How to Make a Kids’ Coloring Book Gift Basket: Themes, Supplies, and Presentation Tips

A custom coloring gift basket is thoughtful, affordable, and guaranteed to get used. With the right books, tools, and a few personal touches, you’ll deliver hours of creative, screen-free fun.

Step 1: Choose the Right Coloring Books

• Match age and skill
  • Ages 3–5: Bold lines, big spaces, sturdy paper.
  • Ages 6–8: Mixed detail, themed scenes, simple patterns.
  • Ages 9–12: Intricate designs, cityscapes, animals, fantasy.
• Follow their interests
  • Animals, nature, vehicles, cityscapes, space, seasons, holidays—pick what they love.
• Paper matters
  • Look for thicker, single-sided pages to prevent bleed and allow gel pens/markers.

Pro tip: Add a nameplate or “This book belongs to” sticker inside the cover.

Step 2: Add Essential Coloring Tools

• Crayons: Easy grip and great coverage for younger kids.
• Colored pencils: Smooth, blendable sets for shading and detail.
• Washable markers: Bold color; include a fine and a broad tip.
• Gel pens: Metallics/neons/pastels for special effects and tiny details.
• Extras: Erasers, sharpener, ruler, stencil sheet, and a zip pouch to keep it tidy.

Optional: A mini clipboard or lap desk for on-the-go coloring.

Step 3: Include Fun, Creative Extras

• Stickers and washi tape for decorating pages and notebooks.
• Glitter glue or glitter pens for sparkle (choose low-mess options).
• Small DIY craft: Bookmark kit, paper mask, or origami starter.
• Display pieces: Mini frames, magnetic art rail, or a clipboard for a rotating gallery.
• Journal or blank comic book to encourage stories alongside coloring.

Step 4: Personalize It

• Handwritten note: A short message with the date makes it keepsake-worthy.
• Custom labels: Add their name to the pouch or pen cup.
• Themed surprises: Animal fact cards, city landmark stickers, or space patches that match the book.

Step 5: Assemble and Present

• Pick a container
  • Reusable tote, colorful storage bin, woven basket, or art caddy.
• Layer smart
  • Place tissue or crinkle paper at the bottom; books at the back; tools up front in a pouch or mason jar.
• Finish the look
  • Wrap in clear cellophane, tie with a big bow, add a gift tag.
  • Tuck in a small balloon or paper garland for extra pop.

Ready-Made Basket Ideas

• Art & Story Bundle: Themed coloring book + gel pens + blank comic book + clipboard
• City Explorer Kit: Cityscapes book + sticker pack + fine liners + museum pass
• Nature Adventurer: Animals/nature book + washable markers + field journal + leaf rubbings sheet
• Calm & Color Set: Mandalas + soft-core pencils + zip pouch + soothing palette card

Quick Tips

• Choose washable, non-toxic supplies for stress-free cleanup.
• Include a cardstock blotter sheet to prevent bleed-through.
• Add a few pre-made color palettes to jump-start creativity.

Want to make gifting easy? Explore kids’ coloring books, themed bundles, and premium paper at Local Color—curated picks to build a basket they’ll reach for again and again.