My 5 Favorite Artist Tools
favorite tools, i have way too many but these I pick up every day.
There are a few tools that I can’t live without when it comes to art. These include Rapidograph pens, photoshop, Sennelier watercolors, and Strathmore 300gsm watercolor paper. In this blog post, I will talk about why these tools are some of my favorites and how I use them in my work.
rapidographs
I love these pens! They are the best pens ever!!! Did I mention I love Rapidograph pens? This is because they are incredibly precise. I use them for both detailed line work and for larger areas of solid black. They are also great for creating subtle gradations.
I first used them in college and while at an art festival I came across an artist who uses them. That is when I was reminded of how much I used to love their precision so I went straight home and ordered a set. You can order them HERE. Not super easy to find but there is no better pen to use for detail work.
They have traditionally been associated with architectural and interior hand drawings, my background, which is why I was familiar with them. If you want a pen that does not leak, you can refill, and have even ink flow these are the pens for you!
Photoshop
Photoshop is my go-to program for digital painting and editing. It has a huge range of features and endless possibilities. I like to scan my watercolor work in on my Epson V19 scanner at a high resolution, bring the scan into Photoshop and then clean up the scan. Removing backgrounds to create new pieces of work from the scans, and even creating patterns. I love the full range of Adobe products but if I can only pick one it would be Photoshop for its versatility. You can download a trial HERE.
sennelier
Sennelier watercolors are some of the most beautiful and vibrant colors I have ever used. They blend together perfectly, always produce stunning results, are bright and smooth. Unlike other professional watercolors, they are not gritty or chalky. You always get a clean, smooth stroke of watercolor with them. I have a full set plus some extra pans I ordered and they are my go-to. I have other watercolors but again, if I only can take one set this is the set. You can get a set of 8, 12, 24, or 48 HERE.
strathmore paper
I am a paper snob. Yes, I said snob. I love good thick paper with a nice tooth to it. I love feeling papers and finding those that feel good to the touch but especially are good for watercolor absorption and workability Strathmore 300gsm watercolor paper is my favorite type of paper to use with these paints because it’s heavy enough to withstand a lot of wetness without warping or tearing. Give this paper a try, it is easy to find and holds up great.
strathmore sketchbooks
Now let’s talk journals. The Strathmore Watercolor Travel Journal is my all-time favorite sketchbook. I have it in two sizes – 5×8 and 7×10. They may be low on the number of pages, but it’s the perfect size for carrying around with you. It has really high-quality paper. I often use it for quick sketches or painting studies.
Do you have any favorite art supplies that you can’t live without? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading!
Happy Creating,
