I LOVE art supplies more than the average girl, and I have tried SO. MANY. ART. SUPPLIES in my 10 years of teaching art… so, this is the list for anyone- you don’t need much to create, just a few things. Keeping your art space simple and filled with only things you will use is the best way to actually get the art made!
This is my recommended list for my art students, though I do tell them to look around their homes, check the dollar store, see what they already have before buying things if they can. All that matters is that you are making art, being creative and enjoying the process.
Tips for setting up your art space:
Find a surface that is comfortable for you. For some, it’s an easel, or the floor, I like a big flat table. I got my table in the “damaged” section of Ikea for $25 (there was a little hole in the bottom!). I also use a giant clipboard and an easel, depending on what media I’m using.
Things you need, Paper, pencils, eraser, pen, some kind of paint, colored pencils are great. Links are below to purchase directly. Also check budget stores, Blick.com, Wal-Mart, Target… I just linked Amazon because it is easy and you don’t have to go into a store.
Here are some budget choices that are good quality that I recommend:
Paper: Amazon carries this $4 pack of 100 9” x 14” white paper. It’s great for practicing and has a little more tooth for drawing. Printer paper is fine, but this is better for holding texture.
I love Canson Paper for affordability and quality. Their mixed media pad is on sale and is an amazing deal! I also love the watercolor paper pad!
Things you in a fully stocked studio: Paper, pencils and charcoal, eraser, oil pastels, ruler, scissors, black pen or markers, colored pencils, watercolor, brushes (soft round for watercolor, stiffer for acrylic), acrylic or oil paint. Water cup. Rags! So many rags. Rags are the unsung hero of the art studio.
More photos of products and links:
