“I have never painted before. What do I need?”

Starting with painting can be an exciting journey! Here’s a basic list of materials and supplies you might want to consider getting:

1. **Paints**:
– Acrylic paint: It’s versatile, quick-drying, and easy to clean up with water.
– Watercolor paint: Provides transparent and delicate effects.
– Oil paint: Offers rich colors and blends well, but requires more ventilation and longer drying times.

2. **Brushes**:
– A variety of brushes in different shapes and sizes for different techniques. A basic set usually includes flat, round, and detail brushes.

3. **Canvas or Paper**:
– Canvas boards, stretched canvases, or watercolor paper depending on the type of painting you want to do.

4. **Palette**:
– You can use a traditional palette or a disposable palette pad for mixing colors.

5. **Palette Knife**:
– Useful for mixing paint on the palette and applying paint in thick layers or textures.

6. **Easel**:
– Optional but helpful for holding your canvas or paper at an angle while you work.

7. **Painting Mediums**:
– Depending on the type of paint you choose, you might need mediums like acrylic medium, linseed oil, or watercolor medium to adjust the consistency and texture of your paint.

8. **Painting Surface Protection**:
– Protect your workspace with a drop cloth or old newspapers to prevent spills and stains.

9. **Cleaning Supplies**:
– Have water (for acrylics and watercolors), paint thinner or mineral spirits (for oils), and rags or paper towels for cleaning brushes and spills.

10. **Palette Cups or Jars**:
– For holding water or solvent for cleaning brushes.

11. **Sketching Supplies**:
– Pencils, erasers, and a sketchbook if you want to plan your paintings beforehand.

12. **Reference Materials**:
– Photographs, still-life setups, or images for inspiration and reference.

13. **Finishing Materials**:
– Varnish or fixative (depending on your medium) to protect and preserve your finished paintings.

Remember, you don’t need to get everything at once. Start with the basics and gradually add to your collection as you become more comfortable with painting and discover your preferences. Experimentation is key, so don’t be afraid to try new techniques and materials!