"Art is a way to immortalize the fleeting moments of life, to capture the essence of a single moment in time." Marlene Dumas

My Favorite Art Tools

A glimpse into the art supplies and materials behind each creation

a wooden table topped with lots of paint and brushes
a wooden table topped with lots of paint and brushes
white green and brown textile
white green and brown textile
a bunch of paint brushes sitting on top of a paper
a bunch of paint brushes sitting on top of a paper
A pile of white paper sitting on top of a table
A pile of white paper sitting on top of a table
Some of my Favorite Supplies...

For those interested in giving watercolor a go or if you are already passionate about watercolor painting, explore some of my recommended art supplies. Discover the tools that have brought me success in my art. From brushes to paints, find the essentials to elevate your artwork.

Please note that I share affiliate links. If you purchase an item using one of my links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

woman wearing yellow long-sleeved dress under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

I love seeing the exact brushes used; it makes the art feel more personal.

Amy K

A set of well-used watercolor brushes resting on a wooden table next to open paint tubes.
A set of well-used watercolor brushes resting on a wooden table next to open paint tubes.

The detailed list of materials inspired me to experiment with new tools at home.

Dan

Close-up of vibrant acrylic paints squeezed onto a palette with mixing areas.
Close-up of vibrant acrylic paints squeezed onto a palette with mixing areas.
★★★★★
★★★★★

FAQs

What materials do you use?

I mainly use high-quality watercolor paints, brushes, and 100 % cotton textured paper.

Daniel Smith watercolors are my favorite paints. They are professional-grade paints known for their professional quality, extensive color range, and high-quality ingredients. The paints have a superior lightfastness and permanence. They are made in the United States.

My favorite two papers are Arches cold-pressed watercolor paper and Hahnemühle. Arches is a premium, archival paper made from 100% cotton using a traditional cylinder mold process. Arches is acid-free, pH-neutral, and resistant to mold, ensuring longevity for artwork. Hahnemühle is a vegan, acid-free paper.

I have experimented with several different papers and keep returning to Arches and Hahnemühle.

Where do you get supplies?

My supplies come from local art stores and trusted specialty online shops I frequent. I often purchase from Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Amazon, Jerry's Arterama, and Dick Blick.

Do you use any special tools?

Yes, I often use a ceramic palette or plastic palette, paper towels, synthetic and squirrel-hair brushes, artist tape, and a heat gun to assist in the drying time so that I can continue adding layers.

Are your materials eco-friendly?

I try to choose non-toxic, water-based paints whenever possible. The Hahnemühle artist papers that I use are vegan and acid-free.

Can I buy these materials?

While I don't sell supplies, I share where to buy my favorites on the site.

Do you recommend beginner-friendly tools?

Absolutely! I suggest starting with basic brushes, student-grade watercolors, and smooth paper sheets.

Contact

A cozy artist's workspace with brushes, paints, and sketchbooks neatly arranged on a wooden table.
A cozy artist's workspace with brushes, paints, and sketchbooks neatly arranged on a wooden table.

Reach out to ask about the art supplies I use or share your creative ideas.