Now that you’ve read the previous post, “Acrylic Painting Process Intro” you are ready to setup your work space.
Before you begin to paint, you need to setup a suitable space and it doesn’t need to be that large. I recommend two tables, one large and one small to hold your painting palette. Folding tables are great and can be bought at Costco or Walmart. Also, protect your space with drop cloths, painter’s paper (brown roll) or my favorite: Dollar Store table cloths. Yes, they actually cost one dollar and are non-absorbent, flimsy vinyl material. They come in oblong or round and are pretty durable. I use them over and over again. If you are worried about making a mess, you will be inhibited in the creative process. An easel isn’t necessary but so nice to have! The one in the photo costs about $10 in hobby stores and works great up to 18 x 24. Other basic supplies include nylon, flat craft brushes also, bristle brushes. The cheap ones will shed and can be annoying. Have some various sizes on hand. Other items shown include the following: at least 2 palette knives, paint scrapers/shapers, empty containers (small and large – some with lids), rags, paper towels, shop paper towels (blue – sturdier) and baby wipes. My favorite “go to” paint shapers are the soft 1″ and 2″ flat shapers with black handles (soft works best for moving the paint around). These must be ordered online through Amazon – color shapers for painting. Some other items to have on hand are a spray bottle for water and some tape (clear and masking). Finally, you need a palette and I recommend getting a large baking sheet or tray. I will discuss how to set that up in a later post. If you are doing small paintings with intricate detail work, use styrofoam plates spritzed with water. Never use a smooth surface as a palette for acrylics – paint dries too fast.
