One of the most frequently asked questions from my clients is “What art supplies should I get for the virtual sessions?” Here is the list of art supplies that will come in handy while you attend a virtual art therapy session with me:
1) A sketchbook
You can use plain copy papers (or any papers, really), but a sketchbook is helpful because you can look back on the images you made. You can also journal in it. And a book is a form of container, symbolically---it can function as a container for your emotions and thoughts. An ideal size is 9 x 12 to allow large images, and the recommended paper weight is between 90lb and 110lb. I like Strathmore’s mixed media visual journal sketchbook because it’s great for dry media (color pencils, markers), and it is also thick enough for watercolor and acrylic paints. Another option at a lower price is Canson Mixed Media sketchbook (paper is slightly thinner than Strathmore's).
2) Color pencils (12 to 24 colors)
Great for a quick drawing or a relaxation drawing such as mandala. If you like art and can afford, get the Prismacolor color pencils---They are softer and are more pigmented, producing more color-saturated images. They have a Scholar grade as well, which is more affordable at about $15 for 24 colors. But if you are new to artmaking and just want to get a simple set of color pencils, the generic set from Target for $2 will do the job just fine.
3) Markers (12 to 24 colors)
Markers can bring out your creativity real quick, as they are easy to use. Great for doodling and squiggle drawing.
4) Crayons or oil pastels (12 to 24 colors)
Crayons are easy to use and not as intimidating as other art media. Oil pastels allow more expressions than crayons because you can blend colors better.
5) Glue stick
A glue stick is a must for collage art. And I love collages! I use extra strength type from Elmer's. Extra strength glue sticks can even glue fabrics on paper.
6) A pair of scissors
Any scissors will do.
7) Copy papers
We can do a lot with copy papers. Have you made a sculpture out of copy papers? What about a book?
Ok, the above supplies are the must-have. The items below are nice-to-have. We can still do art therapy without them, but these items will help you expand your creative expression during sessions.
8) Plasticine clay, play dough, or Crayola Model Magic
Plasticine clay is non-hardening modeling clay, and you can reuse it over and over. Play dough can be used several times, but eventually they harden. Model Magic is very light clay that hardens. It can be painted once it’s dry. In terms of the price, play dough is the most affordable, and Model Magic the most expensive.
9) Watercolor pans and brushes (12 to 24 colors, with brushes of varied sizes)
Watercolor paints are great to have, as it allows more emotional expression. If you don’t get them at the start of our art therapy sessions, I may suggest you to get it as you make a progress in therapy and you feel ready to use it.
Example: Prang watercolor half pan set (with a brush)
10) Old magazines
We can cut out pictures from them to make collages
11) Tissue papers
They can be used as a base for collage or painting.
12) Envelopes (various sizes)---you can use them as a base for an image, use it as a therapeutic project like sending a letter to yourself, or have it as a form of container for your images/thoughts/emotions.
13) A set of craft acrylic paints
You can use them for painting, collage, or coloring a clay sculpture.
(Note: I am NOT affiliated with any of the companies' websites I listed here. Please use this list only as a reference. I recommend buying art supplies at a local independent art store if possible---Let's support small businesses.)
You can download the PDF version of this list below:
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