Budget Friendly art supplies| Traditional Media

Whether it's a hobby or a business, creating art is costly. I have found that I've spent quite a bit of money with hardly any return over the past couple of years but, I can't seem to stop making things! In this article I provide you with art supplies that are kinder to your wallet but won't skimp on quality.

Hopefully, this list will show you that you don't have to spend hundreds on art supplies - especially if it's just a hobby or you're starting out on your journey to become a professional artist.

I find that I love to try out many different mediums. I'm a very curious individual that has to get her hands stained with the next thing. How is it then, that I do this without killing my budget? I'll show you!

When it comes to art supplies, I first look at what is currently peaking my interest. Whether it is Painting or drawing, I'm am always researching and trying new methods.

The Process

Under Sketch done with Col-erase pencils

I usually start with beginner sets to determine if I want to continue using this medium.

Then I practice with simple sketches.

Sometimes, you'll find that the color on the packaging isn't always represented well when you start working. To combat this, I will make swatches on scrap paper or within my sketchbooks.

Then, upon deciding that the medium is something I'm comfortable with and ready to make better pieces, I research to find better quality products that are still within my budget.

I go between a few companies that are more affordable in my opinion but still hold to the quality that I look for.

The Supplies

Acrylic Paint: When it comes to acrylic painting, I found that I prefer the Liquitex Basics Acrylic paints. Prior to discovering this brand, most of my paints came from Walmart.

While I appreciate the availability, the acrylic paints from Walmart have shown to dry chalky and crack. Added with the stress of the inevitable outcome, the paints are runny and flat. They generally don't add texture to my pieces nor dimension. I say this not to discourage Walmart branded paints but just to discuss my experiences with them. I believe these are great to start with when learning how to paint, draw etc.

Watercolor: Watercolors are one of my favorite mediums to work with. I started with Walmart brands but quickly moved to using more professional grade. The Kuretake watercolors come in different sizes. These colors are vibrant, are easier to mix and work with and do not dry pastel nor chalky as with previous brands.

Sunset watercolors

Painting done with Generic brand

Sketchbooks: Because I'm always experimenting with so many different mediums, I typically go for a multimedia sketchbook. I've tried others but I love the Canson XL sketchbooks. I've used them with watercolors, gouache and acrylics. The sketchbooks are durable and hold the paints well. I appreciate them so much because they allow me to change up my style whenever I feel like.

Colored pencils: I use colored pencils for the underdrawings of my sketches. I started with Ohuhu but, I couldn't find them when I wanted to re-stock. Since then, I've switched to the Prismacolor Col-erase and sadly, the cost has driven up. I will search for others that may be better once it's time to re-supply. Arteza looks like they're offering a decent set and I've tried Arteza products before!

Gouache: I chose Arteza first! I loved it when I got it even though the medium was a learning curb because I was used to painting with watercolors. Arteza's Gouache set had vibrant colors and was opaque with lovely gradients. I'd recommend these even though i have switched paints. I look forward to trying more from this company.

Original Gouache painting

Pencils: For these I recommend just using whichever pencils you have! I prefer mechanical pencils but have used Artist Loft drawing sets for deeper studies.

All of my supplies comes from either Michael's or Amazon. Either way, you do not need fancy art material to make good art! You can stick with whichever brands you choose as long as you're enjoying your time in the studio!

I want to hear from you! What are mediums you use now and what you are willing to try?

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