Kate's Favs: Studio Art Supplies
Over the years, I've tried countless brushes, paints, and papers in my studio. Some have been forgettable, others have been pleasant, but these supplies? These have become essential companions in my creative practice. I'm excited to share the tools that have truly transformed my work and made the creative process more joyful.
My Top 7 Studio Supplies
This set comes with 8 brushes of various shapes and are suitable for any type of medium. The brush set comes in a bamboo roll up mat that is perfect for traveling.
For artists just starting to build their collection or seasoned painters looking for reliable travel companions, this set offers exceptional value and quality.
2. Lavender Brush Cleaner by Chelsea Classical Studio
Let me address something I hear constantly at workshops: "I'm afraid to try oil painting because of the toxic fumes and harsh chemicals." So many of you have shared your fears of trying oil painting for just this reason! This brush cleaner is non-toxic smells amazing and works like a dream.
This non-toxic cleaner smells absolutely amazing and works like a dream, dissolving oil paint efficiently while being gentle on your brushes and your respiratory system. If you've been curious about oil painting but hesitant because of the solvents, this is your permission slip to try.
3. Bottled inks for fountain pens and brush work
I recently found Soseki Literature Bottled Ink in "I am a Cat" shade. Its absolutely the most beautiful grey green ink with gold shimmer!
This summer I produced a range of artist's inks using natural pigments and I'm so excited to share them with you.
Explore Hunter Moon Homestead Ink
4. Lumos Infinitely Refillable Creative Pen
This magical wand of a pen has removed all of the hassle of using a fountain pen. It comes with many reusable tips hand cradted in Japan, refillable reservoirs, and it is so easy to use. They come in multiple colors and multiple sizes. This pen comes everywhere with me now!
Check out Lumos from Tom's Studio
Anything from Blackwing is a winner, but I especially love the Matte pencils. The graphite has a beautiful dark texture. They are crafted with such mindfulness, and their sales support music and arts programs in schools.
Shop Blackwing In the Supply Shop
6. Karst Stone Paper Sketchpad
You read this right, stone paper! The weight is sturdy and the feel is smooth. It takes every medium I have tried beautifully. There is no bleed through and stands up to tough use so much better than tree paper.
The texture is different from what you're used to, so I'd recommend trying a small pad first to see how you like it. For me, it's become indispensable for sketching and travel journals.
7. Hunter Moon Homestead Handmade Watercolors
Of course, I have to share what we create right here at the homestead! Our handmade watercolors are born from a deep love of natural pigments and traditional methods. These non-toxic paints are heavily pigmented and tend to be more opaque than commercial watercolors, which gives you incredible control over color intensity and layering.
Each pan lasts a remarkably long time because the pigment concentration is so high - a little goes a long way. The colors are inspired by the natural world around us: the soft grey of morning mist, the deep indigo of twilight, the warm terracotta of autumn fields.
What I love most about our watercolors is knowing exactly what goes into them. No mystery ingredients, no harsh chemicals - just beautiful, earth-friendly pigments bound with care and intention. They're created in small batches, which means each set has its own subtle character.
If you've been wanting to try handmade paints but weren't sure where to start, I'd be honored to have you begin with ours. They're made for artists who care not just about the final piece, but about the entire creative journey.
Shop Watercolors In The Supply Shop
Building Your Creative Practice
These supplies have become trusted friends in my studio, each one chosen not just for quality, but for how they support a mindful, joyful creative practice. I believe the tools we use matter - they can either create friction or flow, frustration or ease.
As you build your own collection, I encourage you to invest in supplies that bring you genuine pleasure to use. Quality tools don't just improve your work; they transform the entire experience of creating. They invite you to slow down, to savor each mark and stroke, to be fully present in the process.
What are your favorite art supplies? I'd love to hear what tools have become essential in your creative practice. Share in the comments below!
Please note: Some links in this post are Amazon affiliate links, which means Hunter Moon Homestead may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These recommendations are genuine - I only share supplies I truly use and love in my own studio practice.