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

Artists who want to work flexibly need materials that are easy to transport and take up little space. Sketching 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.

Crucially, the equipment must be 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. Versions in DIN A5 or DIN A6 format fit in any bag and still offer enough space for detailed drawings.

a sturdy binding and durable cover are recommended , as they are subject to greater wear and tear during mobile use. Paper with a weight of 100 g/m² or higher is suitable for pencils, fineliners, and markers.

Foldable easels and tabletop versions

For painters who don't want to be without an easel while traveling, there are compact models made of aluminum or wood that can be folded down to a minimum size. They weigh only a few kilograms and can be transported in a carrying bag.

Table easels offer an alternative , as they can be used on a stable surface such as a café table and still allow for comfortable working.

Colored pencils in a case (see Terms & Conditions )

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

Artists don't have to forgo a comprehensive color palette while on the go. These pencils are characterized by soft, intensely colored leads, high break resistance, and lightfastness. This makes them suitable for detailed illustrations as well as color sketches outdoors .

Watercolor paints in travel set

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

These brushes allow painting without an additional water container . This not only reduces the weight of the equipment but also allows working in places without access to water, for example on a train or outdoors.

the young illustrator, comic artist and author Isa von KritzelPixel demonstrates how she makes 3 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 varying sizes allow for quick access while protecting delicate tips. These organizers can be stored in a space-saving manner and help keep creative equipment organized.

Foldable palettes and mini painting materials

For painting with acrylics or oils on the go, palettes with a folding mechanism or small paint trays are ideal. These are easy to clean and take up very little space. Mini canvases and small painting boards are also available, perfect for studies or practice outside the studio.

Assembling a mobile creative kit

Drawing, sketching, or painting while traveling broadens one's creative horizons . In unfamiliar surroundings, artists can try out new skills. It becomes easier to break free from studio routines and attempt new things.

A well-designed travel kit includes materials that are coordinated and require no complicated preparation. These include:

• Sketchbook in a handy format
• lightweight set of pencils 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 the park, or spending time in a café become creative opportunities.

Joachim Rodriguez y Romero

Owner and Managing Director of Kunstplaza . Publicist, editor, and passionate blogger in the fields of art, design, and creativity since 2011. Graduated with a degree in web design from university (2008). Further developed creative techniques through courses in freehand drawing, expressive painting, and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market gained through years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with key players and institutions in the arts and culture sector.

www.kunstplaza.de