Creative Gifts for Older Children: Inspiring Christmas Presents They'll Actually Use
Finding Christmas gifts for older children—those aged 8 to 14—means moving beyond toys and thinking about their emerging interests. At this age, they're developing their own tastes, exploring creative hobbies, and ready for gifts that respect their growing independence.
We've curated eight exceptional creative gifts that inspire artistic expression, teach new skills, and offer the satisfaction of making something meaningful. Each piece celebrates quality craftsmanship and design heritage.
Andy Warhol Soup Can Paint By Number Kit – Mudpuppy
An introduction to Pop Art that becomes a piece worth displaying.
This isn't an ordinary paint-by-numbers set. The iconic Campbell's Soup Can—one of the 20th century's most recognisable artworks—becomes a creative project that teaches patience, colour theory, and art history and is a statement artwork for their bedroom wall.
What makes it special:
- Museum-quality design from the Galison Mudpuppy collaboration
- Complete kit includes pre-printed canvas, acrylic paints, and brushes
- Finished piece is genuinely frame-worthy
Ideal for: Young people ready to move beyond children's craft kits, the budding artist who appreciates bold, iconic imagery and is ready for a more grown-up bedroom wall.
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We also have Marilyn! Shop Andy Warhol Marilyn Paint by Number Kit
Perfect for ages 10+.
Wall Art Plane: Piper – Studio Roof
Transform their bedroom with buildable, sustainable sculpture.
Studio Roof's three-dimensional wall art turns any bedroom into a gallery. The Piper aircraft combines the hands-on satisfaction of model-making with striking contemporary design. We recommend 2-3 for a statement wall piece!
What makes it special:
- Made from recycled cardboard with vegetable-based inks
- Teaches spatial reasoning and careful assembly
- Creates a genuine statement piece for their wall
- Environmentally conscious without compromising on style
Ideal for: Design-conscious children, aviation enthusiasts, children taking pride in decorating their own bedroom.
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Made from sustainable materials. Limited Christmas stock available.
15 Piece Comic Illustration Gift Set – Faber-Castell
From sketch to superhero—everything needed to create their own comics.
This comprehensive kit transforms aspiring artists into comic creators with professional tools and expert guidance. Developed in collaboration with professional comic artists, it guides young illustrators through the complete comic creation process.
What makes it special:
- Developed in collaboration with professional comic artists
- Professional tools: Pitt Artist Pens and Goldfaber coloured pencils in essential comic colours
- Grip Matic mechanical pencil with blue leads (the professional secret—disappears when scanned)
- Step-by-step guide teaching shapes, shadows, anatomy, perspective, and visual storytelling
Ideal for: Manga and graphic novel enthusiasts, anyone aged 12+ who dreams of creating their own superhero worlds, creative children who love learning new skills
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Complete toolkit from one of the world's most respected art brands. Perfect for ages 12+.
Scrapbooking Set – Bee & Bumble
Preserve precious memories with a creative craft.
Bedroom wall (or phone) papered in precious photos? Move them to a book they'll keep for years. This beautifully curated scrapbooking kit from UK family business Bee & Bumble offers everything needed to preserve memories, concert tickets, photographs, and inspirations in a 40-page kraft paper scrapbook.
What makes it special:
- Complete toolkit: 40-page scrapbook, wooden frames, rose gold border stickers, patterned craft tape
- Three metallic gel pens (gold, silver, white) for beautiful handwritten captions
- Wooden sentiments reading "Friends," "Laugh," and "Memories"
- White tags perfect for journalling and labelling
Ideal for: Young people who love documenting their world, anyone who enjoys hands-on creativity with meaning, the sentimental soul who treasures photographs and keepsakes.
A gift that becomes more precious with time. Perfect for ages 10+.
Frank Lloyd Wright Origami Kit – Galison Mudpuppy
Where architectural genius meets craft.
Origami develops geometry skills, patience, and precision. The paper in this unique kit is printed with Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural patterns, introducing one of history's greatest architects through the ancient art of paper folding.
What makes it special:
- 48 sheets featuring Wright's distinctive geometric designs
- Detailed instructions for multiple origami forms
- Portable creativity—perfect for travel or quiet concentration
- Screen-free challenge that builds real skills
Ideal for: Quiet crafters, architecture and design enthusiasts, origami fans who appreciate the satisfaction of mastering a traditional craft.
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Portable and perfect for evenings or journeys.
I Read Banned Books A5 Journal – Mudpuppy
A bold statement about literary freedom and intellectual curiosity.
Know a young writer with a rebellious streak? Give them this beautifully designed journal celebrating classic literature that has faced censorship throughout history. The cover features stunning illustrations of famously banned books by artist Laura Korzon and makes a great conversation starter for budding writers.
What makes it special:
- 128 lined pages with elegant gold foil edges
- A5 size perfect for carrying to school, library, or coffee shop
- High-quality construction from Mudpuppy, renowned for meaningful stationery
- Ideal for journalling, creative writing, note-taking, or academic work
Ideal for: The young reader who loves books and ideas, budding writers, students ready for more thoughtful stationery, rebellious minds!
A daily reminder of the power of literature. Perfect for ages 12+.
Pitt Artist Calligraphy Pens Set – Faber-Castell
Professional tools for the art of beautiful writing.
The elegant handwriting of calligraphy is on-trend and a distinctive skill. This calligraphy set from Faber-Castell—trusted by artists since 1761—provides professional-grade tools for learning a timeless craft.
What makes it special:
- India ink pens in various nib widths for developing genuine technique
- Professional quality
- Perfect for bullet journalling, hand-lettering, or traditional calligraphy
- Builds a skill that sets their work apart
Ideal for: Young people who love journalling, anyone with an eye for beautiful lettering, budding designers discovering typography.
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Professional quality for serious young artists.
Faber-Castell Colouring Set – Bee & Bumble
Premium materials for developing artists.
This set from Bee & Bumble contains everything needed for hours of creativity - proving that colouring is a serious artistic medium. Featuring premium Faber-Castell pencils, a sketch pad, eraser and sharpener, it's designed for young artists ready to develop their own style.
What makes it special:
- Professional-grade pencils with superior colour depth and blending
- Complete set with everything needed for detailed work
- Suitable for both relaxation and ambitious artistic projects
Ideal for: Dedicated artists, anyone who finds joy in detailed creative work, young people ready to invest time in developing their technique.
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The quality difference is remarkable. Perfect for serious young artists.
More gifts for children 8 - 12+ years old
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Why These Gifts Matter
The most treasured gifts aren't always the most requested. They're the ones that introduce new passions, teach lasting skills, and show confidence in a young person's growing capabilities.
Each item in this collection offers:
- Genuine quality from respected design houses and art suppliers
- Educational value that goes beyond entertainment
- Lasting appeal rather than fleeting trends
- Screen-free engagement that builds real-world skills
These are gifts that respect intelligence, inspire creativity, and open doors to new possibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age range are these gifts suitable for?
These creative gifts work beautifully for ages 8-14, though many will appeal to older teens and adults too. They're designed for older children who are ready for more sophisticated creative challenges.
Are these suitable for children with no prior art experience?
Absolutely. Each kit includes clear instructions and all necessary materials. They're designed to be accessible while offering room for growth and skill development.
Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes, our complimentary gift wrapping service ensures your present arrives beautifully presented. Simply select this option at checkout.
When should I order for Christmas delivery?
We recommend ordering by Wednesday 15th December to ensure delivery before Christmas. Contact our team if you need expedited shipping.
Can you help me choose between options?
Our team is always delighted to offer personal recommendations. Use the live chat on the website, or email hello@haliburtons.com for guidance tailored to your interests.
Shop Thoughtfully This Christmas
At Haliburtons, thoughtful giving has been our tradition since day one. Every gift in our collection is chosen for quality, meaning, and lasting value.
Ready to find the perfect gift?
