Getting Started: Essential Supplies for mixed-media sketchbook

Nitika Alé
May 2
3 min read

Diving into the world of mixed-media art can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. With so many materials to choose from, knowing where to start is half the journey. Whether you're new to art journaling or looking to expand your creative toolkit, setting up your mixed-media sketchbook with the right supplies makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential items to help you get started with confidence.

1. The Sketchbook: Your Creative Playground

The foundation of your mixed-media journey is, of course, the sketchbook. Look for:

Thick, high-quality paper (at least 200gsm/90lb or more) that can withstand wet media.
Spiral-bound or stitched options for easy page turning and flat lay.
Cold press watercolor paper if you plan to use a lot of water-based materials.

Popular choices: Strathmore Visual Journal, Canson XL Mixed Media, or Moleskine Art Plus Sketchbook.

2. Acrylic Paints

Acrylics are a mixed-media favorite due to their versatility. They dry quickly, work on many surfaces, and layer well with other mediums.

Start with primary colors + black and white.
Student-grade brands like Liquitex Basics or Winsor & Newton Galeria offer great value.

3. Watercolors and Watercolor Pencils

Watercolors add softness and transparency. Watercolor pencils give more control and can be activated with water afterward—perfect for sketchbook work.

Try Caran d'Ache Aquarelle pencils or Derwent Inktense pencils.
Also optional but very versatile are Caran d'Ache water-soluble pastels—Neocolor II. Their basic set is amazing.

4. Mark Making

Mark-making involves creating lines, textures, and patterns using tools like brushes, stamps, or found objects. In mixed media, it adds depth and expression, making your artwork more dynamic and personal.

Use Micron pens, Faber-Castell Pitt pens, or Uniball Vision.
Select alcohol-based markers (e.g., Copic, Ohuhu) for vibrant layering; Ecoline brush pens are versatile too.
Choose a few POSCA markers in specific colors instead of sets.
Have a set of oil pastels (e.g., Mungyo Artist, Caran d'Ache, Sennelier).
Select soft pastel colors from Sennelier, Conté Paris, Unison, etc.

5. Collage Materials (optional to make it more fun play)

Incorporate textures and layers with found paper, such as:

Old book pages, magazines, tissue paper, washi tape, and patterned scrapbook paper.
Keep a small envelope or folder to collect ephemera for future use.

6. Adhesives

To secure your collage elements and heavier media:

Use gel medium, glue sticks, or double-sided tape.
For a professional finish, try matte medium (which doubles as a sealant).

7. Brushes and Tools

A variety of tools allows for different effects:

A few synthetic brushes in varying sizes.
Palette knives, old credit cards, or sponges for texture.
Spray bottles for water effects and blending.

8. Gesso and Texture Pastes

Gesso preps your paper for heavy media and gives it grip. Texture pastes can be used for raised effects.

White gesso is a staple; clear gesso is useful when you want to preserve underlying text or patterns.
Experiment with modeling paste or texture gel.

9. Stamps, Stencils, and Inks (optional to make it more fun play)

Add instant patterns and interest:

Rubber stamps and acrylic blocks.
Reusable stencils in geometric or organic designs.
Permanent ink pads (like Archival Ink or StazOn) work best on most surfaces.

10. A Heat Tool (Optional but Handy)

Speeds up drying time—especially useful when you're layering quickly or working in small time blocks.

Final Tips:

Start small. You don’t need every supply at once—build your collection as you discover your style.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Mixed-media is all about play.
Keep a rag or paper towel handy for messes—and happy accidents.

Finding the Right Creative Space

Your artistic journey is linked to your creative environment. Here are tips to set up your workspace:

Lighting: Natural light is ideal. Use a room with large windows or a lamp with daylight bulbs.
Comfortable Seating: An ergonomic chair enhances comfort during long sessions.
Organization: Use shelves, drawers, or containers to keep supplies organized and accessible, inspiring creativity.
Inspiration: Surround yourself with artwork, quotes, or color swatches that fuel creativity.

A dedicated creative space helps you focus and allows your artistic skills to flourish.

Your mixed-media sketchbook is more than just a collection of pages—it's a space for discovery, self-expression, and joyful experimentation. With these essential supplies at your fingertips, you're all set to dive in. So open that sketchbook, make a mark, and let your creativity unfold!

✨🌸 You can checkout my Youtube videos for more visual inspiration 🌸 ✨