Have you always wanted to be an artist? There\u2019s no better time than now to start getting creative! We know art supplies can seem intimidating because there are so many options, so we\u2019ve gathered together our top tips to help you. Read on!<\/p>\n
Do you want to paint with acrylics, oils or watercolours? What you need to get started<\/strong>
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\nYour first decision is which \u201cmedium\u201d you want to start with. Most beginner artists choose between acrylics, oils, and watercolours.
\nAcrylics: Beginner artists often start with acrylics because they\u2019re easy to use and are relatively inexpensive. They dry quickly, though, so you don\u2019t have a lot of time to perfect your painting as you go along. On the other hand, the fact they dry quickly means you can easily paint over if necessary! Acrylics are water-soluble, which means they can be thinned using water and are quick to clean with only soap and water. You can\u2019t try out as many techniques with acrylics as you can with oils, but you can add a gel thickener or try different sorts of acrylics for different effects.
\nOils: Oils paints were preferred by the Grand Masters because by using paint thinners and adding oil you can vary the consistency of the paint and use it to try out different techniques. Many beginner artists start with oils, so if you know you\u2019d like to experiment with techniques, this may be your medium.
\nWatercolours: many artists think that watercolours are more difficult than acrylics and oils as you can\u2019t change errors very easily \u2013 paper can only absorb so much water. But beginner artists are often drawn to watercolours because the effects are fresh and beautiful. A set of watercolour paints can also be relatively inexpensive.<\/p>\n
\nPaints:<\/strong> Limit your palette to start with. It\u2019s a good idea to start with primary colours plus white, green and an earthy colour. You can add more colours as you progress.
\nBrushes:<\/strong> It\u2019s worth investing in a decent set of brushes that suit the medium you\u2019ve chosen. Cheap brushes are more likely to shed hairs in your painting which is very frustrating. You can either invest in a starter pack, or one wider brush plus two smaller ones.
\nCanvas or paper:<\/strong> If you\u2019re working with acrylics or oils you\u2019ll need canvases, for watercolours you\u2019ll need paper.
\nPalette knives and a palette:<\/strong> For colour mixing
\nAn easel:<\/strong> Isn\u2019t essential to start with, but it makes life easier
\nAnd finally \u2013 grab some pots for water, rags and paper towels for wiping your brush between strokes. You\u2019re ready to start! Enjoy!<\/p>\n