New Art Supplies That I Want To Try This Year

I’m always on the hunt for new art supplies to try, but most of the time they’re so hard to find or are wildly overpriced online. Fortunately, I found a premiere art supply destination called Above Ground Art Supplies that carries a huge selection of art supplies.

Above Ground Art Supplies can be found in two locations in Downtown Toronto: at OCADU (74 McCaul Street ) and at The Junction (2868 Dundas St. W). They carry premier brands like Winsor & Newton, Schmincke, R&F, Sennelier, Speedball, Magnani, Hanhnemuele, and more.

These are the art supplies that I’m planning to try:

Pigment Sticks
https://store.abovegroundartsupplies.com/products/r-f-painter-s-dozen-pigment-stick-set—38ml—12-sticks—1-ampersand-gessobord-61543.html

I’ve been wanting to paint with oils but using the paint from the tube feels like such a hassle for me. So when I saw that these pigment sticks have the same qualities as oil paint from tubes, it piqued my interest. I love painting textured backgrounds and these pigment sticks look like they will do that job perfectly.

Acrylic Ink
https://store.abovegroundartsupplies.com/products/liquitex-professional-acrylic-inks—-metallics-set-of-6-101793.html

This is another supply that I’ve been so curious about. I usually paint with watercolor or gouache but I haven’t really painted seriously with acrylic paint. I feel like these inks are a bit more similar to watercolor and would be a good starting point if I want to get into acrylics. I’m especially interested in these metallic colors because I recently developed an obsession with shiny, sparkly paint.

Schmincke Granulating Watercolor
https://store.abovegroundartsupplies.com/products/schmincke-horadam-supergranulating-watercolour—15ml—982-tundra-pink-103247.html

Last year, I started collecting metallic and granulating watercolor and I’ve been eyeing the Schmincke Horadam set ever since. But you know, the price is something to consider so I would have to save some art supply funds first before I can add these to my collection.

Speedball Block Printing Kit
https://store.abovegroundartsupplies.com/products/speedball-super-value-block-printing-kit-25573.html

Block printing is another medium that I’ve been meaning to try. I just love the rustic look of block prints. I also love how it’s an easy way to reproduce an artwork – whether you want to design postcards, greeting cards, or cute kitchen towels. I’m just overwhelmed by the materials that I would need to start so this kit is definitely helpful.

Polymer Clay
https://store.abovegroundartsupplies.com/products/sculpey-iii-polymer-clay–001-white-1lb-block-12477.html

Last year, I tried making things with air dry clay so this year, I’m thinking of trying polymer clay. I keep seeing people say that it’s more fun to create with polymer clay because it doesn’t dry as fast as air dry clay so you have more time to shape and design your creations. I like making detailed food designs so I’m wondering if my creations will do better in polymer.

Trying new art supplies helps break the creative rut and inspires creativity so it’s a good practice from time to time. But of course, we always need to financially prepare for art supply shopping and look for discounts and deals if there are any. I have good news for you, you can enjoy a 10% discount on your purchases at Above Ground Art Supplies all year round – that’s right, for one whole year! All you need to do is become a Happy Hands Club member.

This is just one of the perks of being a member. So head on to our memberships page to find out what else is waiting for you.

We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the club!