My Favorite Art Supplies as a Mixed Media Artist (2026 Edition)

In this post, I’m sharing my favorite art supplies for 2026, including paint markers, acrylic paint, drawing tools, varnishes, and a few extras I use regularly in my studio. These are products I personally use in my own artwork.

ART SUPPLIES & TOOLS

Erica McRay

1/12/20262 min read

As a mixed media artist, my supplies are just as important as my ideas. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless tools, brands, and materials, slowly narrowing things down to the art supplies I consistently reach for and trust. This list isn’t about having everything — it’s about using the right tools that support my process, style, and workflow.

Paint Markers (My Go-To Medium)

Paint markers are a huge part of my work. I love them because they allow me to combine the control of drawing with the boldness of paint. They’re perfect for crisp lines, layered details, and expressive marks.

I primarily use acrylic paint markers with brush tips for flexibility and thin tips for details. They work beautifully on canvas, paper, wood panels, and even some unconventional surfaces.

I keep a full list of the exact paint markers I use here:
👉🏽 https://amzn.to/45NvAZo

https://amzn.to/4qOdz5h

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https://amzn.to/4575MY8

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These are especially great if you enjoy clean line work but still want the richness of acrylic paint.

Acrylic Paint (For Depth & Backgrounds)

While paint markers handle most of my detail work, acrylic paint plays a big role in building depth and atmosphere. I typically use acrylics for:

  • Backgrounds

  • Base layers

  • Texture and expressive brushwork

I prefer acrylic paints with strong pigmentation and smooth consistency so they layer well under markers. Whether I’m working on a large canvas or a small study, reliable acrylic paint makes the entire process smoother.

You’ll find the specific brands I use most often listed here:
👉🏽 https://amzn.to/45IAdnx

https://amzn.to/4aUDyDz

Extra Studio Essentials I Use All the Time

There are a few underrated supplies that quietly make a huge difference in my workflow:

  • Quality paper for testing colors

  • Varnishes

  • Drawing supplies

These may not be the most exciting tools, but they help keep my studio functional and my process stress-free.

You can find those essentials included here as well (all products in this link):
👉🏽 https://amzn.to/4pDyFCp

Why I Share My Supply List

I get asked all the time what materials I use, so having everything in one place makes it easier for anyone who’s curious to explore the tools themselves. The links are there simply as a convenient way to find the products — whether you’re just browsing, researching, or ready to try something new.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, it helps support my work at no extra cost to you. I only share tools I personally use and enjoy.