If you’ve ever walked into an art supply store and thought, Where in the world do I even begin?…you are not alone.

There are SO many wonderful art supplies out there, and while I certainly don’t think you need a studio full of every new product that comes along, there are a handful of supplies that I find myself reaching for over and over again.

Some are perfect for adding color. Some help me create texture. Some make lettering easier. And a few are simply those trusty little supplies that seem to find their way into almost everything I make.

So today, I thought I’d take you inside my creative space and share a few of my favorite art supplies—the ones I love having nearby when I’m ready to sit down, create, and see where my imagination takes me.

And remember: you do not need all of these to create something beautiful. Use what you have. Start with what you love. There is no perfect supply list required to be an artist.

1. PanPastel Artist Pastels

PanPastels are one of those supplies that can add SO much softness and depth to a project.

I love the way they allow me to build up color gradually. They’re especially wonderful when I want a soft, blended look rather than something that feels harsh or overly defined.

They’re also just fun to play with!

If you’ve never worked with PanPastels before, give yourself permission to experiment. Try layering colors, blending them together, or using them in unexpected places.

Sometimes the best discoveries happen when we stop worrying about doing it “right.”

2. DAS Air-Hardening Modeling Clay

There is something so satisfying about working with clay.

DAS Air-Hardening Modeling Clay is a favorite of mine when I want to add dimension and texture to a project. I love being able to shape something with my hands or by using molds and then incorporate that dimensional element into my artwork.

And because it air-hardens, you don't need a kiln to get started.

This is one of those supplies that reminds me that creating doesn't always have to begin with a paintbrush. Sometimes it starts with your hands simply playing with a material and seeing what happens.

3. Supracolor Pencils

Colored pencils are such a versatile addition to an art supply collection, and Supracolor pencils are ones I love reaching for.

They give me the ability to add detail, shading, color, and dimension in a way that feels very controlled—but they can also be used more loosely and playfully.

I especially love having pencils nearby when a piece needs just a little something extra.

Sometimes it isn't another layer of paint that a project needs. Sometimes it's simply a little bit of pencil work to bring those final details to life.

4. Neocolor

Neocolor is another favorite because of its versatility.

I love supplies that can be used in more than one way, and these are perfect for experimenting with different techniques and adding interesting color and texture.

They can help you create loose, expressive marks while still giving you plenty of control when you want it.

And honestly, sometimes I just love pulling out a supply and asking myself:

“I wonder what would happen if I tried this?”

That curiosity is a big part of why I love creating.

5. Daniel Smith Watercolors

There is something magical about watercolor.

Daniel Smith watercolors are a favorite in my studio, especially when I want beautiful, transparent color and that lovely, unpredictable quality that watercolor can bring to a piece.

One of my favorite things about watercolor is that you have to let go a little.

You can guide the paint, but you can't completely control it.

And sometimes that's exactly the reminder we need as creatives.

We don't have to control every little thing.

Sometimes we can simply make a mark, add some water, watch the color move, and enjoy the process.

6. Golden Gel Medium

Golden Gel Medium is one of those studio staples that I find incredibly useful for mixed media work.

It's wonderful when I want to build layers, incorporate elements into a piece, or add another dimension to my artwork.

Mixed media is all about combining materials and techniques, and gel medium gives me another way to bring those pieces together.

If you're someone who loves experimenting with different materials, this is definitely one I'd keep nearby.

7. Micron Pens

I don't think I could have a favorite art supply list without Micron Pens.

For lettering, outlining, adding details, or simply giving a piece a little more definition, these pens are a favorite.

I love having different sizes available because sometimes you need the tiniest little detail and other times you want something with a little more presence.

And if you love lettering, they're especially handy to have in your creative toolbox.

8. Pritt Glue Stick

This one might seem a little less exciting than watercolor or pastels, but hear me out.

A good glue stick is one of those supplies that you don't always think about until you need it—and then you're SO glad you have one.

For collage, paper elements, mixed media projects, and all those little moments when something needs to be attached, Pritt Glue Stick is one I like to keep within reach.

Not every favorite art supply has to be fancy.

Sometimes the humble supplies are the ones we use the most.

9. Filbert Brush

If you've never tried a filbert brush, you may want to add one to your collection.

The shape gives you a lot of versatility. You can use the edge for smaller details or the fuller part of the brush for broader strokes.

I love having brushes that allow me to move between different types of marks without constantly switching tools.

And there's something wonderful about discovering how many different marks you can make with one brush simply by changing the way you hold it.

10. Refillable Watercolor Brush Pen

This is another one of those supplies that makes creating a little easier.

A refillable watercolor brush pen is wonderful for working with watercolor without having to constantly reach for a traditional brush and water cup.

It's convenient, portable, and perfect for those times when you want to create without setting up your entire studio.

I love supplies that make it easier to say, “I have a few minutes. Let's create something.”

Because sometimes those few minutes are all we need.

You Don't Need a Studio Full of Supplies

If you've made it this far and you're thinking, Okay, Pam…that's a LOT of art supplies, let me remind you of something.

You don't need all of these.

You don't even need most of these.

The purpose of sharing my favorites isn't to give you a shopping list. It's to give you a peek into some of the tools I enjoy using and maybe introduce you to something you've never tried before.

Start with what you already have.

Pull out those colored pencils that have been sitting in a drawer.

Use the watercolor set you've had for years.

Try making marks with a brush you've never used before.

Give yourself permission to play.

Because creativity isn't about having the perfect supplies.

It's about making space to create.

And sometimes, when we give ourselves that little bit of space, we discover that the thing our heart needed wasn't another finished project at all.

It was simply a little time to create.

So grab what you have, make a little mess, and see where it takes you.

You belong here.