If you’re planning on pursuing art on a budget, here are some tips to help you save money while still allowing you to express yourself creatively.
Work Small
While it’s important to keep in mind that art can be expensive, it’s also possible to achieve great results on a budget by working small. This can help you develop your creativity and avoid adding unnecessary detail to your work. Whether you’re doing a painting or drawing in a sketchbook, you can still use your imagination and develop your skills.
Work in Standard Sizes
If you’re planning on framing your work, then it’s cheaper to create it at the standard sizes, which include 8 x 10, 12 x 16, etc. These allow you to slip your work into the frame easily, and they can be reused as long as it’s in good condition. You can also buy mats that will fit the standard sizes.
Not Worried About Longevity?
If you’re not ready to sell your work yet, then you can still create art on various types of materials. For instance, you can use paper or other light-sensitive materials such as Kraft paper to create your work. You can also buy these at craft stores or stores that carry school supplies.
Look For Art On a Budget Sales
Several art supply stores may be holding sales and discounts in an attempt to attract their customers. If you’re planning on spending a lot of money on art, then you should take advantage of these sales and put some of it aside. Many retailers also offer discounts on their subscriber lists.
Look for deals
You could consider joining a local art group. Purchasing supplies in bulk could mean lower prices. Art supply stores may offer deals or discounts to members of these groups as purchasing more supplies at once is beneficial to the store as well as the group purchasing the items.
Try Alternative Surfaces
Consider using a heavy-weight illustration board if you’re planning on using wet media such as watercolors. You’ll be able to create a wet media painting using this instead of a backing board. You can also buy large sheets of printmaking paper, which can be cut down to size for drawing or painting with pastels.
Look For Alternative Sources
If you’re planning on using canvas, you might want to invest time into finding alternatives to buying art supplies at stores. Art on a budget can help you expand your supply sources.
Regular Practice
One of the most critical factors that you should consider when it comes to developing your skills is regular practice. Learning to drive a car or swim in the water are two different things that you didn’t learn when you only practiced once a month. If you’re planning to become an urban or suburban artist, you should regularly practice drawing and painting your surroundings.
Take Classes
If you’re planning on becoming an artist, then you should consider investing in this area. Having a good foundation of knowledge and skill is very important to ensure that you can develop yourself successfully. Unfortunately, many people tend to try to learn on their own, which can lead to negative habits. Setting aside money for this education can help prevent you from experiencing self-defeating behavior.