Choosing the right art supplies for mixed media can be challenging, as this genre demands versatile materials that work well together. The Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ Spiral Bound stands out as the best overall for its high-quality paper that handles various media without bleed-through. For those seeking a comprehensive set, the Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set offers a wide array of paints and brushes, perfect for experimentation. Meanwhile, the Soucolor 192-Pack Deluxe Art Supplies Set provides excellent value with a broad assortment of tools and materials. The main tradeoffs in this category involve balancing quality, versatility, and price, which can make selecting the right supplies confusing. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and how to choose what works best for your style and budget.
Key Takeaways
- High-quality paper like the 98lb/160gsm options is essential for handling multiple media types without warping or bleeding.
- Comprehensive sets such as the Color Block 151-piece provide versatility but often come with excess items that may not suit all artists.
- Durability and ease of use are key factors; sturdy sketchbooks and well-made brushes improve the creative experience.
- Price varies widely; investing in premium supplies benefits serious artists, while beginners may prefer more budget-friendly options.
- Specialty items like transparency sheets add unique textures but are best complemented with core supplies for a complete mixed media toolkit.
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ Spiral Bound, 30 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm |  | Best Overall for Versatility and Ease of Use | Size: 9″ x 12″ | Sheets: 30 | Paper Weight: 98lb/160gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set with Mixed Media, Paints & Brushes in Aluminum Case |  | Best for Comprehensive Creativity and Travel Convenience | Number of colored pencils: 24 | Number of watercolor pencils: 10 | Acrylic paint tubes: 12 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor 192-Pack Deluxe Art Supplies Set with Canvas, Paints, and Drawing Tools |  | Best for Versatile Creativity with Extensive Supplies | Number of crayons: 60 | Number of colored pencils: 24 | Number of oil pastels: 24 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| U.S. Art Supply 9×12 Mixed Media Sketchbook, 2 Pack (60 Sheets), 98 lb (160 GSM), Spiral-Bound |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Artists Needing Bulk Supplies | Size: 9×12 inches | Sheets per pack: 60 | Total sheets: 120 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Easel, 55 Pieces – Complete Art Supplies Kit for Adults and Kids |  | Best for All-in-One Creative Experience and Outdoor Use | Number of pieces: 55 | Includes: Acrylic paints, watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, drawing accessories, watercolor notebooks, sketch notebooks, drawing board | Material: Wooden easel box, high-quality pigments | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Dina Wakley Media Transparencies, 8.5 x 10.75 inches, 6 Sheets |  | Best for Adding Texture and Layering Effects | Size: 8.5 x 10.75 inches | Sheets Included: 6 | Designs: 6 printed designs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set in Wooden Case |  | Best for All-in-One Versatility and Travel | Number of Pieces: 181 | Included Mediums: Watercolor, acrylic, colored pencils, pastels, charcoal, graphite | Tools: Brushes, kneaded eraser, sanding block, color wheel, wooden manikin | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Hardcover Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper for Artists |  | Best for On-the-Go Drawing and Painting | Material: 98 lb/160 gsm mixed media paper | Size: 9 x 12 inches | Sheets: 60 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canson XL Mix Media Pad 9×12 |  | Best for Easy Page Removal and Versatility | Size: 9 x 12 inches | Pages: Perforated pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| art supplies for mixed media | Size |
|---|---|
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9" x 12 | 9" x 12" |
| Color Block 151-Piece Professi | — |
| Soucolor 192-Pack Deluxe Art S | — |
| U.S. Art Supply 9×12 Mixed Med | 9×12 inches |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Easel | — |
| Dina Wakley Media Transparenci | 8.5 x 10.75 inches |
| Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed M | — |
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9" x 12 | 9 x 12 inches |
| Canson XL Mix Media Pad 9×12 | 9 x 12 inches |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ Spiral Bound, 30 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm
This sketchbook stands out for its high-quality, acid-free paper that handles a variety of media without bleed-through, making it ideal for mixed media artists who want reliable surface quality. Compared with the US Art Supply 9×12 Sketchbook, it offers similar weight and durability but includes micro-perforations, which make tearing out pages cleaner and easier. The spiral binding keeps pages flat and accessible, enhancing comfort during creative sessions. However, the limited 30 sheets may require frequent replacement for prolific artists, and the heavyweight paper might be less suited to very delicate media like fine ink lines. This pick makes the most sense for students, hobbyists, or artists experimenting with mixed media who prefer a portable, user-friendly sketchbook without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- High-quality, bleed-resistant paper suitable for multiple media
- Easy tear-away pages for sharing or framing
- Spiral binding allows pages to lay flat for comfortable drawing or painting
Cons:- Limited to 30 sheets, requiring more frequent replacements
- Heavyweight paper may not suit very delicate ink or fine detail work
Best for: Beginners, students, and young artists seeking a versatile, durable sketchbook for mixed media projects
Not ideal for: Professional artists or those needing large quantities of pages for intensive work, due to its limited sheet count
- Size:9″ x 12″
- Sheets:30
- Paper Weight:98lb/160gsm
- Binding:Top Spiral Bound
- Material:Mixed Media Paper
- Perforations:Micro-perforated
Our verdict“This sketchbook offers a solid balance of quality and convenience, making it ideal for students and casual mixed media artists.”
Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set with Mixed Media, Paints & Brushes in Aluminum Case
This expansive set makes a compelling choice for artists looking for a one-stop shop for multiple media, including pencils, pastels, and paints. It provides a wide array of supplies, surpassing the simpler options like the U.S. Art Supply Sketchbook, which focuses solely on drawing and painting surfaces. Its organized aluminum case ensures portability and easy access, perfect for artists on the go or those who want a giftable, all-in-one kit. However, the sheer volume of supplies can be overwhelming for beginners, and the quality of some items may vary without detailed info, which could disappoint more serious artists expecting professional-grade materials. This set mainly benefits hobbyists and aspiring artists eager to explore diverse media without buying multiple separate supplies.
Pros:- Wide variety of media including pencils, pastels, and paints
- Portable aluminum case for travel and storage
- Great gift option for beginners and hobbyists
Cons:- Overwhelming for complete beginners due to the volume
- Limited info on the quality of individual supplies
Best for: Artists of all skill levels who want a portable, comprehensive mixed media starter kit or gift
Not ideal for: Advanced artists requiring professional-grade, specific supplies for fine detail or large projects, due to potential variability in quality
- Number of colored pencils:24
- Number of watercolor pencils:10
- Acrylic paint tubes:12
- Watercolor paint tubes:12
- Watercolor cakes:18
- Color tone soft pastels:24
- Sketching pencils:9
- Charcoal pencils:3
- Case material:Aluminum
Our verdict“This all-in-one set offers versatility and portability, making it ideal for explorers and casual artists eager to try many media types.”
Soucolor 192-Pack Deluxe Art Supplies Set with Canvas, Paints, and Drawing Tools
This large set covers a broad spectrum of art supplies, including paints, pencils, pastels, and canvases, making it well-suited for artists who want everything in one package. Compared to the Color Block 151-Piece Set, it offers a similar variety but includes more canvases and additional tools, catering to artists who want to focus on both drawing and painting. The durable wooden case enhances portability and organization, making it a good choice for both beginners and more experienced creators. On the downside, the extensive assortment might be overwhelming for newcomers, and the limited number of canvases could restrict larger painting projects. It’s perfect for artists seeking an all-encompassing kit for multiple media and creative exploration.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of art supplies for versatile projects
- Sturdy wooden case for easy storage and transport
- Suitable for all ages and skill levels
Cons:- Large, potentially overwhelming for beginners
- Limited number of canvases for extensive painting
Best for: Mixed media artists who want a comprehensive, all-in-one set suitable for multiple techniques and styles
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer professional-grade, specialized supplies or larger canvas options for large-scale works, due to the included limited canvases
- Number of crayons:60
- Number of colored pencils:24
- Number of oil pastels:24
- Number of watercolors:24
- Number of acrylic paints:24
- Number of canvases:3
- Acrylic pad sheets:20
- Watercolor pad sheets:20
- Sketchbook sheets:30
- Brushes:8
- Palettes:2
- Drawing pads:1
- Sandpapers:11
- Additional tools:eraser, sharpener, sponge, color wheel, palette
Our verdict“This extensive set balances variety and convenience, ideal for artists eager to explore many media in one package.”
U.S. Art Supply 9×12 Mixed Media Sketchbook, 2 Pack (60 Sheets), 98 lb (160 GSM), Spiral-Bound
This 2-pack of sketchbooks offers a cost-effective solution for artists who need large quantities of high-quality paper for mixed media work. The heavyweight, acid-free paper supports both wet and dry media, making it comparable to the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ but with twice the sheets. Its spiral binding and perforated pages facilitate easy removal and sharing. While the paper quality is solid, the spiral binding may become less durable over time with frequent use, and the bulk of 120 sheets might still fall short for extensive projects. This set is a practical choice for students, classrooms, or artists who want to stock up on reliable surfaces without breaking the bank.
Pros:- Heavyweight, acid-free paper suitable for various media
- Spiral binding with perforated pages for convenience
- Great value for bulk purchase
Cons:- Spiral binding may be less durable over time
- Limited to 2 packs, which may require additional purchases for larger projects
Best for: Students, art teachers, or hobbyists seeking affordable, high-capacity mixed media sketchbooks
Not ideal for: Professional artists or those working on large, multi-session projects who need more durable binding or larger formats
- Size:9×12 inches
- Sheets per pack:60
- Total sheets:120
- Paper weight:98 lb (160 GSM)
- Binding:Spiral
- Perforations:Yes
Our verdict“This set delivers reliable, versatile sketchbooks at a budget-friendly price, ideal for students and educators.”
Mixed Media Art Set with Easel, 55 Pieces – Complete Art Supplies Kit for Adults and Kids
This 55-piece set combines a variety of paints, brushes, colored pencils, and drawing accessories, all stored in a functional wooden easel box. It is designed for artists of all ages and skill levels who want a portable, comprehensive kit for both indoor and outdoor art sessions. Compared to the smaller sets, it emphasizes versatility, including a lightweight, adjustable easel suitable for tabletop use. The set’s main strength lies in its convenience and completeness, but some users might find the selection overwhelming, and the easel may be too small for larger canvases or more serious studio work. It’s an excellent choice for beginners, families, or outdoor painters seeking a well-rounded, all-in-one art solution.
Pros:- Complete set with diverse supplies suitable for various media
- Portable, lightweight easel and storage boxes for outdoor use
- Durable wooden easel enhances stability and organization
Cons:- Some may find the variety overwhelming for beginners
- Easel size limits larger canvas or detailed studio work
Best for: Beginners, families, or outdoor artists needing a portable, complete art set for casual or travel use
Not ideal for: Professional artists or those requiring larger canvases or highly specialized supplies, due to the limited size and scope
- Number of pieces:55
- Includes:Acrylic paints, watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, drawing accessories, watercolor notebooks, sketch notebooks, drawing board
- Material:Wooden easel box, high-quality pigments
- Easel type:Tabletop, adjustable
- Portability:Lightweight, compact
- Storage:Two sturdy boxes with separated trays
Our verdict“This all-in-one kit offers convenience and versatility, perfect for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore art casually.”
Dina Wakley Media Transparencies, 8.5 x 10.75 inches, 6 Sheets
These transparent sheets from Dina Wakley stand out for their vibrant printed designs, which bring an extra layer of visual interest to mixed media projects. Compared with the more versatile paper-based options like the Mixed Media Sketchbook, these transparencies excel at creating texture and depth but are limited to specific artistic styles and require careful handling to avoid tearing. The printed designs may not suit every theme, making them less adaptable than plain clear sheets or traditional papers. They are ideal for artists seeking decorative elements or collage accents that add dimension without bulk. However, their specialized nature means they may not be practical for every project or beginner without experience handling delicate transparencies.Pros:- High-quality printed designs that enhance visual interest
- Adds texture and dimension to layered projects
- Versatile for collage, journal, and card-making techniques
Cons:- Limited to specific artistic styles and themes
- Requires careful handling to prevent tearing
- Designs may not suit all project concepts
Best for: Mixed media artists who want to incorporate textured, decorative overlays with colorful designs into their work.
Not ideal for: Artists looking for versatile, all-purpose papers or those working on themes that clash with the specific designs on these sheets.
- Size:8.5 x 10.75 inches
- Sheets Included:6
- Designs:6 printed designs
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for mixed media artists seeking decorative transparencies to add texture and visual flair, rather than general-purpose sheets.”
Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set in Wooden Case
This extensive art set from Colour Block offers a broad range of mediums, tools, and papers, making it a comprehensive choice for artists who want to experiment across different techniques. Compared to the dedicated sketchbook or paper-focused options, this set provides an all-in-one solution for mixed media exploration, but the sheer volume can be overwhelming for beginners who may find the assortment confusing or unnecessary. The inclusion of multiple paints, pencils, pastels, and tools makes it ideal for artists eager to try diverse media without buying separately, yet some users might prefer a more curated, focused starter kit. Its portability in a sturdy wooden case encourages creative flexibility, whether at home or on the go.Pros:- Includes a wide array of mediums and tools for experimentation
- Sturdy, organized wooden case for easy transport and storage
- Suitable for artists of all skill levels, from beginners to pros
Cons:- Can be overwhelming due to the large variety of supplies
- Some items may be unnecessary if focusing on specific techniques
- No specific price information makes value assessment difficult
Best for: Beginner to intermediate artists wanting a complete, portable mixed media starter kit with a variety of mediums.
Not ideal for: Advanced artists who prefer specialized, high-end supplies or those who only focus on specific media, as the set might be overly broad and include unused items.
- Number of Pieces:181
- Included Mediums:Watercolor, acrylic, colored pencils, pastels, charcoal, graphite
- Tools:Brushes, kneaded eraser, sanding block, color wheel, wooden manikin
- Case Material:Wood
Our verdict“This set is best for artists eager to explore multiple media in a single, portable package, though its extensive variety can be daunting for newcomers.”
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Hardcover Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper for Artists
This sketchbook is designed with versatility in mind, offering thick, high-quality paper that stands up to watercolor, pencil, charcoal, and more. Its spiral binding allows for full 360-degree use, making it convenient for sketching anywhere. Compared to the Canson XL, which emphasizes perforated pages for easy removal, this book prioritizes durability and ease of use for ongoing projects. While it provides ample space for multiple techniques, the 60 sheets may limit larger or prolonged projects, and the spiral binding might be prone to damage over heavy use. Its sturdy hardcover helps protect the pages during transport, making it an excellent choice for artists who work outdoors or in studios.Pros:- High-quality, thick paper suitable for multiple mediums
- Durable hardcover and spiral binding for travel
- Versatile for watercolor, pencil, and mixed media techniques
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets, which may be restrictive for extensive projects
- Spiral binding can be susceptible to damage over time
- Not ideal for artists needing perforated pages for display or sharing
Best for: Artists needing a portable, durable sketchbook that accommodates various media for sketching, watercolor, and mixed media on the move.
Not ideal for: Those requiring a higher page count or a book with perforated pages for easy removal and display, as this one is more suited to ongoing work than presentation.
- Material:98 lb/160 gsm mixed media paper
- Size:9 x 12 inches
- Sheets:60
- Binding:Spiral
- Cover:Hardcover
- Weight:16 ounces
Our verdict“This sketchbook makes a practical choice for artists seeking a sturdy, versatile portable surface for diverse mixed media work.”
Canson XL Mix Media Pad 9×12
The Canson XL Mix Media Pad emphasizes convenience with its perforated pages, making it simple to share or display finished work. Compared to the spiral-bound sketchbook, this pad sacrifices some flexibility in handling but gains in ease of page removal. While it supports various media types, the lack of detailed specifications like paper weight or thickness limits understanding of its robustness, which could be a concern for artists working with wet or heavy mediums. Its manufactured location in France suggests quality control, but the minimal product details mean I recommend it primarily for casual or less demanding projects. Overall, it’s a practical choice for those who need quick, clean tear-out capability.Pros:- Perforated pages for easy removal
- Supports various media types
- Manufactured in France for quality assurance
Cons:- Limited detailed information on paper weight or thickness
- No specific specs on durability for wet media
- Less suited for extensive, heavy-duty projects
Best for: Artists who want the convenience of perforated pages for easy sharing or framing, especially in mixed media contexts that involve collage or layering.
Not ideal for: Professionals or artists seeking detailed technical specs or working with very wet or heavy mediums that require thicker, more durable paper.
- Size:9 x 12 inches
- Pages:Perforated pages
Our verdict“This pad is a solid choice for artists prioritizing easy page removal and versatility over detailed technical specifications, especially for casual mixed media work.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, versatility, build quality, and value. I prioritized supplies that are widely recommended by artists working in mixed media, focusing on those that can handle a variety of materials like paints, pencils, inks, and collage elements. Durability and paper quality were key factors, as these determine how well each product supports layered, experimental techniques. Price point was also considered, ensuring options cater to different budgets. The ranking reflects a balance between professional-grade features and accessibility for hobbyists or beginners, emphasizing what makes each product uniquely suited for mixed media work.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Mixed Media
When selecting art supplies for mixed media, understanding the key factors that influence your results can save you time and money. The right combination of materials should support your creative process, withstand layering, and be compatible across different media types. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind beyond just the product features, helping you make informed choices to enhance your artwork.Paper Quality and Weight
The foundation of any mixed media project is the paper. Heavier papers, typically 98lb/160gsm or higher, resist warping and bleed-through, especially when using wet media like watercolor or acrylics. Lightweight papers may be more affordable but often require careful handling and limited media types. Choosing the right paper can significantly impact the durability and appearance of your finished work, making it worth investing in quality options for serious projects.
Versatility of Supplies
Look for sets and tools that support multiple media, including pencils, inks, paints, and collage elements. Versatile supplies reduce the need for multiple purchases and streamline your workflow. However, beware of overly broad sets that include many unused items; instead, focus on core materials that match your style. The ability to layer and combine different media seamlessly is what makes a supply truly suitable for mixed media art.
Durability and Ease of Use
Supplying tools that are built to last and are comfortable to handle enhances your creative experience. Sturdy brushes, reliable pens, and durable sketchbooks prevent frustration and accidental damage during intense sessions. Ergonomics also matter—consider how the tools feel in your hand and whether they support your preferred techniques, especially for prolonged use.
Price and Value
Budget considerations influence which supplies are feasible for your practice. While premium products offer better longevity and performance, there are many affordable options that deliver excellent results for beginners. Weigh the cost against potential longevity and how well a product suits your needs; sometimes a slightly higher investment pays off through better results and durability.
Specialty Materials and Accessories
Unique supplies like transparency sheets, textured mediums, or metallic paints can add depth and interest to your work. However, these are often supplementary rather than essential. Incorporate specialty items thoughtfully—consider whether they complement your style or serve specific projects to avoid clutter and unnecessary expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right sketchbook for mixed media?
Selecting a sketchbook for mixed media involves prioritizing heavyweight paper, ideally 98lb or higher, that can handle wet and dry media without buckling or tearing. Spiral-bound options offer flexibility, while hardcover books provide durability for travel or studio use. The paper’s texture—smooth or textured—also influences how different media perform, so choose based on your preferred techniques and materials.
Are expensive art sets worth the investment for beginners?
While high-end sets often include better quality materials that last longer, they aren’t always necessary for beginners. Budget-friendly options can provide a solid foundation for exploring mixed media techniques. As your skills develop, you might find value in upgrading specific tools, but starting with affordable, versatile supplies helps you learn without a large upfront cost.
What materials are essential for starting in mixed media?
Core materials include a sturdy, versatile sketchbook or paper suitable for wet and dry media, a set of quality brushes, and basic paints like acrylics or inks. Pencils and markers for drawing, along with collage supplies such as glue and textured papers, round out the essentials. Focus on acquiring reliable, multi-use items before expanding into more specialized supplies.
How do I prevent my supplies from bleeding through lighter papers?
Choosing heavier paper, such as 98lb/160gsm or more, reduces bleed-through. Using a separate protective layer underneath your work can also help. Additionally, applying thinner layers of wet media or allowing layers to dry completely before adding new ones minimizes bleeding. Investing in quality papers designed for mixed media is one of the most effective solutions.
Can I combine different brands of supplies in mixed media projects?
Yes, mixing brands is common and often necessary to achieve desired effects. However, it’s important to test compatibility—some paints or inks may react differently depending on the paper and other materials. Sticking to compatible media and understanding their properties ensures your layered work remains vibrant and intact over time.
