My Favorite
Inktense Supplies
If you’ve ever wondered what supplies I use for my Derwent Inktense paintings, they’re all here!
These are the products I currently recommend based on my own experience using them for realistic water color and mixed medium artwork.
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Derwent Inktense Pencils
I don’t use Inktense for work that I’m selling because there are so many non lightfast colors, BUT they are super fast to work in and dry totally matte so they photograph beautifully. They are wonderful for prints!
*Not all colors are lightfast
Derwent Inktense Blocks
I use the Inktense blocks more than the pencils. If only getting one set I would recommend the blocks because they’re more versatile. I use them like watercolor pans. I rarely apply the block directly to the paper. These colors mix really well so you don’t absolutely need the largest sets.
*Not all colors are lightfast
THE PAPER I USE FOR INKTENSE
Arches Hot Pressed Watercolor Paper
This is my go-to paper for any water media. While I often buy the type that comes in a block, I almost never work in the block because I’m so heavy handed with water that it will warp. Instead I use the otto stretcherbar system I listed below. One of the reasons I love this paper is that it also works great with colored pencil so when I do a watercolor/colored pencil mixed media piece, this paper is perfect for both!
OTHER ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES I USE
Easel Lamp
One of the most important things in the studio is being able to see without straining our eyes! This lamp clamps right onto my easel, but they also have tabletop and floor type lamps depending on what works for your space.
Pencil Sharpeners
These handheld sharpeners are inexpensive and effective! I like to have several so when one gets dull, I can swap it out for a fresh one!
Otto Stretcher Bars
I recommend getting the larger set of these. You need your paper to be cut the same size of whatever board you work on. You presoak your paper to stretch it, then lock it in place with these bars to prevent warping. No fighting with lifting tape!
Drawing Board
If not using the otto system, a drawing board can work to tape your paper in place. It doesn’t prevent warping if you’re heavy handed with water like I am, but it is far better than working on loose paper.
Masking Tape
It’s important to use an acid-free masking tape when we tape our work so we don’t leave damaging residue on the finished art!
Mason Jars
I use these for pencil shavings and to keep the colored pencils I’m using on a project separate so I make sure I know what I’ve been using on any given project. Old pasta sauce jars work great too!
Masking Fluid
Use this to keep areas of the paper white while you paint. I use this ruling pen and rubber cement eraser set to apply and remove the masking fluid.
4 oz Jars
I use these cute little jars for my distilled water. One is to clean brushes and one is to mix with my colors.
Glassine
I use this acid-free paper under my hand to protect the work from smudges and the oils on my skin. I also place a piece between each drawing to protect them in storage or shipping.
Mat, Bag and Board
Is your art even done if you don’t mat it? These bag/backing board/mat combo sets make it easy to present your work professionally at a reasonable price.
Art Storage Box
These archival boxes are how I store most of my colored pencil drawings. I put a piece of glassine between each piece to keep them clean and smudge free. You can fit a LOT of art in these boxes!
Paint Brushes
I love watercolor but it is a picky medium when it comes to how it behaves with different brushes. These two brands are my favorites but they are pricey. Do not feel like you need to get every brush available. Just get a few brushes and build your collection over time! I don’t spend nearly as much on brushes for watercolor pencils, though. For those, I often use the budget friendly Artify Brushes.
Artify Brush Set of 18
This nylon brush set has just about anything you could want to paint with inktense, plus they’re really budget friendly. Every once in a while I have to glue the handle back to the part with the bristles, but it’s worth it to me given the price and selection of brushes!
Silver Brush Limited Black Velvet
I use this powder brush instead of mop brushes because these don’t shed. I mainly use these to soften out backgrounds when they’re heavily saturated with water.
Derwent Water Brush
This brush holds water so you just have to squeeze it a bit to blend. I use these a lot with the Inktense pencils.
Want to learn how I use all this stuff?
Supplies are just the beginning! Learn how to layer, blend, and use them together in my full-length lessons.
