PAINT: I use Gamblin oil paints for the most part. There are less expensive ones, and more expensive ones. The main difference is in the strength of the pigments used. You will get more powerful color from a higher grade paint, but I don’t want you to feel stingy with the paint. You need to use it as if it’s free, so buy what you are comfortable with. Titanium White (large tube,) Lemon Yellow Hue, Cadmium Red Hue, Ultramarine Blue, Transparent earth orange, Phthalo Green or Viridian Green, Alizarin Crimson, Permanent Orange, Yellow Ochre, small Black.
MEDIUM: A small bottle of Gamblin Neo-Megilp or Galkyd Medium, or Liquin by Winsor & Newton. Brushes & a Palette knife: Buy a mixture of small to medium sized oil/acrylic brushes. Sized 2, 4, 6…Get a couple of rounds, flats, and filberts. They can be sable, synthetic or bristle (bristle also my favorite). Mix them up so you can see what you like. Also, get one or two medium sized palette knives. I like the long thin metal ones that are shaped like a piece of pie.
CLEANERS: Gamsol odorless mineral spirits – less toxic than regular spirits. A brush washer. Holbin makes great washers that will never leak on you, but they are more expensive than the rest. You can also buy an inexpensive jar with a wire ring at the bottom that will work, but they are difficult to transport, as they tend to leak. A roll of paper towels. (viva is the best – not kidding here – there is a huge difference in the way they clean a brush and maintain the waste. Canvas: Start with 10-12 small (8” x 10” – 9” x 12”) canvas panels. You will want to experiment with different surfaces as you move forward, but this is a great way to begin.
AN EASEL: If you like the idea of painting outside get an easel that will help you do that. There are several options. • French easels – they hold most of your supplies and fold up. They can be a bit clunky, but they work, and you can often find them at thrift stores too. Here is an example of a new one. https://www.jerrysartarama.com/jullian-escort-french-easel • If you are feeling pretty committed, you might want something more lightweight. This is the travel easel I use, and I love it. https://www.artboxandpanel.com/ – but there are other lightweight options out there too. • If you plan to paint indoors for the most part, find an easel that fits your space. Ideally you want to be able to stand up and paint, and have the room to back away from the canvas. If standing is difficult, look for a tabletop easel.