Introduction
Starting oil painting is exciting, but choosing the right materials can feel overwhelming. When I first started, I spent too much time (and money!) on supplies I didn’t really need. Over time, I learned that you only need a handful of best oil painting supplies to get started without breaking the bank. In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned so you can begin your artistic journey with confidence and avoid common beginner mistakes.
1. High-Quality Oil Paints
Overview: Not all oil paints are created equal. Investing in artist-grade or high-quality student-grade paints will significantly improve your painting experience.
My Advice:
- Start with primary colors (red, blue, yellow) plus white and burnt umber for mixing.
- Look for pigment-rich, buttery consistency paints like Winsor & Newton or Gamblin.
- Avoid super cheap oil paints—they often contain too much filler and won’t blend well.
2. The Right Brushes for Oil Painting
Overview: Brushes are your most important tools, and selecting the right ones can make painting much easier.
My Advice:
- Start with a variety of shapes (round, flat, filbert, fan) for different strokes.
- Choose natural bristle brushes for thicker paint application or synthetic bristles for smoother blending.
- Clean your brushes properly after each session to extend their lifespan.
3. A Durable Palette
Overview: Your palette is where you mix colors, and having the right one can make a difference in ease of use and cleanup.
My Advice:
- Glass palettes are easy to clean and great for color mixing.
- Wood palettes are classic but require priming to prevent oil absorption.
- Disposable palette paper is perfect for beginners who want quick cleanup.
4. Painting Surface: Canvas or Panel?
Overview: Choosing the right surface impacts how your paint adheres and how your final painting looks.
My Advice:
- Pre-stretched, pre-primed canvases are the easiest option for beginners.
- Canvas boards are affordable and great for practice.
- Wood panels offer a smooth surface for fine details.
5. Oil Mediums for Better Flow and Drying Control
Overview: Mediums help alter the consistency and drying time of oil paints.
My Advice:
- Linseed oil enhances flow and keeps colors rich.
- Liquin or Galkyd speeds up drying time for faster layering.
- Turpentine or odorless mineral spirits help thin paints but should be used in a well-ventilated space.
6. A Sturdy Easel
Overview: An easel helps maintain proper posture and perspective while painting.
My Advice:
- Tabletop easels work well for small spaces.
- A-frame or H-frame easels provide better stability for larger paintings.
- Portable easels are great for outdoor painting.
7. A Reliable Cleaning System
Overview: Keeping your brushes and workspace clean is essential for maintaining your tools.
My Advice:
- Use odorless mineral spirits for brush cleaning.
- Wipe excess paint off brushes with a rag or paper towel before rinsing.
- Store brushes upright after cleaning to prevent damage.
8. A Palette Knife for Mixing and Textures
Overview: Palette knives aren’t just for mixing—they can add bold textures to your painting.
My Advice:
- Use a palette knife instead of a brush for cleaner color mixing.
- Experiment with impasto techniques for textured effects.
- Choose a metal palette knife for durability.
9. Paper Towels and Wet wipes for Cleanup
Overview: Keeping your workspace clean is essential for maintaining good painting habits.
My Advice:
- Use wet wipes to wipe brushes.
- Keep paper towels handy for dabbing excess paint.
- Have a dedicated cloth for blotting out mistakes.
10. A Well-Ventilated Space
Overview: Oil painting materials can release fumes, so it’s important to have a safe and comfortable workspace.
My Advice:
- Open windows or use an air purifier for ventilation.
- Store solvents and mediums in airtight containers.
- Wear gloves or barrier cream to protect your hands.
Conclusion
With the right oil painting supplies, you’ll have everything you need to start painting with confidence. Keep it simple, focus on quality over quantity, and enjoy the creative process. The best way to improve is to paint regularly and experiment with different techniques. Happy painting!
About Me
I’m an artist who knows firsthand how intimidating oil painting can be at first. Through my journey, I’ve discovered what supplies truly matter and what you can skip. I love helping others navigate their creative journey with practical advice and encouragement. Let’s paint together!