Art Supplies I Use Most
Here are some of the art materials I reach for when working on ideas for new characters, art journaling, or art commissions. Each one has become a staple in my art practice, and I can’t recommend them enough if you’re looking to try a new art supply. If you’ve used any of these, let me know your experience. Do you love them as much as I do? Or maybe you have other recommendations. Feel free to share in the comments.
This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only share materials I actively use in my own practice.
Caran d’Ache Luminance Colored Pencils
Set of 20, Assorted Colors
These pencils are my go to, not just for coloring but also for adding details to my characters. They have replaced my Micron fine liners for final illustration pieces. They are on the premium side because of their professional quality, lightfastness, and durability. There is noticeably less breakage compared to other brands. I love how creamy they feel and how they layer without requiring too much pressure, which helps keep my hand relaxed. A few colors have become staples in my practice, especially Phthalocyanine Blue, Burnt Ochre, and Green Ochre.
Moleskine Cahier Journals
8 1/4" x 5", Blank, Black, Pack of 3
I adore these notebooks, especially this set in this size. They’re perfect when I’m working through ideas for new designs or characters. I use them alongside my mechanical pencils for quick sketches and thumbnails. Some pages are messy. Some are just words. Some are doodles that later become finished work. I don’t edit what goes into them, and I don’t worry about filling them neatly. They’re where I let ideas flow.
PanPastel Artists’ Painting Pastels Set
Extra Dark Earth Colors, Set of 5
I had my doubts about these at first. They were recommended by an artist I followed on Patreon a few years ago. I was worried about how dusty they might be, and yes, dusty they are, but they’re also so much fun to use. I love the dreamy texture they leave on paper, and this set includes beautiful earthy colors that are perfect for grounding a piece. I eventually added a couple more colors to increase contrast, Red Iron Oxide Tint and Ultramarine Blue. This medium helps me fill a page quickly and bring ideas to life, similar to watercolor but in a dry form.
Faber‑Castell Gelatos Sets
Assorted Pastel Colors, Set of 15
Another art supply I didn’t expect to love this much. These are my grab and go choice for museum visits and field trips. I usually take a couple of colors along with a colored pencil, and that’s enough. I tend to use them more in their dry form, blending and layering to create a smooth, dreamy look. They’re water soluble and made with acid free pigments. The sticks are creamy and glide easily on paper. I also appreciate the twist up design, which makes them easy to maintain and store.
Derwent Push Button Waterbrush
Round, Large Tip, Short Handle
I received this brush in an ArtSnacks box. I had tried other water brushes before, but they were either too stiff or prone to leaking. This one was completely different. It’s leak proof and features a push button design that allows for easy control of water flow. The nylon fiber tip holds its shape and point well, which makes sketching during field trips even more enjoyable.
Edding Acrylic Paint Marker
Elegant Midnight 933, Broad
The broad tip on this marker helps me cover a lot of surface area quickly. It’s a highly pigmented, odorless, water based acrylic paint marker that works on multiple surfaces like paper, canvas, and wood. Although it’s available in medium and fine nib sizes, I’ve found those don’t perform as well. The paint tends to get stuck and doesn’t flow as smoothly as it does with the broad nib. I often spread the paint with my fingers to cover more surface area and create different textures.
Mungyo Gallery Artists’ Soft Oil Pastels
Set of 72, Wooden Box
This set has lovely colors that are vibrant and very creamy. They layer easily and allow me to push color around thanks to their blendability. I like how physical they feel, similar to the Gelatos. I often use my fingers to smooth the texture and build dimension. They do have a slight odor, but it’s not overpowering. There’s also no information provided about lightfastness. Still, they’re fun to use for quick sketches or art journaling.
QoR Modern Watercolors
Set of 24, Assorted Colors, 5 ml Tubes
I own several watercolor brands, and this one is definitely a favorite. The colors stay vibrant even after drying, thanks to their Aquazol binder, which allows for higher pigment concentration and strong color payoff. This set also includes the most beautiful Green Gold I’ve used.
Richeson Rectangular Porcelain Palette
3 3/4" x 3/4" x 7", 10 Wells, Rectangular
One of my favorite palettes. I use them for watercolor, gouache, and acrylic painting sessions. It’s non-staining and easy to clean and environmentally friendly since it isreusable.
Studio Tracing Paper Pad
9" x 12", 50 Sheets
Last but not least, tracing paper has been a companion of mine for many years. I use it as a guiding tool when working on character design development. It’s great for creating different poses or making adjustments. I also use it to adjust spacing, redraw letterforms, or test layouts without erasing what came before. The sheets are sturdy and smooth. They don’t buckle or tear, which is a huge plus.
Thanks for reading until the end of this post. If you’re building or refining your own set of art materials, here is a supply list.
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