Essential Art Supplies for Mixed Media Magic
- 15 hours ago
- 5 min read
Today, I’m sharing the essential art supplies that can help you create amazing mixed media pieces without going overboard.
Mixed media art is the best. It's like chemistry for the curious and creative color freaks who prefer things a little on the messy side like I do.
There’s just something thrilling about combining paints, papers, textures, and unexpected materials to create something totally unique.
Because mixed media has no rules or limits, it can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure of the basics.
When I realized the sky is the limit for what you can use in mixed media, I started collecting everything. I took over an entire room and part of the garage. So depending on how much space you have, be careful.
Today, I’m sharing the essential art supplies that I learned can make a legit mixed media piece without going totally overboard.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refresh your stash, this guide will walk you through the must-haves.
Must-Have Supplies for Mixed Media Success
When I first started, I had no idea that there were some essential supplies that I would end up using the most. But over time, I’ve discovered my kit of essentials that work across almost every project. Here’s what I always have nearby:
Acrylic paints: These are my go-to because they dry fast and layer beautifully. For a lot of the things I use acrylic paint for, like art journaling, I use regular craft acrylics. When you're starting, it would be good to start with an inexpensive paint.
Gel medium: This stuff is good for several things. It acts as glue, sealer, and texture enhancer. I use it to stick down paper, add gloss, or create raised surfaces.
Art journal: The best place to experiment with new supplies and new ideas is in a sketchbook made for mixed media. If you don't want to put your art in a book form, use heavy, watercolor paper or a canvas.
Brushes: A variety of sizes and shapes, from flat to round. Synthetic brushes work well with acrylics and gel mediums.
Palette knives: Great for mixing paint and applying thick layers or textures and through stencils.
Collage materials: Think old book pages, magazine clippings, fabric scraps, and textured papers. Stickers are another fun choice. If you need a specific image printing one out on a printer, also works.
Pens and markers: Waterproof ink pens for fine details and bold markers for accents.
Adhesives: Besides gel medium, I keep a glue stick and a strong craft glue handy.
Stamps and stencils: These add patterns and interest without much effort.
Texture tools: Sponges, combs, and even household items like bubble wrap can create cool effects.
If you want a ready-made mixed media supplies list to get started, I’ve got you covered with a downloadable checklist at the end of this post.
Why These Essential Art Supplies Matter
You might wonder why I emphasize these particular supplies. Mixed media is all about layering and combining different elements. See my post on how to make a collaged masterboard background.
You'll want the right base materials and adhesives, otherwise your artwork might not hold up or look as polished.
Acrylic paints are versatile and forgiving. They dry quickly, so you can add layers without waiting forever.
Gel medium is a lifesaver for attaching collage pieces securely and adding texture.
And sturdy paper means your work won’t warp or tear when you add wet materials.
Having a variety of brushes and palette knives lets you experiment with different textures and strokes.
Pens and markers help you add those finishing touches that make your piece complete.
The process of mixed media
For me, it’s about starting with an interesting background technique and adding layers until it's just right.
Layering feels a bit like an experiment that you get to play with. Some layers get partially covered. Some peek through. At the beginning I'll lay the bigger pieces of collage out before gluing them down to make sure it feels balanced.
I usually have an idea of what I want to create but there isn’t a strict moment where “now I add the details.” Details show up throughout the process. Texture builds on texture. Pattern overlaps pattern. Contrast develops gradually.
I stop not because I’ve hit a number — but because the piece starts to feel balanced, expressive, and complete.
Mixed media, for me, is more like sculpting with layers than decorating at the end.
Building Your Mixed Media Toolkit on a Budget
You don’t have to break the bank to get started. Here are some tips to build your essential art supplies without spending a fortune:
Start small: Buy a basic set of acrylic paints and a few brushes. You can always add more colors and tools later.
Use what you have: Old magazines, newspapers, fabric scraps, and even packaging materials can be great collage elements.
DIY your tools: Sponges, toothbrushes, and bubble wrap can create amazing textures.
Shop sales and clearance: Art stores often have discounts on supplies. Keep an eye out.
Buy multi-purpose items: Gel medium doubles as glue and texture paste, so it’s worth the investment.
Things you can add over time
Inks and dyes
Chalk and oil pastels
Ribbons and other fibers
Embellishments like charms, brads, or eyelets
However, creativity thrives on resourcefulness. Sometimes the best effects come from the simplest materials.
Tips for Organizing Your Art Supplies
Once you have your essential art supplies, keeping them organized makes your creative sessions smoother. Here’s what works for me:
Use clear containers or jars for brushes and pens so you can see what you have.
Store paints in a spice rack.
Keep collage materials in an accordion folder or envelopes.
Dedicate a shelf or drawer for adhesives and mediums.
Ready to Create Your Masterpiece?
Now that you know the essential art supplies to gather, it’s time to get your hands messy! Mixed media art is all about experimentation and play. Don’t worry about perfection—just enjoy the process.
Download my free mixed media supplies checklist to kickstart your creative journey!
And for ideas of what kinds of things you can make using mixed media, see my page where I explain all the fun things you can create:
And for a ton of background technique ideas make sure you visit my page full of them:
If you want to try lots of those techniques, you can get my ebook with instructions on 30 of them.
Happy arting!
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