There’s more on a  studio wishlist than just paint and supports – those are the obvious things. But they aren’t the only useful items for a studio. Some of the indispensable items in my studio are a bit less obvious.  Because of this, I keep a studio wishlist going all the time. As I think of something that could be useful I add it to the list. It acts as a useful reminder. In the past I would hear about something  I wanted to get for my studio and think that I would remember to add it to my next order of materials. Ha! Of course I didn’t. But once I started making a note, that all changed. I now keep my list on my phone so that I have it with me wherever I go.

With Christmas almost upon us, this seemed a good time for me to share some of the items I’ve found useful in the studio. They may not be glamorous, but I’ve found all of these 10 items to be invaluable.

A starter studio wishlist: 10 items I wouldn’t be without

An apron with pockets – It sounds obvious but to start with I just painted in old jeans and T-shirts. Once I got an apron with those all-important pockets in front, I never stopped using it. Fewer paint drips on my clothes and somewhere to pop my phone and a pen while I work. I wouldn’t be without one now.

Pin board with inspirational painting images
The pinboard on my studio wall – always ready new ideas

It pays to clean your brushes regularly:
Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver (I used this one for years)
and then I found this:  Jacksons Marseille Soap Pellets. This is a big tub so it’s real value for money and will take me some time to get through.

At the cost of paint, to save wear and tear on my fingertips, I got myself one of these tube wringers for my acrylics and oils. It’s not such a big deal for watercolours because the tubes are smaller and lighter and I can get all the paint out painlessly.

I’ll be updating the ideas for Studio supplies page in my Artist Resources from time to time so you may want to check there from time to time.

 

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