Art Supplies
Welcome to my Studio Catalog
Often I’m asked what art supplies I use and would recommend, what would be economical, options for students starting out, and what I would recommend for more advanced students. I always try to keep in mind what I think students can use for the long haul and products that hold up over time.
oil paint
When using oil paints, I use Gamsol to thin paints, clean brushes, and as a medium to modify the consistency and drying time of oil paints. It also has a low odor which is important. If you’re looking for an alternative to other solvents that is less toxic in nature I’ve also used Chelsea Lavender Spike Oil to think oil paint. It’s derived from the spike lavender plant and is often used to dilute paint, improve flow and increase drying time.
For a great paint series for all students beginner to advanced, I often recommend Gamblin oil paints. They have a more affordable 1980 series for students and beginners and their professional line for those looking for a higher ration of pigment in their paints. Gamblin has high quality pigments and consistent vibrant colors and excellent coverage. The brand also emphasizes safety by producing paints with a reduced level of toxic elements, making them safer for artists to use.
There are some specific colors I love from other brands like Williamsburg, Old Holland and Sennelier.
Sennelier:
Williamsburg:
Cold Black
Old Holland:
Gamblin:
Gamblin 1980 basic set- I’ve bought this set a number of times to use teaching beginner oil painting classes. It has an assortment of paint colors which give you just what you need.
Titanium white-Helpful to get the large tube.
Painting Supplies:
Brush washer- This is a larger size I love for the studio. Otherwise, they carry a smaller size which you‘ll want plein air painting.
Jack Richeson Palette Paper- I started using the Masterson palette and Richeson grey palette paper as a way to help conserve paint. I like being able to just rip off a new sheet when I need a new surface.
Masterson Stay Wet Palette- I’ve used this palette for years and still love it! Life is busy and it’s nice to be able to keep oil paint in a container that I can throw in the freezer to keep until I can get back to it. I also love being able to use the palette paper and tear off a new fresh sheet.
Mediums
The Versatile Role of Linseed Oil in Painting
Linseed oil, derived from the seeds of the flax plant, has been a staple in the world of painting for centuries. Its versatile nature and numerous benefits have made it a popular choice among artists, both professionals and amateurs alike. So, what exactly is linseed oil used for in painting?
Medium Modification: One of the primary functions of linseed oil in painting is to serve as a medium modifier. By adding linseed oil to their paints, artists can alter the consistency and working properties of the paint. Linseed oil can be used to increase the fluidity and viscosity of paint, making it easier to apply and manipulate on the canvas. This adjustability allows artists to create various effects and textures in their artwork, from thin washes to thick impasto.
Drying Agent: Linseed oil acts as a drying agent due to its chemical composition. It contains a high level of polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, which readily react with oxygen in the air. This process, known as oxidation, causes linseed oil to polymerize and eventually harden. When linseed oil is mixed with pigments in oil paints, it accelerates the drying time and contributes to the formation of a durable, long-lasting film.
Binding Agent: Another crucial role of linseed oil in painting is its function as a binding agent. As linseed oil dries and hardens, it forms a solid film that adheres to the painting surface. This helps to bind the pigments together, creating a stable and cohesive layer of paint. The presence of linseed oil ensures the longevity and archival quality of the artwork, making it less prone to cracks or flaking over time.
Imparting Luster: Artists often appreciate linseed oil for its ability to enhance the quality and appearance of their paintings. When linseed oil is applied to a finished artwork as a varnish or glaze, it imparts a translucent sheen, bringing out the vibrancy and richness of colors. This lustrous effect can add depth and dimension to the painting, elevating its visual appeal.Liquin: Liquin is commonly used as a medium or additive in oil painting to improve the flow and drying time of the paint.
Retouch Varnish-Retouch varnish is used to selectively restore and enhance specific areas of a painting without altering the entire surface.
charcoal & graphite
draw
Graphite Pencils- This kit of graphite pencils is one that all my students in class use. It’s one with great variety and has room to add more.
Charcoal Pencils-General’s Charcoal has a nice set that comes with a variety of different charcoal pencils, a kneaded eraser, charcoal sticks and a white charcoal pencil. You’ll have this set for a long time!
Erasers-Kneaded erasers and white block erasers work well. I especially like this mechanical small eraser for tiny areas.
Papers-Strathmore is a great brand for many different drawing papers. I like using a toned paper in either grey or tan.
Pencil Sharpener-There are two I really love and have used over the years which definitely says a lot when it comes to pencil sharpeners. This electric sharpener is a great all purpose one that fits different sizes. This second is one that sharpens to a long fine tip for more precision.
colored pencils
watercolor
There are a couple of sets I’ve used over the years that have done a great job. I primarily use watercolor when I travel since it dries quickly and is light and compact. Winsor and Newton has small 12 color set that’s perfect.
I also like this set which I’ve had forever! Koi Pocket Field Sketch Kit
Brushes
When looking for brushes, you want ones that snap back to its original shape after it’s bent. Synthetic brushes are a good choice for this reason and for those starting out. You also want a brush that can hold a lot of water and paint. Princeton has a set of 5 brushes with a good variety of sizes.
Paper
Watercolor paper is graded by weight, or how thick it is. For the best paper, look for a weight of at least 140lb. This will ensure that it holds up to water and warping.
Best Watercolor Paper and Brands
Winsor and Newton-Popular brand most are familiar with.
Strathmore-Wide range of options and a brand I regularly use.
Canson XL-A good choice for beginners.
Arches-Considered one of the premium brands
Watercolor Pencils
brushes
Rosemary and Co. has beautiful brushes and excellent quality. They handle so well I can always tell which ones they are because of how they feel. They are recognized for their top quality and craftsmanship.
Which are Better for Oil Painting- Natural or Synthetic Brushes?
Choosing one or the other depends on your preferences and the type of art you’re creating. Natural brushes are stiffer and better for thick paint, they also create more texture in the paint surface. Synthetic brushes are flexible and retain less paint and create smoother paint surfaces and blends between colors. Whichever you decide, make sure you get ones listed for use with oil paint, or for the medium you look to use it for.
CAnvas and panels
I generally prefer the smooth surface of a panel rather than canvas. Ampersand makes great panels I use most often. Otherwise, I like canvas stretched with linen.
plein air
There are a number of things I use painting outdoors that makes the experience so much easier. Having equipment you like using makes all the difference and sets you up for success and a fun day! I think it’s worth spending the money if you can for a good outdoor easel. They do take more of a beating and the French easel I got at 18 lasted 23 years!
That first easel was a French half box and I’ve also bought one for my daughter. It’s lighter than a full size one so easier on your shoulders.
The easel I use now is the Sienna pochade box and Sienna tripod. Both work well together and the box is light enough and sturdy. The tripod is nicely weighted so I don’t worry about it tipping and it’s easy to use with my digital camera too.
I like using the smaller paint washing container to keep my Gamsol in. I found a backpack computer bag with plastic storage compartments for my paints and it fits so many different drawing pads and extras too. There are smaller backpacks available but I still like this one.
framing
Teague Moulding in Hendersonville is the closest option for me and also a favorite for getting frames when you need something right away. They have lots of readymade frames available in the store. They’re wonderful to work with and I know many artists that make the drive just to go. In Nashville, Bennett Galleries and Anne the Framer are top options.
studio EQUIPMENT
U.S. Art Supply Malibu Heavy Duty Extra Large Easel-I’ve had this easel for 7 years and it’s held up well. It’s similar to a Mabef deluxe studio easel but more affordable.
Camera- I’ve had Canon cameras so it’s what I'm used to and like. My last camera was a Canon Rebel and this new one I got last year is a mirrorless camera and with a lens converter I can still use my other lenses too.
Alex Drawer unit on castors- This can be found on Amazon too but I’ve included the link on the Ikea page where you’ll find it for much less.
White tray insert- These trays are SO handy! Super sturdy, I use one tray for all my hanging hardware and another for all my business cards and related things I mail or use for marketing.
Reference Material
One day I’ll be sharing my own book but in the meantime, these are great sources with lots of information.
The Art of Still Life: A Contemporary Guide to Classical Techniques, Composition, and Painting in Oil
The Figurative Artist’s Handbook: A Contemporary Guide to Figure Drawing, Painting and Composition