Welcome to the world of drawing and painting! Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran artist, it can be difficult to find the right materials for your project. To help you get started, here is a shopping guide for everything you need to get your creative juices flowing.
Pens, Pencils & Markers: Pens, pencils and markers are essential for any kind of drawing or painting. You'll want to buy quality items that will last a long time and provide consistent results. Look for pens, pencils and markers that are lightfast and waterproof, so that your artwork will stay looking good for years to come. There are also some specialty pens, pencils and markers that are great for specific types of artwork, such as calligraphy, watercolor, and sketching.
Paper: The type of paper you use will depend on the medium you're using and the effect you're trying to achieve. For pencil and pen drawings, you'll want to look for paper with a smooth surface. Watercolor paper has a textured surface that helps prevent the paint from bleeding too much. If you're planning on using oil paints, look for canvas or canvas boards, which are more durable than paper.
Paints: There are many different kinds of paints available for any type of art, from acrylics to watercolors and oils. Choose the paint that best suits your needs and experiment with different colors and textures to create unique pieces of artwork. Be sure to buy enough paint to finish your project, as it's not always easy to find the exact color you need in the store.
Brushes: A good set of brushes is essential for any kind of painting. Different brush sizes and shapes are needed for different techniques, so try to get a variety of brush types. Look for brushes that are made of natural hair, such as sable or hog bristle, as these will produce the best results.
Palettes: A palette is used to mix and store your paint colors. Look for one with a large surface area and a deep mixing area so that you can mix multiple colors at once. Also, make sure the palette is easy to clean so that you don't have to worry about paint drying on the surface.
Erasers: Don't forget to pick up an eraser! An eraser can be used to remove mistakes or to lighten areas in your drawings. Look for an eraser that is soft and non-abrasive, so that it won't damage your paper.
Storage: You'll need a place to store all your supplies, such as paper, paints, brushes and palettes. Look for a sturdy box or bag to keep your materials organized and safe. Also, consider getting an easel for your artwork if you plan on doing larger pieces.
With these basic supplies, you should be ready to start creating beautiful artwork. Have fun shopping and let your creativity take off!