The short answer
A complete adult coloring set makes a thoughtful gift for mom or grandma because it gives her time for herself and everything she needs to start the day she opens it. Look for good markers, a coloring book with bold illustrations she'll love, thick paper, a protective sheet and gift-ready packaging.
Below: why coloring makes a lovely gift, what to look for, ideas for every kind of colorer and when to order for the holidays.
Why is a coloring set a good gift for mom or grandma?
- It's time just for her. A quiet, screen-free activity she can enjoy whenever she has a free half hour.
- It keeps on giving. Every page is a new evening of coloring, long after the holidays.
- No art skills needed. The illustrations are already drawn. She simply chooses the colors.
- It feels personal. Pick illustrations that match what she loves, from cozy rooms to gardens and flowers.
- It's easy to share. Color together during a visit, each on your own page.
What should you look for in a coloring gift?
- Everything included. Markers, a book, a protective sheet and a swatch card mean she won't need a trip to the craft store.
- Quality markers. Smooth alcohol markers with a brush tip and a fine tip are satisfying for beginners and experienced colorers alike.
- Illustrations she'll love. Bold, clear lines are relaxing to color and look lovely when finished.
- Thick paper. Heavier pages hold color and don't tear easily.
- A beautiful box. A gift that looks special before it's even unwrapped.
Coloring gift ideas for every kind of colorer
For someone new to coloring
Zen Starter Set, $59
18 dual-tip alcohol markers and Moments of Zen, a 24-page hand-illustrated coloring book of cozy everyday scenes, plus a swatch card and protective sheet. A gentle, complete way to begin. See the Zen Starter Set.
The most complete gift
Zen Harmony Set, $89
30 dual-tip alcohol markers and two 24-page hand-illustrated books, Moments of Zen and Nature's Harmony, with a swatch card and protective sheet in a gift-ready box. Cozy interiors and botanicals give her plenty of variety. See the Zen Harmony Set.
For someone who already colors
Edition 2 books, $23 each
Moments of Zen Edition 2 and Nature's Harmony Edition 2 each have 24 all-new hand-illustrated pages on 160gsm paper, with perforated pages for framing. Markers aren't included. Add an Edition 2 book to an order with a Zen set and save $5. See the books.
How can you make a coloring gift feel extra special?
- Add a favorite tea or a mug. It turns the gift into a ready-made quiet evening.
- Write a card inviting her to color with you. Then plan an afternoon to start a page together.
- Color the first page for her. A small, personal touch before you wrap it.
- Offer to frame her first finished page. Something she'll be proud to display.
When should you order coloring gifts for the holidays?
For delivery by December 25 in the US, order by December 15. Shipping is free on every US order. If you're giving it in person, ordering early in December leaves time to wrap and add your own card.
Frequently asked questions
Is a coloring set a good gift for mom?
Yes. A complete coloring set gives her calm, screen-free time for herself and everything she needs to start right away. No art experience is needed.
Is coloring a good gift for grandma?
Yes. Choose a book with bold outlines and larger spaces and markers that glide with light pressure. Our guide to coloring for older adults has more tips.
What do you buy someone who already loves coloring?
New illustrations are always welcome. A fresh coloring book in a style she enjoys, or a larger marker set with more shades, gives her more to explore.
Are markers included with the coloring books?
Markers are included in the Zen Starter Set and Zen Harmony Set. The Edition 2 books are sold on their own, without markers.
When should I order a coloring gift for Christmas?
Order by December 15 for delivery by December 25 in the US.
Melmar™ Color Magic Collection
A gift she can open and start tonight
Hand-illustrated coloring books, dual-tip alcohol markers, a swatch card and a protective sheet, beautifully boxed.
Shop the Zen Harmony Set Shop the Zen Starter Set
Free US shipping on every set.