Art Supplies list

Art Supplies List

Don’t break the bank if you’re just starting out. Invest money in quality, not quantity. Sometimes, I paint an entire painting using 2-3 brushes. Usually, the more expensive art supplies, the better the result. But don’t get fooled. You can always find value-for-money choices. Following, I mention some of my options. 

 NOTE: I know that many of my readers are not in the United States. In case you are not, try to find the most appropriate supplies that you can, according to my recommendations.

Following you will find my Art Supplies list recommendations for:

1. GRAPHITE PENCILS
2. COLORED PENCILS
3. SOFT PASTELS
4. WATERCOLORS  
5. ACRYLICS 
6. OIL COLORS 
7. MARKERS >

You can find them on Amazon but, sometimes, supplies like canvas, pads, or even paints have much better deals on Michaels, Jerry’s Artarama, Blick, or even Walmart. Do your research and decide.

It would be best if you always had with you the color wheel, a pencil, an eraser, and a sharpener.

ALWAYS WITH YOU ▶ Color Wheel

If you are starting out, this is a great visual to demonstrate the outcomes of mixing different colors. 
● Choose a sturdy one, as you will use it a lot in the beginning. 
My choice: ● Color Wheel Small Color Mixing Guide (3501) by Color Wheel.

1.  GRAPHITE PENCILS

(Graphite pencils and Colored pencils have a similar list. Considering this, don’t buy materials twice).

 
PAPER ▶ Drawing Paper Pad 


Drawing pads can be used for drawing shapes, practicing composition, shading, and other drawing skills. In case we use it just for graphite pencil or charcoal, the paper can be a sketch pad (60 lb/100 gr and up). In case we use it for colored pencils also (which I recommend), we need heavier paper, at least 70 lb/114 gr, to be durable enough. 
● 9 x 12″ (22.9 x 30.5 cm) is a good size for beginners. Sometimes, I like to leave a white space around the theme I am drawing. If you don’t want to waste paper, then you can also buy a 6 x 8″ (15.2 x 20.3 cm) for the smaller themes. 
My choices: ● Strathmore 100 Sheet Sketch Pad, 9×12, White  Strathmore 400 Series Colored Pencil Pads ● Canson XL Series Drawing Paper Pad, 70 Pound, 9 x 12 Inch, 60 Sheets.  ●Canson XL Series Mix Paper Pad, 98 Pound, 9 x 12 Inch, 60 Sheets. ● 40 Sheet Watercolor Paper Pad by Creatology (the paper is not that heavy for watercolor, but for drawing is great). 

 

PENCIL ▶ Graphite Drawing Pencils

Graphite pencils can be used to draw everything from the simplest of sketches to highly detailed drawings. The numbers of the pencils correspond with the hardness of the graphite.
Harder pencils make lighter lines (Pencil numbers with an “H”)
Softer pencils make darker lines (Pencil numbers with a “B”)
● HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B are the pencils that we will need. 
My choices: ● Faber-Castell – Castell 9000 Art Set Pencil (Pack of 6) ● Dyvicl Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set – 12 Pieces Drawing Pencils ● Professional Drawing Sketch Pencils Set, 12 Pieces Drawing Pencils by AHXML ● Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set – Brusarth 14 Pieces Art Drawing Graphite Pencils ● 29 Pieces Professional Sketching & Drawing Art Tool Kit With Graphite Pencils, Charcoal Pencils, Paper Erasable Pen, Craft Knife-Lightwish ● Quality Drawing Graphite Sketching Pencils in Paper Box Shading Art Pencil by Zanskar

 

ERASERS ▶ Kneaded Eraser, White Eraser & Eraser Pencils

A kneaded eraser is a must-have supply for removing pencil marks, and it won’t damage paper. Kneaded erasers can be shaped by hand for precision erasing, creating highlights, or performing detailed work. They are commonly used to remove light charcoal or graphite marks and in subtractive drawing techniques. Regarding white erasers, I prefer latex-free. The pencil eraser is designed as a pencil. They are perfect for erasing unwanted marks, fine point erasing, and also creating unique eraser effects.
● Some brands tend to get dry faster, so store your kneaded eraser in its case to keep it soft. 
My choices: ● June Gold Kneaded Rubber Erasers (Pack of 6). ● Mr. Pen- Erasers Set, White Eraser, Kneaded Eraser, Gum Eraser (Pack of 9). ● Pasler eraser pencil 7802 for drawing perfection eraser pencils with brush and a Sharpener (Set of 4)​ 

 

SHARPENER ▶ Art Pencil Sharpener

Sharpened pencils lead to better drawing.
● Electric or not, find one with a shavings storage compartment to keep your artwork tidy. 
My choices: ● Faber-Castell Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener – Grey ● Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener.

 

 

RULER ▶ Rulers – Geometry set


A ruler is always necessary for drawing anything with straight lines. The geometry set is necessary for structure drawing. We will need a 30/60 Triangle, a 45/90 Triangle, a 12” Flat Ruler, and a 180 Protractor for structure drawing.
● Choose a 12 or 18″ (30 or 45 cm) ruler made with stainless steel or anodized aluminum. These types of rulers are easy to keep clean. 
My choices: ● For a flat ruler: Alumicolor 8012 Flexible Stainless Steel ruler, measuring tool. ● For a geometry set: Mr. Pen – Geometry Set, 4 Pack, Metal Protractor, Aluminum Ruler, Metal Set Square, Triangle Ruler, Drafting Triangles, Triangle Ruler, Protractor Metal, Drafting Set, Geometry Kit, Drafting Ruler

 

 

KEEP IT CLEAN ▶ Drafting Brush


A brush is useful for sweeping away eraser crumbs. It is so soft that we can use it to clean any type of work surface.
● Choose a 12 or 18″ (30 or 45 cm) ruler made with stainless steel or anodized aluminum. These types of rulers are easy to keep clean. 
My choice: ● Alvin, 2342, Comfort Curve Dusting Brush, 15″ Wood Handle 

2.  COLORED PENCILS

(Graphite pencils and Colored pencils have a similar list. Considering this, don’t buy materials twice).

 
 
 
PAPER ▶ Drawing Paper Pad


Drawing pads can be used for drawing shapes, practicing composition, shading, and other drawing skills. In case we use it just for graphite pencil or charcoal, the paper can be a sketch pad (60 lb/100 gr and up). In case we use it for colored pencils also (which I recommend), we need heavier paper, at least 70 lb/114 gr, to be durable enough. 
● 9 x 12″ (22.9 x 30.5 cm) is a good size for beginners. Sometimes, I like to leave a white space around the theme I am drawing. If you don’t want to waste paper, then you can also buy a 6 x 8″ (15.2 x 20.3 cm) for the smaller themes. 
My choices: ● Strathmore 400 Series Colored Pencil Pads ● Canson XL Series Drawing Paper Pad, 70 Pound, 9 x 12 Inch, 60 Sheets.  ● Canson XL Series Mix Paper Pad, 98 Pound, 9 x 12 Inch, 60 Sheets. ● 40 Sheet Watercolor Paper Pad by Creatology (the paper is not that heavy for watercolor, but for drawing is great). 

 

 

PENCILS ▶ Colored Pencils

Colored pencils’ cores are wax- or oil-based and contain varying proportions of pigments. Colored pencils vary greatly in quality and usability; concentration of pigments in the core, lightfastness of the pigments, the durability of the colored pencil, and softness of the lead are some indicators of a brand’s quality and, consequently, its market price. 
● The 24 colors set is enough to start. Soft, thick cores are perfect for gradient, shading, and shadows. If you can afford to buy the set of 48, then do it.
My choices: ● Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, Set of 24. ● Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils | Art Supplies for Drawing, Sketching, Adult Coloring | Soft Core Color Pencils, 48 Pack  

 

ERASERS ▶ Kneaded Eraser & White Eraser

A kneaded eraser is a must-have supply for removing pencil marks, and it won’t damage paper. Kneaded erasers can be shaped by hand for precision erasing, creating highlights, or performing detailed work. They are commonly used to remove light charcoal or graphite marks and in subtractive drawing techniques. Regarding white erasers, I prefer latex-free.
● Some brands tend to get dry faster, so keep your kneaded eraser in its case to remain soft. 
My choices: ● June Gold Kneaded Rubber Erasers (Pack of 6). ● Mr. Pen- Erasers Set, White Eraser, Kneaded Eraser, Gum Eraser (Pack of 9).

 

SHARPENER ▶ Art Pencil Sharpener

Sharpened pencils lead to better drawing.
● Electric or not, find one with a shavings storage compartment to keep your artwork tidy. 
My choices: ● Faber-Castell GRIP Trio Pencil Sharpener. ● Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener.

 

 

RULER ▶ Metal Ruler


A ruler is always necessary for drawing anything with straight lines. 
● Choose a 12 or 18″ (30 or 45 cm) ruler made with stainless steel or anodized aluminum. These types of rulers are easy to keep clean. 
My choice: ● Alumicolor 8012 Flexible Stainless Steel ruler, measuring tool.

 3.  SOFT PASTELS 

 

 
PAPER ▶ Pastel Paper Pad 


Pastel paper, also called Ingres paper, comes in a wide range of colors and tones. Textured paper is the most popular surface for pastels. As the paper surface has sufficient tooth and can survive some rubbing and blending, it is a good choice. For beginners, I would definitely choose colored/toned paper. It sparks new creativity! Staring at a blank white sheet of paper can be overwhelming. But toned paper can help you ease up and get started. 
● 9 x 12″ (22.9 x 30.5 cm) is the smallest size I would suggest buying. As we cannot draw details when working on small sizes, artists use to choose big sizes’ papers, but that raises the cost too much. 
I believe that, in the beginning, a rough construction paper that looks recycled (not glossy!) is a fair choice for kids. But, if you want to go large, you can buy a 12×16 pastel paper.  
My choices: ● CANSON Mi-Teintes Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors 9″X12″ Fold Over (100510864) ● Strathmore 400 Series Pastel Pad, Assorted Colors, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 24 Sheets ● Norcom Heavyweight Construction Paper Pad 10 Assorted colors 9×12 or 12×18. 

 

PAINTS ▶ Soft Pastel Set 


Soft pastels is the most widely used form of pastel. They have a very high concentration of pigment held together by the least amount of gum binder possible. As a result, they crumble very easily, but their colors are wonderfully intense. Soft pastels are not chalks. You can use your fingers to blend or try using a q-tip or blending stick. 
The drawing can be readily smudged and blended, but it results in a higher proportion of dust. Finished drawings made with soft pastels require protecting, either framing under glass or spraying with a fixative to prevent smudging; hairspray also works. 
● 64 colors set is a good variety as they run out fast. I suggest having them organized by putting them always in the same place they were. There are some good deals for buying a pack of two at a low price.
My choice: ● Mungyo Soft Pastel 64 Color Set Square Chalk. ● [pack of 2] Mungyo Soft Pastel 64 Color Set Square Chalk (US English Version)​   

 

ERASER ▶ Kneaded Eraser


A kneaded eraser is a must-have supply for removing marks, and it won’t damage paper. Kneaded erasers can be shaped by hand for precision erasing, creating highlights, or performing detailed work. When working with soft pastels, you cannot remove paint from the paper but only if you tampon remove them. The soft eraser mass can be kneaded into any shape you want and, therefore, be used to correct small spots or larger sections. When dabbed on the desired area, the art eraser absorbs loose pigments by binding them to the eraser mass.
● Some brands tend to get dry faster, so store your kneaded eraser in its case to remain soft. 
My choices: ● June Gold Kneaded Rubber Erasers (Pack of 6). ● 2X Prismacolor Design Eraser, 1224 Kneaded Rubber Eraser Large, Grey. ● Faber-Castell Erasers – Drawing Art kneaded Erasers, Large size Grey – 4 Pack.

 

SMUDGE ▶ Paper Blending Pencil 


Paper Blending Stump and Tortillion are used to blending drawings in pastels, charcoal, or graphite.
● Some people love it, and some don’t. If you use it wisely, you can make a nice blending with the pastels. 
My choices: ● MyLifeUNIT Paper Blending Stump and Tortillion for Student Sketch Drawing.

 

SPRAY ▶ FIXATIF 


The spray is used to protect the artwork from smudging & dust. It also allows for easy reworking of the artwork. Artists use it always to keep their works in good condition, but I don’t recommend it for kids. Its emissions are hazardous for the lungs and the disposition of the person who smells it to use only outdoors. Young children, the elderly, and pregnant women may be more sensitive to this spray. 
● You may use hairspray instead, but with no oil or conditioner added. Not that good job, but good enough for our purpose. 
My choice: ● Krylon K01303007 Acrylic Spray Paint Crystal Clear in 11-Ounce Aerosol) 

 4.  WATERCOLORS 

  

 
PAPER ▶ Watercolor Paper Pad 


There are so many factors to consider to choose the paper for you. The first one is the texture. You choose between the hot press, cold press, and rough. I personally choose cold press papers. The rough ones are not appropriate for detailed work, and the hot press ones are the best for it, but they are very costly. 
Second, it’s the quality that matters, what they are made of. The cotton-made ones are the best. The cellulose and wood pulp paper doesn’t absorb water the same way that cotton does, so you get different results when painting. Also, they will turn to yellow overages. 
And last, it’s the weight. I always use 140lb / 300 gsm paper or heavier. The more water you add, the heavier the paper that you need. 
● 9 x 12″ (22.9 x 30.5 cm) is a good size for beginners. Sometimes, I like to leave a white space around the theme I am drawing. If you don’t want to waste paper, then you can also buy a 6 x 8″ (15.2 x 20.3 cm) for the smaller themes. 
My choices: ● Arches Watercolor Pad, Hot Press 9X12″ ● Canson XL Series Watercolor Pad, 9×12″, Fold-over cover, 30 Sheets. 

 

 

 

PAINTS ▶ Watercolors set  
 

    
Watercolors are paints with water-based pigments. Pigments are colored materials from rocks, plants, or chemicals that dissolve in water. They are made in the form of cakes or tubes. The pigment is applied to the white paper. As watercolors have a transparent result, each area is painted only once and looks fresh and original rather than worked over. The best ones are high-pigmented with a great color selection that mixes well. There is no chalky or grainy feel to them after they are dry, and of course, non-toxic.
● A great color set should consist of a great but non-toxic selection and, most importantly, high-pigmented.  
My choices: ● Winsor & Newton Cotman Water Colour Paint Compact Set, Set of 14, Half Pans ● Komorebi Japanese Watercolor Paint Set – 40 Colors – Including Metallic and Neon – Artist Quality – Richly Pigmented – MozArt Supplies ● MeiLiang Watercolor Paint Set, 36 Vivid Colors in Pocket Box with Metal Ring and Watercolor Brush, Perfect for Students, Kids, Beginners and More

 

PAINTS ▶ White gouache color  
 


We do not use white in traditional water coloring because watercolor is a transparent medium and your paper is white. Beginners often use the color white to correct or lighten parts that mistakenly have overpainted.
● A fabulous color set should consist of a great but non-toxic selection and, most importantly, high-pigmented.  
My choice: ● Winsor & Newton Cotman Water Colour Paint, 8ml tube, Chinese White.

 

BRUSHES ▶ Watercolor Flat & Round Brushes

Watercolor brushes have soft bristles, and they usually last for long. There are many sets in the market, and they usually are inexpensive. Sable and goat hair brushes are very soft, and both are popular options. Many artists also prefer soft nylon brushes for excellent control of the stroke. I actually prefer to use nylon brushes for most applications.
● I use the flat ones for larger areas, while round ones are more appropriate for detailed work. 
My choices: ● Flat brushes: AOOK 10 Pieces Paint Brush Set, Watercolor Brushes Professional for Watercolor (1-Pack) ● Soucolor Acrylic Paint Brushes Set, 20Pcs Round Pointed Tip Artist Paintbrushes for Acrylic Painting Oil Watercolor Canvas Boards Body Face Rock Easter Eggs, Adult Kids Drawing Arts Crafts Supplies Round brushesMudder 12 Pieces Artist Paint Brushes Fine Paint Brush for Acrylic Watercolor Oil Painting, Purple.  Pentel – Aquash Water Brush Medium Point & Small Point 2 Pens Profesional Arts Value Set.

 

PALETTE ▶ Plastic White Palette

White plastic palettes are not always a must-have as most of the time, the watercolor set gives a surface to apply the mixture.    
● Any of the palettes you will find can do the same job. Buy the least expensive. 
My choice: ● Darice Plastic Palette, 10 Well.

 

MASKING AREAS ▶ Masking Fluid and Masking Tape

Masking fluid is a latex-based fluid applied to the surface to preserve areas of the paper or previously applied washes of color. Masking tape is used to make a straight border around our artwork. 
● Before you use it, make sure the surface is clean, dry and dust-free, so that the fluid or tape sticks properly. Before you remove them, make sure that the area around them is dry.
My choices: ● Masking Fluid: Grafix WM2 White Mask Liquid Frisket, 2-Ounce. ● Masking Tape: ScotchBlue Original Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape, .70 inches x 60 yards, 2090, 1 Roll  

 

MARKERS ▶ Fine Line Markers 


We use markers to illustrate beautiful and precise outlines. For good quality, we need the markers to be waterproof, chemical resistant, fade resistant, bleed-free, quick-drying, and ph neutral. We need a variety of markers, for bold and thin lines. 
My choices: ● Sakura Pigma 30067 Micron Blister Card Ink Pen Set, Black, 8/Set

 5.  ACRYLICS 

SURFACE TO PAINT ▶ Canvas / Canvas Paper Pad

Many artists prefer linen to cotton canvases. I prefer both. For studying acrylics, you can also try small boards or even acrylic color pads or panels. I also recommend the very affordable canvas bulk from Michaels.
● Try small sizes to begin; something between 8×10″, 9×12″, and 12×16″ is a good size. 
My choices: ● Strathmore 300 Series Canvas Pad, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 10 Sheets  Canson XL Series Oil, and Acrylic Paper Pad, Bleed Proof Canvas Like Texture, Fold Over, 136 pound, 9 x 12 Inch, White, 24 Sheets ● GOTIDEAL Canvas Panels 9×12″ inch Set of 8,Professional Primed White Blank- 100% Cotton Artist Canvas Boards for Painting, Acrylic Paint, Oil Paint Dry & Wet Art Media

 

PAINTS ▶ Acrylic color tubes

Acrylic paint is a water-based medium, making them easily approachable to many artists and kids. 
Thin layers of acrylic paint will dry in a half-hour, while thicker ones can take up to two hours. The weather and environmental condition play a crucial role here.
Buy the best quality materials you can afford. It’s often true that less expensive paints and brushes are harder to work with. I believe you should get basic colors to start and create others by mixing.
● I recommend buying individual paints, not a set, as most of the time, the set doesn’t include the top priority colors. If you buy a set, the following option is good enough for beginners.
My choice: ● GOTIDEAL Acrylic Paint Set, 24 Colors/Tubes (23ml, 0.77 oz) Non-Toxic 

 

BRUSHES ▶ Brushes for acrylics

I like to use medium-hardness brushes and small sizes, as I like to detail my work.
● I use the flat ones for larger areas, while round ones are more appropriate for detailed work. 
My choice: ● BOSOBO Paint Brushes Set, 2 Pack 20 Pcs Round Pointed Tip Paintbrushes Nylon Hair Artist Acrylic Paint Brushes for Acrylic  

 

PALETTE ▶ Palette Pad / Butcher Tray / Sta-Wet Palette

Palette paper pad is the easiest way for beginners as you can toss it out when you’re done for quick and easy cleanup. A butcher tray is trendy too. Another good option is the Sta-Wet palette with a secure seal that keeps out air, and the paints will not dry out.  
● I prefer to use a butcher tray or a palette paper and keep it fresh in a sta-wet palette seal. In case you run out of palettes, you can always use disposable white plates (made of plastic or paper, not foam).
My choice: ● Strathmore 365-9 300 Series Palette Pad, 9″x12″ Tape Bound, 40 Sheets. ● Enamel Butcher Tray 11×15 ● Masterson Sta-Wet Palette Seal

 

PALETTE KNIVES ▶ Stainless Steel Spatula/Palette Painting Knives
  
A palette knife is a blunt tool used for mixing or applying paint with a flexible steel blade.  
● Painting with a knife can be challenging but needs a technique, so you don’t waste too much paint. 
My choice: ● Arrtx 5 Pieces Painting Knives Stainless Steel Spatula Palette Knife Oil Painting Accessories Color Mixing Set for Oil, Canvas, Acrylic Painting-Arrtx ● Palette Knife Painting Stainless Steel Spatula Palette Knife Oil Paint Metal Knives Wood Handle

 

SKETCH ON CANVAS ▶ Charcoal sticks

We use a charcoal stick to sketch the theme on our surface. Graphite pencil is not appropriate as it eventually appears on the top.  
● Charcoal sticks are very fragile, so always keep them in a sturdy case. 
My choice: ● Charcoal Vine Thin Soft 6/Box

 

BRUSHES SOAP ▶ The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver Soap

You will need a suitable soap for cleaning, conditioning, and preserving your brushes.  
 Regular soap doesn’t help here. This unique product works on oils, acrylics, and watercolors and restores the most hardened brushes to like-new conditions
My choice: ● General Pencil Company Inc., The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 1 Oz.

 6.  OIL COLORS 

 

 
SURFACE TO PAINT ▶ Canvas / Canvas Paper Pad

Many artists prefer linen to cotton canvases; I like both. For studying oils, you can also try small boards or even oil color pads or panels. I also recommend the very affordable canvas bulk from Michaels.
● Try small sizes to begin; something between 8×10″ and 12×16″ is a good size. We can proceed to larger sizes later.
My choices: ● 6 Pack 12″ x 16″ Super Value Canvas Necessities™ by Artist’s Loft®. ● Strathmore 300 Series Canvas Pad, 9″x12″ Glue Bound, 10 Sheets ● Canson XL Series Oil, and Acrylic Paper Pad, Bleed Proof Canvas Like Texture, Fold Over, 136 pound, 9 x 12 Inch, White, 24 Sheets

 

PAINTS ▶ Oil color tubes

Oil paints is my favorite of mediums, and this is because:
They get dry slowly, giving you the privilege of time for detailed work. You can work with layers as those paints have an excellent opacity. You can re-painted areas to correct details or alter the composition.
They are also very durable. Oil paintings can last longer than other media, so we see oil paintings as far back as the 13th century. Buy the best quality materials you can afford. It’s often true that less expensive paints and brushes are harder to work with. The best way is to get primary colors to start and create others by mixing. But this needs experience.
 

Here’s a good starting list of oil paint colors: 
Titanium white, Lemon Yellow, Cadmium Yellow, Cadmium Orange, Cadmium Red or Cadmium Red light, Carmine, Magenta, Ultramarine Blue, Cobalt Blue, Pthalo Blue or Primary Cyan, Viridian Green, Olive Green, Yellow Ochre, Raw Umber, Burnt Sienna, Burnt Umber, VanDych Brown, Dioxazine Purple, Payne’s Grey, Ivory Black. 
 

Specific pigments cost more than others (particularly cobalt and cadmium). ‘Hue’ colors are less expensive as they have less concentration of pigment.


● I recommend buying individual paints, not a set, as most of the time, the set doesn’t include the top priority colors. If you buy a set, the following options are good enough for beginners.
My choices: ● Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colors 10 Tube Set (21 ml Tubes). ● VanGogh Basic Set of 10 Colors (20 ml Tubes) 

 

BRUSHES ▶ Brushes for oils

I like to use medium-hardness brushes and small sizes, as I like to detail my work.
● I use the flat ones for larger areas, while round ones are more appropriate for detailed work. 
My choice: ● Paint Brushes 12 Set Professional Paint Brush Round Pointed Tip Nylon Hair Artist Acrylic Brush for Acrylic Watercolor Oil Painting by Crafts 4 ALL.

 

SOLVENT ▶ Gamblin Gamsol & Linseed Oil


Gamsol is a non-toxic solvent for thinning mediums and general painting. It is safer for painters and the environment than turpentine and has 100% pure odorless mineral spirits. Linseed oil improves the flow of oil colors. It also increases gloss and transparency and slows drying. Odorless Turpenoid has the same painting properties and drying time as turpentine, but this solvent is free from the strong characteristic odor of traditional turpentine.

I mix Odorless Turpenoid and Linseed oil, and I get optimum results as a solvent. I use a small jar (~2 fl oz) and mix 4 parts of Turpenoid with 1 part of linseed oil. In a second jar, put a good amount of Gamsol (~5 fl oz) for cleaning the paint from your brush after each painting session.
● I prefer to use a butcher tray or a palette paper and keep it fresh in a sta-wet palette seal. 
My choice: ● Gamblin Gamsol Odorless Mineral Spirits Bottle, 4.2oz ● Winsor & Newton 3221723 Artisan H20 Med 75ml Linseed Oil, Multicolor

 

PALETTE ▶ Palette Pad / Butcher Tray / Sta-Wet Palette

Palette paper pad is the easiest way for beginners as you can toss it out when you’re done for quick and easy cleanup. A butcher tray is trendy too. Another good option is the Sta-Wet palette with a secure seal that keeps out air, and the paints will not dry out.  
● I prefer to use a butcher tray or a palette paper and keep it fresh in a sta-wet palette seal. In case you run out of palettes, you can always use disposable white plates (made of plastic or paper, not foam).
My choice: ● Strathmore 365-9 300 Series Palette Pad, 9″x12″ Tape Bound, 40 Sheets. ● Enamel Butcher Tray 11×15 ● Masterson Sta-Wet Palette Seal

 

PALETTE KNIVES ▶ Stainless Steel Spatula/Palette Painting Knives

A palette knife is a blunt tool used for mixing or applying paint with a flexible steel blade.  
● Painting with a knife can be challenging but needs a technique, so you don’t waste too much paint. 
My choice: ● Arrtx 5 Pieces Painting Knives Stainless Steel Spatula Palette Knife Oil Painting Accessories Color Mixing Set for Oil, Canvas, Acrylic Painting-Arrtx

 

SKETCH ON CANVAS ▶ Charcoal sticks

We use a charcoal stick to sketch the theme on our surface. Graphite pencil is not appropriate as it eventually appears on the top.  
● Charcoal sticks are very fragile, so always keep them in a sturdy case. 
My choice: ● Charcoal Vine Thin Soft 6/Box

 

BRUSHES SOAP ▶ The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver Soap

You will need a suitable soap for cleaning, conditioning, and preserving your brushes.  
 Regular soap doesn’t help here. This unique product works on oils, acrylics, and watercolors and restores the most hardened brushes to like-new conditions
My choice: ● General Pencil Company Inc., The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 1 Oz.

 7. MARKERS

 

 
PAPER ▶ Drawing Paper Pad 


Drawing pads can be used for markers too. 
● 9 x 12″ (22.9 x 30.5 cm) is a good size for beginners. 
My choices: ● Strathmore 400 Series Colored Pencil Pads  Canson XL Series Drawing Paper Pad, 70 Pound, 9 x 12 Inch, 60 Sheets.   Canson XL Series Mix Paper Pad, 98 Pound, 9 x 12 Inch, 60 Sheets. 

 

MARKERS ▶ Fine Line Markers 


For good quality, we need the markers to be waterproof, chemical resistant, fade resistant, bleed-free, quick-drying, and ph neutral. We need a variety of markers, for bold and thin lines. 
My choices: ● Sakura Pigma 30067 Micron Blister Card Ink Pen Set, Black, 8/Set

 
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