Choosing the right art supplies for mixed media can be challenging, as this versatile category blends paints, papers, textures, and tools. The Strathmore 500 Series Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad stands out as the best overall for its durability and compatibility with various mediums. For those seeking vibrant textures, the KingART Gel Stick Crayons deliver bold color and versatility, while the Color Block 151-Piece Art Set offers an all-in-one solution for beginners and hobbyists. The main tradeoffs involve balancing quality, price, and versatility—more specialized tools often cost more, but can improve results significantly. Continue reading for a full breakdown of these top picks and how they compare for your creative needs.
Key Takeaways
- The best overall supplies combine durability, compatibility with multiple mediums, and ease of use, exemplified by the Strathmore Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad.
- Vibrant and textured effects are well-supported by products like KingART Gel Stick Crayons and texture pastes, but they tend to come at a higher price point.
- All-in-one sets, such as the Color Block Art Supply Kit, offer great value for beginners but may lack the specialized quality of premium options.
- Paper choice is crucial: heavier, textured surfaces support mixed media layering and prevent warping, unlike thinner papers.
- Stencils and texture tools expand creative possibilities but require careful selection to match your preferred mediums and style.
| Strathmore 500 Series Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad 6″ x 8″ – 12 Sheets |  | Best Overall for Versatile Heavyweight Paper | Size: 6″ x 8″ | Sheets: 12 | Weight: 350 lb (570 g/m²) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ranger Texture Paste, 3.9 fl oz |  | Best for Creating 3D Textural Effects | Volume: 3.9 fl oz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | ||
| Strathmore Mixed Media Vellum Paper Pad 9″ x 12″ – 15 Sheets |  | Best for Wet and Dry Media Versatility | Size: 9″ x 12″ | Sheets: 15 | Weight: 140 lb / 300 gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set with Mixed Media, Paint Kit & Brushes in Aluminum Case |  | Best for Comprehensive Portable Art Kits | Number of Items: 151 | Included Supplies: Colored pencils, watercolor pencils, acrylic paints, watercolor paints, pastels, sketching pencils, charcoal pencils | Case Material: Aluminum | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook 9×12, Drawing Paper Pad 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm |  | Best for On-the-Go Artists and Hobbyists | Material: 98 lb/160 gsm mixed media paper | Sheets: 60 | Size: 9×12 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KINGART Mixed Media Gel Stick Crayons, Vibrant, Set of 24-Colors |  | Best for Vibrant, Versatile Color on Multiple Surfaces | Number of Colors: 24 | Material: Gel Crayons | Water Soluble: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor Art Supplies, 192 Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Supplies Kit |  | Best for All-in-One Versatile Art Experience | Number of Crayons: 60 | Number of Colored Pencils: 24 | Number of Oil Pastels: 24 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″, 30 Sheets |  | Best for Durable, Multi-Media Sketching and Practice | Size: 9″x12″ | Sheets: 30 | Paper Weight: 98 lb / 160 gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Easel and Supplies |  | Best for Complete Portable Studio for All Skill Levels | Number of Pieces: 55 | Includes: Acrylic and watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, drawing accessories, wooden easel, notebooks, drawing board | Material: High-quality pigments, durable wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 16 Pcs Abstract Texture Stencils for Painting |  | Best for Creative Patterning and Textural Effects | Number of Pieces: 16 | Stencil Size: 5.5 x 8.26 inches | Material: PET plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prang (Formerly Art Street) Mixed Media Journal |  | Best Compact Travel Sketchbook | Size: 8.5 x 11 inches | Binding: Spiral | Back support: Heavy chipboard | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| art supplies for mixed media | Material |
|---|---|
| Strathmore 500 Series Heavywei | 100% Cotton |
| Ranger Texture Paste | — |
| Strathmore Mixed Media Vellum | Vellum paper |
| Color Block 151-Piece Professi | — |
| MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook | 98 lb/160 gsm mixed media paper |
| KINGART Mixed Media Gel Stick | Gel Crayons |
| Soucolor Art Supplies | — |
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9"x12" | — |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Easel | High-quality pigments, durable wood |
| 16 Pcs Abstract Texture Stenci | PET plastic |
| Prang | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Strathmore 500 Series Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad 6″ x 8″ – 12 Sheets
This heavyweight pad stands out for its thick, 350 lb (570 g/m²) cotton surface, making it suitable for a wide range of media including watercolor, gouache, and acrylics. Compared with the MoFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook, it offers a more durable, professional-grade surface, but the tradeoff is its limited 12 sheets, which may be restrictive for larger projects. Its glue-bound design allows easy removal of individual pages, perfect for mixed media layering. While its weight and size might be less portable than smaller options, it provides a sturdy foundation for experimental and layered work.
Pros:- Heavyweight, durable surface suitable for multiple media
- Versatile for watercolor, acrylic, and drawing
- Glue-bound for easy page removal
Cons:- Limited to 12 sheets per pad
- Heavy and less portable for plein air work
Best for: Artists who need durable, heavy-duty paper for complex mixed media projects and don’t mind a smaller pad for studio use.
Not ideal for: Beginners or hobbyists seeking a portable, large-volume sketchbook, as this pad is heavier and has limited sheets.
- Size:6″ x 8″
- Sheets:12
- Weight:350 lb (570 g/m²)
- Material:100% Cotton
- Acid Free:Yes
Our verdict“This pad is ideal for serious artists requiring durable, heavyweight paper for mixed media but not for those needing larger quantities or portability.”
Ranger Texture Paste, 3.9 fl oz
This artist-quality texture paste excels at adding tactile dimension to mixed media pieces, especially when combined with stencils or applied with a palette knife. Compared to the Color Block 151-Piece Art Set, which offers a wide array of media but lacks specialized textural options, the texture paste provides a focused medium for surface enhancement. Its high-quality formulation ensures a consistent, workable consistency, though the lack of specified drying times or finish details might require trial and error. It’s perfect for artists looking to elevate their layered and mixed media work with three-dimensional effects.
Pros:- High-quality artist grade texture paste
- Versatile for layering and 3D effects
- Compatible with stencils and palette knives
Cons:- No specific drying time mentioned
- Limited details on color or finish
Best for: Mixed media artists seeking to add tactile, layered surfaces to their artwork, especially in studio settings.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual hobbyists who want a simple, all-in-one art set, as this product is specialized for textural effects rather than complete kits.
- Volume:3.9 fl oz
Our verdict“This texture paste is a top choice for adding dimensionality to mixed media projects but requires some experimentation to master its application.”
Strathmore Mixed Media Vellum Paper Pad 9″ x 12″ – 15 Sheets
This vellum paper pad offers a balanced surface that handles both wet and dry media effectively, making it a flexible choice compared to the MoFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook, which is lighter and more portable but less durable. Its 140 lb (300 gsm) weight provides enough heft for watercolor, ink, and pastel without warping, yet the 15-sheet limit might be a constraint for larger projects. The glue binding is sturdy but can be less convenient for frequent page removal, making it better suited for finished work or studio use.
Pros:- Suitable for a variety of wet and dry media
- Heavyweight, durable surface
- Acid-free for archival quality
Cons:- Limited to 15 sheets per pad
- Glue binding may not be ideal for frequent removal
Best for: Artists who want a durable, versatile paper for a variety of media that still maintains a manageable size.
Not ideal for: Artists looking for a large-volume pad or those who need frequent page removal, as the glue binding may be restrictive.
- Size:9″ x 12″
- Sheets:15
- Weight:140 lb / 300 gsm
- Material:Vellum paper
- Binding:Glue bound
- Acid Free:Yes
Our verdict“This vellum pad balances versatility and durability, making it a solid choice for mixed media artists who prefer a smaller, sturdy surface.”
Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set with Mixed Media, Paint Kit & Brushes in Aluminum Case
This extensive set provides a broad spectrum of art supplies, from colored pencils and pastels to watercolor and acrylic paints, making it suitable for artists of all levels. Compared with the MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook, which focuses on paper quality, this kit offers a complete array of tools, though it might overwhelm beginners who prefer a more streamlined setup. The durable aluminum case makes it ideal for travel and gifting, but some users may find the variety of supplies excessive or inconsistent in quality without specific brand details. It’s a versatile starter or travel kit for artists who want everything in one place.
Pros:- Wide variety of art supplies for multiple media
- Portable, durable aluminum case
- Great gift option for artists and enthusiasts
Cons:- Some find the variety overwhelming
- Limited information on individual material quality
- No details on case durability over time
Best for: Artists seeking a comprehensive, portable art kit that covers multiple mediums and skill levels.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a curated, simpler set or experienced artists looking for high-end, specialized materials, as the quality may vary.
- Number of Items:151
- Included Supplies:Colored pencils, watercolor pencils, acrylic paints, watercolor paints, pastels, sketching pencils, charcoal pencils
- Case Material:Aluminum
- Item Dimensions:13 x 11.8 x 3.94 inches
Our verdict“This set is perfect for artists who want an all-in-one portable collection, though it may be too broad for those seeking premium quality or simplicity.”
MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook 9×12, Drawing Paper Pad 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm
This versatile sketchbook offers 60 sheets of high-quality, recyclable mixed media paper that handles a variety of mediums, including watercolor, ink, and pencil. Compared with the Strathmore 500 Series Heavyweight Pad, which provides a more durable surface for heavier applications, the MOFUNY sketchbook is lighter and more portable, ideal for artists on the move. Its ring binding allows 360-degree page rotation, making it flexible for different working styles. However, with only 60 sheets, it may not satisfy those working on larger projects or frequent creators, and it lacks a spiral option for easier page flipping.
Pros:- High-quality, recyclable paper
- Flexible ring binding for 360-degree use
- Suitable for multiple mediums including watercolor and acrylics
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets
- No spiral binding option
- May not withstand very heavy or thick paints
Best for: Hobbyists, students, or artists who need a portable, flexible sketchbook for sketching and light mixed media work on the go.
Not ideal for: Artists working on heavy, layered, or large-scale projects who need more sheets or a spiral binding for convenience.
- Material:98 lb/160 gsm mixed media paper
- Sheets:60
- Size:9×12 inches
- Binding:Ring binding
- Cover:Hard cardboard
Our verdict“This sketchbook is a practical choice for mobile artists and hobbyists, though its limited sheet count may restrict larger or more intensive projects.”
KINGART Mixed Media Gel Stick Crayons, Vibrant, Set of 24-Colors
This set of water-soluble pigment gel crayons stands out for delivering bold, smooth color that works well on paper, fabric, and wood. Compared with the larger, more comprehensive sets like the Soucolor Art Supplies Kit, these crayons are more focused on vibrant color application rather than a wide variety of mediums. While the compact design and sturdy case make them easy to carry, they do require water for blending, which may limit their convenience for quick projects. They excel for mixed media artists seeking lively, textured effects but are less suited for artists needing extensive medium options or precise control.
Pros:- Vibrant, smooth color application that enhances visual impact
- Versatile use across multiple surfaces like fabric and wood
- Compact, sturdy storage case for portability
Cons:- Requires water for blending, adding an extra step
- Limited to creative applications, not suitable for fine art or professional work
Best for: Mixed media artists who want portable, vibrant color tools for on-the-go or layered projects
Not ideal for: Professionals requiring detailed blending or high-end, professional-grade pigments, as these are more hobbyist-focused
- Number of Colors:24
- Material:Gel Crayons
- Water Soluble:Yes
- Suitable Surfaces:Paper, fabric, wood, and more
- Design Features:Round, snap-on cap
Our verdict“This set is perfect for mixed media artists seeking lively, portable color options for diverse surfaces, but less ideal for detailed, professional-grade work.”
Soucolor Art Supplies, 192 Pack Deluxe Art Set Drawing Painting Supplies Kit
This extensive 192-piece art set offers an impressive variety of drawing and painting supplies, making it suitable for artists at any level. Unlike the Mixed Media Sketchbook, which is limited to paper, this kit includes a broad range of mediums, from crayons to acrylic paints, providing greater creative flexibility. While its size and variety offer excellent value, the large set can be overwhelming for casual users or those with limited space, and some supplies may lack the premium quality preferred by professional artists. Its organized wooden case enhances portability and convenience, but the sheer quantity may lead to clutter if not managed carefully.
Pros:- Wide variety of supplies suitable for diverse techniques and mediums
- Organized in a durable, dual-drawer wooden case for easy transport
- Catering to all skill levels from novice to professional
Cons:- Large size may be overwhelming or unnecessary for casual users
- Some basic supplies might not meet the standards of professional artists
Best for: Beginners, hobbyists, and artists seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one art kit for multiple mediums
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer high-end, professional-grade materials or have limited storage space
- Number of Crayons:60
- Number of Colored Pencils:24
- Number of Oil Pastels:24
- Number of Watercolor Paints:24
- Number of Acrylic Paints:24
- Paint Brushes:8
- Organizational Case:Wooden with dual drawers
Our verdict“This all-encompassing set is ideal for versatile, beginner to intermediate artists who want a broad array of supplies in one package.”
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″, 30 Sheets
This 9″x12″ spiral-bound sketchbook provides high-quality, acid-free, bleed-resistant paper designed to handle watercolor, acrylic, pastel, and ink. Compared with the Art Set with Easel, which offers a broad supply range, this sketchbook is more focused on providing a reliable surface for practicing and experimenting with various media. Its spiral binding allows it to lie flat, and perforated pages facilitate sharing or display, but the limited 30 sheets may be insufficient for extensive projects or frequent use. The heavyweight paper supports multiple techniques but might be less flexible for quick sketches or loose work.
Pros:- High-quality, durable paper suitable for multiple media
- Perforated pages for easy removal and sharing
- Lays flat thanks to spiral binding for ease of use
Cons:- Limited to 30 sheets, which may restrict ongoing projects
- Heavyweight paper may be less flexible for quick sketches or light media
Best for: Students, hobbyists, or artists needing a durable, versatile surface for sketching and media experimentation
Not ideal for: Artists requiring large volumes of paper or extensive projects, due to its limited sheet count
- Size:9″x12″
- Sheets:30
- Paper Weight:98 lb / 160 gsm
- Binding:Spiral
- Perforated Pages:Yes
Our verdict“This sketchbook is a reliable choice for mixed media experimentation, especially for students and hobbyists, but may fall short for large or ongoing projects.”
Mixed Media Art Set with Easel and Supplies
This 55-piece art set combines a variety of paints, drawing tools, and a sturdy wooden easel, making it suitable for artists from beginners to professionals. Unlike the Gel Crayon Set, which focuses solely on color application, this set offers a full range of supplies with an emphasis on versatility and mobility. The included easel and compact design make it ideal for outdoor painting or art classes, but the broad selection can be overwhelming for newcomers, and some accessories may be basic for seasoned artists. Its portability makes it perfect for art on the go, though the quality of some materials might not match high-end studio standards.
Pros:- Complete set with paints, brushes, pencils, and a wooden easel
- Portable and lightweight, perfect for outdoor painting
- Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced
Cons:- Overwhelming for complete beginners due to the variety
- Some accessories may be basic or less durable for professional use
Best for: Artists or students seeking a portable, all-in-one studio for outdoor or travel use
Not ideal for: Professional artists demanding high-end, specific quality supplies or those with limited space for storage
- Number of Pieces:55
- Includes:Acrylic and watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, drawing accessories, wooden easel, notebooks, drawing board
- Material:High-quality pigments, durable wood
- Portability:Lightweight, compact
- Suitable For:Beginners, advanced artists, students, kids
Our verdict“This versatile, portable art set excels for artists needing an all-in-one kit for travel and outdoor projects, though experienced artists may find some supplies lacking in quality.”
16 Pcs Abstract Texture Stencils for Painting
This set of 16 flexible PET plastic stencils offers diverse patterns like flowers, bricks, and dots, adding depth and variety to mixed media projects. Compared with the Mixed Media Sketchbook, which provides a surface for media application, these stencils serve as tools to enhance surface texture and patterning. Their reusable PET material makes them durable, but some patterns may be too delicate for heavy use or frequent cleaning, requiring careful handling. They are ideal for artists looking to add intricate details or create consistent designs across different surfaces.
Pros:- Diverse, attractive pattern designs for varied projects
- Reusable and durable PET plastic material
- Suitable for multiple surfaces like canvas, wood, fabric, and walls
Cons:- Patterns may be too delicate for heavy, repeated use
- Requires careful cleaning to maintain pattern integrity
Best for: Mixed media artists and DIY crafters wanting to add textures and patterns to their work
Not ideal for: Artists needing large-scale backgrounds or heavy use that could wear out delicate patterns, or those who prefer digital patterning
- Number of Pieces:16
- Stencil Size:5.5 x 8.26 inches
- Material:PET plastic
Our verdict“These stencils are great for adding intricate, textured details to mixed media projects, but may need gentle handling for longevity.”
Prang (Formerly Art Street) Mixed Media Journal
The Prang Mixed Media Journal stands out for its convenient 8.5″ x 11″ size, making it highly portable for artists who want to sketch on the go. Compared with the Strathmore 500 Series Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad, this journal offers a durable spiral binding and sturdy chipboard back, providing excellent support for mixed media techniques in a compact form. While it excels in versatility, its paper quality is more suited for light washes and sketching rather than heavy acrylics or textured applications, which limits its scope compared with heavier pads. The acid-free, recyclable paper adds value for eco-conscious artists, and the brand’s reputation for reliability offers peace of mind. However, its smaller size may be a drawback for those needing larger working surfaces or more extensive projects. This journal makes the most sense for artists who prioritize portability and sketching convenience over heavy-duty mixed media work.
Pros:- Compact size for easy transport and sketching anywhere
- Sturdy spiral binding and chipboard back for support and durability
- Versatile paper suitable for sketching, drawing, and light washes
- Eco-friendly, acid-free, recyclable paper
Cons:- Limited size may constrain larger or more detailed projects
- Not suitable for heavy media like thick acrylics or textured mediums
Best for: Mixed media artists who need a portable, everyday sketchbook for quick studies and light painting.
Not ideal for: Artists working primarily with heavy acrylics, textured mediums, or large-scale projects that require durable, heavyweight paper.
- Size:8.5 x 11 inches
- Binding:Spiral
- Back support:Heavy chipboard
- Paper type:Acid-free, recyclable
- Intended use:Sketching, drawing, light painting
- Brand:Prang (Dixon Ticonderoga)
Our verdict“This journal is ideal for artists seeking a portable, reliable sketchbook for light mixed media work or quick studies.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on key factors that matter most in mixed media art: performance across different mediums, durability, ease of use, and value for money. We prioritized products that offer versatility—such as compatible papers and multi-use tools—and considered user feedback about durability and handling. Cost was balanced against quality to recommend options suitable for varying budgets, from beginner kits to professional-grade supplies. Products were ranked based on how well they support layered, textured, and mixed materials without compromising ease or longevity, ensuring each pick delivers on its intended role.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Mixed Media
When choosing art supplies for mixed media, it’s important to consider how each material interacts with others, your skill level, and your budget. The right supplies can elevate your work, but the wrong choices may lead to frustration or subpar results. Here are key factors to keep in mind to make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
Compatibility and Versatility
Look for supplies that work well across different mediums—such as paints, inks, and collage materials—without requiring special conditions. Versatile papers like heavyweight mixed media pads support wet and dry media, reducing warping and tearing. Choosing adaptable tools and surfaces ensures your creative options stay open and your work remains durable over time.
Paper Quality and Surface
The foundation of any good mixed media piece is the paper or surface. Heavier, textured papers generally handle multiple layers better, preventing warping or tearing. Thin or smooth papers might be cheaper but can limit layering and texture-building. Investing in quality paper tailored for mixed media is often worth the extra cost for professional results.
Price vs. Quality Tradeoff
While it might be tempting to buy inexpensive supplies, they often lack durability or colorfastness, leading to frustration. Premium products tend to last longer, perform better with layered textures, and resist deterioration over time. Balance your budget by investing more in key items like papers and paints, while using affordable options for less critical supplies.
Tools and Texture Materials
Textures and stencils can add depth and interest but require careful selection to match your style. Consider whether you prefer flexible gel crayons, stencils, or paste textures. Choosing tools that suit your preferred mediums ensures you get consistent results and avoid tools that are too rigid or incompatible with your techniques.
Storage and Organization
Mixed media projects involve many different supplies, so good storage solutions matter. Kits with organized compartments or durable cases can save time and keep your workspace tidy. Proper storage also extends the lifespan of delicate supplies, like paints and pastels, preventing damage or drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most versatile paper for mixed media?
Heavyweight, textured paper like the Strathmore Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad is generally the most versatile. It supports wet and dry media, handling multiple layers without warping or tearing. While it costs a bit more than standard papers, its durability and compatibility with various mediums make it a worthwhile investment for mixed media artists of all levels.
Are all art sets suitable for mixed media work?
Not all art sets are designed with mixed media in mind. Look for sets that include a variety of media—such as acrylic paints, pastels, pencils, and brushes—plus compatible surfaces. Sets labeled explicitly for mixed media tend to offer balanced selections that support layering and texture-building, whereas basic sets might lack the flexibility or quality needed for complex projects.
How much should I spend on supplies for mixed media?
Budget depends on your level of commitment and the complexity of your work. Beginners can start with affordable sets that include basic paints, papers, and tools, while more experienced artists might invest in higher-quality materials like professional-grade paints and heavyweight papers. Spending more upfront on durable, high-quality supplies can save money in the long run by reducing waste and improving results.
What tools are essential for adding textures?
Tools like texture paste, stencils, and gel crayons are key for building depth. Texture paste allows for thick, raised effects, while stencils help create consistent patterns. Gel crayons add vibrant, blendable color, ideal for layered effects. Choosing tools compatible with your preferred media ensures you can experiment confidently and achieve the desired textures.
Can I mix different brands of supplies without issues?
Mixing brands is generally fine as long as the materials are compatible—such as water-based paints with other water-based mediums. However, pay attention to drying times and adhesion properties; some brands might not play well together, leading to issues like peeling or uneven drying. Testing small samples before committing to large projects helps ensure compatibility and prevents surprises.
Conclusion
For those starting out or exploring mixed media casually, the Prang Mixed Media Journal and comprehensive art sets offer excellent value and ease of use. Experienced artists seeking durability and professional results should consider the Strathmore Heavyweight Mixed Media Pad and high-quality texture tools. Budget-conscious creators will appreciate versatile, affordable options like the Soucolor Art Supplies Kit, while those focused on texture and effects might prioritize products like the KingART Gel Stick Crayons. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, project scope, and budget—matching the right supplies to your specific artistic journey is key.
