The following is a suggested materials list. Each of you may have your own favorite papers and paints and palettes already. In most cases the materials you already own will work for these classes. However, I would suggest that you have at least one large wash brush and use artist’s quality pigments and 100% cotton rag paper. You may adapt this check list with supplies that you already have. Here in San Miguel, I like to shop at El Pato for art supplies. El Pato, is located at Margarito Ledesma #19 in Colonia Guadalupe. I have already spoken to the owner, David Salgado Arana, about watercolor blocks, brushes and paints. If you let me know in a timely manner, I can make sure that he orders what is needed for you.

There will be storage space in the Annex classroom, but packing everything you need in a bag makes it convenient for plein aire excursions and safe keeping.

  • A sketchbook : no smaller than 5×7

  • An iPad or iPhone with 2 important apps to download on it: Waterlogue (4.99) and Image Blender (3.99)

  • Paper – I use Arches or Lana Waterford 140lb Cold Press paper blocks. If you plan to use sheets, then a stretching board will be needed. I use Masonite, or gator board and (Scotch brand) masking tape to affix the paper to the board.

  • Drafting or masking tape 1” size

  • small spray bottle

  • dr. PH Martin’s bleeds proof white

  • Clorox sponge

  • A watercolor palette. There are many styles to choose from. Make sure the one you have has adequate space for mixing pigments

  • Paper towels

Brushes and Paints

  • Brushes: You will need a small, medium, and large watercolor brush. I recommend the Escoda Perla and Versatil series short handled rounds No’s 14 and a 1- 3/4″ flat. Treat yourselves to good brushes. I will have extra brushes on hand as well.

  • A brush carrier, such as bamboo or cloth roll.

  • Paints: I use primarily Daniel Smith Artist’s watercolors. I do not suggest using student grade paint. The only difference between the two types is the amount of pigment used. If you use student-grade, your work will look more washed out.

Note: There are many manufacturers and I have tried most of them. Daniel Smith, Winsor and Newton, Holbein, M. Graham, Rembrandt, are all suitable. But do not buy cake or block colors.

Color Palette

Note: This is only a suggestion, as we can typically make your colors work. Basically, you want a palette of colors that includes a yellow, red, orange, blue, brown and green.

a Yellow: New Gamboge/Naples Yellow/Lemon Yellow

Yellow Ocher

Burnt Umber

Alizarin Crimson

Cadmium Red

Cadmium Orange

Neutral Tint/ Payne’s grey

Cerulan Blue

Cobalt Blue

French Ultramarine

Undersea Green

Greenish Yellow – Holbein

I look forward to meeting you in person. Do not hesitate to contact me with the contact link or Vellum1@mac.com