Looking for the Best Art Supplies?

What are the best art supplies for drawing or painting? It’s an age-old question and there really isn’t one simple answer. It depends on a number of factors which you need to take into consideration.

What are the best art supplies? It depends… (Photo Credit: pixabay-bodobe)

These factors include the following:

• Price

  • Art supplies can be expensive. The best art supplies can be very expensive, especially when it comes to paints and brushes. My advice is usually work with what you’ve got or are able to afford. However, obviously supplies labeled ‘student grade’ will not be the best quality. When it comes to paints, you may end up having to use much more, which means you have to buy more frequently. So, shell out more for better and quicker results or buy cheaper but more frequently for so-so results.

• Type of project

  • What you’re working on can also make a huge difference. For example, if I’m working on a commission piece that I need to hold up to time, sunlight, etc., I need to spend a little more on archival paper and lightfast pencils. To go cheap here could mean unhappy customers. And frankly, my reputation means too much to me to do that. However, if I’m practicing some life drawing or gesture sketches, some cheap newsprint and charcoal will suffice.

• Materials themselves

  • You don’t want to fight your materials. Just because one item is listed as one of the best art supplies on the market doesn’t mean that it will work well with other materials you are using. Or just because one product is listed for a specific purpose doesn’t mean it works well at all. For example, there are a lot of inexpensive pads of paper labeled as “Pastel Paper.” However, most experienced artists I know won’t touch that paper with a ten-foot pole. Put any brand pastel on it and the pastel just slides right off of it. On the flip side, spend a nice chunk of change (about $35 + S&H – 12 sheets) for Pastelmat or UArt sanded paper ($30 + S&H – 5 sheets) and you’ll notice a world of difference. Pastels just adhere without any problem making layering a piece of cake.

Considering these factors may mean a lot of testing products out. One way you can do this without spending a lot of money is by simply asking manufacturers for samples. You may only have to fork out shipping costs. I’ve done this with paper on a number of occasions.

The other thing you need to be honest about is that proper materials can make your job easier, but they won’t magically improve your drawing skills. You still need to put in the time and effort and… practice, practice, practice! It’s just mind-boggling how some folks think that if they can’t draw well, they’ll try their hand at painting instead, or digital art. Or believe that fancier, more expensive materials will somehow turn them into DaVinci. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t work that way. Drawing skills are the foundation.

Put in the hard work. Practice improving your drawing skills. And use the factors above to guide you when shopping for the best art supplies for you and your needs.

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