art supplies
a few of my favourite things
art supplies
a few of my favourite things
As an expressive arts educator/facilitator, I’ve collected a wide assortment of art supplies and tools over the years – from paper, paints, and canvas, to musical instruments, found objects, colourful fabrics, beads, yarns, and more. Almost everything and anything can become part of an expressive art piece or installation!
Though I have a large variety of art materials to choose from, it’s taken a few years of playful exploration to discover the things I just can’t do without – a journal, lots of images, scissors and glue. My own creative practice includes making my own books, playing with paper, collage and art journaling.
Perhaps you’re drawn to paints, sketching, clay, sculpture, textiles, photography…there are so many creative outlets available! Many of these have their own unique supplies and ways in which to artistically express yourself. Approach them with curiosity and explore what feels right for you.
the journal & my fave 5
Journals come in many sizes and varieties, specific to what you’re using them for. I prefer 6x9, 7x10, no larger than 8x10 in size. Smaller than that is limiting, too big can feel like a lot of space to fill. Personally, I like to make and bind my own journals/books.
There are endless paper choices, each specific to what you're using them for. For art journaling, you'll want paper that will withstand whatever you put on it (water, paint, glue, etc) without falling apart. Look for 98 lb. Mixed Media paper.
Journal bindings range from spiral, glued, or sewn. Each have their pros and cons, again, depending on their purpose. Spiral journals are flexible; pages are often perforated and can be removed, but sometimes the spirals get in my way.
I love making my own books (in fact I'm somewhat addicted ;). The binding can be simple or ornate, again, depending on what the book or journal will be used for. DIY Bonus - you form a relationship with your book/journal when you make it from start to finish - it truly becomes your creative companion!
2. images
3. scissors
4. ruler
5. glue
brushes
brushes
brayer
brayer
gel medium
gel medium
gesso
gesso
acrylic paints
acrylic paints
markers
markers
white pens
white pens
• correction pen from office supply store (my fave white!)
black pens
black pens
• Uni-ball micro-point roller pen
make it mobile
make it mobile
spray inks
spray inks
Tip
Start collecting images and words to include in your journal and art. These can come from many sources – old books & magazines, music and dictionary pages, and so on. Particularly watch for those that you’re drawn to, as well as those that repulse you. You can organize and store your words & images in clear bags or an accordian file folder.
Additional Supplies
Add additional art supplies as your interest, curiosity and budget allows. Stencils, stamp pads, pan pastels, etc…the list goes on!
Play and experiment – see what you like and remember, there are no rules!
Check around home for:
- a plastic tablecloth or old towel to protect the surface you’re working on;
- a water bowl and plastic lids you can use as palette trays;
- old credit/gift cards to spread paint around;
- bull-dog clips to hold pages down;
- rags, paper towels and wet wipes;
- parchment or wax paper to protect journal pages;
- an apron or old shirt to protect your clothes;
- a heat gun or blow dryer to speed up the drying process;
- a spray bottle filled with water.
note
The art supplies I’ve listed are ones I use most often in my journals and art making. Unless indicated, I don’t favour one brand over another. There’s something available for every budget. Experiment to find what you prefer.
