Artist supplies for on the go: space-saving and mobile creative equipment

Artists who want to work flexibly need materials that are easy to transport while taking up minimal space. Sketches on a sunny afternoon in the park, studies while traveling, or spontaneous creative moments on the go require a well-thought-out selection of tools.

It's crucial that the equipment is both high-quality and easy to handle. This guide provides an overview of materials that are particularly suitable for mobile and space-saving work.

Compact sketchbooks for on the go

A sketchbook is often an indispensable companion for spontaneous ideas. A5 or A6 format fit in any bag and still offer enough space for detailed drawings.

We recommend versions with a hard binding and durable cover , as they are subject to greater wear and tear in mobile use. Paper with a thickness of 100 g/m² or more is suitable for pencils, fineliners, and markers.

Foldable easels and table versions

For painters who don't want to be without an easel when they're on the go, there are compact models made of aluminum or wood that fold down to a minimum. They weigh only a few kilograms and can be transported in a carrying bag.

An alternative is a table easel , which can be used on a stable surface such as a café table and still allow for comfortable working.

Colored pencils in a tr Terms & Conditions case

Colored pencils are considered a classic medium for mobile work. They are clean, require no additional tools, and are quick to use. Even comprehensive sets with pencils in many colors are available in a practical wooden case, such as the 120-piece Polychromos set from Faber-Castell . The colored pencils are well protected in the compact and robust case.

Artists don't have to miss out on the extensive color palette while on the go. The pencils feature soft, color-intensive leads, high break resistance, and lightfastness. This makes them ideal for detailed illustrations as well as color sketches in nature .

Watercolor paints in travel equipment

For artists who enjoy working with watercolors, travel-sized watercolor sets a good option. These sets often contain twelve to twenty-four colors, a built-in mixing palette, and sometimes a water-based brush .

 

These brushes allow you to paint without an additional water container . This not only reduces the weight of your equipment but also allows you to work in places without access to water, such as on a train or outdoors.

The young illustrator, comic artist, and author Isa from KritzelPixel demonstrates in a YouTube video how she makes three DIY mini watercolor palettes for her own creative needs on the go:

Fineliners, markers and fountain pens in travel format

Drawings with fineliners can be created precisely and anywhere. Many manufacturers offer sets in resealable cases or metal boxes . This keeps things organized and protects the pens from damage.

Fountain pens with replaceable ink cartridges or so-called piston converters also suitable for mobile sketching, especially for fast line drawing or calligraphy.

Multifunctional tool rolls and cases

Tool rolls or compact cases are ideal for safely transporting individual pens, brushes, or accessories. Leather or fabric with slots of various sizes allow for quick access while protecting delicate tips. Organizers like these can be stored in a space-saving manner and help keep your creative equipment organized.

Foldable palettes and mini painting materials

For painting with acrylics or oils on the go, palettes with folding mechanisms or small recesses for paints are ideal. These are easy to clean and take up minimal space. There are also mini canvases and small painting boards that are ideal for studies or exercises outside the studio.

Putting together a mobile creative set

Drawing, sketching, or painting on the go broadens your creative horizons . In unfamiliar surroundings, artists can test new skills. It's easier to break away from the studio routine and try new things.

A well-thought-out travel kit includes materials that are coordinated and don't require extensive preparation. These include:

• Sketchbook in handy format
• lightweight pencil set or colored pencil case
• Fineliners and waterproof markers
• compact watercolor box
• foldable easel or table model
• Tool roll for organization and protection

With such a selection, it's possible to work anywhere. Traveling, visiting a park, or stopping at a café become a creative opportunity.