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Christmas gifting for children can sometimes feel like a balancing act — you want something fun and exciting, but also meaningful, inspiring and ideally not tied to a screen. This year, arts and crafts gifts are firmly back in the spotlight, and for good reason. Creative play gives children the chance to express themselves, build confidence, develop new skills, and enjoy calm, focused hands-on time during what can be a very overstimulating season.
If you’re looking for gifts that bring imagination to life, this year’s collection from Canal Toys is full of bright, tactile, motivating sets designed to get children making, designing and creating from Christmas morning onwards. From fluffy 3D paint to glowing fashion designs and DIY jewellery workshops, these kits turn creativity into an experience — and they make fantastic presents for crafty children of all ages.
Art Lab Fluffy Paint Studio – RRP £22.99
If your child loves painting but also enjoys sensory, hands-on art, the Art Lab Fluffy Paint Studio is the perfect next step. This clever kit transforms traditional painting by combining bright watercolours with fluffy dimensional paints for artwork that pops off the page. Children can mix colours, layer textures and explore a new style of creative expression.
The set includes posters, charms, tools and paints, all stored neatly so it feels organised and intentional — ideal for children who like structured art activities with plenty of freedom to explore.
A brilliant choice for budding artists who want more than paper and pens this Christmas.
Style 4 Ever Magic Clay Jewellery Maker – RRP £22.99
Jewellery making is a classic crafting activity, but this set gives it a fun, modern twist. The Style 4 Ever Magic Clay Jewellery Maker allows children to mould colourful clay into rings, pendants and bracelets, adding sparkling charms and decorative extras for a personalised finish.
It’s perfect for independent makers as well as children who love designing accessories to gift to friends or family. The clay is easy to shape, the results are instantly satisfying, and the process feels fun, festive and full of possibility.
A great Christmas morning activity that keeps them busy long after the wrapping paper has been cleared away.
Style 4 Ever Magic Spinner Bracelets – RRP £12.99
For children who like fast-paced, energetic craft kits, the Magic Spinner Bracelets set is full of excitement. Using the mini spinner tool, children can design custom bracelets using hundreds of colourful beads, threads and charms. It’s simple, mess-free and ideal for making little gifts for siblings, friends or classmates.
This set makes a brilliant gift and is perfect for crafty children who enjoy collecting beads and experimenting with patterns.
Style 4 Ever Fashion Designer Light Up Studio – RRP £22.99
For aspiring fashion designers or children fascinated by clothing, styling and creative visual arts, the Fashion Designer Light Up Studio is a magical festive treat. Young designers can sketch outfits, layer details, experiment with looks and then illuminate their finished creations with a built-in light feature. It’s creativity, innovation and imagination wrapped neatly into one gift.
This is the kind of set that encourages long periods of focused play — a lovely way to spend chilly winter afternoons.
Why Creative Gifts Make Christmas Even More Meaningful
One of the best things about choosing arts and crafts gifts is that they offer far more than a moment of excitement on Christmas morning. Creative kits:
- Encourage calm, immersive, screen-free play
- Support fine motor development and hand-eye coordination
- Boost emotional expression and self-confidence
- Spark curiosity and experimentation
- Give families activities they can enjoy together during the holidays
These Canal Toys kits provide structured creative experiences with everything children need inside the box — no last-minute hunt for extra materials.
More Crafty Christmas Gift Ideas from Amazon
Christmas Craft Kits
Perfect for festive mornings and quiet holiday activities. Options include:
- DIY tree decorations
- Paint-your-own ceramic ornaments
- Christmas card-making sets
Slime & Sensory Kits
Always popular with hands-on makers:
- DIY slime labs
- Fluffy cloud slime kits
- Crunchy bead sensory sets
STEM Craft Kits
Great for curious kids who love building as much as creating:
Painting & Drawing Sets
Ideal for children who prefer classic creative tools:
- Watercolour sets with brushes
- Wooden easels and sketch pads
- Colouring cases with 100+ pencils and markers
Sewing & Textile Kits
Perfect for young makers learning new skills:
- Beginners’ embroidery sets
- Felt crafting kits
- Simple sewing animal projects
Bead & Jewellery Kits
Always a hit for gifting and sharing:
- Large bead assortments
- Charm bracelet kits
- Jewellery-making tool sets
A Season for Creativity
These kits combine fun, design and meaningful skill-building, making them wonderful alternatives to screen-based gifts.
Whether you choose one standout gift or build a creative bundle with a mix of craft sets, these ideas bring imagination to the forefront of Christmas. With prices starting from around £5 on Amazon and around £12 at retailers including Very and Smyths Toys, there’s something for every budget and every budding artist.
This year, give the gift of creativity — and enjoy watching their ideas take shape long after Christmas Day.





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