Do you have a ton of art supplies? When packing for a trip or an outdoor painting excursion, are you confused about what to bring?

The truth is you never know what art supplies will work well for you until you get out and try to paint with what you brought.

However,

you can use these questions to help you narrow down your choice of supplies to bring;

How much time will you have to paint? If you have a short time, bring a pocket size sketchbook. More time? Bring bigger paper or a larger journal or sketchbook.

Will you have a desk to set your paints up on? If you don’t have access to a desk, bring a cigar box to learn your sketchbook on and hold your water and supplies.

Will you have access to water? If not, bring a waterbrush

Where will you be painting? You’ll need to tailor your supplies to the location. If you find yourself in a fancy hotel, don’t reach for your watercolors, use your watercolor pencils, you will have less chance of dripping on the fancy furniture.

What medium do you use that is portable? I am enthusiastic about using watercolor paints when I go out and paint, because they are easy to carry, don’t require toxic mediums and are washable.

Are you filled with anxiety at the thought of painting outside? Just try it for a few minutes and don’t expect a perfect painting, you are only recording a memory or practicing.

How will you carry your art supplies? A portable, washable bag or basket is best. I prefer my thrift shop Elmo messenger bag or a basket. If traveling, bring a bag that zips shut.

Do you need a chair and a sun umbrella for your location? Yes, when its sunny outside and when you need a chair to get the view of your painting subject that you want.