Top Five Gift Cards for Artists

Got an artist in your life? Someone who lives and breathes the process of creation? Whether she's in love with oil paints or he's got a passion for polymer clay, your artist has specific supplies and tools that help his or her artistic pursuits, and buying gifts can be difficult unless you, too, are an artist and are familiar with the medium that your artist practices in. Sure, you could take the easy route and give a generic gift, but why not give a gift card instead that will let your artistic loved one purchase her own choice of art supplies? Whether you choose a prepaid gift card from a lot art store or a Visa or Mastercard gift card loaded with money read to use, your artist will love the sentiment.

Utrecht

This Dutch arts company has many stores across the country, so chances are good that your artist has one nearby, but even if he doesn't the Art Smart gift cards can be used for online orders and delivered anywhere in the U.S. Utrecht offers a great selection and fair prices on a wide range of arts supplies. You can buy the gift cards in $25, $50, $75, $100 or $200 denominations in person at a store or online at Utrecht.com. You can also buy a card by calling Utrecht customer service at 1-800-223-9132.

Michaels

A nationwide art supplier, Michaels offers a huge range of art supplies from pre-stretched canvas to glass beads. While your artist won't find specialty products here, she will find a huge assortment of crafty items to stimulate her creativity at bargain prices. You can buy the gift cards in $10, $25, $50, $100 or $200 denominations in person at a store or online at Michaels.com.

Joann Fabrics and Craft Stores

Like Michaels, there seems to be a Joann's in every suburb across the nation. Don't be fooled: Joann carries much more than fabric, but if your artist friend works with any sort of fiber (fabric, yarn, etc.), Joann's is a great choice. Fabric is available by the yard and in pre-cut packages, and lets your artist choose her own materials. For a $1.95 fee on gift card orders online at joann.com, you can order send your artist friend an electronic gift card in any amount from $10 to $500. You can also purchase traditional gift cards in person in any store.

Jerry's Artarama

Send your artist some love with a Universal Jerry's Artarama Gift Card. Available in increments from $10 - $1000, this gift certificate is a sure winner for any artist. The gift card can be used in person at any of the 15 Jerry's across the United States or online. Includes specialty art products at discount prices, from oil paints to portfolios. Buy in person or online at Jerrysartarama.com.

Credit Card Gift Card

Be more flexible with your gift and give a preloaded VISA or MasterCard gift card. You may be able to buy these directly from your bank, and if you are a cardmember with either of these company, you'll be able to buy them from the company. You can also buy Simon Gift Cards in a wide range of locations which can be used everywhere. These offer your artist the flexibility of buying art supplies... or groceries. She'll appreciate the flexibility.