My Favorite Art Supplies (That I Actually Use!)
There’s something magical about finding art supplies that just clicks—the pencil that glides exactly how you want it to, or the paint that makes your heart beat faster because it’s just that dreamy. I get asked a lot about the materials I use and today I’m sharing a few of my absolute favourite tools—ones I pack up, travel with, spill coffee near, and use nearly every day.
1. The Zipper Binder That Holds Everything
This binder is basically a portable studio. It unzips like a treasure chest—three full panels that fan out to reveal every tool you might need. Inside: watercolour pencils, charcoal, graphite, blending tools, erasers, and more. It’s like having an entire art drawer organized and ready to go, but in a compact case that fits in my tote bag. I bring it everywhere, from road trips to lakeside sketching adventures with my children.
2. The Paintbrush Roll I Never Knew I Needed
I just love paintbrushes, but they can be so expensive. I received these for Christmas and they are beautiful- and for $38 for ALL of it, I don’t even mind if my little girl uses them. This brush roll comes with a generous variety of brush shapes and sizes, all with rich wooden handles that feel sturdy and elegant. It rolls up neatly, tucks into my art bag, and gives that satisfying feeling of unrolling a scroll before you start painting.
These are my go-to brushes for both fine details and big, loose backgrounds. Whether I’m painting feathery swan wings or soft garden roses, I always reach for this set.
3. The Metallic Gouache That Sparkles Just Right
This is the paint I reach for when I want something a little extra—like that shimmer on a swan’s wing or the silky feel of a pink bow. It’s not glittery. Just soft, dreamy and shimmery metallics that dry to a velvety matte finish. They blend beautifully with other gouache or watercolors, and the tubes last a surprisingly long time.
A little goes a long way, and a swish of bronze or rose gold always makes my paintings feel like they’re glowing from within.
4. My Favorite Acrylic Paints
These paints are gorgeous. I mean, gorgeous. Thick, creamy textures in a dreamy range of pastel shades—like strawberry milk, soft sky blue and soft buttercream. I love visiting Michaels and treating myself to a few shades every now and then.
They layer well, dry with a lovely matte or satin finish, and are perfect for both paper and canvas. If you're a colour lover these paints are a must.
These are the exact art supplies I reached for while creating my Swan collection, including the artwork for this free printable 3D Swan Tunnel Card.
The card is easy to assemble—perfect for decorating a nursery shelf, adding to a gift, or just a moment of quiet, beautiful crafting.
If you'd like to download it (and join my creative email list), I’d love to send it your way. I’ll also share more free art printables, behind-the-scenes peeks, and early previews of my collections.
A Small Note on Affiliate Links 🎀
These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them. It doesn’t change the price for you, and it helps me continue making art, building whimsical worlds, and supporting my family. I’m incredibly grateful when you choose to shop through my links—but only ever want you to buy something if it truly inspires you too.
Have any favourite supplies of your own? Let me know—I’m always curious about what others are loving in their creative journeys.
Happy painting,
Wilmé