What kind of acrylic paint and brushes do you use? Where do you get them? These are some of the questions I am often asked.
I would suggest that you use the best quality paint that you can afford. I have a friend who teaches and advises his students to “paint like you are a millionaire” – a theory that I believe in. The less expensive paint has fillers and is not true to color or in many cases is not lightfast. If you are planning to sell your artwork you want to offer the best product possible. Start with a sample of paint then expand when you can. The list below includes my always “go to” colors and those that I like to have on my palette to give me options. I generally use fluid paint but also use a higher viscosity at times. Color names vary per brand but I especially like:
Novacolor: titanium white, mars black, blue green
Golden: ultramarine blue, cobalt blue, pyrole red, cadmium red med, cerulean blue, cadmium yellow medium, naples yellow, yellow ocher, van dyke brown, cadmium orange med, cadmium orange light, ultramarine violet. permanent violet dark, alizarine red
Matisse: Southern Ocean Blue, skin tone light
daVince: Opus Permanent
This list probably seems overwhelming but maybe start with: ultramarine blue, cad red med, cad yellow med, cad orange light, black, white. You can get a lot done with this limited palette. Don’t forget graphite pencils for layout, paper towels. (I like Viva Brand,) water, dish soap or Murphy oil soap for cleanup.
As for brushes, I use inexpensive flats from a craft store. I do have some expensive Isabey brushes but don’t use them often. I do like pin striping brushes that are used for auto paint detail. You can find those on Amazon. I do use sponges, palette knives, scrappers etc. Keep a look out for anything that you can either use to apply paint or remove some. These can be found in unusual places.
Sources for paint on line: Novacolor, jerrysartarama, dickblick, cheapjoes,
If you find this list useful, please share. Happy Painting!
