I've made a believer out of my local friends, and I can't keep it secret. You don't have to spend a fortune on all your art supplies, especially if you're a beginner or just crafting for fun. I shop at the Dollar Tree every week to restock my regular needs. You won't find better prices! And I will only recommend things I use myself.
Sections
5
Paints and Brushes
Glues
Surfaces
Craft Tools and Containers
Embellishments
Paints and Brushes
This acrylic paint is pretty fluid, so I don't use it on portraits, but it's great for pour painting. I just add a little pouring medium to the paint. It comes in so many different, vibrant colors.
Rich Art Acryology Premium Arcylic Paint, 6 fl oz.
These paintbrushes are actually good quality. The hairs don't fall out.
Crafter's Square Delicate Paint Brush Sets
These are exactly like the ones at art stores, but a fraction of the price.
I use these for gesso and varnish on big canvases.
Tool Bench Paint Brushes with Plastic Handles, 3-pc. Sets
Glues
Lots of glue sticks for a low price.
Crafter's Square Mini Hot Glue Sticks, 20-ct. Packs
I use this to put a glossy finish or paintings.
Mod Podge Gloss Craft Adhesive, 2-oz. Bottles
This is my go-to for gluing canvases to wood backings.
The Original Super Glue Corporation Wood Glue, 2-fl-oz.
Surfaces
I keep a box of these canvas panels in my car so I can paint on the go. Much cheaper than other stores for the same quality. They come in multiple sizes.
Crafter's Square White Canvas Boards, 11x14-in.
These are great for painting space scenes, and they cost the same as uncolored canvases. Most stores charge more for black.
Crafter's Square Stretched Black Canvases, 8x10-in.
I take the hangers off and fill the holes, giving me a nice wooden surface to paint or cover with resin. They are pretty thin, though, so make sure you have them on a flat surface when wet.