Gifts for people who like sewing and painting?

[PickledElectricity]

My friend is coming to stay for Christmas.

She is a dear friend who did us a massive favour this year in minding our toddler while I went in to have baby #2.

I would love to get her some really nice/decent Christmas gifts. I would prefer to avoid

In the past it's been more token presents.

She likes painting - I know she already has an easel and paints and brushes etc. I was thinking a set of canvases? But then what size?

She also has a sewing machine and uses that to alter and make her own clothes.

I don't do either of these hobbies so I'm hoping to pick the Mumsnet hive mind for ideas - maybe what you'd like to indulge in?

Please and thank you.

Or me 😥

The notion box is spot on. Might be ordering one as a gift or just for me. I like this thread.

I'm after some pinking shears, and I wouldn't mind (but can't justify) proper sewing scissors. Recommendations would be welcome.

Just been talking to someone who sews a lot and she mentioned a friction pen for sashiko. Stocking filler price but useful.

The cute little tape measure is the sort of item you can carry with you everywhere, then when you need to measure something you'll have it to hand. Mega useful. (Got that tip from a charity shop volunteer.)

Rosemary's brushes are the best. They do sets which are a range of sizes and you can filter for acrylic.

Something like this but there are.loads of options.

https://www.rosemaryandco.com/set-175-oils-acrylics

https://www.rosemaryandco.com/brush-sets/for-acrylics

I came to say the same thing. I have a pair of their powder coated dressing scissors and they are fabulous. There fabrics are also beautiful

Last year a friend bought me a subscription to Prima magazine. Lots of sewing projects and tips, a free pattern and lots of other projects and topics. Great to revisit. Often have offers on subscriptions at this time of year.

I would say it would depend if she is a starter/hobbyist or far more dedicated and semi/professional.

I cringe when well meaning people buy me art materials and I invariably give them to a charity shop or similar as the quality is not what I need for my work. I am now at the stage where I am very picky over pigments used in paint.TBH there are not that many art shops selling good professional quality materials and I do travel miles to collect or order on line. Ditto with sewing and especially my scissors which I keep locked away as they cost stupid amounts for good sharp ones that last.

I do appreciate when people ask me what I would like as a gift as I can then be specific and direct them to the places I know that provide said items at a fair cost. Might be a good idea to let her know you would like to gift her something and ask what she would appreciate, need or would use.