Drawing materials… what to use? - getting started

A box of Faber-Castell black, white, and beige ink pens in plastic packaging, arranged in a row inside a transparent case.
Box of Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens in black, with two pens placed beside it on a wooden surface.

I am constantly asked about drawing materials and what do I use. So I hope this section helps everyone and answers some questions.

I use a simple HB pencil - nothing special at all! and a simple rubber / eraser. That is enough to get you started. Honestly that is all you need.

For work I like the quality of the Lamy and Kaweco clutch pencils, but for art cheap and simple is best .

Two black mechanical pencils with erasers, one with a matte finish and one with a glossy finish, lying on a wooden surface.
A wooden pencil with a pink eraser and metal band, a white eraser, and a wooden surface with visible grain and cracks.

In terms of pens I use lots of different types and thicknesses, but I do like the Faber Castell Pitt Pens, which come in a range of thicknesses, from thin to chunky felt tips, along with a great set of grey tones.

Again just use what you like. I am left handed so using pens that don’t smudge or blot is essential.

Other bits and pieces …………..

A white plastic flower-shaped paint palette with six petal sections and a central circular section, resting on a colorful, abstract background.
Set of seven paintbrushes arranged on a wooden surface, varying in size and shape.
Assorted pens, markers, and art supplies on a wooden desk, with various small tools, batteries, and cables scattered around.

I once saw a quote saying ‘that buying craft materials and using them are in fact two different hobbies’ - I agree.

So I try and be sensible and only buy what I need or what needs replacing.

Find a good local art shop and use them. My favourite is the Newcastle Arts Centre on Westgate Road. It is an Aladdin’s cave of materials and lovely advice.

Three small tubes of Winsor & Newton professional watercolors in white, black, and orange, on a wooden surface. The tubes are in cardboard packaging with clear plastic windows.

Paints and brushes - I use Windsor and Newton, more out of habit I suppose.

Brushes - I use a really cheap travel set from Topmaya when away and have recently been using some Escoda brushes. I am just about to order some more from Fuumuui.

A pair of gardening tools, a small paintbrush and a tool with a curved metal end, lying on a wooden surface next to a brown leather sheath or holder.

Paper and travelling bag …………….

More information to follow !