Creating Art on a Budget: A Guide for Beginner Artists

Starting as an artist can be a mix of excitement and worry, especially when considering the costs involved. I remember wondering, “How can I make quality art without overspending?” There’s this fine line between wanting to create something amazing and making sure the supplies don’t break the bank! So, here are some tips that helped me bring my art dreams to life without overspending as a beginner artist.

Whether you’re a starter or simply want to save on art supplies, these ideas might just make the journey easier and even more enjoyable.  

1. Start Small: Let Your Art Grow with You  

Begin with smaller canvases or watercolour paper to ease into painting without feeling anxious to create something big and perfect. Starting on small projects builds confidence in the strokes, and as you grow, you can invest in bigger canvases.

2. Hunt for Deals and Discounts

My inquisitiveness lies in hunting both online and in local stores to find amazing deals and discounts. Signing up for email alerts or store memberships can give you early access to sales or exclusive offers. Over time, you’ll be able to stock up on essentials without spending a fortune.  

3. Keep it Minimal: Only Buy What You Truly Need  

The art supplies look tempting to grab and as a beginner artist, it becomes really difficult to avoid spending on unnecessary items.

Creating a list of minimal, must-have supplies for your first few artworks will suffice in the start. You can always add more as you go.  

4. Organize Your Supplies and Rediscover What You Have

Going through drawers, cabinets, and old art boxes can reveal hidden gems like old brushes, pencils, and tubes of colour which usually get inside the crevices. You might be surprised by the treasures you find, ready to be used again!  

5. Invest Wisely: Buy the Best You Can Afford

Instead of splurging on a huge set of colours, I remember buying just the 3 primary colours as a child as guided by my Father with the intention that I would learn the colour mixing tricks. And I am grateful for that day which made me realise that numerous colours can be created from just 3 colours! Quality materials can make a difference in your artwork and help you develop your style. 

6. Use Free Apps for Professional-Quality Photos

Why invest in expensive photo editing software when your smartphone can be a powerful tool? Many free apps allow you to capture, edit, and share artist-quality photos of your work. This way, you’re saving on unnecessary costs and still showcasing your work beautifully.  

7. Care for Your Brushes and Palettes

A big part of art on a budget is taking care of the supplies you already own. Clean your brushes and palettes after making every single art, especially with oils and acrylics, to keep them in good shape. This habit can prolong their life and save you money in the long run.  

8. Extend Your Colours’ Life by Keeping Supplies Tidy

Always close your paint tubes and bottles tightly to prevent drying out. Store brushes upright to keep their bristles from fraying. These small steps will make your supplies last longer, meaning less need for constant replacement.  

9. Try Creative Alternatives: Recycle and Repurpose

Get creative with your tools! For instance, I use plastic lids from containers as palettes for colour mixing. Do you still think you need fancy tools to create impressive art?!

10. Treat Yourself on Special Occasions

On special days like your birthday, allow yourself a little splurge. Whether it’s that special sketchbook or a set of fine brushes, sometimes a treat can be the boost you need. After all, art is about joy and inspiration!  

The painting featured here is the ‘Monarch Butterfly’, now available in my store if you’d like to support my work.  

Embrace Art on a Budget

Creating art on a budget isn’t just about saving money; it’s about learning to be resourceful, creative, and discovering that incredible art doesn’t need to be expensive. Buy the best you can afford but mainly enjoy the process!  

Got any more budget-friendly art tips? 

I’d love to hear them! 

Send me an email at hello@inksandsplashes.com

See you in the next blog,

Shristhi