Figure drawing art supplies
What art supplies do you need when first learning how to draw the human figure?
In my classes, we work on big paper so that you can practice making large, loose strokes. We also focus more on learning to draw the figure so that you will have a solid foundation before experimenting with different media.
When it comes to art supply vendors, I suggest supporting your local art store if you can. After that, online art suppliers like Blick are best and often have lower prices than Amazon. I've provided links to both Blick and Amazon for your convenience.
I've compiled all the standard supplies plus a few optional ones on this Blick wish list. You can add all to cart or add only the individual items you want/need. You will probably also want a portfolio bag and clip-on light.
This blog is reader-supported. If you buy an art supply or book from one of the links in this article, I'll earn some coffee money. You don't pay a higher price.
Standard list
In addition to the following items, I'd suggest bringing a notebook or sketchbook for taking notes, or you can use your newsprint.
If the venue you're going to does not have drawing boards, you will need one to hold your paper on the easels. Currently, Orange County Arts Commission does not have boards. You can purchase one or make your own from a 4x8 hardboard panel from a hardware store, then cutting it down to size (20x26 minimum).
Optional items
I like my mesh zipper art portfolio bag to carry my large drawing pad plus about 10 sheets of newsprint rather than carrying multiple heavy pads. It's also mostly waterproof in case of inclement weather. I provided a link to this plus a more typical black portfolio bag if you prefer that.
The MONO zero eraser is nice for very fine point erasing especially when you're trying to put in finer highlights. The artist chamois can act like a large eraser especially for vine charcoal.
If you're working in a studio that either doesn't have windows or you're working after dark, you might need a clip-on light at your workstation so that you can see your drawing paper. To be able to cast more dramatic shadows, we will turn off the main studio lights and use spotlights on the model. Amazon has more options for rechargeable clip-on lights at lower prices.
Note that some of the Blick/Amazon links in this section point to different but similar products. The Blick one is shown in the photos.
Budget list
If you're not sure you want to commit to all the art supplies above, here's a smaller budget list. I've supplied links here as well, but you can also find art supplies at an art thrift like The Scrap Exchange, from garage and estate sales, or by asking friends.
At a minimum, you need paper and something to write with. We want to make large, dark marks fast, so I suggest compressed charcoal, large paper or newsprint, and any pencil.
- 18x24 smooth newsprint pad (Blick, Amazon) or any large paper like butcher paper
- soft compressed charcoal (Blick, Amazon)
- any pencil
- any eraser, though a kneaded one will be easier (Blick, Amazon), and magic rub/vinyl or polymer eraser would be next best
- a notebook or scratch paper for taking notes
Conclusion and future exploration
It's easy to collect more art supplies, but you really only need a drawing utensil and something to draw on. In your first class, you'll want to focus more on learning the human form and how to capture light and shadow as an artist.
I highly suggest you continue your practice in open figure drawing sessions. No one becomes a fine artist after one course. You'll need to practice and apply what you've learned to really cement the learning while also discovering your own personal style.
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