Getting Started in Watercolor: A Simple Supply Guide for My Students

One of the very first things a student asks is what do I need to buy?

🎨 The Most Important Supply: Your Paper

If you invest in one thing, let it be your paper.

For this class, you will need:

• 100% Cotton Cold Press Watercolor Paper

• 140 lb / 300 gsm weight

• 9" x 12" size

Cotton paper allows the paint to move, blend, and lift properly. It gives you time to work — which is essential when you’re learning water control.

I also recommend having a less expensive student-grade watercolor paper to use for practice, testing colors, or warming up.

🖌️ Watercolor Brushes

Watercolor brushes are designed to:

• Hold a generous amount of water

• Keep a sharp tip for detail work

• Release paint smoothly

I prefer synthetic squirrel brushes, but any good-quality watercolor brush will work.

A brush set is often the most economical way to start.

For class, you will need primarily round brushes:

• Large round or mop brush (for washes)

• Medium round (your workhorse brush)

• Small round (for control)

• Detail brush or rigger (for fine lines)

Optional, but helpful:

• Flat brush

• Fan brush

🧼 Brush Cleaning

To keep your brushes in good condition, you’ll need a gentle cleaner.

I recommend:

• Lava soap (it removes pigment while conditioning the brush)

I store mine in a small snap-shut soap container so it’s easy to bring to class.

🎨 Palette

You will need a water-tight palette for mixing and storing paint.

Look for something with:

• Mixing wells

• Enough space to keep colors separate

• A lid if possible

  
  

📌 Taping Your Paper

We will tape our paper down while working to prevent buckling.

You will need:

• Basic masking tape

Please avoid brightly colored tape (blue, green painter’s tape, or decorative washi tape). These can be visually distracting while you’re learning to see value and color accurately.

🪵 Drawing Board

You’ll need something sturdy to tape your paper onto.

Options include:

• Wooden drawing board (my preference)

• Plywood

• Heavy cardboard

Anything rigid and slightly larger than your paper will work.

🎨 Paint

For this class, I recommend artist-quality tube watercolor paints.

I will be using the Daniel Smith Essentials Set, but you are welcome to use another professional brand.

Please make sure you bring:

✔ A Warm and Cool version of each Primary Color(This is important for color mixing, which we will learn together.)

✏️ Additional Tools

You will also need:

• Pencil (I use a #2 mechanical pencil)

• Gum or kneaded eraser

• Spray bottle for water

• Paper towels

• Graphite transfer paper (black or grey)

  
  

🛒 About the Supply Links

I’ve included a sample Amazon list for convenience and reference. You do not need to purchase those exact brands, and I am not an affiliate. Choose what works best for you.

Supply List

🌿 Final Thoughts

Watercolor is a beautifully simple medium when we let it be. These materials will give you everything you need to learn, experiment, and grow — without overcomplicating the process.

If you’re unsure about anything, feel free to ask. I’m always happy to help you choose supplies.

I can’t wait to paint with you!

— DeElla