The 5 Essential Watercolor Supplies You TRULY Need

Dreaming of dipping your brush into a world of vibrant color and ethereal washes? Watercolor painting is a beautiful journey, but often, aspiring artists are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of supplies available. At Belula Art, we believe in simplifying the path to creativity. You don't need an elaborate studio to start. In fact, you only need five fundamental items to begin your enchanting watercolor adventure!

Your Minimalist Watercolor Starter Kit: The Essentials

Forget the clutter and focus on these core tools that will truly empower your first strokes:

1. Quality Watercolors (Pans or Tubes)

Invest in artist-grade watercolors, even as a beginner. The pigment quality makes a significant difference in vibrancy, blendability, and lightfastness. Pan sets are convenient for travel and immediate use, while tubes offer richer, more concentrated color, ideal for larger washes. A basic set with primary colors plus a few secondary hues is perfect.

2. A Versatile Watercolor Brush

You don't need a dozen brushes! Start with one or two high-quality synthetic watercolor brushes. A medium-sized round brush (size 6-10) is incredibly versatile for lines, washes, and details. A flat brush (1/2 inch) can also be useful for broader strokes. Look for brushes that hold water well and come to a fine point.

3. Proper Watercolor Paper

This is arguably the most crucial item! Regular paper will buckle and pill. You need dedicated watercolor paper, ideally 140lb (300gsm) cold press. Cold press paper has a slight texture that helps hold pigment and water beautifully, preventing warping and allowing for smooth washes and layering.

4. Two Water Jars

Simple, yet essential! Keep one jar for rinsing your brush to remove excess paint, and another for clean water to mix with your colors. This prevents muddying your palette and keeps your colors pure.

5. A Mixing Palette

Don't underestimate the power of a good mixing surface. A simple ceramic plate, a dedicated porcelain palette, or even a plastic mixing tray will do. It's where you'll dilute your paints, create new hues, and experiment before applying them to paper.

Ready, Set, Paint!

With just these five items, you're not just ready to start; you're equipped for a genuine artistic experience. Watercolor is forgiving and full of delightful surprises. Embrace the journey, experiment with colors, and let your creativity flow. Belula Art is here to support your artistic growth every step of the way!