Watercolor Art Supplies
The goal of this page is to give you the same experience and knowledge you would receive if you were in one of my classes or workshops.
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There are so many art supplies to choose from online or in-store. I want to demystify what you need to create a successful watercolor painting. These are tried-and-true watercolor art supplies I depend on in my studio and I trust for my students learning journey. And as always if you have a question please email me at popovichdale@gmail.com.
Just click on the name and the product information, photo and link to where you can buy will appear. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see my personal art book library and my wife, Marilee's art business books too. By the way, this is a work-in-progress page. It takes a while to link to all of my blog posts and videos. So check back often for additions. |
Here's my printable watercolor art supply list you can keep with you while you are out shopping for art supplies. CLICK HERE
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AFFILIATE DISCLOSURES
Amazon: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Blick Art Supplies: I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Amazon: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Blick Art Supplies: I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
VIDEO: Essential Watercolors for the Successful Artist
To view the video on your smart phone turn horizontal.
Here's a video I created a few years ago where I walked the viewer through the Essential Watercolors for the Successful Artist. You will notice I no longer recommend:
I also suggest in the video:
The video runtime is around 11 minutes.
To view the video on your smart phone turn horizontal.
- A butcher's tray and slant tray. The MEEDEN Watercolor Palette has replaced it.
I also suggest in the video:
- Single edge razor blade
- 240 grit sandpaper
The video runtime is around 11 minutes.
To view the video on your smart phone turn horizontal.
Watercolor Paints
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Qor Paints
II went to the Watercolor Society of Indiana meeting on March 17, 2019. Valeria Allen was their guest speaker from Golden Paints. My wife, Marilee won a set of QoR watercolors and I decided to take them for a test drive. Below are a video and here's a link to my 2019 Dale's Field Journal QoR Watercolor paints blog review.
QoR Newsletter with Valuable Information
Here's a link to QoR watercolor newsletter, Just Paint. These two articles talk about the science behind QoRs watercolors answering your watercolor paint questions:
QoR Watercolors Chart
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- Click on the the VIEW QOR CHART HERE button below and it will take you to their 83 high-intensity colors chart.
- Once you are on the color chart click on a color chip, I selected cobalt blue. A visual will appear I feel is very helpful showing the depth of values, intensity and temperature. They also share makeup of pigment below color chip illustration.
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My Recommended Colors
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Here's what I have on my palette. I am currently experimenting with more of these amazing watercolor paints. I am personally having a love fair with this product.
Remember click on the color bellow. Cobalt Blue Ultramarine Blue Manganese Blue Raw Sienna Burnt Sienna Alizarin Crimson Cadmium Yellow Medium Yellow Medium Sap Green Olive Green |
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WINSOR & NEWTON PROFESSIONAL TUBE (NOT COTMAN)
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Cobalt Bue
Ultramarine Blue Manganese Blue Raw Sienna Burnt Sienna Brown Madder Alizarin Crimson Cadmium Yellow Medium Sap Green Olive Green |
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Holbein Extra Fine Artists' Watercolors
Cobalt Blue
Ultramarine Blue
Manganese Blue
Raw Sienna
Burnt Sienna
Brown Madder
Alizarin Crimson
Cadmium Yellow Medium
Yellow Medium
Sap Green
Olive Green
Ultramarine Blue
Manganese Blue
Raw Sienna
Burnt Sienna
Brown Madder
Alizarin Crimson
Cadmium Yellow Medium
Yellow Medium
Sap Green
Olive Green
Blick Artists' WATERCOLORS
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CLICK HERE to learn more about Blick watercolors.
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ROYAL TALENS: VAN GOGH
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Cobalt Blue
Ultramarine Blue Manganese Blue Raw Sienna Burnt Sienna Brown Madder Alizarin Crimson Cadmium Yellow Medium Yellow Medium Sap Green Olive Green |
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ROYAL TALENS: Rembrandt Artists' Watercolor
Cobalt Blue
Ultramarine Blue
Manganese Blue
Raw Sienna
Burnt Sienna
Madder Brown
Alizarin Crimson
Cadmium Yellow Medium
Yellow Medium
Sap Green
Olive Green
Ultramarine Blue
Manganese Blue
Raw Sienna
Burnt Sienna
Madder Brown
Alizarin Crimson
Cadmium Yellow Medium
Yellow Medium
Sap Green
Olive Green
Watercolor PapersI did a YouTube video three years ago about watercolor papers. At that time I hadn't discovered Indigo Artpapers. The video talks about what to look for and what to expect from the paper. Click on the video below, My Favorite Watercolor Papers.
Please Note: I no longer recommend watercolor blocks. |
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To view the video on your smart phone turn horizontal.
ARCHES
BrushesI prefer real hair watercolor brushes if you can afford them. Here's why I like real hair brushes over synthetic brushes:
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MY NEW FAVORITE – REAL HAIR, THREE BRUSH SET!
1” flat brush
I will be updating this section soon. But for the time being, I highly recommend real hair. It holds more paint and water and offers a more pleasing painting experience.
#10 round
I will be updating this section soon. But for the time being, I highly recommend real hair. It holds more paint and water and offers a more pleasing painting experience.
#4 OR #6 ROUND BRUSH
I will be updating this section soon. But for the time being, I highly recommend real hair. It holds more paint and water and offers a more pleasing painting experience.
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Additional SuppliesHere's links to supplies that will round out your watercolor tools. I have two sections – the first list is must haves. The second include things like an iPad. If you don't own one consider for the future. If you do have one check out my YouTube video and hoe to get the most out of it.
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I carry this easel to all of my classes and workshops. I also use it in my studio. It's lightweight, rugged and compact. I've been using it daily for five years. Did you know Royal & Langnickel is in my backyard. Their headquarters is located in Munster, IN.
If you can’t afford a tabletop easel prop-up your painting board with a roll of toweling paper |
NOTE: In the video Essential Watercolors for the Successful Artist I also suggested going to your local lumberyard and getting a thin, lightweight masonite board. The will cut to the size you need for a nominal cost.
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MEEDEN Airtight leakproof watercolor palette
travel paint tray. I personally prefer this palette because it’s easy to transport.
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2b pencil and ebony pencil
Paper towels
I like the half sheets rolls.
X-ACTO KNIFE
SMALL SPRAY BOTTLE
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You can pick up a small spray bottle at the Dollar Store, hardware store or your local supermarket. Or grab this deal from Tolco Empty Spray Bottle 8 oz. Frosted Assorted Colors (Pack of 3.) Keep all three or find a friend.
NOTE: Watch the video Essential Watercolors for the Successful Artist and learn my secret trick I do to make my spray bottle spit. |
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SPONGE
OLD TOOTHBRUSH
Use an old toothbrush or head over to the Dollar Store and pick up a medium bristle, flat-top brush. As some of you know I take my wife's toothbrush when she's not looking. :-))
WATER CONTAINER
Find a container that holds a quart of water. I use an old DVD spindle cover.
MASKING TAPE (NO COLORED TAPE)
If You Can Afford These Supplies
iPAD
To view the video on your smart phone turn horizontal.
.I have gone through two iPads in my professional art career. I would be lost without it. Besides sending emails to students and others I carry my portfolio, keep business records, calendar appointments, and photos. I paint from it, snap a picture as I go through the different stages of painting and so much more.
I have been asked about painting from a smartphone but I say no. It's too small and why get eyestrain.
There are a variety of iPads so go to an Apple store or a third-party Apple-approved retailer like Costco, Best Buy or B & H Photography, AMAZON and compare sizes, if you want Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular (you are assigned a phone number which allows you to surf on the road but there are additional data charges), storage starts at 64 GB, and of course cost. I also recommend you buy Apple's AppleCare. Apple offers incredible service including phone and in-store. Well worth it. Once you have your information and what you want checkout online stores like Amazon. Oh, make sure you get the newest model you can afford. As the machine gets older software cannot be updated.
My friend and co-teacher Robert J Krajecki's wife, Judy owns the iPad Pro. She is an amazing portrait artist and takes weekly life drawing classes. Typically she would set-up her drawing board with charcoal paper and started sketching. One day she sat next to a woman who was using her iPad Pro instead of the traditional charcoal and shammy.
The newest iPad Pro comes in 11-inch or 12.9-inch, storage starting at 64 GB, and allows you to sketch with the Apple Pencil. That's what Judy uses with an app called Procreate ($9.99.) I wish I could show you how awesome her sketches are and yes they look like charcoal drawings because of the app – VERY IMPRESSIVE!!! I'm not going to fool you, it's a pricy piece of machinery but it may replace your laptop or desktop computer! To read more go to Apple iPad Pro go HERE.
Here's a quick video I created about using the iPad – Tips & Techniques Thursdays: How to Use Your iPad as an Integral Artist's Tool. I created 11/05/2015. In the last few years, Apple has made some improvements like AirDrop which is not covered in this video. If you would like to learn or about this valuable function watch this video created by Apple Support. CLICK HERE
The video in this section, Tips & Techniques Thursdays is how I personally use my iPad as an essential artist's tool. When I 'm working with my students and during demos, artists are intrigued with the way I alter photos' colors and values in seconds to create a stronger, more dynamic photo reference. In addition, I'll share how to download your camera's memory card. See how I will use this powerful smart tablet and why I think its one of my Essential Artist's tools.
I have been asked about painting from a smartphone but I say no. It's too small and why get eyestrain.
There are a variety of iPads so go to an Apple store or a third-party Apple-approved retailer like Costco, Best Buy or B & H Photography, AMAZON and compare sizes, if you want Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular (you are assigned a phone number which allows you to surf on the road but there are additional data charges), storage starts at 64 GB, and of course cost. I also recommend you buy Apple's AppleCare. Apple offers incredible service including phone and in-store. Well worth it. Once you have your information and what you want checkout online stores like Amazon. Oh, make sure you get the newest model you can afford. As the machine gets older software cannot be updated.
My friend and co-teacher Robert J Krajecki's wife, Judy owns the iPad Pro. She is an amazing portrait artist and takes weekly life drawing classes. Typically she would set-up her drawing board with charcoal paper and started sketching. One day she sat next to a woman who was using her iPad Pro instead of the traditional charcoal and shammy.
The newest iPad Pro comes in 11-inch or 12.9-inch, storage starting at 64 GB, and allows you to sketch with the Apple Pencil. That's what Judy uses with an app called Procreate ($9.99.) I wish I could show you how awesome her sketches are and yes they look like charcoal drawings because of the app – VERY IMPRESSIVE!!! I'm not going to fool you, it's a pricy piece of machinery but it may replace your laptop or desktop computer! To read more go to Apple iPad Pro go HERE.
Here's a quick video I created about using the iPad – Tips & Techniques Thursdays: How to Use Your iPad as an Integral Artist's Tool. I created 11/05/2015. In the last few years, Apple has made some improvements like AirDrop which is not covered in this video. If you would like to learn or about this valuable function watch this video created by Apple Support. CLICK HERE
The video in this section, Tips & Techniques Thursdays is how I personally use my iPad as an essential artist's tool. When I 'm working with my students and during demos, artists are intrigued with the way I alter photos' colors and values in seconds to create a stronger, more dynamic photo reference. In addition, I'll share how to download your camera's memory card. See how I will use this powerful smart tablet and why I think its one of my Essential Artist's tools.
ipad case
This is a must. The case protects your expensive investment. A case is a personal choice but make sure it's durable especially for plein air painting. I know artists who find their plein air location, snap a pic of the scene and clip it to their board with a Tryone Gooseneck Tablet Stand Mount Holder. See below. Why? This gives them a reference point where they started.
TRYONE GOOSENECK TABLET STAND, TABLET MOUNT HOLDER FOR IPAD IPHONE SERIES/NINTENDO SWITCH/SAMSUNG GALAXY TABS/AMAZON KINDLE FIRE HD AND MORE
Preserving
Krystal Seal Self-Sealing Art, Print, and Photo Bag Pack
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I have used several different brands of plastic bags but I like Krystal Seal Bags because they are easy to use, durable and crystal clear. Simply slip your mounted or unmounted art into a Krystal Seal Bag, fold over the resealable flap, and you’re ready to display or store your art in a print rack, flat file, portfolio, or storage box — while protecting it from dust, dirt, and fingerprints.
My go-to place for these bags is Blicks. They offer a wide variety of sizes. |
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Welcome to Our Personal Library
Below are several lists of our favorite art books and my wife, Marilee's marketing business art books.
Click on the book title and additional information will be revealed.
Dale's Art Books and DVDsAs you can imagine I have been collecting art books and videos for over 43 + years. These hard and soft covers books and DVDs are like old friends that come to my rescue when needed. I hope they will also become your friends.
BOOKS
CARLSON'S GUIDE TO LANDSCAPE PAINTING
Put Your Paintings in Perspective
DVDS
MAGAZINES
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Marilee's Business Art Books and Podcasts I have been working on Dale and other artist's marketing for years. Here are a few books I depend on to help promote Dale, his workshops and paintings. If you sell your work, participate in shows, or do commissions you need these tools.
I also have included a link to my favorite podcast for working artists. Enjoy. Just make sure you have a pad of paper and pen for notes! BOOKS
I'd Rather Be in the Studio: The Artist's No Excuse Guide to Self-Promotion
Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist
PODCASTS
Leslie Saeta offers nine+ years of weekly one-hour interviews, discussions and art business advice. Once you listen to several you will start binge listening.
ARTIST HELPING ARTISTS
Artists Helping Artists is the #1 Art Show on Blogtalk radio! For over 9+ years Leslie Saeta discusses a specific topic that addresses how to sell more art on-line, along with guest artists, gallerists, and others sharing their knowledge of the business side of art. Leslie Saeta is an artist who paints with a palette knife to create vibrant, colorful paintings. Having spent 30 years in marketing her unique combination of talents has led to a successful career in art. Her non-traditional approach to marketing her art on the internet has created her desire to share her art marketing success with others
Art-marketing and artist career consultant Alyson B. Stanfield of ArtBizCoach.com offers motivation, inspiration, and and practical tips to help artists promote themselves in today's crowded art market. I personally listen to listen while I go walking. The only problem with Alyson's podcasts is I have to stop every few seconds to write down another great thought. Carry post-it notes with you!
ART BIZ SUCESS PODCASTS
ART MARKETING ACTION PODCASTS
Alyson B. Stanfield of ArtBizCoach.com has a collection of older podcasts from 2003-2010 in bite size in 5-6 minutes recordings. Art-marketing and artist career consultant offers motivation, inspiration, and and practical tips to help artists promote themselves in today's crowded art market. This is the audio version of the Art Marketing Action newsletter.
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What We Use to Film Our Videos
Isn't it amazing 14 years ago who would have ever thought we or the rest of the world would be broadcasting on Facebook Live, YouTube. or creating online education. We are still surprised and touched when we get a note from someone in Poland, reconnect with a past American Academy of art student or hear kind words from an artist who is housebound and is excited they can take classes from me. Every day we thankful we are so blessed.
We believe in passing on our knowledge so here some of what we use for our broadcasting. If you have something you like using for podcasts or YouTube let us know and we will share. This list will be growing so come back soon.
We believe in passing on our knowledge so here some of what we use for our broadcasting. If you have something you like using for podcasts or YouTube let us know and we will share. This list will be growing so come back soon.
iPhone
We use one or two iPhone 6s to film
apple computers
As you have figured we are an Apple household. Marilee learned in the early '90s on a Mac because it was and still is the industry-standard in the graphic design world. Our suggestion is to go online and read about the computers they offer apple.com. Then go down to your local Apple store and talk to one of their associates. Ask questions, take notes and figure out what you can afford.
I'm not going to kid you Apple's are pricey, The design is beautiful but more importantly, the support is amazing. Marilee's laptop was two years out of warranty so took it into the store with a problem. They ran a diagnostic check and uploaded the current operation system FOR FREE!
Marilee says to buy the newest model, with the most hard drive and ram you cam afford . That this should last you for many years and you what the storage space and speed.
Our suggestion is to buy an extended warranty on your Apple devices. This extends the time you can call in to ask questions. Here's a true story: Marilee updated her operation system on her iPod. Once she did the device wouldn't start. She called Apple. After trying a few things she was instructed to ship it back to Apple. They sent her a box the next day, postage free. Off it went to California. She tracked the package online and noticed it went to California and then China.
The iPod was a Christmas gift from me to her and I had it engraved saying You are the music in my heart! Marilee also had scratched the back of the iPod too. The engraving was there but the wear and tear and scratch were gone. She received her iPod a few days later but it was a NEW device! We have many other stories about why you need to get the warranty--just ask and we will tell.
I'm not going to kid you Apple's are pricey, The design is beautiful but more importantly, the support is amazing. Marilee's laptop was two years out of warranty so took it into the store with a problem. They ran a diagnostic check and uploaded the current operation system FOR FREE!
Marilee says to buy the newest model, with the most hard drive and ram you cam afford . That this should last you for many years and you what the storage space and speed.
Our suggestion is to buy an extended warranty on your Apple devices. This extends the time you can call in to ask questions. Here's a true story: Marilee updated her operation system on her iPod. Once she did the device wouldn't start. She called Apple. After trying a few things she was instructed to ship it back to Apple. They sent her a box the next day, postage free. Off it went to California. She tracked the package online and noticed it went to California and then China.
The iPod was a Christmas gift from me to her and I had it engraved saying You are the music in my heart! Marilee also had scratched the back of the iPod too. The engraving was there but the wear and tear and scratch were gone. She received her iPod a few days later but it was a NEW device! We have many other stories about why you need to get the warranty--just ask and we will tell.
Tri-Pod Mount for your smart phone
TRI-Pod
We are very lucky Marilee's dad had a collection of solid tripods we inherited. The older models from the '60s or '70s are heavier and nor substantial than today's models. Our suggestion is to check out your local resale shops or garage sales before buying new.
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Shotgun Microphone
iMovie Vidio Editing
Apple offers o free video software to run on your Mac. It's simple no frills and easy to learn software.
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“I’ve enjoyed attending Dale’s art classes for over fifteen years now. His knowledge and skill with watercolors is exceptional. He's good at introducing students to all the basic principles; but also, to encourage them to try new things that may go beyond their comfort zone. Watching him do a demo can be almost magical. As a student I know there is always more to learn, and more magical paintings to create.”
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