A basic setup includes paper, a few paints, and good brushes.
Invest Wisely in Your Materials
The art supply store can be overwhelming. As a beginner, you do not need the most expensive professional setup, but buying ultra-cheap supplies will cause frustration. Here is where you should invest your budget.
The Big Three
- Paper (Most Important): Do not skimp here. Buy 100% cotton watercolor paper, at least 140lb/300gsm in weight. Cold-pressed texture is best for beginners as it handles water well without drying too fast.
- Paints: Student-grade paints (like Cotman or Van Gogh) are perfectly fine to start. Buy tubes rather than pans if possible, as they are easier on your brushes and quicker to mix into large washes. A basic split-primary palette of 6 colors is enough.
- Brushes: Buy one high-quality synthetic round brush (size 8 or 10) that comes to a sharp point. This one brush can paint 90% of your work.