For Artsy Pants: A Guide to Buying Art Supplies

If you love to let your creativity run wild on canvas, paper, or any surface for that matter (not your device’s screen, please), you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a professional artist, an aspiring one, or simply someone who loves to doodle in their spare time, we’re here to guide you through the exciting and colourful world of art supplies. Let’s get creative!

A Quick ‘Brush-up’ on Fundamental Art Supplies

You might think buying art supplies is as simple as walking into a store and grabbing a paintbrush, but there’s so much more to it. From the different types of brushes, paints, and canvases to the most essential tools every artist should have in their kit, there’s a lot to consider. So what aspects should you look out for?

Paintbrushes

Ah, the paintbrush, the most important tool in an artist’s arsenal. It’s the magic wand that transforms a blank canvas into a masterpiece, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your art. But with so many shapes, sizes, and bristle materials to choose from, it can be overwhelming for the uninitiated.

A good paintbrush should feel comfortable in your hand, allowing you to control the flow of paint with ease. The bristles should be firm yet flexible, allowing you to create fine lines or broad strokes with equal ease. Natural hair bristles, like sable or hog, are a popular choice among artists due to their ability to hold and release paint. Still, synthetic brushes have come a long way and offer a more affordable option without sacrificing quality.

The shape of the brush is also essential, with each one offering a unique application style. A round brush is excellent for detail work, while a flat brush is ideal for creating broad, even strokes. And don’t forget about fan brushes; they’re perfect for creating soft, fluffy clouds or adding a touch of whimsy to your artwork.

So there you have it, a quick primer on what makes a high-quality paintbrush.

Paint

First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the type of paint you want to use. There are acrylics, oils, watercolours, and more, each with its own unique properties and applications. Acrylics are fast-drying, water-soluble, and versatile, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Oils are slower drying, allowing you more time to blend and layer, but they can take weeks to cure fully. Watercolours are fantastic for light, transparent washes and delicate details, while gouache is similar to watercolour but more opaque, making it ideal for solid colour blocking.

Finally, don’t forget to consider the packaging. Squeeze tubes, pans, and tubes all have their pros and cons, so think about what will work best for your needs and style.

So there you have it, a quick rundown on what makes good paint. With this information, you’ll be able to choose the right paint for your future masterpiece!

Hopefully, this article is providing some quality insight into the world of art supplies and is spurring some creative juices. If so, head over to Payflex and sign up for Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL). You’ll be able to get all your art essentials up front and pay for them later. It’s financial art.

Canvas

Canvas’ are the foundation of your creative brilliance, and choosing the right one is crucial to the success of your creation. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!

Before anything, you’ll want to consider the size and shape of the canvas. Do you want to create a large, dramatic piece or something small and intimate? Rectangular canvases are versatile and popular but don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try a circular or oval canvas for a unique twist.

Next, you’ll want to consider the quality of the canvas. A good canvas should have a tight, even weave and the right weight to support the paint without sagging or stretching. Canvases made from cotton or linen are the most common. They offer outstanding durability, but you can also find canvases made from other materials, like hemp or jute, each with its own unique characteristics.

So, although it just looks like a blank white object – it’s essential to consider what it’s made from.

Get Your Art Supplies with Payflex

If you are chomping at the bit to start painting but keep brushing away the thought due to finances –  have a look at Payflex. With our Buy Now Pay Later service, you can search through our extensive store directory and buy high-quality art supplies that suit your style and pay them off 6 weeks later. The best part is that it’s all interest-free!

Let your creativity run wild!