Without great works of art, the world would be an empty place. Art is an invaluable form of expression that infuses society with beauty and inspiration.
For those who’ve mastered various artistic disciplines, as well as those just beginning their pursuit of greatness, you simply cannot do the work without the proper tools, like the best oil paints for artists.
Every great artist understands the value of having the right art tools. These tools can literally make the difference between creating a masterpiece or simply fumbling along.
This article takes a look at the various tools of the trade, from sculpting, to painting, to architecture. Keep reading to discover what you’ll need to excel at your craft.
1. Hardback Sketchbook
Regardless of the artistic discipline you choose to pursue, everything starts with a sketch. This is the place where your ideas will first begin to take form. Using a pen or pencil to sketch rough forms is a crucial part of the creative process.
A quality sketchbook is portable enough to be taken anywhere, in the car, in your pack for a hike, or for a bike ride to the beach for inspiration. The key is to choose a sketchbook that is large enough to provide adequate space to work, yet small enough to tuck under you as you move from place to place.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a fortune, but a quality sketchbook will be worth every penny you spend on it.
2. Three-Dimensional Molds
Anyone hoping to master the art of sculpting, such as wave sculptures, will quickly realize the importance of working with quality materials. After all, your work will only be as good as the material used to create, shape, and refine.
Molding materials like Hydrospan help provide a simple method for creating three-dimensionally molded parts, which are essential for fully realizing your creative visions.
Many people don’t understand why this material matters, but using inferior products for your work will quickly become evident as your skills increase and your gasp of challenging techniques begins to take focus.
3. Graphite Pencils
You’ve already found the perfect sketchbook for your needs. Now you need the right tool for bringing your vision to life on the blank page.
Your choice of tools for use with your sketchbook is a personal matter. The primary options are pencils, graphite pencils, and ink pens.
When it comes to picking the best tool for the job, most artists agree that it’s hard to go wrong with a good graphite pencil. A reliable set of graphite pencils makes the ideal companion for your favorite sketchbook. Two or three are all you need, just keep them sharp and they will serve you well.
We recommend a 2B for general use such as sketching and shading, then a 4H for lighter shading, and a 6B for darker shadows.
4. Painting Canvas
A painter is going to need plenty of canvases. Especially if you’re serious about the work.
Again, the type of material you choose to work with is a personal decision. Many artists prefer working with masonite boards, which are available at any lumber yard or hardware store.
But most beginners tend to work with canvas boards. Good canvases come in a wide range of sizes, and you don’t need to spend a fortune, especially true when starting out.
5. Palettes
Your palette is the surface where you will mix your paints. Most painters prefer a palette they can hold, enabling them to work without interruption.
Again, there’s no reason to waste a lot of money. All you really need is a plastic paint palette that can be found for only a few dollars at any local art supply store.
Learning to properly mix your paints, and to get comfortable with the palette while you work, is crucial to freeing yourself to truly explore the project and focus on the image you’re creating.
6. Brushes
This one should be a no brainer. After all, you can’t paint without brushes.
Again, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean going broke on brushes, and yet quality really does matter.
7. Kneaded Eraser
Guess what? You’re going to make mistakes. Lot’s of them. Thus you’re going to need to fix your mistakes so that you can continue to improve.
That means buying a quality kneaded eraser. This is a type of erase that allows artists to rub out mistakes so that you can begin your sketch over again.
A kneaded eraser is a putty-like blob that is soft and pliable. They are not only great for eliminating mistakes, but also for helping to create subtle details in your work such as shading.
8. Paper Painting Pads
When you’ve completed a sketch, you’ll next begin painting on a heavier medium. Paper painting pads are an ideal material for this. The pages in a painting pad are especially good when using watercolors.
9. Paint
Now you’re ready for paint. After all, the best brushes and canvases will be useless without.
Watercolors, oils, acrylics. Each has unique properties and different requirements and for use. Keep in mind that these paints are not one-size-fits-all. Every artist has their own preference, so you’ll have to discover which material most inspires your creativity.
There’s no need to buy a boatload when first starting out. Just get a tube of a few of the major color and get to work. The more you work, the quicker you discover the colors you’d like to start accumulating.
10. Easel
Lastly, when assembling your art studio, you’re going to want a good easel. This is a tool that will make the creation process much easier. New or used doesn’t matter. The key is to find a stable easel that will make the long hours of work as pleasurable as possible.
11. Adobe Photoshop
Essential Art Tools for Beginners
Every artist needs tools. The art tools contained in this article will help you get started on the journey of a lifetime as you experience the joy of creation.
If you found this article informative, be sure to keep browsing our website for more great tips and advice about the art world.