Journey Art Supplies Blog
Tips, Tricks, Thoughts, and inspiration from across the art spectrum.
Fun Projects to Get You Out of an Art Rut
Are you feeling a little stuck when it comes to creating lately? We’ve all been there. Sometimes, your brushes seem to weigh a ton, and your inspiration feels as dried up as that old tube of paint in the back of your drawer. Every artist, no matter how seasoned, hits a rut now and then. But the good news is that a little inspiration and a fresh approach can help bring you out of an art rut. We’re here to help you shake things up and reignite that creative spark. Today, we’re diving into manageable ways to break free from creative blocks with a mix of quick activities and a fun idea for a project to get those creative juices flowing again. Quick Creative Activities to Recharge Your Inspiration Sometimes, all you need is a small, no-pressure activity to jumpstart your creativity. Here are a few things to try to get you out of your art rut and in a new groove: 5-Minute DoodlesGrab a scrap piece of paper and set a timer for five minutes. Draw whatever comes to mind without overthinking. Scribbles, shapes, silly characters—let your hand guide the process. The key is to keep it loose and playful. Art Style RoulettePick an artwork you admire and try sketching something in its style. Whether it’s impressionistic landscapes or bold, graphic shapes, mimicking a different approach can offer a new perspective. Color Swatch ChallengeChoose three random colors from your palette and create a small abstract piece, pattern, or character design. Limiting your palette encourages creativity within constraints. Nature Walk SketchesTake a notebook outdoors and sketch or jot down textures, patterns, or shapes that catch your eye. Look for unusual shadows, interesting leaf shapes, or even cloud formations. Creative Selfie TimeCreate a self-portrait with a twist. Make it surreal, humorous, or abstract. Try using a medium you don’t normally work with—collage, watercolor, or even digital tools. Creative Project Idea: Create a Mini Series If you’re looking for something a bit more involved, creating a mini series can be an incredibly rewarding way to get back into the flow. Here’s how to do it step by step: Step 1: Choose a Theme or SubjectPick a theme that excites you. It could be personal (favorite childhood memories), observational (local landmarks), conceptual (joy or transformation), or visual (a specific color palette). Keep it simple and meaningful to make the process enjoyable. Examples:“Morning Light”: Paint scenes inspired by how light changes in your home each morning.“Textures of Nature”: Focus on bark, rocks, and leaves. Step 2: Decide on the MediumWhat materials are calling to you? Stick to one medium, such as watercolors, ink, or pastels, to create a cohesive series. Or mix things up for a multi-medium collection. Step 3: Sketch and PlanSet a manageable goal—3 to 5 small pieces, no larger than 8x10 inches. Sketch out rough ideas for each piece to ensure cohesion. Don’t worry about perfection; this is about exploring and creating. Step 4: Create!Dedicate a small, uninterrupted block of time for each piece. Focus on enjoying the process rather than achieving perfection. Let your chosen theme guide you, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Step 5: Celebrate and ShareWhen your series is complete, take a moment to celebrate your accomplishment. Display your work in a small corner of your studio, snap photos, or share your collection with your online community. Reflect on what you enjoyed most about the process. Whether you’re doodling for five minutes or creating a mini series, these activities are designed to help you rediscover the joy of making art. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to create—it’s all about finding what energizes you. Ready to dive in? Need fresh supplies for your mini series? Shop our paints and painting accessories to find a wide selection of signature products to get started. Let’s turn that rut into your next masterpiece!
Fun Projects to Get You Out of an Art Rut
Are you feeling a little stuck when it comes to creating lately? We’ve all been there. Sometimes, your brushes seem to weigh a ton, and your inspiration feels as dried...
Winter Plein Air Journaling Made Easy
The winter season may seem like the most inconvenient time for plein air journaling, especially in the mountains, where the temperatures have been exceedingly low this year. However, it can be the most exciting time of the year for wonderful, paintable scenes.
Winter Plein Air Journaling Made Easy
The winter season may seem like the most inconvenient time for plein air journaling, especially in the mountains, where the temperatures have been exceedingly low this year. However, it can...
Setting Artistic Goals for the New Year
It’s the start of a new year – that magical time when we pack away the holiday chaos, grab a fresh planner. and dream about all the ways we’ll make this year our best yet. But for artists, the new year isn’t just a chance to revamp our fitness goals or finally learn how to cook something—it’s an opportunity to refresh, reflect, and reignite our creative spirits (and snag some new art supplies, of course). So, let’s embrace the clean slate of January with some New Year’s resolutions tailored just for artists. Whether you’re an experienced painter, a dabbler with a sketchbook, or somewhere in between, these ideas will help you grow, explore, and enjoy your craft even more. Let’s check some out! Make Time to CreateLet’s face it: life gets busy, and sometimes our art takes a backseat. This year, carve out dedicated time for your craft. Whether it’s 15 minutes a day or a long session every Saturday morning, put it in your calendar and treat it like an unmissable date.Pro tip: Keep a small sketchbook handy for doodles on the go. You’d be amazed how much those little moments of creativity add up over time. Try Something NewGet out of your comfort zone! Always been a watercolor artist? Try your hand at pastels. Obsessed with realism? Experiment with abstract instead. Stepping into unfamiliar territory can reignite your creativity and help you discover new techniques and styles.Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff has all the art supplies you need for an adventure like this—just saying. We have all sorts of paints and painting accessories as well as artist brushes and drawing and illustration supplies. Take a Class or WorkshopEven seasoned artists can benefit from a fresh perspective. Sign up for a local workshop, join an online course, or even attend an art retreat. Learning from others can introduce you to new techniques, styles, or even materials you never thought to use.If you’re not ready for a formal class, our Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff YouTube channel has tons of free tutorials to spark some inspiration! Share Your WorkIt’s time to put yourself out there! Whether that means starting an Instagram account for your art, submitting to a local gallery, or just showing your work to friends and family, sharing your creations can build confidence and community in the art world.Remember, art isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. People love to see the unique way you view the world, so don’t hold back. Declutter Your Art SpaceThere’s nothing like a tidy studio to make you feel ready to conquer the world. Toss those dried-up paints, organize your brushes, and treat yourself to fresh art supplies if you need them. A clean space = a clear mind, and that’s the perfect way to start the new year! Document Your ProgressThis year, make a habit of photographing your work or jotting down a few notes about each piece you create. Seeing your growth over time is incredibly rewarding—and it’s a great motivator to keep going. You could even start a creative journal to track your projects, jot down ideas, or sketch out rough drafts. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just something that keeps your journey in one place. Create for the Joy of ItLastly, and most importantly, remember why you fell in love with art in the first place. Create without worrying about the outcome. Make a mess. Try something silly. Let go of the pressure to make every piece a masterpiece, and just have fun! Cheers to a Creative New Year! The new year is a gift—a chance to reset, refocus, and dive into your art with fresh energy. Whatever your goals, remember to keep it lighthearted and enjoy the process. Because at the end of the day, art is about expressing yourself and finding joy in the journey. So, grab your favorite brush, pop open those paints, and let’s make 2025 a masterpiece. Cheers to a colorful, creative year ahead!
Setting Artistic Goals for the New Year
It’s the start of a new year – that magical time when we pack away the holiday chaos, grab a fresh planner. and dream about all the ways we’ll make...
Creating On the Go: Portable Supplies for Artis...
Traveling is the perfect excuse to step away from your daily routine, but it’s also a great way to tap into your creative side! Whether you're on a weekend getaway or heading out on a cross-country adventure, capturing your surroundings by creating art can help make your journey even more memorable. And the best part? You don’t need to drag around a whole studio to make it happen! With the right products (like art supply organizers and portable easels), you can create some seriously stunning artwork no matter where you are. Why Creating on the Go is Inspiring Creating art on the go can be inspiring because it lets you capture the raw, unfiltered beauty of the world around you. Whether it's a stunning landscape, a quirky street scene, or the hustle and bustle of a local market, the act of drawing or painting in the moment helps you connect more deeply with your surroundings. There’s something truly special about creating memories through art while exploring new destinations. Here are some tips and must-have travel-friendly art supplies to bring along on your next trip: Travel Watercolor KitsWatercolor painting is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to capture the world around you. Travel watercolor kits are compact and lightweight, so they’re perfect for slipping into your bag without weighing you down. Look for kits that come with a small palette of colors, a water brush (no need to carry a separate container), sturdy cases, or art supply organizers to keep everything in place. Whether you're sketching a scenic view or just experimenting with color, a travel kit lets you get creative wherever you are. Compact SketchbooksSketchbooks and journal books are a must-have for any artist, and when you're traveling, it’s important to find one that's small enough to carry around easily. Look for sketchbooks that are designed to be portable— something that fits in your backpack or tote without taking up too much space. Quite a few travel sketchbooks have durable covers and high-quality paper that can handle different mediums like pencils, ink, and watercolor. Miniature EaselsIf you’re serious about painting or just want a stable surface while you’re creating outdoors, a miniature easel is a game-changer. These little easels fold up into a compact size but provide plenty of support for your canvas or watercolor block. They’re perfect for sketching landscapes on location, and many can be adjusted to different heights. Toss one in your luggage and set it up in a park or at the beach — it's a fun way to embrace the outdoors while still focusing on your craft. Portable Pencils, Pens, and BrushesWhen you’re traveling, you really don’t need a full set of art supplies. Instead, pick up a few high-quality portable pencils, pens, or brushes that are easy to carry around. For example, a set of watercolor pencils lets you draw and then add a splash of color with just a brush and some water. We also recommend trying to find multi-purpose tools that can serve more than one function — like a pencil that doubles as a brush or a pen that can be used for both sketching and inking. Keep It SimpleThe beauty of creating while traveling is the freedom to be spontaneous and inspired by your surroundings. Don’t worry about having all the supplies you think you should have. Focus on keeping your kit simple and versatile, with just the essentials. Sometimes, a pencil and a small notebook are all you need to sketch the things that catch your eye — the rest is just extra! Embrace What Plein Air Has to Offer We have plenty of plein air tools available for you to choose from in our collection, and they’re perfect for bringing along on your travels. For example, our selection of portable and plein air artist easels is extensive. We have everything you could need for your plein air setup, including French-style easels and folding tripod ones. We also offer organizers and travel kits, such as the Sienna Plein Air Supply Box and the Richeson Plein Air Travel Brush Set. Traveling doesn’t mean putting your creativity on pause. With the right portable supplies, you can make art wherever you go. So, grab your travel watercolor kit, pack a compact sketchbook, and get ready to capture the world one brushstroke at a time. If you need some inspiration, make sure to check out our blog. We have many posts on creating outdoors, such as A Simple Plein Air Oil Painting Set Up and Free Art Lessons on Plein Air Painting. Happy travels and happy creating!
Creating On the Go: Portable Supplies for Artis...
Traveling is the perfect excuse to step away from your daily routine, but it’s also a great way to tap into your creative side! Whether you're on a weekend getaway...
Our Review of the Goof Proof Color Wheel
We appreciate tools that help artists of all levels unlock their potential when it comes to creativity. One standout product that helps with this is the Robert Burridge Goof Proof Color Wheel. Designed to simplify color theory and energize your art-making process, this product truly lives up to its name. Here's a closer look at why it deserves a spot in your studio! Usability The Goof-Proof Color Wheel is an accessible tool for both beginners and experienced artists. Based on five primary colors (red, yellow, green, blue, and purple) and their secondary counterparts, the wheel guides you to finding harmonious color combinations without the guesswork. You simply identify a dominant color, pair it with a focal point color, and finish with a "spice" color to add energy. But its simplicity doesn’t mean it lacks depth. For artists who prefer a loose, spontaneous style (like Burridge himself), the wheel encourages experimentation while grounding your choices in tried-and-true color theory. And if you're someone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of color mixing, this wheel offers clarity. Expertise of the Artist Robert Burridge’s background as an artist and educator shines through in the thoughtful design of this tool. The Goof Proof Color Wheel is rooted in his years of experimentation, making it as much a teaching aid as it is a creative spark. Burridge’s philosophy—creating without overthinking—resonates, especially when paired with his instructional materials like the Abstract Florals From Loose Colorful Splatters DVD. His demonstrations bring the wheel to life, showing you exactly how to translate theory into practice. Cost and Value At a modest price point, the Goof Proof Color Wheel offers an impressive value. Compared to traditional color wheels, it’s designed to inspire creativity, not just to inform. It’s not only a tool but a gateway to a fresh perspective on color. When you think about the hours of frustration it can save, it practically pays for itself in joy and productivity. Comparison to Similar Products While standard color wheels are helpful for technical understanding, they often feel clinical. This color wheel bridges the gap between utility and inspiration. Burridge’s unique focus on “spice” colors and intuitive combinations sets it apart from generic models. Plus, it’s versatile—it works whether you're painting abstract art or planning the palette for a rural barn scene. In Action Using the wheel is as fun as it is effective. In one example, Burridge suggests starting with a dominant color like purple. The wheel then directs you to pair it with focal colors like green-yellow and spice it up with accents of red-yellow and blue-green. The result? A striking composition that feels cohesive yet unexpected. Even my own experiments with the wheel earned high praise for how well the colors "worked." Final Thoughts The Goof Proof Color Wheel delivers exactly what it promises: an easy, enjoyable way to create stunning artwork. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your creative journey, this tool will enhance your process with confidence and flair. As Burridge says, “If you’re not having fun making art, then why are you doing it?” With this color wheel, fun and success go hand in hand. So go ahead and start shopping our options today. We even offer the Robert Burridge Goof Proof Travel Size Color Wheel for artists on the go! If you're ready to make color theory less daunting and more exciting, this is the product for you. Check out our Robert Burridge Goof-Proof Color Wheels and Composition Chart today. Don't just take our word for it—try it out and see what vibrant, "spiced-up" creations await!
Our Review of the Goof Proof Color Wheel
We appreciate tools that help artists of all levels unlock their potential when it comes to creativity. One standout product that helps with this is the Robert Burridge Goof Proof...
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...
Frank Webb: Design Before Color
One of my favorite artists is Frank Webb. His art embodies humorous freedom where nothing is really straight and his bold colors remind me of a vivid dreamscape. It was my honor to interview Frank a couple of years ago
Frank Webb: Design Before Color
One of my favorite artists is Frank Webb. His art embodies humorous freedom where nothing is really straight and his bold colors remind me of a vivid dreamscape. It was...
Basic Art Supplies Every Artist Should Have
We know all about that thrill of finding the perfect art supplies—the tools that inspire your creativity and bring your ideas to life. And if you’ve ever wondered what basic art supplies should be in every artist’s toolbox, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a rundown of the essentials that every artist, beginner or pro, should own—and a couple of wish-list items for good measure! A Trusty Pencil SetNo matter what medium you prefer, having a good pencil is non-negotiable. For general sketching, a 2B pencil is versatile enough to handle most tasks. But if you want to dive deeper, add a 6B for rich shading and a 7H for delicate, light lines. A full set offers endless possibilities, and it’s the foundation for any great artwork. Check out our collection of Artist and Drawing Pencils to find the best of the best. The Right ErasersMistakes are part of the process, which is why having two types of erasers is essential:• Kneaded Erasers: Perfect for gently lifting graphite or lightening areas without fully erasing.• Vinyl Erasers: Ideal for clean, sharp corrections without tearing your paper. Plus, they’re long-lasting and resist graphite buildup. Something to Draw OnA sketchpad is your portable studio. Choose lighter-weight paper for quick sketches or a heavier drawing pad for finished pieces. For mixed-media work, choose a pad that can handle ink or paint. And remember, drawing is a cornerstone skill—investing time here benefits every artist. We have plenty of art paper and boards to choose from, right here at Cheap Joe’s! Your Painting SurfaceWatercolor artists need at least 140 lb. cold-pressed paper, available in sheets or blocks. Acrylic painters should grab panels or canvases—and don’t forget to buy extras! Having more surfaces on hand lets you experiment without fear of “wasting” materials. Check out our collection of watercolor paper today! Palettes for Mixing ColorsWhether you’re into watercolor or acrylics, a good palette is a must. For watercolorists, choose one with wells to store colors and a mixing area that’s easy to clean. Acrylic painters can go for disposable palettes or classic options with thumb holes. Our page of painting tools and accessories has everything you need in the palette department. Pro tip: Joe loves using a spray bottle to rehydrate dried watercolor paint—easy and efficient! Quality BrushesGood brushes are an investment that pays off. Cheap Joe’s Golden Fleece Brushes (for watercolor) and Serendipity Brushes (for acrylics) are customer favorites. They’re durable, affordable, and versatile, available in shapes like rounds, flats, filberts, and fans. A solid brush can last for years if cared for properly. Browse our complete selection of artist brushes on our site. Paints That Wow• For Watercolorists: Cheap Joe’s American Journey Watercolors come in 128 vibrant shades, backed by our 365-day return policy.• For Acrylic Painters: American Journey Professional Artist Acrylics offer 60 rich colors to explore. These high-quality paints make your palette pop and your creativity soar. Our full selection of paints and painting accessories is worth spending some time looking through! Wish-List Additions When you’re ready to upgrade your studio, consider these: Cheap Joe’s Easel Table: A game-changer for versatility. It adjusts to any angle for watercolor or pastel and converts to a sturdy H-frame easel for acrylic or oil painting. American Journey Taboret: Organize your supplies in style. Made from beautiful American ash, this rolling storage unit features three smooth drawers, brushed nickel pulls, and locking casters. Shop Cheap Joe’s for All Your Basic Art Supplies This list is just the beginning of what you can explore in the world of basic art supplies. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials or dreaming of your next studio upgrade, we have what you need to bring your art to life!
Basic Art Supplies Every Artist Should Have
We know all about that thrill of finding the perfect art supplies—the tools that inspire your creativity and bring your ideas to life. And if you’ve ever wondered what basic...
How to Make DIY Christmas Cards with Goof Proof...
"Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when everything sparkles—tinsel, snow, and maybe even a little glitter from your last art project. For us, it’s also the perfect season to grab our favorite supplies and dive into making handmade Christmas cards. This year, we’re walking you through the process of creating festive cards with Cheap Joe’s Goof Proof Greeting Cards—an absolute game-changer for personalized holiday greetings. Why We Love Cheap Joe’s Goof-Proof Cards Let’s start with the star of the show: Cheap Joe's Goof-Proof Greeting Card Set - Deckled Edge, Box of 25. These beauties make creating custom cards a breeze. The set includes high-quality 5x7 card blanks with matching envelopes and, most importantly, cold-pressed watercolor paper inserts. That insert feature is a lifesaver—you don’t have to worry about messing up your design directly on the card itself. If a mistake happens, just redo the insert, attach it, and voilà—no one’s the wiser. Plus, the deckled edges give them that elegant, hand-touched vibe. The Koda Card: Our Festive Inspiration This year, we painted Koda, a regal Red Limousin bull that’s practically Christmas-ready in his rich red coat. We envisioned him pulling Santa’s sleigh (reindeer deserve a day off too, right?). The result? A whimsical, festive piece of artwork that’s personal and fun to share. But here’s our pro tip for long holiday card lists: “Paint One, Print Many.” Create one larger painting, snap a great photo, and have it printed to fit the card size. This way, everyone gets a handmade feel without you pulling all-nighters to paint dozens of cards. Step-by-Step Card Creation Gather Your SuppliesHere’s what we used to make our cards:• Tracing paper (Cheap Joe’s Starving Artist variety—budget-friendly and durable)• Carpenter’s pencil (ideal for transferring patterns)• Kilimanjaro 300lb Watercolor Block (no warping, even with heavy washes)• Kolinsky Sable Brush Set (luxurious, precise, and worth the investment)• Dr. Ph. Martin’s Hydrus Liquid Watercolors (vivid, concentrated, and just fun to use)• Master’s Watercolor Tray (perfect for mixing and keeping colors wet longer) Create Your PatternAfter printing a black-and-white photo of Koda for reference, I used tracing paper and my carpenter’s pencil to transfer the design onto my watercolor paper. A kneadable eraser helps lighten heavy graphite lines—great for keeping your work clean. Layer Your Watercolor WashesI started with a light base wash for Koda, then layered deeper tones to add dimension. Santa’s sleigh got its own bold red treatment, and I used a touch of Phthalo blue for snow shadows. The process is so satisfying—each layer makes the image pop a little more. Photo FinishOnce the painting dried, I photographed it in natural light (pro tip: overcast days work best). After tweaking the photo, I printed it to match the card size. Mounting it onto the Goof-Proof cards was easy with the included adhesive strips. Creative Ideas for Leftover Greeting Card Materials Got leftover materials? Here are a few bonus projects: Turn small scraps into bookmarks or gift tags. Create coloring pages for kids by outlining a festive design. Design mini paintings or magnets as keepsakes. Whether you’re painting reindeer, snowflakes, or a festive bull like Koda, Cheap Joe’s Goof-Proof Cards make the process joyful and, well, goof-proof. Plus, the recipients get a one-of-a-kind piece of art they’ll treasure long after the holidays. So, grab your brushes and let the holiday magic begin!
How to Make DIY Christmas Cards with Goof Proof...
"Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when everything sparkles—tinsel, snow, and maybe even a little glitter from your last art project. For us, it’s also the perfect season...
The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists
Are You Ready For The Rush? It happens every year at this time, as everyone is getting ready for the holidays, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for that someone special.
The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists
Are You Ready For The Rush? It happens every year at this time, as everyone is getting ready for the holidays, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for...
Best Stocking Stuffers for Artists
Are you still searching for the perfect stocking stuffers for artists in your life? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with thoughtful, practical, and fun gift ideas that any artist will appreciate. Whether they're seasoned pros or just getting started, these items are sure to inspire creativity all year round. Make Shopping for Your Favorite Artist Simple Shopping for artists doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you shop at Cheap Joe’s. We’ve put together a wide selection of artist-approved tools, materials, and accessories that cater to every level of creativity, from beginners to pros. Whether you’re looking for practical supplies like brushes and palettes or unique finds like portable easels and travel art sets, we’ve got it all right here in one place. Plus, our team of art lovers is here to help you pick the perfect gift, so you can skip the guesswork and focus on spreading holiday cheer. With Cheap Joe’s, shopping for artists is simple, stress-free, and always inspiring! Here are a few of our favorite stocking stuffers for artists: Aprons and SmocksArt is messy—plain and simple. Help your favorite artist save their clothes with an apron or smock designed for painting, drawing, or sculpting. Look for ones with pockets for tools, so they can keep their brushes and pencils close at hand. We recommend the Cheap Joe’s Maker’s Crossback Aprons. Hand Protection and Clean-Up SuppliesPaint-stained hands and ink smudges are part of the creative process, but they don’t have to linger. Stock their stocking with artist-friendly hand soaps, barrier creams, or gloves to keep them clean and comfortable while they create. Check out the Marvelous Marianne's SavvySoap Hand and Brush Cleaner for starters. Brush and Tool StorageArtists always need help organizing their tools. A brush holder keeps brushes safe from damage. We recommend checking out our Cheap Joe’s Brush Holders, which are made from nylon and feature reinforced sides. You can also find sturdy pencil or marker cases to keep things tidy on the go. Portable PalettesFrom compact travel palettes to ceramic options for the studio, palettes are an artist’s must-have tool for mixing and blending colors. A fresh palette makes for an easy and appreciated stocking stuffer. The Portable Painter Watercolor Palette is a great choice. SketchbooksArtists can never have too many sketchbooks! Go for hardbound options like our American Journey Hardbound Sketchbooks and Watercolor Journal Set —they’re perfect for capturing ideas, doodles, or fully realized works on the go. Drawing Pencil SetsGift them a complete set of sketching pencils with various lead types, from soft to hard. This guarantees they’ll always have the perfect pencil for any project. The General's Kimberly Drawing Pencils - Set of 12 are an amazing choice, and they’re made in the U.S.A. Toss in a kneadable eraser for a bonus! Mini EaselsIf space is tight or they like to work on small-scale projects, our Cheap Joe’s Travel Table Easel is a fantastic gift. It’s compact, portable, and great for sketching, painting, or display. Lighting SolutionsGood lighting makes all the difference. A small, adjustable full-spectrum lamp fits nicely under the tree—or in a stocking! It reduces eye strain and ensures they see their colors and details accurately. We recommend the Daylight Smart Go LED Travel Lamp. Travel-Sized Art SuppliesWhether they’re plein air painters or urban sketchers, artists love compact tools. Think travel watercolor sets, mini brushes, or collapsible water containers for those who create on the go. The Da Vinci Watercolor Mixing Set In Travel Tin features paints that are permanent, with the highest tinting strength and pigment concentration available. Gift CardsLet’s face it—some artists are particular about their supplies. A Cheap Joe’s gift card lets them pick exactly what they need or want, making it the ultimate stress-free stocking stuffer. We have a Cheap Joe's Physical Gift Card and a Cheap Joe's E-Gift Card as well! Shop Cheap Joe’s for All Your Stocking Stuffer Needs When it comes to finding the perfect stocking stuffers for artists, we’ve got you covered. With a wide range of high-quality, artist-approved supplies and thoughtful gifts, we make it easy to find something that inspires creativity and fits snugly in a stocking. From practical tools like sketchbooks and palettes to innovative storage solutions and mess-proof gear, our collection is designed to delight creators of every skill level. This holiday season, let us help you fill stockings with gifts that spark joy and fuel artistic passion. From all of us at Cheap Joe’s, we wish you a merry and creative Christmas!
Best Stocking Stuffers for Artists
Are you still searching for the perfect stocking stuffers for artists in your life? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with thoughtful, practical, and fun gift ideas that any artist...
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...
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