When November arrived this year, I immediately started planning holiday gifts for friends and family. To be honest, it’s not because I’m always organized—more often I’m rushing at the last minute to finish DIY presents or pick up a few items for relatives. Determined to get ahead, I focused on easy DIY projects that are more “semi-DIY” than fully handcrafted, but they still feel special and personal.
I partnered with CVS Photo to create four unique, colorful art prints that make great gifts for anyone who appreciates bold, painted artwork. I dug out my paints and brushes, made several pieces quickly for fun, and had Amelia photograph them very closely so the texture, brushstrokes, and paint drips really show.
After creating the artwork, I ordered prints from CVS.com/photo—though you can also print in a local CVS Photo store—had them delivered to the studio, and framed the pieces. The result: hangable originals for my home and affordable custom gifts for friends. Each framed piece ended up costing under $40, including the frame.
If you like these prints, you can make your own: I’m sharing the digital files so you can download and print them yourself. All you need to do is download the files and order prints. As a bonus, there’s a chance to win a $100 CVS gift card to cover printing costs—check the giveaway section below for details and entry rules.
Download art files here
Click here for blue and yellow print
Click here for pink and mint print #1
Click here for pink and mint print #2
Click here for pink, mint, and yellow print
When the prints arrived, framing them took only a few minutes. I picked up ready-made frames with mats at Ikea in various sizes, inserted the prints, and added large bows to make each piece feel more festive. You can leave the framed prints unwrapped for a clean presentation, or add seasonal wrapping paper if you prefer to keep the gift a surprise.
If colorful abstract art isn’t your style, you can use the same process with custom photos. Have old family portraits or newly styled images printed at CVS for thoughtful, personal gifts—an idea that’s especially meaningful for grandparents or family members who treasure photographs.
Budget-Friendly Gift Idea
These prints are simple to assemble and very affordable, which is why they top my list of holiday gift ideas. A 20×30 matte poster like the larger print I ordered costs around $19.99. Pair that with an Ikea 24×35 ready-made frame for approximately $17.99, and you have a substantial, framed art piece for under $40. The smaller option is even more economical: 12×18 matte posters run about $12.99 and the matching frames cost around $9.99, bringing the total to less than $25 per framed print.
Photography Amelia Tatnall Lawrence
Artwork and styling Brittni Mehlhoff
Giveaway!
To enter for a chance to win a $100 CVS gift card to print these art files or your own family photos, visit the related Instagram post and leave a comment describing “how you photo.” Be sure to tag @cvspharmacy and include the hashtag #CVSPhotoMyWay. One winner will be chosen at random and announced on that post when the giveaway ends.
What do you think of the art prints? Would you give framed printed art like this to friends or family for the holidays?
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I’m proud to partner with CVS Pharmacy for the How Do You Photo campaign. I am being sponsored by CVS Pharmacy for my posts and activities, but all opinions expressed are my own. Please verify product details and program information with CVS or the appropriate manufacturers. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper & Stitch running.