A Guide to Common Art Supplies Found at a Craft Store

Stepping into a craft store can feel overwhelmingly vast, with myriad options and inspiration at every turn, especially if you're new to art supplies. With so many supplies and materials to choose from, it's hard to know where to start. But don't worry, here is a guide going to go over some of the most common art supplies you'll find at a craft store. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, understanding these supplies will help you create your masterpieces with ease.

1. Paint

A must-have art supply at craft stores is paint. There are two main types: acrylic and oil. Acrylic paint dries quickly, is water-based, and is easy to clean up. Oil paint requires a longer drying time and is popular among experienced artists. Both come in tubes or jars and in various colours.

2. Brushes

Paintbrushes are another essential art supply. They come in various sizes and shapes and are made from different materials, such as natural or synthetic bristles. Selecting the appropriate brush size and shape depends on the nature of your painting. For intricate details, opt for a small, fine brush, whereas for broader strokes and coverage, a larger brush would be more suitable.

3. Canvas

A canvas is a surface that you paint on. It comes in several different sizes and shapes. Canvas can also be primed, which means it's been coated with a layer of gesso to help the paint adhere to the surface better. If you're just starting out with painting, consider using a smaller canvas to practice before moving on to larger sizes.

4. Paper

If you're into drawing or sketching, you'll need paper. Paper is available in a diverse range of weights, textures and colours, providing ample options to suit every preference and need. For pencil sketches, a good-quality sketch pad with smooth paper is ideal. For more detailed or intricate drawings, you might want to invest in thicker paper that can handle ink or paint as well.

5. Markers and Pens

Markers and pens are essential tools for enhancing your artwork with vibrant colours and intricate details. There are several types of markers and pens to choose from, such as watercolour markers, brush pens, and fineliners. Watercolour markers are similar to traditional watercolours but in pen form. Brush pens are great for calligraphy and lettering, while fineliners are ideal for detail work.

There you have it, a guide to some of the most common art supplies you'll find at a craft store. Remember, these supplies are just the basics, there are many other materials and tools you can experiment with to create unique and interesting artwork. So next time you walk into a craft store, don't feel overwhelmed. Instead, use this guide to help you navigate the many options and choose the right supplies for your next project.

Check out the art supplies at your local art shop.