Discovering the perfect art supplies can feel like a daunting task. Below, I’ve curated a list of top-notch art supplies I’ve relied on over the years, complete with their advantages and drawbacks. These are just my favorites and why I love them!
I really like the size and smoothness of the paper. I’m picky about drawing paper and prefer mixed media because it’s easy to erase on and feels nice to draw on.
Strathmore Notebook
Love a smooth yet absorbent surface that doesn’t let the paper’s texture get in the way of my illustration.
BAOHONG Hot Press Artists' Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton, 140lb/300gsm, ...
These journals are a bit easier on your wallet than the previous ones and work well for experimenting and exploring.
Paul Rubens Watercolor Paper 100% Cotton, 140lb/300gsm, 5.3"x7.6 ...
I’m in love with Fabriano watercolor papers – especially their hot press!
Fabriano Artistico Watercolor Paper
If I’m in the mood to paint on Cold Press – Hahnemuhle has been my go-to recently.
Hahnemühle Harmony Watercolor Paper Samples
Love this watercolor palette! It fits my needs perfectly with a smooth mixing area as well as plenty of deep wells to load with watercolor.
32 Well Ceramic Palette
I have a ton of watercolor brushes and a variety of different brands. But these are the ones I gravitate to most.
Watercolor Brushes Silver Black Velvet
I prefer the Winsor and Newton one’s better.
Swatch Form: Winsor & Newton Watercolor Pencils (024pc.)
This is my favorite white ink to work with. I feel like it’s incredibly easy to work with and very opaque white.
Too Copic Opaque White 10ml
This is my favorite black ink to work with. It’s fairly matte when compared to other black inks and creates fun loose work in water.
Dr. Ph. Martin's Black Star India Ink (Matte) Ink Bottle, 1.0 oz, Matte Black, 1
I use both the black and color pens of this brand in size 005. These are great for adding small details or even patterns to your watercolors at the end of your illustrations. And since they are waterproof – once dried you can paint over them.
Sakura Pigma Micron Pen 005 (0.20mm) Black
Personally, I own the other colors from this collection – but rarely use them. This is the color I find myself drawn to the most.
Schmincke Aqua Bronzes Water-soluble Metallic Artists Pigment 20ml
For the price, this is my favorite silver fleck accent to use in a painting!
Winsor & Newton Galeria Iridescent Medium 250ml
If you are looking for a pencil that leaves light marks on your paper – the Kimberly Graphite 9H is the best!
General Pencil 525-9H Kimberly Drawing Pencils 1 Dozen 9H
These are the softest erasers I’ve found that pick up graphite lines and marks with ease. Plus, they are great for not damaging your watercolor paper.
Tombow Erasers
They are great for adding a bit of texture and even pop colors to a finished watercolor illustration.
Prismacolor Soft Core
I’m extremely impressed! I love that they are super rich in color as well as soft enough to blend with easy.
Posca Pencils
This is a brand of masking fluid I use for all my paintings. I love this brand because it’s easy to use and see once dry.
