lightweight, gold fountain pen earrings that will look perfect dangling from the ears of any author. Makes a great gift for historical romance and fiction writers.


28. Typewriter Keyboard T-shirt

typewriter-keyboard-tshirt


A great t-shirt for any writer, this one features the traditional round keys of an antique typewriter keyboard.


29. The Writing Manifesto Print

This inspiring piece of art is a must-have for any writer’s office or bedroom. The Writing Manifesto is filled with writing inspiration to help bust through the worst writer’s block. Available in two sizes already framed.


30. A Vintage or Antique Typewriter

vintage-retro-typewriter


Help your favorite writer or aspiring author get back to basics with a typewriter. Vintage and retro typewriters come in a variety of styles and colors and make a unique gift.


31. It’s a Good Day to Write Throw Pillow

It's a Good Day to Write Throw Pillow

Give some not so subtle motivation for your writer to get writing! This pillowcase gives the gentle reminder: It’s a Good Day to Write. Available with or without stuffing in a variety of colors, so you can order the perfect one to match their decor.


32. Initial Typewriter Keys Cufflinks

typewrter-key-cufflinks


These are handsome cufflinks made from the keys of vintage typewriters, customized to whatever initials you need.


33. Ruled Paper Scarf

Rule Paper Scarf


This scarf is a blank page they can wear to inspire them to write their next story.


34. Dragon NaturallySpeaking Software


Help boost your writer’s productivity with the most popular speech to text program. They can tell their story out loud while Dragon transcribes it into their favorite word processing program.


35. Literary Writing Gloves

literary-writing-gloves


Help an aspiring writer keep their hands worm and get a little inspiration with these literary writing gloves. They feature text from famous books, including Jane Eyre, Dracula, Little Women, and more.


36. Hollow Book with a Flask

tarzan-hollow-book-flask


For a little “liquid inspiration,” your favorite writer can turn to their favorite book for a hidden flask. A variety of real hollowed books are available in many genres, including classic literature, scifi, fantasy, and horror.


37. Typewriter Tote Bag

Typewriter Tote Bag


Let your favorite writer carry their books, notes, and ever growing collection of pens in this stylish vintage typewriter tote bag.


38. Modern Bookshelf


Writers have tons of books. Give them a cool and original, modern bookcase to display them on.


39. Balance Ball Chair


Gift the gift of a healthier back with one of these balance ball chairs.


40. The Writer Magazine Subscription


A subscription to The Writer magazine is a gift that keeps giving with each issue they receive.

Check out other magazine subscriptions for writers.


41. Instant Writer Mug

Instant Writer Just Add Coffee Mug

This mug is for the caffeine fueled writer in your life. The funny message says: Instant Writer, Just Add Coffee. This is the perfect writing gift for authors who get up early to write before work or stay up late finishing their pages.

Include some of their favorite coffee to make it a memorable gift set.


42. Noise Isolating Headphones


A nice pair of noise-isolating headphones will help them focus on their writing without getting distracted. These are perfect for writers who like to work at coffee shops and mute out the noises around them.


43. Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard


This Bluetooth keyboard takes mobile working to the next level, with a virtual laser keyboard. Compatibly with a Bluetooth enabled smartphone or tablet. Great gift for sci-fi writers.


44. The Writer’s Coloring Book


Let them tap into a creative side from their childhood with this coloring book made especially for writers.

Check out adult coloring supplies to round out your gift.


45. Famous Authors Shotglasses


Now they can knock back a drink with some of the great literary drinkers like Oscar Wilde and Dorothy Parker. Includes memorable quotes.


46. Bamboo Keyboard and Mouse


An environmentally friendly typing alternative any writer would love. This keyboard and mouse set are made of beautiful bamboo for a luxurious writing experience.


47. Natural Light LED Desk Lamp


So they have plenty of nice, natural light to write by any time of day. Perfect for office desks or bedside tables.


48. Adjustable Laptop Bed Tray


So they can stay productive and work on their novel, even if they don’t feel like getting out of bed.


49. The Big Ideas Notepad


Help them generate new ideas with the Big Ideas Notepad.


50. Portable External Hard Drive


So they can always back up their writing, no matter where they are. Even if they’re on the go.


Need more gift ideas? Check out stocking stuffers for writers, killer journals for writers, and the best books for writing fiction.

writers block wood

8 Tools to Destroy Writer’s Block and Inspire Creativity

7 Tools to Destroy Writer’s Block and Inspire Creativity

Writer’s block is an unfortunate inevitability of the creative writing process. It can hit at any moment: when trying to come up with an idea, in the middle of the scene, or just as you’re trying to finish your story. And it can last for minutes, hours, days…or even longer. Luckily there are many tools, games, and tricks you can use to work your way out of writer’s block and get the pen moving across the paper again.

If you’re wondering how to get rid of writer’s block, you’re in the right place. From writing prompts to story games, there’s plenty of ways to get the creative juices flowing again. For this article, we’ve rounded up 7 of the best tools to help karate chop writer’s block out of your head. You’re sure to find something on this list that will work for you.

If you’re looking for a gift for a writer or aspiring author, these writer’s block killers are perfect gifts. They’re fun and help inspire creativity, which will help the writer in your life be more productive and finish their work.

Tools to Get Rid of Writer’s Block

1. Aquanotes Shower Note System

I’ve heard many writers use this trick, and it’s definitely worked for me. Whenever you’re stuck on a problem, whether its what happens next, what to do with your character, or how to plug up a plothole there are two ways that are guaranteed the get you unstuck. The first is to take a walk. The second is to take a shower. I get some of my best ideas in the shower and found the relaxing solitude is perfect for easing tense muscles–including the ones in your brain.

The big problem? You can’t write down your brilliant idea while you’re soaking wet and sudsie. And how many times have you forgotten your masterful solution by the time you’ve toweled off? Aquanotes solves that problem! This innovative notepad is waterproof and works perfectly to jot down your ideas mid-shower. That way you can move on to your next problem to solve or just focus on rinsing your hair. This also makes an exceptional gift because every writer will immediately put it to good use.




2. Writer Emergency Pack

Designed to be used when you’re having a writer’s block emergency, this pack is a tool to help save a dying story and finish writing it.

The pack comes with 26 illustrated cards to help inspire you and “unstick” your creativity. Flip the card over to read the detail side that gives suggestions and writing tips. When writer’s block attacks, just shuffle the deck, pick a card, and keep writing.

Writer Emergency pack is perfect for fiction writer’s of all ages and can also be used by screenwriters. This is a must-have creativity tool for all writers and makes a great stocking stuffer.


3. The Writer’s Block: 786 Ideas to Jump-Start Your Imagination

The Writer's Block

Try fighting your writer’s block with a literal writer’s block. This little block sized book is the perfect inspiration to get your story going again. It features hundreds of prompts that writers can flip through to jump start their next story idea or get them out of a writing rut.

The prompts inside include photos, phrases, spark words, activities to try, and writing advice from famous authors like Toni Morrison, Kurt Vonnegut, and Joyce Carol Oates. No matter how many times you reach for it, this little book will find new ways to inspire you.


4. Rory’s Story Cubes Set

This is a game originally created to foster creativity in younger writers, but it’s great to help inspire a writer of any age. These story cubes are for when you’re stumped trying to come up with a new story idea. The dice feature illustrations drawn on each side. To use them, you roll the dice and try to create a story idea incorporating all of the images. Sometimes it requires really stretching your imagination to make all of the elements come together.

The Story Cubes can be played as a game at a party or with your friends or you can use them alone to break your writer’s block and get a new story idea. There are many themed sets available so you can create the perfect collection for the types of stories you like to write.


5. The Storymatic Game

This is another game that’s perfect for inspiring creativity and new ideas. They advertise that there’s 6 trillion different dieas in this box. To play you draw cards and start to form a story using the cards you get. This is perfect as a party game or to use alone as a story prompt for a new story or novel.

When playing it as a game you can write the story, draw it, or act it out. It’s also a ton of fun to draw cards and have the whole group write stories based off of the same cards. The different types of stories to come from the same combination is always amazing and entertaining.


6. The Writer’s Toolbox: Creative Games and Exercises for Inspiring the ‘Write’ Side of Your Brain

The Writer’s Toolbox is an entire kit to aid your fight against writer’s block. This was designed by a creative writing teacher to be full of fun exercises to get you thinking creatively and inspire new thinking.

Included in the toolbox are a small book on writing and three writing games. The Sixth Sense Cards help inspire you to write rich descriptions using their vivid prompts. The Protagonist Game comes with wheels to randomly select a protagonist, their goals, obstacles, and actions. The sticks can be selected randomly to help start a story and keep it going.

Using the tools in this kit, you’re sure to foster creativity and work through any blocks and difficulties with your stories.


7. The 3 A.M. Epiphany: Uncommon Writing Exercises that Transform Your Fiction

If you’re not interested in games to inspire creativity, this book is a great option. Named after the well known fact that we get our best creative ideas at the most inconvenient times, this book is meant to help inspire you at any time.

The exercises in this book were tested and refined by Brian Kiteley through 15 years of teaching fiction. They’ll help you move past anxieties that cause writer’s block and prevent you from writing. They’ll also help improve your writing by helping you craft unique ideas and move away from stale writing patterns to innovative experimentation. Just open the book and select any exercise. Soon you’ll be typing away on your next great story.


8. Narata Storytelling Cards

When you’re short on inspiration, the Narata Storytelling Cards can give you a creative boost. Shuffle the deck and draw cards to get instant ideas for characters, plots points, or even a whole story. The deck comes with 200 cards in 10 different categories (like Character, Goal, and Event). Since you shuffle the deck and draw cards at random, it allows for limitless story possibilities.

This cool brainstorming tool is great for writers, screenwriters and anyone working in comics or advertising.


Now that you’ve destroyed writer’s block, check out the essential software for writing a novel and the reference books you should have on your desk. Read these inspirational writing quotes for an extra kick of creativity.

Leather Bound Writing Journal

12 Killer Journal Gifts for Writers

Killer Journal Gifts for Writers
Journals are an easy gift for writers and aspiring authors. Writers often keep journals of their day to day lives and inspirations. Even in the off-chance that they don’t keep a daily journal, they probably use paper journals or notebooks for making notes on stories they’re working on or even writing rough first drafts by hand.

Leather journals, spiral notebooks, and interactive journals are all fun gifts for writers. Here are several unique, stand-out journals that you can give as a gift to the writer in your life.

Classic Journals for Writers

Moleskine Notebooks

Moleskine makes some of the most famous notebooks available to writers and other creative types. What started as a simple black notebook has expanded into an entire line of notebooks perfect for writing, drawing, or just daydreaming on paper. They are a premium journal option that most writers would love to receive as a gift.

Moleskine notebooks come in a variety of sizes, colors, and line options. Click the button below to check out the selection.


Composition Notebook

Kicking it old school! Many writers have a fondness for composition notebooks. They’re commonly used in elementary school classrooms, but they also make great notebooks for writers as well. What’s nice about these composition notebooks is they’re affordable, they’re perfect for making notes or writing long-hand, and they feel “less serious.” What I mean by that, is often with writers of every experience level can get blocked by their internal editor. This self-censorship and pressure make them feel like any words they write have to be perfect when they type them. A composition notebook can create a low-pressure environment they can use to silence the internal critic.

If the traditional black doesn’t suit your writer, there’s tons of colors and cool styles of composition notebooks to choose from.



Leather Journals for Writers

Leather Bound Journal

All right, remember the hypothetical 40 something year old who writes about drinking beer and doing manly things? This journal is for him! It’s made from handsome leather, 4 inches wide by 6 inches tall, and has a strap to close it. But the coolest part about this journal– aside from its rugged styling that you could imagine Hemmingway admiring, is that this journal is actually refillable with fresh paper inserts, so your writer never has to give up their leather case.


Custom Engraved Leather Journal

Custom Engraved Leather Journal

Personalized gifts always feel more special than just a random gift picked up off the shelf. Memories Made Custom makes these gorgeous leather journals, which can be custom engraved for the giftee. You can include their initials, name, or even a special message. This is a great way to inspire any writer.

Made from top grain cowhide with 193 lined pages.


Fun Journals for Writers

Writer’s Block Journal

This is a clever journal for writers that makes a great gift item. Writer’s block is the bane of a writer’s existent. It can grind productivity to a halt and discourage even the most positive writers. This journal pokes a little fun at that concept. It’s a Writer’s Block journal, that looks like a block of wood. Paired with some writer’s block busting tools it makes a fantastic gift.


The Goonies One Eyed Willie Journal

This is a cool and unique journal for any fans of the Goonies. Officially licensed, this faux-leather hardcover journal features 232 lined pages. This is perfect for outlining a novel or working on a new screenplay.


Recycled Book Journals

Sneetches Recycled Book Journal Gift

I have to be careful when I browse the journals from Storybook Journals because I want to buy so many of them for myself! This company takes old books and recycles them into spiral-bound journals. This is a great gift to inspire a writer by harkening back to favorite stories from their childhood. These also make fun gifts for aspiring young writers.


Stroke of Genius Journal

This journal is a fun way to inspire an aspiring author. The cover features vintage-style notes and sketches, evoking greats like Leonardo DaVinci and says “Stroke of Genius” on the cover.

8.5″ x 11″, 110 page notebook with a glued paperback style binding.


Stylish Journals for Writers

Hardcover Celestial Journal

This is more than just a gorgeous hardcover journal. It’s actually a reproduction of a vintage gold-tooled bookbinding from the Henry T. Wood book bindery in London in 1933. The cover features a celestial design in gold foil treatments against a blue background. The embossing adds dimension as the sun and planets practically glow on the cover. Comes with 160 lined writing pages perfect for journaling or drafting a novel.


Lasercut Wood Journals

Lasercut Wood Journals for Writers

If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful journal to give as a gift, we’re really fond of these wood cover journals from Hereafter LA. They take gorgeous wood and use a laser cutter to create beautiful covers. Most journals come with a choice of three different wood options in two sizes. Comes with 160 or unlined pages (80 sheets).


Interactive Journals for Writers

Q&A a Day for Writers: 1-Year Journal

This journal features 365 questions, one for each day of the year, to inspire creativity in writers. They will inspire the writer in your life to contemplate their creative process and what writing means to them, as well as giving writing prompts. This gift of exploration and creativity will become a meaningful keepsake at the end of the year. Since each exercise is dated, this is great to give at Christmas so they can start it in January.


642 Stories to Write

This interactive journal is packed full of inspiration for writers. Part of the 642 series, it contains that number of writing prompts and story ideas. Perfect to inspire new ideas or help create a consistent writing habit, this journal will be a great inspiration to writers of any level.


Searching for more gift ideas for writers? Check out 50 fun and creative gifts for writers


8 Inspiring Books for Writers

5 Inspirational Book Gifts for Writers
Writing is hard, especially for new writers who are struggling to break into the business or sell a novel. All the rejection can be demotivating and leave many wondering why they even started writing in the first place. One of the best gifts you can give a writer is the gift of encouragement and inspiration. We’ve rounded up our favorite books to help inspire, motivate, and encourage the writer in your life. These books are not only practical but will show you care about them and their writing.

1. Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury

Ray Bradbury is one of the most beloved and prolific writers of the past century. He always gave the advice that writing should be an act of love, pulling inspiration from the things you enjoy to create stories that you love writing. This classic book of essays expands on that theme, helping aspiring writers find joy in developing their craft.

This book also features insights into Ray Bradbury’s writing process, with specific essays on how he wrote his classic novels Fahrenheit 451, Dandelion Wine, and The Martian Chronicles. This collection is a must have for any Ray Bradbury fans and a great gift for younger writers and aspiring sci-fi and fantasy writers.


2. Never Say You Can’t Survive by Charlie Jane Anders

When life and the larger world are chaotic, it can be hard to muster creative energy. Charlie Jane Anders collects much of her wisdom as a writer in this book that is part memoir and part creative guide. With a focus on using your voice to find power while powerless, Anders’ words will provide inspiration to aspiring and established authors alike.


3. The Writer’s Block: 786 Ideas to Jump-Start Your Imagination

The Writer's Block

The sky is blue, grass is green, and writers get writer’s block. What else is new? Every author has experienced this at one point or another (or many points) in their career, and this little block-shaped book is for just those occasions! It features hundreds of prompts that writers can flip to, to jump-start their next story idea, or get them out of a rut. As the publisher notes, “Many of these assignments come straight from the creative writing classes of celebrated novelists like Ethan Canin, Richard Price, Toni Morrison, and Kurt Vonnegut: Joyce Carol Oates explains how she uses running to destroy writer’s block.”

Check out more gifts to destroy writer’s block.



4. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

Stephen King is undeniably both one of the most successful authors of all time, and also one of the most prolific, having penned over 50 full length novels. Luckily, he doesn’t keep his keys to success a secret.

In this memoir, King reflects on how he’s managed to achieve the level of success that he has and shares insight that will inspire any author to put pen to paper and write their very best. He also shares practical advice and lessons he’s learned along the way. In addition to the memoir sections of the book, King also breaks down in-depth his writing and editing processes (including a chapter on his disdain for adverbs). He also recalls his experience getting hit by a car and how it affected him personally and as a writer. This is a must-read for any aspiring writer!


5. Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers

This book, written by ten different writers together, contains 101 motivational stories from writers, for writers. Each anecdote or true story is short (just a few pages) and can be read in a flash, when the writer in your life needs a pick-me-up.

The advice it contains is meant for writers of all kinds and all different experience levels of writing because nearly all writers experience moments of doubt. The different sections of this book focus on specific struggles that are common for writers, like finding time to write or wrestling with writer’s block. This is a great gift to inspire writers who are early in their career and dealing with rejection from editors and publishers.


6. Quotes to Write By: Daily Inspiration and Guidance for Writers

Quotes to Write By provides a different quote for each day of the year. According to the publisher’s description, it is “The perfect gift for every writer! [It] will help get your creative juices flowing. Be guided and inspired by fellow writers and celebrities from around the globe. Open to today’s date for an inspirational or guiding quote to help get your writing back on schedule. Quotes to Write By is a helpful resource of encouragement for every writer.”

This is the perfect gift for a writer who already owns all of the usual writing inspiration and advice books.


7. Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad

The latest book from Austin Kleon is the perfect inspiration for authors struggling with their work. Whether it’s writer’s block our outside forces that are sabotaging their productivity, Kleon’s tips are filled with advice to help writers and artists disconnect from the world and reconnect with their creative side.

Timeless, this practical guide is perfect for creators of every type.


8. Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life

This classic book from writer Anne Lamott is titled after some advice her father once gave her brother when he was paralized by fear at writing a paper about birds. Bird by Bird is not a craft book, instead it focuses on fostering a creative mindset, being introspective, and dealing with common challenges.

The book does include a few writing exercises appropriate for authors of any experience level. Highly recommended for beginner writers still figuring out their process.


Looking for more practical gifts to inspire the writers and authors in your life? Check out essential reference books for writers and the best books on writing fiction for more gift ideas.