Starting your artistic journey can be exciting, but knowing which essential art supplies for beginners you need can be overwhelming. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to start. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best art supplies for beginners that will help you build a solid foundation and set you up for creative success.
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I have more guides on my blog that I recommend you check out:
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Sketchbooks and Paper
One of the most important essential art supplies for beginners is a good sketchbook. Whether you’re drawing, painting, or working with mixed media, having the right paper makes all the difference. Beginners often find that versatile paper pads allow them to experiment freely.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad – A high-quality sketchbook that’s perfect for drawing and light sketching.
- Canson XL Mixed Media Paper – Ideal for those who want to explore both wet and dry media.
Pencils and Drawing Tools
A great set of drawing pencils for beginners is an absolute must. Pencils come in a range of hardness levels, from soft (B) to hard (H), which helps in achieving different effects. As a beginner, you’ll need a set that offers flexibility for sketching, shading, and detailing.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Pencil Set – This set provides consistent quality and smooth results, ideal for beginners.
- Staedtler Mars Lumograph Pencils – A reliable option for both amateurs and pros, offering a wide range of hardness levels.
Erasers
Erasers are more than just tools for correcting mistakes; they’re essential for creating highlights and textures in drawings. A kneaded eraser is particularly useful for lifting graphite without damaging the paper.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- Kneaded Eraser by Prismacolor – Perfect for gentle erasing and creating highlights.
- Tombow Mono Zero Eraser – A precision eraser that’s great for detailed work.
Paints
When moving beyond drawing, beginners often wonder which paints are best to start with. Acrylics, watercolors, and oils are popular choices, but acrylics are often recommended as one of the most versatile and easy-to-use painting supplies for beginners.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- Liquitex Basics Acrylic Paint Set – A highly-rated and affordable acrylic paint set for beginners.
- Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolors – This watercolor set offers vibrant and blend-able colors, perfect for new artists.
Brushes
Good brushes are key when working with paint, and as a beginner, having a variety of brush types will allow you to experiment with different techniques. Round brushes are ideal for details, while flat brushes are better for broader strokes.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- Artify Professional Brush Set – This set includes a range of brush types to suit any painting project.
- Princeton Real Value Brush Set – A budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
Palette Knives and Mixing Palettes
If you plan to work with acrylics or oils, palette knives are an important tool for both mixing colors and applying textured strokes. A good mixing palette will keep your workspace organized and efficient.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- Liquitex Palette Knife Set – Sturdy and flexible, this set is perfect for beginners exploring texture.
- Sta-Wet Handy Palette – Keeps your paints moist and usable for longer, ideal for longer painting sessions.
Easels and Workspaces
Creating art requires a comfortable and organized workspace. An adjustable easel and storage solutions will help keep your studio tidy and allow you to work on larger canvases with ease.
Best art supplies recommendations:
- U.S. Art Supply Wooden H-Frame Easel – A durable, adjustable easel perfect for both small and large-scale work.
- ArtBin Storage Bin – Keep your supplies organized and easy to transport with this handy storage solution.
Conclusion
Starting out as an artist is exciting, but having the right essential art supplies can make a world of difference. Whether you’re drawing, painting, or just experimenting with different mediums, investing in the best art supplies for beginners will help you grow as an artist. By choosing quality materials, you’ll be able to focus on developing your skills and exploring your creativity.
Feel free to check out the recommended products and discover which tools work best for your creative journey!
Enjoy creating! <3
