The Best Watercolor Art Supplies: My Favorite Brushes, Papers, and Tools

Since becoming a full-time artist in 2015, I've noticed that whenever I share my art on social media, I get a lot of questions about the supplies I use. People often ask things like: “What kind of paper is that?” “What brush are you using?” or “What’s the best brush for masking fluid?”

First, I want to emphasize that the art supplies I use may not be the best choice for you. As disappointing as that might sound, every artist has a unique style and voice, and it’s essential that your supplies work for you—not the other way around.

The materials you choose also depend a lot on the specific project you’re working on. For example, when I’m creating art that will be digitized for a product or pattern, I often repurpose paper from old sketches (you can read more about that here). For these pieces, where the final original isn’t as important, I may even use cheaper paints because I know the artwork will be reworked on the computer later.

I like to keep all my brushes together, and for that I use a tool box I got in Ikea years ago.	This painting was meant to be texture to be added digitally to a design, so used cheap practice paper for it.

However, when I’m creating a piece to sell as an original, meant to be displayed on a wall, I use the highest quality supplies available. This helps ensure the artwork’s longevity and maintains its vibrancy over time.

If you’re looking for specific recommendations, all my online classes come with a list of supplies tailored for each project. These lists are FREE for everyone to access! For example:

• Masterclass No.1: Focuses on paper preparation and the different types of paper and their uses.
• Masterclass No.2: Covers brushes and how to choose the right one for your style.
• Masterclass No.3: Includes a comprehensive list of supplies, including inks and other mediums like masking fluid.

Feel free to explore my supply lists, and in the meantime, here is a mini-list of my favorite must-have supplies—I hope you find it helpful!

PAPER

When I paint large watercolours, I always use Arches Paper 185gsm, cold press.
If I am painting in a smaller format, then I like using Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolor Block - 12' x 16', Cold Press

BRUSHES

There are two brushes that I always use, these are Robert Simmons White Sable Brush - Oval Wash, Short Handle, 3/4’ or 1/2’ for large paintings, and Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Brush - Round, Short Handle, Size 12, Size 6 and Size 0.

For washes my absolute favourite is a Hake Brush large or small.

WATERCOLOR PAINT

When I started painting years ago, I got a set of Winsor & Newton half pans set, that until this date I use, and I truly recommend. If you prefer tubes, then it will be better to get a set of 20 tubes. And to bring crazy vibrancy or travel, my favourite are the Viviva Colorsheets.

MASKING FLUID

I always use Schmincke, but Pebeo is also a good option.

If you are interested in inks, acrylics, gold pigments and other tools, I recommend you to check my list of supplies available in my online school.

If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at not extra cost to you. Please note that I have not received free products or any exchange for mentioning them. I genuinely recommend these products and shop.