Studio Tips &
Buying Guides
Practical guides on art materials, studio workflow, and techniques — written for working artists and beginners alike, grounded in day-to-day conversations with artists in Kingston, Ontario.
- All guides
- Acrylic Paint
- Art Education
- Art Supplies
- Art Techniques
- Artist Materials
- Beginner Art
- Beginner Art Supplies
- Blending
- Blending Techniques
- Calligraphy
- Caran d'Ache
- Chalk Pastels
- Charcoal
- Charcoal Drawing
- Coloured Pencils
- Craft
- Drawing
- Drawing Paper
- Drawing Supplies
- Drawing Techniques
- Erasers
- Fine Writing
- Fineliners
- Fountain Pens
- Gifts
- Graphite
- Graphite Pencils
- Illustration
- Kids Art
- Markers
- Oil Pastels
- Paper
- Paper Guide
- Pastels
- Portraits
- Printmaking
- Professional Art Supplies
- Sketchbooks
- Sketching
- Soft Pastels
- Studio Tips
- Technical Drawing
- Watercolours
Art Supplies Guides and Studio Tips
Best Kids Art Supplies Canada: Age-Appropriate Creative Tools Guide
Choosing the right art supplies for children can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide breaks down the best kids art supplies in Canada by age group, from toddler-safe crayons to teen-ready professional materials. We'll help you select age-appropriate tools that encourage creativity while being safe, durable, and budget-friendly. Whether you're shopping for your own children or looking for the perfect gift, you'll find practical recommendations for every developmental stage.
Read moreArt Supplies Guides and Studio Tips
Best Art Supply Gifts Under $50: A Practical Guide for Canadians
Finding the perfect art gift doesn't have to break the bank. Whether you're shopping for a beginner artist, seasoned creative, or curious hobbyist, there are plenty of thoughtful art supplies under $50 that will inspire and delight. From quality drawing materials to unique stationery sets, we'll help you choose gifts that offer real value and lasting joy.
Read more
Best Drawing Paper for Pencil, Charcoal and Ink: Your Complete Guide
Choosing the right drawing paper can make or break your artwork. This guide covers everything from paper weight and texture to tooth and sizing. Learn the key differences between papers for graphite, charcoal, and ink work. Discover our Good/Better/Best recommendations for every budget and skill level.
Read more
Kneaded Eraser Techniques: Master Highlights and Blending
Learn essential kneaded eraser techniques for creating highlights, blending, and lifting graphite. Discover how to choose the right kneaded eraser for your drawing style. Master professional techniques used by artists for realistic shading and texture effects. Get practical tips for maintaining your kneaded eraser and maximizing its versatility.
Read more
Charcoal Drawing for Beginners: Vine, Compressed & Pencil Compared
Discover the three main types of charcoal for drawing and how they differ. Learn which charcoal works best for beginners and different techniques. Compare vine, compressed, and pencil charcoal properties and uses. Get practical tips for choosing your first charcoal drawing supplies.
Read more
Understanding Graphite Pencil Grades: From 9H to 9B and How to Choose the Right One
Understanding graphite pencil grades is essential for any artist or sketcher. The H to B scale indicates hardness and darkness, with H pencils being harder and lighter, B pencils being softer and darker. Different grades serve specific purposes in drawing and sketching. This guide explains the numbering system and helps you choose the right pencils for your artistic needs.
Read more
How to Choose a Sketchbook: Paper Weight, Binding and Size Explained
Choosing the right sketchbook can make or break your artistic practice. This guide breaks down the three key factors: paper weight (measured in GSM), binding style (spiral, perfect, or coptic), and size considerations for different art styles. We'll help you match your medium and drawing style to the perfect sketchbook, whether you're sketching with pencil, working in watercolour, or creating mixed media art.
Read moreDip Pens for Beginners: How to Choose a Nib and Get Started
Discover the timeless art of dip pen writing and illustration. Learn how to choose the right nib for your style, understand the key differences between nib types, and get practical recommendations for starting your dip pen journey. Perfect for artists, calligraphers, and anyone looking to explore traditional writing tools.
Read moreColoured Pencil Paper Guide: Why Surface Matters More Than You Think
The right paper can make or break your coloured pencil artwork. Different paper surfaces affect how pigment lays down, how colours blend, and how much detail you can achieve. Understanding paper tooth, weight, and colour will help you choose the perfect surface for your artistic goals. Whether you're sketching, creating fine art, or working on illustrations, matching your paper to your technique is essential for professional results.
Read moreArt Marker Tips: Clean Lines & Better Blends for Every Artist
Learn essential art markers tips to achieve professional results with cleaner lines and smoother colour blends. Discover proper paper selection, blending techniques, and marker maintenance. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists looking to improve their marker work. Get practical advice on choosing the right markers for your style and budget.
Read moreBest Fineliners for Drawing: Staedtler Pigment & Sakura Pigma Micron
Fineliners are essential tools for precise line work, detailed illustrations, and technical drawings. This guide covers the top fineliner brands including Staedtler Pigment liners and Sakura Pigma Micron pens. Learn how to choose the right tip sizes and ink types for your artistic needs. We'll help you find the perfect fineliners for everything from architectural drawings to manga illustrations.
Read moreAcrylic Paint Markers vs Paint Pens: Your Complete Buying Guide
Confused about acrylic paint markers versus paint pens? You're not alone. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences that matter for your art projects. Paint markers typically feature broader tips and more paint flow, while paint pens offer finer control with smaller tips. Both use acrylic paint that dries permanent and opaque on most surfaces. The key is choosing the right tool for your specific project needs.
Read moreBest Art Markers for Beginners: Copic vs Tombow vs Staedtler Guide
Choosing your first set of art markers can feel overwhelming with so many brands and options available. This guide compares three popular marker brands - Copic, Tombow, and Staedtler - to help Canadian artists find the best markers for their needs and budget. We'll cover the key differences in price, performance, and features to help you make an informed decision for your artistic journey.
Read more
