Art Materials: What You Need, How to Choose, and How to Store

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been painting for years, the right materials can make a huge difference. In this guide we’ll break down the basics – from pencils and paints to brushes and paper – and give you easy tips for buying and keeping everything in good shape.

Picking the Right Supplies for Your Style

First, think about what you enjoy creating. If you love quick sketches, a set of quality graphite pencils and a sketchbook with medium‑weight paper are enough to get you going. For watercolors, look for a 140‑gsm paper that can handle wet washes without warping. Acrylic fans will want a sturdy canvas or canvas board because acrylic dries fast and can crack on thin paper.

Don’t feel pressured to buy the most expensive gear. A mid‑range brush set with synthetic bristles works well for both acrylic and gouache. For oil painting, a few hog‑hair brushes and a small amount of linseed oil will do the job without breaking the bank. Test a few brushes in the store – the ones that feel comfortable in your hand usually give better control.

Smart Buying and Storage Hacks

When you shop, compare prices online and in local art stores. Many shops have student discounts or bulk‑buy deals on basics like acrylic tubes or sketch pads. Keep receipts; you might be able to claim tax deductions if you use art for a business.

Proper storage saves money in the long run. Store paints in a cool, dry place – heat can change colors, and humidity can ruin paper. Use airtight containers for gouache or watercolor pans to prevent them from drying out. For brushes, rinse them immediately after use, reshape the bristles, and store them upright in a jar or brush holder.

Paper and canvases love flat, dry spaces. Slip them into large envelope‑style sleeves or poster tubes to protect them from dust and light. If you’re limited on space, a simple filing cabinet with clear folders works great for sketchbooks and small pads.

Finally, keep a small “art kit” ready to go. Pack a few pencils, an eraser, a travel‑size water brush, and a sketchbook in a zip‑lock bag. You’ll be able to sketch anywhere – on a train, at a café, or while waiting for a class to start.

With the right materials, a bit of research, and some clever storage tricks, you’ll spend less time worrying about supplies and more time creating. Grab what fits your style, store it properly, and watch your art grow.

30 May, 2025

What Oil Paint Did Van Gogh Use? Unpacking His Artistic Tools

by Alaric Westcombe | May, 30 2025 | | 0 Comments

Curious about the exact oil paints Van Gogh used? This article digs into the real brands, pigments, and quirky choices behind his bold masterpieces. Learn why the paint mattered, how it shaped his technique, and what makes his materials so fascinating to artists today. You'll pick up practical tips on choosing modern equivalents if you want to paint like Van Gogh. Get the facts and stories that bring his art supplies to life.