As a parent or caregiver, you are familiar with the mountain of artwork your child creates. From finger paintings to crayon drawings, children have a unique and uninhibited approach to creating art that is worth preserving and showcasing. However, with so much art, it can be challenging to find space to store or display it all. One solution is to transform some of it into meaningful and personalized gifts for family and friends. In this post, let’s explore how to turn children’s artwork into gifts.
How to turn children’s artwork into gifts
Here are 7 of of our favorite ideas:
1.Turn Artwork into Prints
One of the easiest ways to turn your child’s artwork into a gift is by turning it into a print. Many companies offer printing services that can transfer your child’s artwork onto a canvas, poster, or even a mug or t-shirt. These prints can make great gifts for family members who don’t live nearby or for those who have a special connection to your child. One of my favorite prints a parent has created is this adorable piece created from a child’s note (scroll to see it about halfway down Elise’s post).
2. Create a Memory Book
Another way to showcase your child’s artwork is by creating a memory book. You can either purchase a blank book or create one from scratch using scrapbook materials. Include photos of your child’s artwork, along with a brief description of the piece, the date it was created, and any special memories associated with it. If your child is old enough to write their name or a little note, be sure to add that in too. I also like adding pictures of my kids holding up their art so I can remember what they were like at that age. Memory books are perfect gifts for grandparents or other special people.
3. Make Jewelry
If you wish to keep your kid’s art close to you, you can have your child’s artwork turned into unique and personalized jewelry. There are numerous Etsy sellers that can do this for you in a variety of ways. The art can be engraved into a gold or silver charm, transferred into a tiny frame to wear on a chain, or set into a clear resin bracelet.
4. Create Personalized Stationery
You can also turn your child’s artwork into personalized stationery. This can include anything from notecards to envelopes to stickers. You can use a printing service to create the stationery or create it yourself using Canva and a printer. This is a great way to share your child’s artwork with friends and family and to encourage them to write letters and notes (which you can then stick in the memory book).
5. Turn Artwork into a Puzzle
Another fun and unique way to turn your children’s artwork into gifts is by creating puzzles. You can either purchase a blank puzzle and transfer your child’s artwork onto it, or you can use a company such as Vistaprint that will create a custom puzzle for you. This is a great way to showcase your child’s artwork AND putting puzzles together is a fun way for your family to spend time together.
6. Create a Photo Book
If you have a lot of artwork to showcase, consider creating a photo book. You can use a service like Shutterfly to create a book that features your child’s artwork. Include photos of each piece of artwork, along with a brief description and any special memories associated with it.
7. Turn Artwork into a Quilt
For a truly unique and personalized gift, consider turning your child’s artwork into a quilt. You can use a service like Spoonflower to create custom fabric by uploading the art. They can print it onto the fabric of your choice and you sew the quilt (PS, if quilting is not your thing, Spoonflower also can print on tons of premade products, like napkins, duvets, and pillowcases). Custom quilts make beautiful gifts that will be cherished for generations.
How to choose which artwork to turn into gifts
Choose meaningful pieces of art
When it comes to choosing which pieces of artwork to use, it can be difficult to decide. One way to narrow it down is to choose pieces that are particularly meaningful or special to your child. Maybe it’s a drawing of a family member or a pet, or a painting they created on a special occasion like a birthday or holiday. You can also involve your child in the decision-making process, by asking them which pieces they would like to see turned into gifts.
Consider the quality of the artwork
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the artwork. While every piece your child creates may be special to you, not every piece will translate well into certain gifts. For example, if creating an engraved pendant, look for pieces that are visually striking, have clear lines and colors, and are free of smudges or smears. If you’re unsure which pieces to use, consider taking high-quality photos of each piece and using those to create gifts instead.
Don’t be afraid to add or embellish the children’s artwork with a personal touch
When it comes to creating the gifts themselves, don’t be afraid to get creative. Consider adding a personal touch, such as a handwritten note from your child or a special quote that relates to the artwork. You can also use different materials and techniques to create unique and one-of-a-kind gifts. For example, if your child’s artwork includes handprints or footprints, consider incorporating those into a gift like a mug or a piece of jewelry.
Let your child be part of the gift gifting
Finally, don’t forget to involve your child in the gift-giving process. This is a great way to encourage their creativity and to help them feel proud of their artwork. Encourage them to write a note or help wrap and deliver the gifts themselves. This will not only make the gifts more meaningful but also help your child develop a sense of generosity and kindness.
Have you ever turned your child’s art into gifts? Tell us about it in the comments.
