Journey Art Supplies Blog
Tips, Tricks, Thoughts, and inspiration from across the art spectrum.
Where to Find Online Art Lessons for Adults
As the holiday season approaches, you might find yourself looking for the perfect gift for the artist in your life. This year, we recommend you skip the materialistic presents and instead give them something useful – online art lessons! The best part? They won’t even have to leave the house! There are plenty of options for taking art lessons online. In this post, we’ll be sharing our favorite sites and platforms that offer art lessons for adults. So whether you’re shopping for a friend or you want to treat yourself this holiday season, we have plenty of suggestions for you! What Are Online Art Classes? If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of online art lessons, we’ll give you a quick introduction. Online art classes are lessons that are available over the Internet, and they let users learn new techniques and enhance their artistic abilities. The structure of these courses varies depending on the platform you’re going through. Some classes are highly structured, but others can offer a more laid-back environment so you can work at your own pace. You’ll find that many of these classes feature either a live stream or pre-recorded videos for instructional purposes. There are lessons available for all ages, but for this post, we’re going to be focusing on online art lessons for adults. Where To Find Art Lessons Online There are a ton of options for taking art classes online, so figuring out where to begin can seem overwhelming at times. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of five well-known platforms in our industry that offer digital art lessons. Prices for these courses can vary, but we’ll include the prices (if we know them) so you know what to expect. SkillshareSkillshare is an online learning community that has recently risen in popularity, and for good reason. They focus on creative skills, so they have plenty of classes in the art department! This platform features short instructional videos on a variety of art topics. Available classes include graphic design, drawing, and even a course that teaches you how to make a living as an artist.A Skillshare membership is broken down into three levels. There’s the free version, the premium membership, and the team membership. You might be able to find options for free digital art classes to start with. You can also gift a month of Skillshare membership to someone. That gives them plenty of time to see what the platform has to offer! CG SpectrumIf your artist is more interested in animation and digital art, then CG Spectrum could be a great fit. This is a global online school that is home to mentors and students from all over the world. The platform offers either small group or one-on-one instruction for its students, and it’s all led by industry professionals. With CG Spectrum, you can take courses on subjects such as 3D modeling, animation, digital painting, visual effects, and game development. Their online classes are separated by experience level: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. ProkoFor artists who focus more on drawing, Proko is a great option. This platform features a library of over 100 free virtual art lessons. They take an exciting, entertaining approach with their many video tutorials. There is a paid version of Proko available, which includes extended lessons and extra features that aren’t available otherwise. If you’re wanting to start taking art lessons online, this is a great place to start! New Masters AcademyNew Masters Academy is unique in that it offers online art classes that you can take at your own pace. They provide streamed online art classes that are taught by real art experts. New Masters Academy has courses on just about anything, including modeling, drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital arts. This platform features an art school-like education experience at a fraction of the cost! You can purchase a subscription to New Masters Academy starting at only $49 a month. GnomonIf you want to take your artistry to the next level, then take a look at Gnomon. They’re known as a top school for visual effects in the entertainment industry. This platform is different from the others because it offers professional courses as well as degree and vocational certificate programs. They also differ from other platforms because their classes are held live! These three-hour class sessions are taught by industry professionals and allow students to receive feedback in real-time. So, if you are interested in starting a career in the entertainment industry, this program would be something to consider investing in. Cheap Joe's Art WorkshopsLast but not least, be sure to check out the online classes offered here at Cheap Joe's! We are proud to offer different levels of our art workshops for beginners, beginner-intermediate, intermediate, intermediate-advanced, and advanced based on your skill level. In these online classes, we cover everything from basic techniques to fast-paced, challenging exercises. To learn more about our classes, visit our page on Art Lessons and Workshops today. Take Advantage of our Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff YouTube Channel We hope we’ve convinced you to gift some digital art lessons to your artist friends this holiday season. However, if you’re not quite ready to spend money on the lessons (or if you just want to test some out for yourself), then you should check out Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff on YouTube. You’ll find tons of instructional art videos there for free! We have videos that cover all sorts of subjects, such as watercolor painting, acrylic painting, calligraphy lettering, and more. For example, check out the following video called Cheap Joe's 2 Minute Art Tips - Get Outside!
Where to Find Online Art Lessons for Adults
As the holiday season approaches, you might find yourself looking for the perfect gift for the artist in your life. This year, we recommend you skip the materialistic presents and...
Fun and Inexpensive Ways to Frame Art
In my experience, the main hang-up some artists have when it comes to framing their work is that it can be expensive to have it done professionally or difficult and time-consuming to do it yourself. So this week, I wanted to show you some of my favorite quick and inexpensive ways to frame your work!
Fun and Inexpensive Ways to Frame Art
In my experience, the main hang-up some artists have when it comes to framing their work is that it can be expensive to have it done professionally or difficult and...
10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s
Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky beginnings, and the creative, art-loving people who make it all happen! Where It All Began: Boone Drug A Humble Beginning Among Aspirin BottlesCheap Joe’s Art Stuff started over 35 years ago in Boone, North Carolina, right inside the Boone Drug store. Joe Miller himself recalls stocking art supplies on a shelf between the aspirin and Ex-Lax. Turns out, this “prime” spot gave artists just the relief they needed! Today, the store still reflects that unique, local charm—and you might even spot some legendary artists on our walls, including works from Cheng Khee Chee, Lian Zhen, and Suzanna Winton, all part of our cherished "Art Hall Wallery." The Art Hall WalleryCheap Joe’s Boone location serves as our headquarters, and walking through the office is like stepping into an art gallery! We’re home to one of the finest collections of art, with pieces from top artists in the business. So, if you’re in Boone, NC, pop by and stroll down our hallway gallery! Our Team of Talented Artists An Artistic Team with Diverse TalentsCheap Joe’s team isn’t just knowledgeable about art supplies—they’re artists themselves! From watercolorists to encaustic artists, our employees have real experience creating art. For those who aren’t artists, we offer seminars, workshops, and product demos, making sure everyone has the expertise to help you find exactly what you need to bring your art to life. A Workshop Studio Worth the TripOur state-of-the-art workshop studio has been called the “Cadillac” of art venues! Students here have spacious workstations, ample lighting, and, of course, our fully stocked art store right next door. And thanks to our high-tech upgrades, every seat is the best seat in the house. We have large flat-screen monitors and an overhead camera, so everyone has a front-row view of instructor demos. No more craning your neck to see the magic unfold! Check out our variety of art lessons and workshops today! Our Guarantee & Giving Back Our 365-Day Unconditional GuaranteeAt Cheap Joe’s, we want you to love your art supplies as much as we do, so we give you a full year to decide. If anything doesn’t meet your expectations, just give us a call at 800-227-2788, and our friendly team will make it right. It’s a promise backed by the best guarantee in the business! Brushes for Vincent: Our Art CharityCheap Joe’s Art Stuff is the proud founder of Brushes for Vincent, a charity that helps bring art supplies to young artists in need. We believe in the power of art to change lives, so every penny you donate goes to orphanages, hospitals, and nonprofits, supporting budding artists who might be the next Van Gogh. A little goes a long way, and you can help us inspire creativity in children everywhere! Behind the Scenes with Cheap Joe Cheap Joe’s Past Life as a PharmacistBefore becoming the art guru we know and love, Joe Miller worked as a pharmacist at Boone Drug. But a gift of watercolor lessons changed everything. Joe was so inspired by that class that he stocked up on quality art supplies and began selling them at affordable prices. And that’s how Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff was born—bringing savings and quality to artists ever since! YouTube University: Cheap Joe’s StyleWant to learn the ins and outs of art techniques without spending a dime? Head over to Cheap Joe’s on YouTube! Our channel is packed with free tutorials and product demos. Whether it’s a quick tip on how to use a “paint pusher” or a full tutorial on stretching watercolor paper, we’ve got you covered. Art Supplies with a Personal TouchCheap Joe’s is renowned for its customer-centered approach, but did you know that some of our exclusive products, like American Journey paints, were developed based on feedback from local artists? Joe himself often collaborated with suppliers and customers to refine products, ensuring his art stuff met the practical needs of creators. It's a personal touch that sets Cheap Joe's apart as more than just a retailer—we’re proud partners and participants of the art community. A Fresh New Website for Easy ShoppingWe recently redesigned our website to make finding your favorite supplies and learning resources easier than ever. From improved navigation to more informative product pages, our goal is to make your online experience as smooth as possible. After all, finding the right art supplies should be a creative journey, not a frustrating scavenger hunt! Whether you’re a brand-new artist or a seasoned pro, Cheap Joe’s is here to support your creativity with the tools, advice, and inspiration you need. We can’t wait to see what you create! And if you’re looking for more information about our company, check out our About Us page.
10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s
Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky...
Exploring Color with Spray Bottles
Joe Miller explains how to paint with watercolors using a spray bottle to diffuse water and create air brush effects. These watercolor painting techniques are helpful for adding highlights to your watercolor art work.
Exploring Color with Spray Bottles
Joe Miller explains how to paint with watercolors using a spray bottle to diffuse water and create air brush effects. These watercolor painting techniques are helpful for adding highlights to...
Easy DIY Watercolor Tree Holiday Cards
Think you don't have time this year to make special handmade holiday cards? We've got you covered with these quick and easy DIY watercolor Christmas tree cards
Easy DIY Watercolor Tree Holiday Cards
Think you don't have time this year to make special handmade holiday cards? We've got you covered with these quick and easy DIY watercolor Christmas tree cards
Your Guide to Stretching Watercolor Paper
People tell me all the time they have a hard time finishing the watercolor without getting all hard edges. Let me show you an old method--stretching paper--that also prevents hard edges.
Your Guide to Stretching Watercolor Paper
People tell me all the time they have a hard time finishing the watercolor without getting all hard edges. Let me show you an old method--stretching paper--that also prevents hard...
Art Presentation Tips: Cost-Effective Matting a...
As artists, we create art to be viewed and enjoyed. We do not paint to hide our art in a closet or under a bed. In some cases, we may be painting to sell to clients who want to enhance their home or business with wonderful works of art. Whether you paint for yourself, just for fun, or as a business, your art should be preserved properly to be enjoyed for years to come.
Art Presentation Tips: Cost-Effective Matting a...
As artists, we create art to be viewed and enjoyed. We do not paint to hide our art in a closet or under a bed. In some cases, we may...
How to Master Watercolor Painting with a Painti...
You hardly ever think of using a painting knife in watercolor, but a friend of mine many years ago showed me this, and his name is Charles Sharpe. I've enjoyed using a painting knife ever since then.
How to Master Watercolor Painting with a Painti...
You hardly ever think of using a painting knife in watercolor, but a friend of mine many years ago showed me this, and his name is Charles Sharpe. I've enjoyed...
Mastering the Watercolor Pouring Technique
Watercolor painting has long been celebrated for its delicate and luminous qualities. Among the many techniques available to watercolor artists, the watercolor pouring technique stands out as a captivating method that yields mesmerizing results. This technique allows artists to create vibrant, fluid, and unpredictable compositions, giving life to unique and captivating pieces. For today’s post, we thought we’d explore the intricacies of the watercolor pouring technique and walk you through the process of creating your own masterpiece. You’ll learn which materials are necessary, and enjoy a step-by-step instruction process for mastering the pouring technique. Understanding the Watercolor Pouring Technique The watercolor pouring technique involves the controlled application of liquid watercolor pigments onto wet paper to create spontaneous and captivating effects. Unlike traditional watercolor painting methods where colors are built up gradually through layers, pouring involves the use of gravity to guide pigments across the paper, resulting in a free-flowing, organic appearance. This technique enables artists to achieve stunning gradients, unexpected color interactions, and a sense of movement that can't be replicated with other methods. Materials Required Before exploring into the technique itself, it's important to gather the necessary materials. In the instructional Linda Baker Watercolor Techniques – The Pouring Process video, Linda uses the following materials: Watercolor Paper: Choose a high-quality, heavy-weight watercolor paper that can handle the wet-on-wet application of pigments without warping or buckling. Liquid Watercolor Paints: Liquid watercolors provide intense color saturation and are ideal for the pouring technique. Water Containers: Prepare containers of clean water for wetting the paper and diluting the pigments. Watercolor Brushes: Have a variety of brushes on hand for wetting the paper, blending colors, and making minor adjustments. Masking Tape: Use masking tape to secure the edges of the paper and create a clean border. Paint Palettes and Mixing Trays: These are used to mix and control the consistency of the liquid watercolors. Pipettes or Droppers: These tools allow for precise control when pouring the pigments. Step-by-Step ProcessOnce you’ve gathered your materials, it’s time to start painting: Just follow these steps: Preparation: Stretch and tape the watercolor paper to a sturdy surface to prevent warping. Ensure a clean working area and have all your materials ready. Wetting the Paper: Use a large brush or spray bottle to wet the entire surface of the paper. This creates an environment for the pigments to flow and blend seamlessly. Mixing Pigments: In the video, Linda uses plastic sheets as a mixing surface. Squeeze liquid watercolors onto the palette and experiment with various color combinations and dilutions. This step allows you to predict how colors will interact on the paper. Pouring the Pigments: With a pipette or dropper, carefully drop your diluted pigments onto the wet paper. Start with lighter colors and gradually introduce darker shades. Experiment with pouring from different heights and angles to achieve various effects. Tilting and Blending: Tilt the paper in different directions to guide the flow of pigments. Use a clean brush to blend colors, creating smooth transitions and avoiding harsh lines. Embrace the unpredictable nature of the technique while maintaining some control over the outcome. Drying and Adjustments: Allow the painting to dry completely. Once dry, assess the composition and make any necessary adjustments. You can add finer details using traditional watercolor techniques. You can also use masking fluid to mask areas where you want to preserve layers: Tips and ConsiderationsMastering the watercolor pouring technique requires a delicate balance between embracing experimentation and maintaining control. Begin by choosing a high-quality paper to withstand the pigments' saturation and understand that while controlled chaos is essential, intentional decisions through color selection and blending guide the artwork's direction. Patience during drying is crucial for preserving the envisioned outcome, and protecting your workspace ensures focus without distractions. Capturing the technique's essence lies in letting pigments flow naturally to evoke movement while learning from mistakes and unexpected results cultivates valuable insights for future improvements. This delicate interplay ultimately leads to the creation of mesmerizing artworks that embody the fluid beauty and dynamic energy intrinsic to the watercolor pouring technique. Elevate Your Creations with Watercolor Pouring The watercolor pouring technique is a captivating and experimental method that invites artists to relinquish some control while producing astonishingly beautiful results. By leveraging the power of gravity and fluid dynamics, artists can create unique and dynamic compositions that capture the essence of the medium. As you embark on your own watercolor painting journey, remember that every pour is a step towards uncovering the untamed beauty that emerges from the dance of water and color. For more tips on mastering this medium, check out the Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff Blog. Posts like “How to Master Watercolor Painting” and “Getting Started with Watercolors” both feature plenty of beneficial advice that will have you on your way to being an expert at the craft. And don’t forget to shop Cheap Joe’s for all your watercolor supplies – we have an impressive selection of high-quality products for painters of all skill levels!
Mastering the Watercolor Pouring Technique
Watercolor painting has long been celebrated for its delicate and luminous qualities. Among the many techniques available to watercolor artists, the watercolor pouring technique stands out as a captivating method...
How To Create Cyanotypes from Home
Learn how to create gorgeous cyanotype images with Jacquard's super easy Cyanotype Sensitizer Set as well as their Pretreated Cyanotype Fabric Sheets. It's the perfect project for staying home and making art! You won't believe how easy it is to get stunning results.
How To Create Cyanotypes from Home
Learn how to create gorgeous cyanotype images with Jacquard's super easy Cyanotype Sensitizer Set as well as their Pretreated Cyanotype Fabric Sheets. It's the perfect project for staying home and...
Unleash Your Creativity with Sketchbook Journaling
In a world full of digital distractions, there's something inherently captivating about putting pen to paper to capture thoughts and the world around you through the art of sketchbook journaling. This creative outlet not only serves as a visual diary but can also foster self-expression and artistic growth. In this post, we'll dive into the world of sketchbook journaling, explore its benefits, and provide step-by-step instructions to kick-start your artistic journey, all with the aid of high-quality art supplies from Journey Art Stuff. What is Sketchbook Journaling? Sketchbook journaling is usually more than just doodles and scribbles on paper. Although it can be that, more often it's a blend of words and visuals which becomes a means to narrate your day, a moment in time or special event, or your personal story through art. Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner taking your first steps into the world of creativity, a sketchbook offers a unique platform to capture the essence of your life, thoughts, dreams, and surroundings. It's a window into your emotions, a tactile reflection of your experiences, and a sanctuary of self-discovery. In a fast-paced world of information where images and thoughts are fleeting, journaling is a slow space to ponder and to process. It's not something to be rushed or finished but is instead an ongoing buildup of images, colors, mementos, and text. Journaling is an inch-by-inch and not a mile-by-mile practice. Each entry or drawing collects a moment in time, and over the years, that kind of practice adds up. The Benefits of Sketchbook Journaling The act of keeping a sketchbook journal boasts a multitude of benefits that transcend the artistic realm. Engaging in this practice can allow you to process the world with an observer's eye, noticing intricate details that might otherwise go unobserved. Immersing yourself in the process of sketching and journaling can also be incredibly therapeutic, helping relieve stress and anxiety. Over time, your sketchbook becomes a visual record of your artistic evolution, showcasing your progress and growth as not only an artist but also as a person. At the same time, a sketchbook journal is a treasure trove of memories, capturing moments in time. Finally, the act of putting pen to paper in sketchbook journaling can unlock the floodgates of creativity, inspiring new ideas and artistic experiments. Step-by-Step Guide to Embracing Your Inner Creativity Embarking on this journey is an exciting endeavor that requires no special expertise, only a willingness to explore your inner creativity. Below are some tools that you'll need to get started. Step 1: Choose a SketchbookSelecting the right sketchbook for you is important, but it doesn’t have to be anything expensive. We recommend starting with something that's easily portable, for example a standard 5.5x8 or A5 size, also because it takes less time to fill a page. Choose one with good-quality paper that can handle various mediums, such as watercolors, pens, pencils, and markers. At Journey Art Stuff, we offer a wide variety of sketchbooks and journals to choose from. Step 2: Gather Art SuppliesAssemble a small assortment of art supplies that resonate with you. If you're new to sketchbook journaling, to avoid "supply overwhelm," you may want to start with something as simple as pencils and pens. Colored pencils or watercolor pencils can be used to add color, but a small watercolor palette can also be very useful and fun! Try one of our watercolor sets or pocket-sized Nomad palettes. High-quality but affordable synthetic watercolor brushes are also a good to have on hand. Step 3: Craft a Creative RitualTransform your sketchbook journaling into a cherished ritual by crafting a relaxing, no-pressure space and time to create. Whether it's a cozy corner at home or a serene outdoor spot or a local coffee shop, choose an inspiring environment. This space becomes your sanctuary where creativity flourishes. Set a regular schedule, fostering consistency that deepens your artistic connection. As you settle into your creative space, take mindful breaths to center your focus and release distractions to get yourself in a creative headspace. Step 4: Embrace ImperfectionRemember, sketchbook journaling is not about creating perfect masterpieces. Embracing imperfection is a celebration of authenticity and a catalyst for artistic growth. Every smudge, stray line, or unplanned element adds a personal touch to your work. Recognize that imperfections also tell a story of your artistic journey, infusing your sketches with character and depth. By embracing imperfection, you not only liberate your creativity but also nurture a unique and authentic artistic voice. Step 5: Observe & DocumentIn sketchbook journaling, observation becomes an art form as you train your senses to perceive the world with heightened awareness. Embrace the play of light and shadow, textures, and emotions in your surroundings. Capture not only visual elements but also context—jotting down notes and thoughts that create a dialogue between your art and insights. Blend words with images, jotting down thoughts, quotes, or anecdotes alongside your artwork. This fusion adds depth and context to your journal. Step 6: Reflect & RevisitThe act of reflecting on and revisiting your past sketches becomes a profound source of inspiration and self-discovery. By flipping through the pages, you witness your artistic growth, from improved techniques to evolving use of color. Embrace the emotions tied to each piece, recognizing how they breathe life into your artwork. Your sketchbook becomes more than a collection of art; it transforms into a living testament to your dedication, creativity, and the ever-unfolding story of your artistic evolution. Improve Your Craft With Additional Resources Sketchbook journaling is a captivating avenue for self-expression, personal growth, and artistic exploration. If you’re looking for some extra guidance for your journaling, you can find plenty of resources like books, video tutorials, online workshops and more to get you started and keep your inspiration high. But don’t spend too much time learning from others; it's better to just begin and the techniques you need to create will naturally flourish.
Unleash Your Creativity with Sketchbook Journaling
In a world full of digital distractions, there's something inherently captivating about putting pen to paper to capture thoughts and the world around you through the art of sketchbook...
How To Achieve A Spray Paint Marble Effect
A couple of months ago, I heard about using nail polish in water to marble paper and other items, but it wasn’t until a few days ago that I learned you could use something a bit more economical: spray paint!
How To Achieve A Spray Paint Marble Effect
A couple of months ago, I heard about using nail polish in water to marble paper and other items, but it wasn’t until a few days ago that I learned...
