How to Choose Art Supplies for Beginner Artists
Embarking on a journey into the world of art is an exciting and enriching experience for beginners. However, the vast array of art supplies available in the market can be overwhelming. To set yourself up for a successful artistic endeavor, it's essential to choose the right art supplies that suit your style, budget, and creative aspirations. In this article, we will guide beginner artists through the process of selecting the necessary art materials, helping them make informed decisions that will enhance their artistic journey.
Embarking on a journey into the world of art is an exciting and enriching experience for beginners. However, the vast array of art supplies available in the market can be overwhelming. To set yourself up for a successful artistic endeavor, it's essential to choose the right art supplies that suit your style, budget, and creative aspirations. In this article, we will guide beginner artists through the process of selecting the necessary art materials, helping them make informed decisions that will enhance their artistic journey.
pencils
Pencils are the fundamental tool for every artist, and for beginners, finding the right pencils can significantly impact their artistic journey.
The softness of a pencil refers to the hardness of the graphite core, which directly affects the darkness or lightness of the marks it creates. Pencils with softer leads produce darker and smoother lines, while harder pencils produce lighter and more precise lines.
For beginners, a set of pencils that cover the HB to 6B range is a great starting point. This range provides enough versatility to explore various drawing techniques and achieve different shades in your artwork. A set of 2H and 2B pencils can also be useful for more detailed work.
You can learn more about pencils on our Drawing For Beginners Online Course.
The softness of a pencil refers to the hardness of the graphite core, which directly affects the darkness or lightness of the marks it creates. Pencils with softer leads produce darker and smoother lines, while harder pencils produce lighter and more precise lines.
For beginners, a set of pencils that cover the HB to 6B range is a great starting point. This range provides enough versatility to explore various drawing techniques and achieve different shades in your artwork. A set of 2H and 2B pencils can also be useful for more detailed work.
You can learn more about pencils on our Drawing For Beginners Online Course.
Watercolors
As a beginner artist venturing into the world of watercolors, choosing the right set of paints can make all the difference in your creative journey. With a plethora of options available, selecting the best watercolors might seem overwhelming.
Watercolors come in two main forms - pans and tubes. Pans are solid blocks of dried watercolor paint that can be activated with water, while tubes contain a paste-like paint that can be squeezed onto a palette. Pans are more convenient for outdoor painting and easy to transport, while tubes offer a broader range of colors and are ideal for studio use.
Watercolors are categorized into student-grade and artist-grade paints. Student-grade watercolors are more affordable and suitable for beginners, while artist-grade paints contain higher-quality pigments and offer better color vibrancy and lightfastness. Investing in artist-grade watercolors will elevate the quality of your artwork and provide more satisfying results.
Watercolors come in two main forms - pans and tubes. Pans are solid blocks of dried watercolor paint that can be activated with water, while tubes contain a paste-like paint that can be squeezed onto a palette. Pans are more convenient for outdoor painting and easy to transport, while tubes offer a broader range of colors and are ideal for studio use.
Watercolors are categorized into student-grade and artist-grade paints. Student-grade watercolors are more affordable and suitable for beginners, while artist-grade paints contain higher-quality pigments and offer better color vibrancy and lightfastness. Investing in artist-grade watercolors will elevate the quality of your artwork and provide more satisfying results.
For beginners, it's recommended to start with a basic set of primary colors: cadmium red, lemon yellow, cobalt blue, and a neutral color such as burnt sienna. This limited palette allows you to mix a wide range of secondary colors and experiment with various color combinations.
Watercolor paper plays a significant role in achieving desirable results. Look for watercolor paper specifically designed for the medium, with weight measured in pounds (lbs). A paper weight of 140 lbs or higher is recommended, as it can handle wet washes and prevent the paper from buckling.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different brands and colors to find the ones that suit your style and preferences. Regular practice with various techniques will help you gain confidence and improve your skills as a watercolor artist.
Watercolor paper plays a significant role in achieving desirable results. Look for watercolor paper specifically designed for the medium, with weight measured in pounds (lbs). A paper weight of 140 lbs or higher is recommended, as it can handle wet washes and prevent the paper from buckling.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different brands and colors to find the ones that suit your style and preferences. Regular practice with various techniques will help you gain confidence and improve your skills as a watercolor artist.
how choose watercolour paper
Watercolor paper is available in various weights, typically measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). Heavier paper, such as 140 lbs (300 gsm) or higher, is recommended as it can withstand the water and paint without warping or buckling. Lighter papers, like 90 lbs (190 gsm), may not handle wet washes as well and could lead to unwanted paper buckling.
Watercolor paper comes in three main textures: Hot Press, Cold Press, and Rough. Hot Press paper has a smooth surface, ideal for detailed work and illustrations. Cold Press paper, with its medium texture, is the most popular choice as it offers a good balance between detail and texture, making it versatile for various watercolor techniques. Rough paper has a pronounced texture, which can add interesting visual effects to your artwork.
Watercolor paper can be made from natural fibers, such as cotton, or synthetic materials. Natural fiber papers, especially those made from 100% cotton, are of higher quality and tend to handle watercolors better. They also have better absorbency and allow for more color layering.
Watercolor paper comes in three main textures: Hot Press, Cold Press, and Rough. Hot Press paper has a smooth surface, ideal for detailed work and illustrations. Cold Press paper, with its medium texture, is the most popular choice as it offers a good balance between detail and texture, making it versatile for various watercolor techniques. Rough paper has a pronounced texture, which can add interesting visual effects to your artwork.
Watercolor paper can be made from natural fibers, such as cotton, or synthetic materials. Natural fiber papers, especially those made from 100% cotton, are of higher quality and tend to handle watercolors better. They also have better absorbency and allow for more color layering.
basics of drawing online course
34+ tutorials
Discover the joy of drawing with our online course "Drawing for Beginners". With 30 big video tutorials and 14 hours of practice, you will learn the basics of sketching, shading, and perspective, as well as techniques for drawing still life, landscapes, animals, etc.
Our expert instructors will provide you with personalized feedback and support, helping you to develop your skills and unleash your creativity.
Discover the joy of drawing with our online course "Drawing for Beginners". With 30 big video tutorials and 14 hours of practice, you will learn the basics of sketching, shading, and perspective, as well as techniques for drawing still life, landscapes, animals, etc.
Our expert instructors will provide you with personalized feedback and support, helping you to develop your skills and unleash your creativity.
Markers
Markers are versatile and vibrant tools that have become increasingly popular among artists of all skill levels. For beginner artists, markers offer an excellent medium to explore their creativity and produce eye-catching artworks.
Markers come in different types, each offering unique features and advantages. Broadly, there are three main types of markers: alcohol-based, water-based, and oil-based. Alcohol-based markers provide smooth, vibrant colors, and are ideal for blending. Water-based markers are water-soluble, allowing for seamless blending and layering, while oil-based markers are less common but offer a glossy finish and can be used on various surfaces.
Markers come with different tip types, such as chisel, brush, bullet, and fine point. Chisel tips are versatile and suitable for both broad strokes and precise lines. Brush tips mimic the flexibility of paintbrushes, allowing for fluid strokes and various line widths. Bullet tips are ideal for consistent and controlled lines, while fine point tips are excellent for intricate details.
Markers come in different types, each offering unique features and advantages. Broadly, there are three main types of markers: alcohol-based, water-based, and oil-based. Alcohol-based markers provide smooth, vibrant colors, and are ideal for blending. Water-based markers are water-soluble, allowing for seamless blending and layering, while oil-based markers are less common but offer a glossy finish and can be used on various surfaces.
Markers come with different tip types, such as chisel, brush, bullet, and fine point. Chisel tips are versatile and suitable for both broad strokes and precise lines. Brush tips mimic the flexibility of paintbrushes, allowing for fluid strokes and various line widths. Bullet tips are ideal for consistent and controlled lines, while fine point tips are excellent for intricate details.
When starting, it's best to begin with a basic set of primary colors (red, blue, yellow) along with black and white. This allows you to create a wide range of colors by blending and layering. As you gain more experience, you can expand your collection with additional shades to enhance your color palette.
Choosing the right paper is crucial for optimizing marker performance. Look for smooth, heavyweight paper designed for markers or mixed-media. Heavyweight paper prevents bleed-through and absorbs the ink evenly, while smooth surfaces allow markers to glide smoothly.
Before committing to a large set, test a few markers on the paper you plan to use. This allows you to assess how the markers interact with the paper and if the colors meet your expectations. Some brands also offer individual markers for purchase, making it easier to try out different colors before investing in a complete set.
Start with a basic set of primary colors and experiment with blending and layering to expand your color range. Choose compatible paper for optimal marker performance, and don't hesitate to test and try out different markers before building your collection.
Choosing the right paper is crucial for optimizing marker performance. Look for smooth, heavyweight paper designed for markers or mixed-media. Heavyweight paper prevents bleed-through and absorbs the ink evenly, while smooth surfaces allow markers to glide smoothly.
Before committing to a large set, test a few markers on the paper you plan to use. This allows you to assess how the markers interact with the paper and if the colors meet your expectations. Some brands also offer individual markers for purchase, making it easier to try out different colors before investing in a complete set.
Start with a basic set of primary colors and experiment with blending and layering to expand your color range. Choose compatible paper for optimal marker performance, and don't hesitate to test and try out different markers before building your collection.
When starting, it's best to begin with a basic set of primary colors (red, blue, yellow) along with black and white. This allows you to create a wide range of colors by blending and layering. As you gain more experience, you can expand your collection with additional shades to enhance your color palette.
Choosing the right paper is crucial for optimizing marker performance. Look for smooth, heavyweight paper designed for markers or mixed-media. Heavyweight paper prevents bleed-through and absorbs the ink evenly, while smooth surfaces allow markers to glide smoothly.
Before committing to a large set, test a few markers on the paper you plan to use. This allows you to assess how the markers interact with the paper and if the colors meet your expectations. Some brands also offer individual markers for purchase, making it easier to try out different colors before investing in a complete set.
Start with a basic set of primary colors and experiment with blending and layering to expand your color range. Choose compatible paper for optimal marker performance, and don't hesitate to test and try out different markers before building your collection.
Choosing the right paper is crucial for optimizing marker performance. Look for smooth, heavyweight paper designed for markers or mixed-media. Heavyweight paper prevents bleed-through and absorbs the ink evenly, while smooth surfaces allow markers to glide smoothly.
Before committing to a large set, test a few markers on the paper you plan to use. This allows you to assess how the markers interact with the paper and if the colors meet your expectations. Some brands also offer individual markers for purchase, making it easier to try out different colors before investing in a complete set.
Start with a basic set of primary colors and experiment with blending and layering to expand your color range. Choose compatible paper for optimal marker performance, and don't hesitate to test and try out different markers before building your collection.
watch video LEARN HOW TO EFFECTIVELY COMBINE COLORS WITH MARKERS
acrylic paints
Acrylic paints are available in tubes and jars. Tubes are more common and offer greater convenience for beginners, as they allow you to squeeze out the desired amount of paint easily. Jars, on the other hand, are ideal for artists who require larger quantities of paint or plan to mix their colors in larger batches.
Acrylic paints are often categorized into series based on their quality and pigmentation. Series 1 paints are typically more affordable but may have lower pigmentation and vibrancy.
For beginners, it's recommended to start with a basic color palette that includes primary colors (red, blue, yellow) along with white and black. These colors provide a strong foundation for mixing and creating a wide range of hues.
Acrylic paints are often categorized into series based on their quality and pigmentation. Series 1 paints are typically more affordable but may have lower pigmentation and vibrancy.
For beginners, it's recommended to start with a basic color palette that includes primary colors (red, blue, yellow) along with white and black. These colors provide a strong foundation for mixing and creating a wide range of hues.
Acrylic paints come in various consistencies: heavy body, soft body, and fluid. Heavy body paints are thick and retain brush strokes, making them suitable for impasto techniques and texture. Soft body paints have a creamy consistency, while fluid paints are thinner and ideal for pouring techniques.
When selecting acrylic paints, consider the lightfastness ratings provided by the manufacturer. Lightfastness indicates the paint's ability to resist fading when exposed to light over time. Choosing paints with higher lightfastness ensures the longevity of your artwork.
When selecting acrylic paints, consider the lightfastness ratings provided by the manufacturer. Lightfastness indicates the paint's ability to resist fading when exposed to light over time. Choosing paints with higher lightfastness ensures the longevity of your artwork.
Acrylic paints come in various consistencies: heavy body, soft body, and fluid. Heavy body paints are thick and retain brush strokes, making them suitable for impasto techniques and texture. Soft body paints have a creamy consistency, while fluid paints are thinner and ideal for pouring techniques.
When selecting acrylic paints, consider the lightfastness ratings provided by the manufacturer. Lightfastness indicates the paint's ability to resist fading when exposed to light over time. Choosing paints with higher lightfastness ensures the longevity of your artwork.
When selecting acrylic paints, consider the lightfastness ratings provided by the manufacturer. Lightfastness indicates the paint's ability to resist fading when exposed to light over time. Choosing paints with higher lightfastness ensures the longevity of your artwork.
acrylic painting online course
10+ tutorials
Join an incredible artistic journey with my online course on acrylic painting!
On this course we will delve into a comprehensive materials review, exploring the best acrylic paints, brushes, and techniques that will elevate your artwork to new heights.
With step-by-step tutorials, professional tutor guide you through the mesmerizing process of creating stunning abstract artworks, capturing the essence of still life compositions, and painting breathtaking landscapes that transport you to serene vistas.
Join an incredible artistic journey with my online course on acrylic painting!
On this course we will delve into a comprehensive materials review, exploring the best acrylic paints, brushes, and techniques that will elevate your artwork to new heights.
With step-by-step tutorials, professional tutor guide you through the mesmerizing process of creating stunning abstract artworks, capturing the essence of still life compositions, and painting breathtaking landscapes that transport you to serene vistas.
oil paints
Oil paints come in different types, each with its unique characteristics and advantages. The three main types are student-grade, artist-grade, and professional-grade oil paints. Student-grade paints are more affordable, making them suitable for beginners on a budget.
Begin with a basic color palette that includes primary colors (red, blue, yellow) along with white and black. This minimal palette allows you to create a wide range of colors by mixing and blending. As you become more comfortable with the medium, you can explore additional colors to expand your creative options.
Oil paints come in different consistencies: heavy body, medium body, and soft body. Heavy body paints are thick and retain brush strokes, making them suitable for impasto techniques and creating texture. Medium body paints strike a balance between thickness and smoothness, while soft body paints are smoother and ideal for glazing and smooth applications. Consider the drying time of the paints as well, as it affects your painting process and technique.
Begin with a basic color palette that includes primary colors (red, blue, yellow) along with white and black. This minimal palette allows you to create a wide range of colors by mixing and blending. As you become more comfortable with the medium, you can explore additional colors to expand your creative options.
Oil paints come in different consistencies: heavy body, medium body, and soft body. Heavy body paints are thick and retain brush strokes, making them suitable for impasto techniques and creating texture. Medium body paints strike a balance between thickness and smoothness, while soft body paints are smoother and ideal for glazing and smooth applications. Consider the drying time of the paints as well, as it affects your painting process and technique.
BRUSHES
There are various types of brushes designed for different art mediums, such as acrylics, watercolors, oils, and more. Acrylic brushes are suitable for use with acrylic paints, watercolor brushes are designed for watercolor painting, and oil brushes are specifically crafted for oil paints. Understanding the appropriate brush type for your chosen medium is crucial for achieving optimal results.
Brushes are made from different materials, each influencing their performance and durability. The most common brush materials are:
Brushes are made from different materials, each influencing their performance and durability. The most common brush materials are:
- Synthetic: Suitable for acrylic and watercolor paints, synthetic brushes are more affordable, durable, and easy to clean.
- Natural Hair: Used for oil and watercolor painting, natural hair brushes offer better paint retention and smoother strokes. Sable, squirrel, and hog hair are commonly used for watercolors, while bristle brushes are favored for oil painting.
pastels
Pastels come in three main types: soft pastels, hard pastels, and oil pastels. Soft pastels are the most popular and versatile, offering rich, vibrant colors and smooth application. Hard pastels are firmer, ideal for fine details and precise lines. Oil pastels, on the other hand, have a creamy texture and can be blended like oil paints, making them suitable for mixed-media work.
Soft pastels come in different consistencies: soft, medium, and hard. Soft pastels are rich and easily blendable, while medium pastels strike a balance between soft and hard. Hard pastels offer more control for finer details. As a beginner, starting with soft or medium pastels is recommended, as they are more forgiving and easier to work with.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different pastel brands. Each brand offers its unique qualities and pigmentation. Trying out various brands allows you to discover the ones that best suit your artistic style and preferences.
Soft pastels come in different consistencies: soft, medium, and hard. Soft pastels are rich and easily blendable, while medium pastels strike a balance between soft and hard. Hard pastels offer more control for finer details. As a beginner, starting with soft or medium pastels is recommended, as they are more forgiving and easier to work with.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different pastel brands. Each brand offers its unique qualities and pigmentation. Trying out various brands allows you to discover the ones that best suit your artistic style and preferences.
markers drawing online course
10+ tutorials
The online course "Markers sketching" was created for those who want to learn about all the possibilities of illustration with one of the brightest and most popular modern materials – colored alcohol markers.
It is perfect for both beginners in the world of illustration and for those who want to expand their range of possibilities and master new artistic material.
We will learn not only how to create vivid sketches, but also practice techniques such as blending to explore textures and gradients, and learn how to create special effects by combining markers with lettering and work with the background.
The online course "Markers sketching" was created for those who want to learn about all the possibilities of illustration with one of the brightest and most popular modern materials – colored alcohol markers.
It is perfect for both beginners in the world of illustration and for those who want to expand their range of possibilities and master new artistic material.
We will learn not only how to create vivid sketches, but also practice techniques such as blending to explore textures and gradients, and learn how to create special effects by combining markers with lettering and work with the background.
Graphic Tablet
In the digital age, graphic tablets have become essential tools for artists seeking to create digital art with precision and creativity.
Before diving into the vast array of graphic tablets, consider your artistic needs and intentions. Ask yourself questions like:
Graphic tablets come in two main types: pen tablets (also known as digitizer tablets) and display tablets. Pen tablets are a standalone device that connects to your computer, while display tablets have a built-in screen that allows you to draw directly on the tablet's surface.
For beginners, pen tablets are more affordable and lightweight, making them a popular choice. Display tablets offer a more intuitive drawing experience but come with a higher price tag.
Before diving into the vast array of graphic tablets, consider your artistic needs and intentions. Ask yourself questions like:
- What art software will I use? (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Corel Painter, Clip Studio Paint)
- Do I require a tablet for drawing, photo editing, or both?
- What level of precision and pressure sensitivity do I need?
Graphic tablets come in two main types: pen tablets (also known as digitizer tablets) and display tablets. Pen tablets are a standalone device that connects to your computer, while display tablets have a built-in screen that allows you to draw directly on the tablet's surface.
For beginners, pen tablets are more affordable and lightweight, making them a popular choice. Display tablets offer a more intuitive drawing experience but come with a higher price tag.
Graphic tablets come in various sizes, ranging from small, portable options to larger professional-grade tablets. For beginners, a medium-sized tablet (around 10 to 13 inches) is a good starting point, offering a comfortable drawing area without being too overwhelming. Additionally, consider the tablet's resolution, as higher resolution ensures more accurate pen tracking and smoother lines.
Pressure sensitivity is a critical feature of graphic tablets, as it allows you to control line thickness and opacity based on how hard you press the pen. Most graphic tablets offer 2048 or more levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and versatile drawing experience. Consider additional pen features such as tilt support, which allows you to create shading effects by tilting the pen at an angle. Some tablets also offer customizable buttons on the pen, enabling quick access to various functions or shortcuts.
Ensure the graphic tablet is compatible with your computer's operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Check for connectivity options, such as USB or wireless, and select one that suits your preference and setup.
Pressure sensitivity is a critical feature of graphic tablets, as it allows you to control line thickness and opacity based on how hard you press the pen. Most graphic tablets offer 2048 or more levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and versatile drawing experience. Consider additional pen features such as tilt support, which allows you to create shading effects by tilting the pen at an angle. Some tablets also offer customizable buttons on the pen, enabling quick access to various functions or shortcuts.
Ensure the graphic tablet is compatible with your computer's operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Check for connectivity options, such as USB or wireless, and select one that suits your preference and setup.
Graphic tablets come in various sizes, ranging from small, portable options to larger professional-grade tablets. For beginners, a medium-sized tablet (around 10 to 13 inches) is a good starting point, offering a comfortable drawing area without being too overwhelming. Additionally, consider the tablet's resolution, as higher resolution ensures more accurate pen tracking and smoother lines.
Pressure sensitivity is a critical feature of graphic tablets, as it allows you to control line thickness and opacity based on how hard you press the pen. Most graphic tablets offer 2048 or more levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and versatile drawing experience. Consider additional pen features such as tilt support, which allows you to create shading effects by tilting the pen at an angle. Some tablets also offer customizable buttons on the pen, enabling quick access to various functions or shortcuts.
Ensure the graphic tablet is compatible with your computer's operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Check for connectivity options, such as USB or wireless, and select one that suits your preference and setup.
Pressure sensitivity is a critical feature of graphic tablets, as it allows you to control line thickness and opacity based on how hard you press the pen. Most graphic tablets offer 2048 or more levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and versatile drawing experience. Consider additional pen features such as tilt support, which allows you to create shading effects by tilting the pen at an angle. Some tablets also offer customizable buttons on the pen, enabling quick access to various functions or shortcuts.
Ensure the graphic tablet is compatible with your computer's operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Check for connectivity options, such as USB or wireless, and select one that suits your preference and setup.
Let's conclude:
Selecting the right art supplies as a beginner artist is an essential step toward realizing your creative potential. Starting with essential drawing materials, exploring versatile acrylic paints, embracing rich oil paints, trying out delicate watercolors, experimenting with pen and ink, and considering vibrant pastels will provide you with a diverse range of artistic expressions. Remember to invest in quality supplies that suit your style and budget, and most importantly, have fun on your artistic journey as you unlock your creativity and bring your visions to life on canvas, paper, or any surface that inspires you.
Selecting the right art supplies as a beginner artist is an essential step toward realizing your creative potential. Starting with essential drawing materials, exploring versatile acrylic paints, embracing rich oil paints, trying out delicate watercolors, experimenting with pen and ink, and considering vibrant pastels will provide you with a diverse range of artistic expressions. Remember to invest in quality supplies that suit your style and budget, and most importantly, have fun on your artistic journey as you unlock your creativity and bring your visions to life on canvas, paper, or any surface that inspires you.
KATERINA PASHEGOR
Fashion Illustrator, tutor and author of online courses in fashion illustration at Fantasy Room Art School, Author of the book "The Art of Fashion Illustration."
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