Acrylic Arts Academy
Acrylic Painting Materials List – Essential Supplies for Beginners
Ready to start painting with acrylics? At Acrylic Arts Academy, we’ve created a complete acrylic painting materials list to help beginners find exactly what they need. This easy-to-follow guide covers all the essential acrylic painting supplies—from the best paints and brushes to canvas types and helpful tools. Whether you're learning how to paint at home or building your first art kit, this list will set you up for success. Let’s get started on your creative journey with the right materials by your side!
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Acrylic Paint Sets – The Best Budget-Friendly Way to Start Painting
Looking for an easy and affordable way to begin acrylic painting? This beginner-friendly acrylic paint set includes everything you need to get started: 12 vibrant paint colors, 6 versatile brushes, and 3 ready-to-use canvases. It’s a fantastic choice for new artists, creative families, or adults rediscovering their artistic side. Instead of buying individual supplies, this all-in-one acrylic painting kit saves you time and money while providing a fun, frustration-free introduction to the world of acrylics. Whether you're painting for fun, learning a new hobby, or experimenting with color, this kit is a great value. Tap below to grab your set and start painting with confidence!
Read Our Painting Guidebook
Wondering which book is best for learning acrylic painting?
This is the one we recommend! Our comprehensive acrylic painting guidebook is designed especially for beginners who feel inspired to paint but aren’t sure where to begin. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to build your skills and confidence—from essential painting techniques and brushwork basics to common acrylic terms and materials. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or returning after a long break, this book makes it easy to start your creative journey. Available in both eBook and paperback, it's the perfect companion for learning how to paint at your own pace.
Read the e-book for FREE with a trial of Kindle Unlimited on Us.
Hippie Crafter Acrylic Paint Set – 20 Bold Colors for Multi-Surface Creativity
Unleash your creativity with the Hippie Crafter Acrylic Paint Set, featuring 20 vibrant, professional-grade colors in generously sized 2oz resealable bottles. Whether you're painting on canvas, wood, rocks, ceramics, or even outdoor surfaces, this multi-surface matte acrylic paint delivers smooth coverage and rich pigmentation. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, the non-toxic, water-based formula makes cleanup easy with just soap and water. Proudly made by a family-owned American small business, Hippie Crafter is known for quality supplies and excellent customer support. Ideal for crafters, DIYers, and acrylic artists seeking reliable results—this set is a versatile, high-value addition to any art toolkit. You can see our in-depth review of this product here
Syntus Adjustable Bib Apron with Pockets – Stay Clean, Organized, and Creative
Protect your clothes and keep your tools handy with the Syntus Adjustable Bib Apron with Pockets—a must-have for painters, crafters, and creatives. Designed with two spacious front pockets, this apron easily holds your paintbrushes, palette knives, and other art supplies, so you can focus on creating without interruptions. The durable, water-resistant fabric guards against spills and stains, while the adjustable neck strap and extra-long waist ties provide a comfortable, secure fit for all body types. Ideal for both studio painting and messy crafts, this apron is a practical, affordable solution for anyone looking to stay neat and inspired while they work.
Falling in Art Easel Box Acrylic Paint Set – Budget-Friendly Starter Kit for Aspiring Artists
Looking for an affordable way to start acrylic painting? The Falling in Art Easel Box Acrylic Paint Set has everything a beginner needs—all in one compact, gift-ready package. This complete acrylic painting kit includes a portable tabletop easel, vibrant paints, canvas panels, a mixing palette, and a set of beginner-friendly brushes. It's perfect for creative individuals of all ages who want to dive into painting without making multiple purchases. Whether you're buying it as a thoughtful art gift or starting a new hobby yourself, this budget-friendly set makes it easy to set up a workspace anywhere and begin painting right away. With its versatility and value, it’s the ideal launchpad for your creative journey.
U.S. Art Supply 60-Piece Acrylic Painting Set – A Complete Starter Kit for Beginner Artists
Jumpstart your creative journey with the U.S. Art Supply 60-Piece Deluxe Acrylic Painting Set, a comprehensive kit packed with everything a beginner needs to start painting with confidence. This all-in-one acrylic painting kit includes a sturdy aluminum tabletop easel, 24 rich acrylic colors, 22 high-quality brushes, 2 stretched canvases, 3 canvas panels, palette knives, and a painting pad—plus more. Designed to eliminate the guesswork and expense of buying individual supplies, this set offers an affordable and convenient foundation for learning essential acrylic painting techniques. Whether you're painting at home or setting up your first studio space, this deluxe kit provides the tools and inspiration to explore your artistic potential right away.
Canvas or Canvas Panel for Acrylic Painting – Which Surface Should You Choose?
Choosing the right surface is an important first step in acrylic painting. For beginners, canvas panels are an excellent, budget-friendly option. They’re pre-treated with gesso, so you can start painting right away without any prep work. Lightweight and easy to store, canvas panels are great for practice, learning new techniques, and developing your artistic style. However, it’s important to note that canvas panels are not suitable for acrylic pour painting, as they may warp or fail to support heavy layers of fluid paint. For pouring or long-term display pieces, consider using stretched canvas instead. Start with panels to build confidence, then explore other surfaces as your skills grow.
For a detailed exploration of your canvas options, check out our informative tutorial.
Stretched Canvases for Painting – Multi-Size Pack for Artists of All Levels
Upgrade your painting experience with the Artkey Stretched Canvases for Painting, a multi-size value pack that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists. This 10-piece canvas set includes assorted sizes, each made from 100% pure cotton and triple-primed with gesso for excellent paint adhesion. The surfaces are smooth and even, helping your acrylic or oil paints retain vibrancy and detail. Each canvas is pre-stretched over a durable wooden frame, ensuring stability and preventing warping or sagging over time. Whether you're experimenting with small studies or creating larger works, these ready-to-use stretched canvases offer the flexibility and quality every artist needs. Ideal for acrylic, oil, and mixed media techniques
Choosing the Right Brushes for Beginners in Acrylic Painting – 24-Piece Starter Brush Set
The right set of brushes can make all the difference when you're learning to paint with acrylics. This 24-piece acrylic paintbrush set is designed specifically for beginners, offering a balance of quality, variety, and affordability. With a wide range of brush shapes and sizes—including flat, round, filbert, and detail tips—you’ll be equipped to experiment with blending, fine lines, textured strokes, and more. Whether you're practicing basic techniques or trying new effects, this beginner-friendly brush set provides the versatility you need to build confidence and creative skill. Durable, easy to clean, and budget-friendly, it’s the perfect choice for those starting their acrylic painting journey.
Looking for a Better Quality Set of Brushes? Try This Soft Bristle Upgrade
If you're ready to level up your tools, this premium acrylic paintbrush set is a great next step. Designed for artists seeking softer bristles and smoother brushwork, this set includes a variety of shapes—including the versatile fan brush—to help you create more refined textures and blending effects. Ideal for acrylics and other water-based mediums, these brushes offer improved control and performance, making them perfect for painters ready to enhance their technique without breaking the bank.
Multi-Use Paint Brush Basin – The All-in-One Cleaning & Organizing Station for Artists
Streamline your painting workflow with the Martol Multi-Use Paint Brush Basin, a must-have tool for acrylic, watercolor, oil, and gouache artists. Far more than just a rinse cup, this multi-functional artist basin features built-in brush holders, cleaning grooves, mixing trays, and a palette box, keeping your tools organized and your workspace efficient. The included lid helps protect paints and brushes between sessions, making it perfect for home studios and mobile setups alike. Whether you're cleaning brushes, mixing colors, or storing your tools, this all-in-one brush basin makes your creative process cleaner, faster, and more enjoyable. Click the image or button below to learn why this basin is a studio essential.
Choose the Ideal Palette for Your Painting Needs – Why We Recommend the Sta-Wet Palette
A well-chosen artist palette is essential for efficient and enjoyable painting. It’s where you mix, test, and control your colors before they ever touch the canvas. Keeping your palette clean and organized helps prevent muddy colors and wasted paint. For acrylic painters, we highly recommend the Sta-Wet Palette, a smart, modern solution designed to keep acrylic paint moist and workable for longer periods. This wet palette system minimizes drying time, reduces paint waste, and lets you return to your project without starting over. Ideal for both beginners and experienced artists, the Sta-Wet Palette promotes smoother blending, better consistency, and more cost-effective painting sessions.
MyLifeUNIT Paint Brush Washer – Airtight Stainless Steel Cleaner for Serious Artists
Protect your investment in quality brushes with the MyLifeUNIT Paint Brush Washer, a durable and efficient cleaning solution for acrylic, oil, and watercolor painters. Crafted from high-grade stainless steel, this airtight brush washer features a tight-sealing lid to prevent spills and reduce evaporation—keeping your cleaning solvent fresh for longer. The removable cleaning screen gently removes excess paint from bristles without damage, helping extend the life of your favorite brushes. Portable and sturdy, thanks to its built-in handle, this brush washer is perfect for both studio use and painting on the go. A must-have for artists who want to maintain their tools and achieve professional-level results.
U.S. Art Supply 96 Hole Brush & Pencil Holder – Keep Your Art Tools Neat and Within Reach
Organize your creative workspace with the U.S. Art Supply 96 Hole Plastic Pencil & Brush Holder, the perfect studio companion for acrylic painters and artists of all kinds. With 96 individual slots, this durable plastic stand keeps your paint brushes, pencils, markers, and pens upright, visible, and easy to access. Say goodbye to digging through cluttered drawers—this tool organizer lets you focus more on painting and less on finding the right brush. The sturdy, space-saving design fits comfortably on any tabletop, making it ideal for home studios, classrooms, or shared creative spaces. A must-have for artists who value both function and organization.
Start with the Right Paint – Why We Recommend Liquitex Basics for Beginners
Choosing the right acrylic paint is essential when starting your painting journey, and Liquitex Basics is our top pick for beginners. This trusted brand offers high-quality, student-grade paints that are both affordable and easy to work with, making them ideal for learning and experimentation. The set of 12 essential colors provides a versatile palette for mixing, layering, and exploring a wide range of painting techniques. Whether you're painting on canvas, paper, or panels, Liquitex Basics delivers smooth application and vibrant results without overwhelming your budget. Kickstart your creativity with a paint set that’s made for learning—click the button below to explore this beginner-friendly set.
Budget-Friendly Brilliance – Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set by Plaid
Discover vibrant color on a budget with the Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set by Plaid, a go-to choice for both beginners and hobby artists. This 18-color set features a variety of matte finish paints in generous 2 fl oz (59 ml) bottles, perfect for painting on canvas, paper, wood, and other DIY craft surfaces. Loved by kids and adults alike, these affordable acrylic paints deliver smooth application and bold coverage without sacrificing quality. Whether you're new to painting or stocking up for creative projects, this set is a smart, cost-effective option.
👉 Want to know how it performs? Click here to see our review
Unlock your artistic potential without overspending—click below to explore the Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint Set.
Enhance Your Painting Experience with the Right Easel
An easel is a must-have tool for acrylic painters, offering better posture, visibility, and control while you work. Whether you enjoy painting while sitting or standing, the right easel provides flexibility and helps keep your supplies and canvas securely in place. We recommend a lightweight, adjustable easel with extendable legs, perfect for adapting to any workspace—be it a small studio, kitchen table, or outdoor setting. Ideal for both beginners and hobbyists, this portable easel makes it easier to focus on your art, not your setup.
🎨 Click the button below to explore our recommended easel and take your painting setup to the next level.
MEEDEN French Style Large Sketchbox Easel – Portable Elegance for Studio & Outdoor Painting
Combine style, storage, and stability with the MEEDEN French Style Large Sketchbox Easel, a top-tier choice for artists who value both form and function. Made from premium beechwood, this all-in-one easel and sketchbox is ideal for both studio work and plein air painting. The adjustable canvas holder supports surfaces up to 34 inches, while the built-in storage drawer neatly organizes your paints, brushes, and tools. A leather handle and durable shoulder strap make this easel highly portable and travel-friendly, perfect for artists on the go. Whether you're a beginner seeking a long-term setup or a seasoned painter needing reliable mobility, this easel blends professional features with timeless craftsmanship.
Discover the Ultimate in Portability with a Tabletop Easel
If you’re short on space but big on creativity, a tabletop easel is the perfect solution. Designed for compact workspaces and desktop painting, this easel offers impressive portability and convenience without sacrificing functionality. It includes a built-in storage drawer for brushes and paints, plus a sturdy carrying handle, making it ideal for home studios, classrooms, or art on the go. While it’s best suited for artists who prefer to paint while seated, this lightweight tabletop easel provides a stable, adjustable surface that supports your creative flow.
🎨 Click below to explore our recommended tabletop easel and bring your art anywhere, anytime.
7-Piece Painting Knife Set – Trusted by Acrylic Arts Academy for Creative Color Mixing
Add dimension and texture to your artwork with this 7-Piece Painting Knife Set, personally tested and trusted by Acrylic Arts Academy. Designed for mixing, layering, and applying acrylic paint with precision, this set includes seven uniquely shaped stainless steel blades paired with comfortable wooden handles for excellent control. Whether you're blending on a palette or applying bold strokes directly to canvas, these knives help you experiment with texture, impasto, and non-brush techniques. Ideal for both beginners and experienced artists, this durable, easy-to-clean set is an essential addition to any acrylic painter’s toolkit.
🎨 Click the photo or button below to explore this must-have palette knife set and elevate your painting process.
Illuminate Your Palette with Precision – TROND LED Desk Lamp for Artists
Proper lighting is essential for acrylic painting—especially when it comes to color accuracy and reducing eye strain during long creative sessions. The TROND LED Desk Lamp offers bright, consistent 6000K daylight illumination with three dimmable levels, making it a top choice for artists who value clarity and precision. Its extra-long flexible gooseneck and sturdy clamp design allow you to easily position the light exactly where you need it—whether you're mixing colors on a palette or adding fine details to your canvas. Ideal for painting at night or in dimly lit spaces, this lamp enhances your workspace and helps ensure your colors appear true and vibrant.
💡 Click the button below to explore the TROND LED Desk Lamp—your studio’s best-kept secret for accurate color and confident painting.
ARTDOT Magnifying Glass with Light and Stand – Adjustable LED Lamp with 5X Magnification
This ARTDOT magnifying lamp is a game-changer for acrylic artists focused on fine detail work. Featuring 5X magnification and adjustable brightness with color temperature control, this hands-free lamp helps you clearly see the tiniest brush strokes, making it easier to blend edges, add realistic highlights, and paint small features like facial details or intricate textures. The flexible gooseneck and sturdy base allow you to position the light exactly where you need it without casting shadows. Whether you're painting miniatures, floral veins, or portrait details, this tool supports both accuracy and eye comfort, helping you paint longer without strain.
OCTOSUN Head-Mounted Magnifier with LED Light – Rechargeable and Adjustable for Hands-Free Painting
The YOCTOSUN head-mounted magnifier is ideal for painters who need a close-up view without giving up mobility or desk space. With multiple interchangeable lenses and built-in LED lighting, this tool offers precision magnification right where you look, letting you easily paint fine details with both hands free. It's perfect for those who work on canvas edges, tiny highlights, or textures like fur, hair, and jewelry. Lightweight, rechargeable, and adjustable for comfort, it’s a great choice for artists who want to reduce eye strain and improve accuracy—especially when working in low light or focusing on realism.
Tablets for Painting Reference – A Secret Tool for Realistic Results
While not a traditional art supply, a tablet can be one of the most useful tools in your painting setup. Professional artists often use tablets to pull up high-quality reference photos, zoom in on details like light reflections, facial features, or textures, and work with better accuracy. The Apple iPad Pro 11” is our top pick—it’s lightning fast, has an incredibly sharp display, and allows you to pinch-zoom with precision, which is perfect for painting photorealistic details. Pro tip: go into your tablet’s settings and turn off auto-sleep so your screen stays active while you work hands-free.
On a tighter budget or using Android? The Amazon Fire HD 10 is a fantastic alternative. It’s affordable, durable, and still lets you browse image references or stream tutorials while you paint. Either way, a tablet makes it easier to paint with confidence and precision, without the hassle of printed photos or phone screens that go dark too quickly
10" Ring Light with Tripod – Trusted by Acrylic Arts Academy for Studio Lighting and Content Creation
Light up your creative space with the SENSYNE 10" Ring Light, a trusted tool at Acrylic Arts Academy for achieving professional lighting in both painting and content creation. This LED ring light comes with a 50" adjustable tripod stand and a universal phone holder, making it perfect for recording tutorials, livestreaming, or photographing your artwork. The even, soft illumination helps eliminate harsh shadows, ensures accurate color representation, and enhances the clarity of your work—whether you're painting in real-time or sharing your finished pieces on social media. Fully compatible with all smartphones, this ring light is a game-changer for any artist looking to document and share their acrylic painting journey with confidence.
📸 Click the button below to explore the SENSYNE Ring Light and elevate your art and content setup.
Medium Tack Masking Tape for Artists – TSSART White Art Tape for Clean Edges and Safe Adhesion
The TSSART White Art Tape stands out as a versatile and indispensable tool for artists engaged in drafting, watercolor painting, canvas framing, and various art projects. With a medium tack, this masking tape provides just the right level of adhesion to secure your work without damaging delicate surfaces. The 1/2-inch width and generous 180FT length offer an ample supply for multiple projects, making it a cost-effective choice for artists. Acid-free and designed for easy removal, this art tape ensures that your artwork remains free from residue and discoloration over time. Whether creating crisp edges in watercolor paintings or securing paper during drafting, TSSART White Art Tape is a reliable companion for artists seeking precision and control in their creative processes. Learn more by clicking the photo or the button below.
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