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16 essential tools for artists

The right painting tools can give you the freedom to bring your artistic vision to life. Here are 16 items every artist should own.

If you are preparing to start your art journey, you will need to choose a set of drawing tools. Whether you want to create a new piece with pencils or just work on your painting technique, these tools will help you prepare well.

So what tools does an artist need?

01. Pencils


Wooden and mechanical, Stadler, Derwent and Pentel, pencils are the main tools for creativity. Find a brand you enjoy working with and make sure you have plenty to choose from at your fingertips.

02. Erasers


No artist's work in pencil can be done without an eraser. This malleable putty will remove graphite from most surfaces - the most essential art tool we've ever seen!

03. Handles


If you prefer to work with pens, make sure you have a good selection from a brand you like. There are thousands of pen brands for every taste, for example Faber-Castell has an extremely wide selection!

04. Hardcover albums


Whether you're working on your design portfolio or on a new logo design, sketching is an artistic tool. If you are looking for new paper, we have a large selection of scrapbooks, one of which is sure to meet all your requirements.

05. Watercolor paper


“I use satin, sleek Langton in most of my work,” says artist Dave Kendall. "Any smooth watercolor paper can be used though."

06. Freemason


Many artists prefer to paint on masonite boards. They can be purchased and cut to size from wood or hardware vendors.

07. Canvas


Starting point for your next masterpiece, isn't it? You can buy ready-made or custom-made canvas boards from most art stores. With time and experience, you will be able to make them yourself.

08. Artist's wand


An artist's wand is a stick with soft skin or soft head and is used by artists to support the hand that holds the brush. These are widely available at art stores, or you can watch the video above and make your own.

09. Acrylic


Versatile, vibrant and affordable acrylics can be painted over anything. “Likitex & Finity, Windsor & Newton — these are the colors I use the most,” comments Kendall.

10. Oil paint


Whether you want to get started or prefer to paint with oil paint, there is a wide range from regular to water soluble.

11. Watercolor


Watercolor is a versatile painting medium that can help you get many results. These paints are usually supplied dry. All about watercolors can be found on the website Watercolors lessons. Highly recommended if you want to master watercolor painting.

12. Ink


Ink is a high art tool that can be part of your collection. Great for adding vibrant color and are used for glazing when dramatic color is required.

13. Easels


There are many types of easels. Your choice should depend on how much money you are willing to spend on it.

14. Palettes


Tiles, slabs, wet palettes for acrylics from Winsor & Newton and Dahler Rowney and traditional wood palettes for oils.

15. Brushes


Choosing brushes for your next project isn't always easy. After all, different effects require different tools, so it can be difficult to guess which one you will be using. If you are thinking about which brushes to use, it is best to try different brush shapes. Remember, it takes time to become familiar with the different brush shapes. Practice leads to perfection.

16. Lucky


To preserve your oil paintings, you will need to cover them with painting varnish. For these purposes, gloss and matt varnishes are available from various suppliers.

We advise you to see:

Beginners and hobbyists alike will learn about the tools artists buy from this video. Unpacking a parcel from an online store.