assorted bottles on white wooden wall rack

Creativity is all about experimenting with new things and pushing your boundaries. That’s why it’s worth trying out new art supplies, even if you’re not sure if you’ll like them. Who knows – you might just find a new favorite medium to work with! In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most popular art supplies that creative people should check out.

Drawing Pens

These are a great way to add fine details and shading to your drawings. Felt tip pens are ideal for creating both broad and fine lines. They come in a variety of widths, so you can choose the right pen for the job. Gel pens are good for adding dimension and texture to your drawings. They come in a wide range of colors, so you can create unique and interesting effects. Brush pens are suitable for creating soft, diffused lines. They have a flexible tip that allows you to create a variety of line widths.

Each of the pens we’ve discussed contains non-permanent ink, so you can easily make changes to your drawing if necessary. If you want to learn more about the different types of drawing pens there are websites displaying photos and discussing the best 8 examples. They cover their pros and cons, mention tip types and ink quality, and connect you to the Amazon prices.

Paints

Acrylic paints use synthetic materials instead of natural ones, and they’ve become one of the most popular types of paint for artists. Acrylics are known for their vibrant colors, and they can be used on a variety of surfaces. Oil paints have been around for centuries and today there are many different types available (each with its own unique properties). They’re known for their rich colors and smooth texture, and can once again be used on many different surfaces.

Watercolor paints are made from pigments suspended in water. They’re known for their delicate and transparent appearance. They’re perfect for creating soft and ethereal effects. If you’re a beginner, watercolors can be a great place to start since they’re relatively easy to use.

Canvas

This is a sturdy, plain-woven fabric made from hemp, linen, flax, or cotton. It has a tight weave that prevents the paint from seeping through. Canvas is also easy to stretch or mount on a frame. A key piece of advice is to Gesso your canvas before painting, to create a smooth surface.

Here are some helpful shopping tips:

  • Choose a canvas that’s already stretched and mounted if you’re a beginner.
  • Consider a pre-primed canvas if you want to save some time.
  • Pick a thicker version if want to use thick paint or multiple layers.

mason jar of paintbrush lot

Paintbrushes

These come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny detail brushes to big flat ones. There are also different types of bristles, including natural (like hog hair) and synthetic (like nylon). Look for well-made brushes with intact bristles and get a variety of sizes, from small to large. Also, consider getting natural and synthetic brushes for different purposes.

In terms of paints, you can use the types we discussed earlier (acrylic, oil, and watercolor).  Paintbrushes are great for art that requires precision and detail – but be sure to clean them thoroughly after use. 

Ink

This is a kind of pigment that can be used to color a surface. There are many different types on the market, each with its own properties and uses. Water-based inks are typically easier to clean up and are less likely to damage surfaces. Oil-based inks tend to be more durable and produce richer colors.

Inks can be used for a variety of different kinds of art, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and even calligraphy.

Clay

Art clay is a type of modeling clay that can be used for many different projects. It’s available in many colors and can be worked into any shape. It’s often used to make sculptures, jewelry, and other decorative items.

Here are some project ideas that you can try with art clay:

  • Make a sculpture of your favorite animal
  • Create a piece of jewelry using beads or other found objects
  • Make a set of coasters or tiles with your own design

Hopefully, we’ve discussed a few art supplies you haven’t yet tried. If so, why not go online and make a few purchases? You may be able to express yourself in a new way and create things you never dreamed of. Whilst you may rule out some options, others may be added to your artistic armory and bring you joy for many years to come.

Published by HOLR Magazine