My Essential Art Supplies List
Over the years, I have tried many supplies and spent so much money on new supplies too. Some I hated, some I loved, and others are still gathering dust under a shelf somewhere. However, through it all, there are some staples that I would love to be stuck on a deserted island with (if that ever happens!).
So, come along with me as I share my list and I hope you can also find a thing or two to inspire you to create something awesome today.
A Pencil
Yes, a basic pencil. I use this before I start any illustration or calligraphy work at all. This helps me lay down guides, notes to not forget, or even ideas I’d like to try. I take this everywhere I go because it’s just easy.
You can also experiment with different hard or soft pencils. Bonus points if it’s a coloured pencil or mechanical pencil with an eraser (but just for sketching).
“Ugly” Sketchbook or Notebook
…(Or any notebook with graph lines, really)
No, it’s not really an ugly sketchbook but it’s just a regular notebook. I learned about this kind of sketchbook from Fran Meneses (an awesome illustrator). Here, I can make mistakes, experiment, and be messy, and nobody has to see what I made 🥹(Unless I decide to share it).
However, I’m also a bit picky because I like notebooks that can hold calligraphy ink well and have graph lines too. After many tries, this one was the winner for me!
Mixed-Media Sketchbook
This is cool because I can experiment with different media here: pencil, watercolour, gouache, calligraphy inks, and more. I prefer this kind of sketchbook over watercolour sketchbooks because of all the possibilities (and can I mention how expensive they are??? 😅). As a broke artist just starting out, I enjoy using the Canson XL mixed-media sketchbook because it’s like the “ugly” notebook version of my sketchbook. You can also try this cheaper version.
Eraser
Again, nothing special here. I use the regular Staedtler Mars Plastic eraser. What can I say: it’s cheap, easily accessible, and does what it’s supposed to do: erase! 🤩 You can also try this one with a holder.
A Set of Inkers
Since the beginning of my art journey, inkers played a huge role in my sketches. However, I stick more with pens and pencils these days and use inkers once in a while. I have bought the Pigma Micron pens at least twice and it is great for every level.
Bonus: A “Safe” Medium
This just means whatever medium you’re comfortable working with. This can be from watercolours, gouache, oils, acrylic, markers, coloured pencils, charcoals, pastels, crayons, and more. I would say get a media you like but in a limited colour palette or small size so that you’re not too overwhelmed.
I’m sure you have most of these supplies lying around in your home, studio, or wherever you draw; and if you do, why not tell me in the comments below? Try checking out some of the items above* and if you’re going to invest any money, make sure it is as little as possible.
The point is to reduce your workflow or process to the basics because at the end of the day, you don’t need fancy materials to create great art.
Till next time…go forth and create something awesome; even if it sucks!
*Includes affiliate links