Art mediums

5 Fun and Easy Clay Projects for Beginners

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clay animalWelcome! Here on this blog, we talk a lot about art, crafts, trash to treasure, art Masters, art mediums and more. If you would like to check out any or all of our previous blog posts, you can do that here. In the mean time, let’s talk about clay.

Working with clay is one of those magical things that makes you feel like a kid again, no matter how old you are. There’s something so satisfying about taking a lump of clay and turning it into something beautiful—or at least something that makes you smile. If you’re just getting started, the key is to keep it simple and let yourself play. Here are five easy clay projects that are perfect for beginners and can be done right at your kitchen table.clay pinch pot

Start with a little pinch pot. This is one of the oldest forms of pottery and honestly one of the most forgiving. You just roll a ball of clay, stick your thumb in the center, and gently pinch the sides to make a little bowl. They’re great for holding jewelry, loose change, or even a tiny succulent. Want to jazz it up? Press in textures using lace, leaves, or stamps, or paint it once it’s dry for a personal touch.

Try making a set of simple beads. Roll small pieces of clay into spheres, ovals, or funky shapes, and use a toothpick or skewer to poke aclay beads hole through the center. Once they dry or bake (depending on your clay), you can string them into a necklace, bracelet, or even a keychain. It’s a great way to get used to handling clay and working on small details without feeling overwhelmed.

Create a mini animal sculpture—nothing fancy, just something cute like a chubby cat, sleepy dog, or even a tiny turtle. Focus on the basic shapes first, like round bodies and simple ears. A little toothpick or clay tool can help you add in eyes or texture. These make fun desk clay animalbuddies or little gifts, and they’re a great way to practice shaping and proportion.

Make a clay dish using a cookie cutter. Roll out the clay like you’re making sugar cookies, press a large cookie cutter into it—think hearts, stars, or moons—and gently lift the shape. Place it over a bowl or upside-down cup to dry so it forms a slight curve. These make sweet catch-all dishes or decor pieces and are super satisfying to decorate with paints or metallic accents.clay leaf bowl

Try your hand at a decorative plaque. Roll out a slab of clay and cut it into a rectangle or oval, then carve in a word, name, or simple design using a pencil or stylus. You can even press a doily or fabric into the surface for some texture. Once it’s dry, add color with acrylics or watercolor, seal it, and hang it up. These make great handmade signs or gifts and feel more advanced than they really are.decorative clay platter

The best part of working with clay is that there’s really no wrong way to do it. You’re learning as you go, and every piece is its own little adventure. Start small, enjoy the mess, and don’t worry about perfection—your creativity is what makes each piece special. If you try any of these, I’d love to hear how it goes or see pictures of your creations. Happy making!

If you are a visual learner, you might watch our companion YouTube video about this exact same topic.

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Art Supply Care for Creative Success

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, Art Supply Care, creativity /

Did you know that art supply care helps your creativity? Every artist knows that art supplies aren’t just tools—they’re investments in creativity. When you spend money on quality paints, brushes, canvases, and papers, you want them to last, so you can keep producing the work you love without constantly replacing what you use every day.

We have many other posts about art and creativity that you might enjoy. You can check them out here. I hope you find them entertaining and informative and help you on your creative journey.
Art supplies

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend the life of your supplies is by cleaning and properly storing them right after use. For instance, brushes should be gently rinsed with the appropriate cleaner—warm water with a little mild soap works wonders for acrylics, while oil painters might use a specific brush cleaner or a bit of turpentine. The idea is to remove all residue so the bristles don’t stiffen or fall apart over time. And it’s not just about the brushes; remember that your palettes, mixing tools, and even your sketchbooks deserve a bit of care too.

Organized art supplies

 

Proper storage is another key step for art supply care. Keep your paints in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents them from drying out or losing their vibrancy. For those delicate items like watercolors or charcoal pencils, consider using airtight containers or protective sleeves to guard against moisture and dust. Organization plays a big role here, too. When your supplies are neatly stored, you not only protect them better but also save time looking for the right tool when inspiration strikes.

Routine maintenance might seem like a chore, but think of it as part of your creative process. Setting aside a few minutes after each session for art supply care can make a huge difference. Over time, that small commitment pays off by keeping your art supplies in tip-top shape. Plus, a well-maintained set of tools can actually inspire more creative exploration since you’re not distracted by malfunctioning brushes or dried-out paints.Artist at work

In the end, taking care of your expensive art supplies is a blend of habit and respect for your craft. It’s about acknowledging that every stroke of the brush and every dab of color is a part of your creative journey. So, next time you finish a piece, remember to treat your supplies well. After all, they’re the foundation on which your art is built.

You might want to check out the companion video on YouTube: Unlock Your Creativity Care for Your Art Supplies

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Watercolor for Beginners: Simple Tutorials and Must-Have Tools

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, artistic style, Artists on YouTube, creativity, DIY Art Supplies, painting /

Watercolor painting is one of the most rewarding and relaxing ways to express your creativity. It’s also surprisingly beginner-friendly, even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush before. I’ve rounded up some of the easiest watercolor tutorials to help you dip your toes—or your brush—into this beautiful art form. Whether you’re looking to paint simple flowers, landscapes, or abstract designs, there’s something here for everyone.

We have covered beginning art before here: Beginner-Friendly Tutorials for Drawing and Painting

Before we dive in, let’s talk about tools. You don’t need a lot to start with watercolor, but having the right materials can make a big difference. Here’s a quick list of essentials:

  • Watercolor Paints: A basic palette with a range of colors. You do not have to get the expensive, name brand watercolor paint to learn with. Yes, those are better, have more depth; but to begin to learn watercolor, any paint will do. I prefer a palette I got at the Dollar Tree for $3. I have better paint, but for learning new techniques or new styles, I use that palette.(Here is a link to supplies you might need)
  • Brushes: A small selection of round brushes is perfect for beginners. Here you do need to use some discretion. Go for brushes in the mid-range price. You don’t need the expensive brushes quite yet. For learning, mid-range brushes will do. I have many brushes that I have acquired over the years but I have just a few favorites.(Here is the link for supplies)
  • Paper: Look for watercolor paper that’s thick and textured. The paper you choose will have an enormous effect on how your painting turns out. If you skimp on this one supply, you will be disappointed with your work. You can skimp on all the other tools you need, but not on the paper. Get quality watercolor paper.(Here is a link to quality paper)
  • Water Jar, Palette, and Paper Towels: You probably already have these at home, but I’ll link a convenient starter kit here. Basically, the most important thing is to use two jars of water. Use one while painting, but when changing colors, use the clean water. You will see many artists that do not clean the brush before applying a new color, but for a beginner, you need to have a clean brush for each color until you know and understand color theory.(Here is a link to generic starter kits)

Now, onto the tutorials!

Emma Jane Lefebvre
Emma Jane Lefebvre

Simple Watercolor Wash 

Learn how to create beautiful gradient backgrounds and smooth transitions. This technique is the foundation of many watercolor projects. Here is an artist I admire with a tutorial for this: Beginner Watercolor Techniques You Need To Know by Emma Jane Lefebvre   

 

Jenna Rainey
Jenna Rainey

Easy Watercolor Flowers

Start with loose florals, like roses or daisies. They’re forgiving and look amazing even if you’re still learning. Try this video for starters: Watercolor Tutorial | Step By Step How To Paint A Rose by Jenna Rainey

 

Maremi's Small Art
Watercolor Abstract painting

Beginner Abstract Art

Abstract painting with watercolor is perfect for experimenting. Mix colors, try splattering, or let the paint flow naturally for stunning effects. I would probably start with this tutorial: How to Start? Watercolors Abstract for Beginners by Maremi’s Small Art 

 

Shada Campbell
Mini Watercolor Landscapes

Mini Landscapes

Paint tiny mountain ranges, sunsets, or beaches. They’re quick, fun, and make great gifts or decor. Here is a tutorial that is an artist I enjoy: Mini Watercolor Landscapes | Easy Paint With Me! by Shada Campbell

 

Creative Paula
Watercolor Shapes

Simple Patterns

Stripes, polka dots, or geometric designs are easy and give you practice with control and layering. To learn this and have fun doing so, try following this artist: Coming up with Ideas to FILL your sketchbook by Creative Paula

 

 

Each of these tutorials can be found online with just a quick search, but I recommend checking out Kristy Rice, Rebel Unicorn, Shayda Campbell, Diane Antone Studio, Andrea Nelson, Shana Circe, and many others. If you’d like, I can guide you to some free tutorials or affordable online classes.

As you follow these tutorials, don’t worry about perfection. Watercolor is all about enjoying the process and letting the paint do its magic. Experiment with colors, play with textures, and let your creativity flow!

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Art Tools for Every Enthusiast: A Must-Have Guide

1 Comment / Art, Art mediums, creativity, creativity, drawing, painting /

Art enthusiasts, whether budding or seasoned, understand the importance of having the right tools at their fingertips. These essential instruments not only enhance creativity but also streamline the artistic process. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 must-have tools for every art lover.

High-Quality Art Sketchbooks: A Canvas for Your Ideassketchbooks

The foundation of every great piece of art is often a sketch. High-quality sketchbooks offer a durable and versatile surface for all your drawing needs. Whether you’re jotting down quick ideas or working on detailed studies, a good sketchbook is your faithful companion. There is a sketchbook available for any use or medium. Artists everywhere will use many different types of sketchbooks in their lifetime.

Versatile Art Drawing Pencils: Bring Your Vision to Lifedrawing pencils

No artist’s toolkit is complete without a set of drawing pencils. These versatile tools, ranging in hardness from 9H to 9B, allow for a wide range of expression. From sharp, fine lines to soft, broad strokes, pencils are essential for sketching out ideas and adding detail. Drawing pencils are not the same as the pencils you used to use in school.  They are designed specifically to give you a wide array of uses, from lines to shading.

Reliable Erasers: Perfecting Your Artart erasers

Erasers are not just for correcting mistakes; they’re an artist’s tool for refining work. A kneaded eraser, for example, can gently lift graphite or charcoal without damaging the paper, allowing for subtle adjustments and precise control over your medium.

Dynamic Paint Brushes: Unleash Your Colorsartist's paint brushes

Whether you’re a fan of watercolor, acrylic, or oil painting, having the right brushes is key. Look for a set that includes a variety of shapes and sizes to experiment with different techniques and textures. Here is where you don’t want to skimp on cost.  It is better to have one or two excellent brushes than to have 100 mediocre ones.  A great brush will allow control and smooth application of colors. Brushes are made specifically for certain mediums, so be sure what you need with yours.

Quality Paints: The Essence of ColorArtist's paints

Invest in high-quality paints to bring vibrancy and depth to your art. Whether you prefer the rich pigmentation of oils, the versatility of acrylics, the ease of gouache, or the delicate translucency of watercolors, good paints make a noticeable difference. When learning, you may be tempted to use student-grade paints.  There is nothing wrong with these paints; they simply do not give you the vibrancy of color that artist-grade paints can.  Once you feel you have learned your skills, be sure to get the best artist paints you can afford, or you will become frustrated with your results.

Durable Canvas: The Foundation of Masterpiecescanvases

For painters, a durable canvas is essential. It serves as the stage on which your creativity unfolds. Whether stretched over a frame or bound on a pad, choose a canvas that suits your preferred medium and technique.

Adjustable Art Easels: Comfort and Flexibility

An adjustable easel can significantly enhance your painting experience. It provides the flexibility to work at any angle, promoting comfort and allowing for a better perspective on your work.

Protective Artist’s Tape: Clean Lines and Edgesartist tape

Artist’s tape is indispensable for securing paper or canvas, creating sharp edges, and protecting areas from paint. It’s gentle on surfaces and removes cleanly without leaving residue.

Comprehensive Art Tool Kit: Organization and Accessibility

A well-organized art tool kit keeps all your essentials in one place, ensuring they’re readily accessible whenever inspiration strikes. Look for one that’s portable and tailored to your specific needs.

Inspiration and Creativity: The Intangible Art Tools

Last but certainly not least, the most critical tools for any artist are inspiration and creativity. These fuel your artistic journey, pushing you to explore, experiment, and express yourself in unique ways.

Artistic expression knows no bounds with these essential tools at your disposal. They not only facilitate the creative process but also inspire artists to push their boundaries and explore new horizons. Equip yourself with these must-haves and embark on a fulfilling artistic adventure.

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Cardboard Really is Versatile for Crafting

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, Cardboard Art, Crafts /

It seems that every time I turn around, I am getting something in a cardboard box. This could create a huge pile of mess; however, I have recently discovered the joy of crafting with cardboard. Now I see that stack of flattened boxes as a medium for crafts and art. I love that I can keep most of these boxes out of the landfill and turn them into reused articles so they get a new life. That, to me, is very satisfying. So, if you are like me, here is an entire post about the wonders of using these boxes for making things you can use.

It isn’t just for packaging; it’s a versatile, accessible, and often free material that can spark creativity in art and crafts. From DIY projects to intricate sculptures, cardboard offers endless possibilities for those willing to explore its potential.

Did you know that you can even make sturdy end tables out of cardboard? Watch this to see how: https://youtu.be/GoXanGfXsgc?si=Ia4LIJX1nzqUVlJv

Cardboard Cacti

One of the simplest yet most creative uses of this medium is in making decorative items like DIY cardboard cacti. These charming creations are not only easy to make, but they also add a unique touch to any space. Imagine transforming everyday packaging from cereal boxes or Amazon packages into adorable cacti that never need watering!

For those who enjoy weaving, cardboard offers a fantastic base for circle weaving projects. This activity is not only fun for adults but also a great way for kids to develop their fine motor skills. The result? Beautiful wall hangings that add a personal touch to your home decor.

DIY-Decoupage-Cardboard-Trays

Book lovers can appreciate the practicality of the medium in making DIY triangle bookends. This project is not only functional but also adds a stylish element to your bookshelves. And the best part? It’s an eco-friendly way to repurpose cardboard that might otherwise end up in the recycling bin.

If you’re into decoupage, cardboard trays can be transformed into beautiful pieces of art. By applying decorative napkins using the decoupage technique, you can create stunning trays that are perfect for gifting or adding a touch of elegance to your home.

For those with a knack for organization, this medium can be used to create cute storage boxes. This is particularly useful for repurposing diaper boxes or other large cardboard containers. Not only do you get organized, but you also get to do it in style!

African masks

 

How about making beautiful African masks to adorn your walls? You can easily do this with cardboard. Pinterest has many examples for you to look at if you decide to make these.

One of the most surprising uses of the medium is in creating faux metal letters for home decor. With the right painting techniques, it can be made to look like metal, offering a chic and inexpensive way to decorate your space.make paper

For those who enjoy paper crafts, making beautiful paper from waste cardboard is a fulfilling project. This process involves creating a pulp from shredded cardboard and then forming it into sheets of paper. It’s a fantastic way to recycle and create something both beautiful and useful.

And for the sculptors out there, cardboard can serve as an excellent base for paper-mache clay sculptures. This method involves creating a clay-like substance that can be molded over a cardboard armature. Once dry, these sculptures are strong and can be painted or decorated as desired.

We touched on using cardboard before, and in case you missed that, you can find that post here.

In conclusion, cardboard is much more than just a packaging material. It’s a canvas for creativity, a foundation for functional art, and a medium for sustainable crafting. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, there’s a cardboard project that’s perfect for you. So next time you’re about to throw away that cardboard box, think again—it could be your next great art project!

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Papier Mâché: A Unique Art Form To Spur Your Creativity

Leave a Comment / Art, Art Forms around the world, Art mediums, artistic style, creativity, papier mâché /

sculptureHey there, fellow artist! Today, I want to chat with you about this amazing art form called papier mâché. It’s been around for centuries and has this incredible ability to ignite our creative spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out on your artistic journey, papier mâché provides a fantastic outlet for your imagination to run wild. So, let’s dive in together and discover how this unique medium can breathe new life into your art.paper strips

Papier mâché is far from ordinary—it’s absolutely charming! The term itself, which means ‘chewed paper’ in French, gives you a hint of its whimsical nature. It involves creating objects using paper pieces or pulp held together with glue or starch. What’s so great about papier mâché is its simplicity and the immense potential it holds. It’s like a playground where you can experiment freely, shaping your creative visions into tangible works of art.

origin is in the EastNow, let’s take a quick peek at the fascinating history of papier mâché. It originated in the East and made its way to Europe during the 17th century. People fell in love with it because it was cost-effective and incredibly versatile. Throughout the years, artists have used papier mâché to craft intricate decorative items as well as theatrical props. Each piece tells its own unique story, adding to the rich tapestry of this art form.Easy to do

So, why should you consider papier mâché as your next artistic endeavor? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly accessible. All you need are some basic materials like paper, water, and glue, and you’re good to go. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly choice. By reusing paper, you’re giving a new lease of life to materials that might otherwise end up in the trash. And let’s not forget about the flexibility of papier mâché—it allows you to express yourself in countless ways, from delicate figurines to grand sculptures.

Now, let’s talk about the creative adventure that is working with papier mâché. It’s a process that’s just as enjoyable as the finished artwork. You start by tearing or cutting paper into strips or transforming it into pulp. These pieces are then dipped in adhesive and layered over a form or mold. As you layer and shape the paper, a bit of magicrecycle

happens right before your eyes. And once everything is dry, you can let your creativity shine by painting, varnishing, or decorating your creation with your own artistic flair.

If you’re new to papier mâché, here are a few tips to get you started: Be patient, and let each layer dry thoroughly before adding the next one. You can also experiment with different types of paper to create captivating textures. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your forms—balloons, cardboard, or wire frames can serve as excellent bases for your sculptures. Lastly, embrace imperfections—they add character and make your art truly unique.Embrace it

In conclusion, papier mâché is more than just an art form; it’s a journey of exploration and boundless creativity. It challenges you to think outside the box and utilize an unconventional medium to express yourself artistically. Whether you’re crafting a small decorative piece or embarking on a grand-scale installation, papier mâché opens up a world of endless possibilities. So, grab some paper, let your creativity run wild, and watch as the art of papier mâché brings your artistic vision to life.

Here is a link to a short video that is a companion piece to this blog. See if you like it and leave me a comment about it here, please. We have talked about other mediums in use for art here and here, and we have looked at types of art forms here.  Feel free to check these out if you missed them.

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Acrylics: Why They Shine Above Other Art Mediums

1 Comment / Art, Art mediums, Painting /

So far in this series, we have looked at the art medium of pastels here.

The History of Acrylics

Now let’s explore using acrylics as a painting medium. First, let’s talk briefly about the history of acrylic paint.  It was originally created in 1934 in the hopes of finding a cheaper and safer way to apply paint to cars, but it was not until 1940, however, that the paint we know today was actually developed. This paint did not gain popularity with artists until sometime around 1940. But by 1960, artists everywhere had embraced the use of this medium.

The Enticing Qualities of Acrylics

acrylic paint

Artists loved the ability to clean brushes with soap and water. They loved the quick drying time that allowed them to paint numerous layers in a single sitting. They fell in love with the vibrant colors available in this medium. The use of acrylics changed the way some artists painted completely because they could now do things in one day that used to take weeks due to drying times between layers. They come in a variety of forms, such as fluid acrylics, heavy body acrylics, and the regular type that we are all familiar with.  They come in matte finishes as well as gloss finishes, so you have to decide ahead of time what look you are going for.

One of the reasons that acrylics were such a hit is that you can control the opacity of the paint with water, so you can mimic watercolors by thinning a lot, and you can mimic oils by using directly from the tube. Artists were delighted by this ability to make different styles of paintings using the same medium, which in turn saved them money.

As I said before, the vibrant colors were delightful, but the reason artists loved the paints was that when they dried, the vibrant colors remained the same. Watercolors change as they dry.  Oils change as they dry. So an artist had to plan for the change in colors before painting.  Now, with acrylics, there was no need for this type of planning, and painters were able to become more spontaneous.

So let’s compare acrylic paint to other mediums:acrylic vs oil

  • Acrylics vs. Oil Paints:
    • Drying time (acrylics dry faster).
    • Ease of modification (acrylics are more forgiving).
    • Odor and toxicity (acrylics are less toxic).

 

 

  • acrylic vs watercolorAcrylics vs. watercolors:
    • Opacity and coverage (acrylics are more opaque).
    • Surface versatility (acrylics adhere to more surfaces).

 

 

  • Acrylics vs. Pastels:
    • Permanence and durability (acrylics are more durable).acrylic vs pastel
    • Color blending (different techniques).

Reasons to Try Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paints are good for anyone who wants to paint.  They are beginner-friendly, easy to learn to use, and easy to experiment with. Artists use them when they need professional, high-quality work. They are widely available and very affordable. One of the benefits of using acrylics is the ease of mixing colors and mediums.  You can also incorporate textures into the paint. Artists everywhere love to experiment with different techniques using the medium, such as glazing and impasto. This medium is truly flexible and useful.

So, I hope this has encouraged you to try your hand with acrylic paint.  You can get vibrant colors and textures in your work to satisfy your need to put your feelings on paper. You will enjoy the ease of use as well as the ease of clean-up since you wash your utensils with soap and water.  There is no toxic materials to deal with, and there are no strong odors to irritate you.

I’d like to invite you to share your experiences painting with acrylic paints with me here.  Send me pictures of your art, please. And if you enjoyed this blog post, please subscribe to the blog for more art-related content weekly. I am looking forward to hearing from you.

If you want to learn more about this topic, here are some resource links for you to click on:

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