Artist Supplies to Save You Time and Money: Top Tools and Art Supplies for Oil Painting in the Studio and on the Go
Some of these might surprise you!
Recently, I had to pack for a plein air painting session and faced a tough question: what to bring along?
My studio has everything I need, and more, but I needed to focus on essentials—the must-have tools that make my painting sessions both effective and enjoyable. These tools help me save time.
Naturally, paint, brushes, and canvases topped the list. But what other tools were absolutely essential?
Here is my list of 7 artist tools I wouldn't go without when painting with oils, whether in the studio or on the go.
1. Disposable Paper Palette
A disposable paper palette is a must-have for any painter wanting to save time and minimize cleanup.
Once you’re done, simply toss the used sheet. This avoids the hassle of cleaning a plastic palette, which can pollute waterways when rinsed. It's a practical and eco-friendly choice that simplifies the creative process.
I order mine here:👉 https://amzn.to/4axfzqT)
I also like this one from Winsor Newton👉 https://amzn.to/400gTjK
For my friends in France, the equivalent is: 👉 https://amzn.to/3YmYeh1
2. Airtight Palette Box
An airtight box is essential for preserving the colors on your disposable paper palette between sessions.
It allows you to transport colors without spills—a great help for artists on the go.
Simply place the paper palette in the box, then refrigerate or freeze it to keep your mixes fresh until the next session. This cuts down on paint waste and saves time on re-mixing.
To order in Canada:👉 https://amzn.to/3vLeU6h
To order in France:👉 https://amzn.to/483jbAI
Painter's Memo Book
This book is indispensable for quickly recalling my color mixes. It's a lifesaver when I worry I haven't mixed enough paint for a whole surface.
Without it, I'd spend too much time trying to remember my mixes, and it helps me avoid wasting paint with incorrect mixes.
I jot down my color mixes and all the details needed to pick up right where I left off on a painting.
I can’t count the times I’ve thanked myself for recording these details, and I highly recommend it.
I'm proud to say it's available almost everywhere. Choose your country:
CANADA - CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B09V3FF4LL
FRANCE - FR: https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B09V3FF4LL
USA - US: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09V3FF4LL
GERMANY - DE: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B09V3FF4LL
SPAIN - ES: https://www.amazon.es/dp/B09V3FF4LL
ITALY - IT: https://www.amazon.it/dp/B09V3FF4LL
NETHERLANDS - NL: https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B09V3FF4LL
JAPAN - JA: https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/dp/B09V3FF4LL
AUSTRALIA - AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B09V3FF4LL
4. Jar for Rinsing and Cleaning Brushes
This jar is perfect for storing and transporting solvent or turpentine, making brush cleaning much easier.
The airtight jar features a leakproof rubber ring to prevent spills and evaporation. Made of stainless steel, it's durable enough to withstand drops.
With a removable filter, it provides a friction surface for cleaning brushes and allows paint residues to settle at the bottom. Its portable design and strong handle make it easy to carry.
I delve further into this topic in this article: [Convenient Jar for Brush Cleaning and Solvent Storage](https://www.cours-de-peinture.ca/post/pot-pratique-pour-le-nettoyage-des-pinceaux-et-pour-conserver-le-solvant)
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5. Stainless Steel Palette Knives with Wooden Handle
Palette knives are essential for mixing colors without damaging your brushes. Mixing with a brush can quickly wear down its bristles and reduce precision.
I use a 4 cm knife, perfect for mixing colors without taking up too much space on the palette.
These knives are also versatile and can be used for painting, scraping, or texturing on the canvas, whether with oil or acrylic paint.
Personally, I don't like plastic spatulas because they lack the precision of metal ones and aren’t as enjoyable to use.
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Watercolor Pencils
I never go anywhere without my watercolor pencils. They're perfect for sketching directly on the canvas before painting.
Unlike graphite pencil marks, those made with watercolor pencils are much easier to erase, saving precious time and making the sketching stage far less tedious.
To erase, simply pass a damp cloth or brush over them—no eraser needed. This allows for quick, easy corrections.
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I usually use a blue pencil for drawing grid lines and one or more colors to sketch the subject on the canvas.
Once I’m happy with the sketch, I erase the grid lines with a damp cloth.
Before starting your painting, use the grid method to create a proportional sketch from your reference.
This technique is especially helpful for those who aren’t comfortable with drawing and want to avoid calculations.
An easy way to scale up all your drawings without math.
T-Square Ruler
If I have extra space, I bring my T-square.
It’s particularly useful for the grid technique, which helps proportionally reproduce a sketch from a photo onto canvas. The T-square also helps draw straight lines, like the horizon or vertical lines of buildings, saving valuable time.
The top is detachable for easier transport, and it can also be used as a regular ruler.
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Order in France:👉 https://amzn.to/4f5MLrH
These six tools have become essential for me, whether I’m working in the studio or on the go. They help improve the efficiency of my painting sessions and make them more enjoyable and seamless.
If you’re looking to optimize your creative process, I highly recommend investing in these items!
What are your must-haves for painting outdoors? Share in the comments!
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