Colour Within The Lines
What It Is: I heard about Johanna Basford through a random article that spoke to the fact she created ‘colouring books for adults’ and has since sold over a million copies of her elaborately illustrated titles. I’ve actually since discovered there’s this whole world of colour therapy, with psychologists pointing to the fact sitting down and colouring helps both rest and focus our minds at the same time, while the actual use of colour can help stimulate us (especially after a day of staring at a mostly white screen). Colour me a believer, as I always loved colouring as a kid – and was pretty eager to try it as an adult. Basford’s books – Enchanted Forest and Secret Garden – aren’t your standard picture books. They’re richly detailed and include a bit of a puzzle / game as you discover hidden treasures in the pictures as you fill them in. Best of all, any pictures you particularly love can be saved and hung on the wall for a piece of semi-handmade art.
Who It’s For: Your terrible at art friend, to make them feel better about their lack of design sensibilities. Your parents, as a chill way to spend a lazy Sunday. Your coworker, as a good way to bring down their mid-day blood pressure.
What It Costs: The books retail for $21.95 each, but they’re available online for less.
Where It’s At: You can snap them up at Amazon.ca (although currently backordered) – Secret Garden
Speaking of colouring, how about a bonus entry into my Snappets giveaway? Just leave a comment below telling me what you think about this ‘colourful’ gift idea.
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[…] Ocean by Johanna Basford – $21.95 I wrote about the adult colouring book trend earlier this year, and actually featured Johanna Basford’s […]
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They are beautiful and are also available at Chapters.
I think that they are beautiful and very original. I know quite a few people who would love this as a gift!
I think they are a great idea. I used to love colouring when I was young and this appeals to me now, a lot.
I saw this on the news last night. I think they are a wonderful idea. I loved to colour as a kid. I would love to try one out.
It’s such a charming idea and apparently a lot of other people think so as they are selling so well.
I never missed an opportunity to color with my kids because I secretly loved it! Now I can do it without feeling guilty!!
I think this is a great way to pass away the day when it’s too miserable to be outside or you don’t feel like doing housework.
I think this is a wonderful gift idea – I’d love this for myself!
I like it a lot.
This would be great for my 9 yr old. A more grown up colouring book
I loved colouring as a child, and find it therapeutic when colouring with my granddaughter. I would probably enjoy these books!
Dino My Gosh! (Snappets) bonus entry: I heard about this insurgence recently as well & I think this ‘colourful’ gift idea is a great idea. Maybe we can all take a step back & enjoy the moment. Thanks 🙂
I think it would be a great way to unwind before bed if I were to colour again. It has been so long!
These are so fun!
I love it, I bought one for my MIL who has Alzheimers, and it keeps her occupied for long periods of time. I also would love one myself. Art therapy!
great idea.
I thinks this is a great idea and I would love to have one.
very cute