Finding the right art supplies for mixed media can be challenging due to the variety of materials and techniques involved. The 9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Sketch Book stands out as the best overall choice, thanks to its versatile paper suitable for drawing, painting, and more. For those seeking a comprehensive set, the Kingart Ultimate Series 175 Piece Mixed Media Art Set offers a wide range of tools to experiment with different media. However, tradeoffs include price and storage space, which can influence your decision. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to help you choose the supplies that best match your artistic goals.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance paper quality with tool versatility, making them suitable for various mixed media techniques.
- Sets with a broad range of supplies tend to be more expensive but offer greater creative flexibility.
- Paper weight and texture are critical for handling different media without warping or tearing.
- Compact sketchbooks are ideal for portability but may limit the number of sheets and media compatibility.
- Price often correlates with durability and material quality, so investing in higher-quality supplies can pay off for serious artists.
| 9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Sketch Book – Spiral Bound, 30 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Acid-Free Paper |  | Best for Beginners and Young Artists | Size: 9″ x 12″ | Sheets: 30 | Paper Weight: 98lb / 160gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Hardcover Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper for Drawing, Painting & Art |  | Best Versatility and Durability | Size: 9 x 12 inches | Sheets: 60 | Paper Weight: 98 lb / 160 gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set in Wooden Case |  | Best for All-in-One Exploration and Gift-Giving | Number of Pieces: 181 | Included Mediums: Watercolor paints, acrylic paints, watercolor cakes, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, sketching pencils, charcoal pencils, graphite sticks, charcoal sticks | Tools: Natural hair brushes, synthetic brushes, sanding block, kneaded eraser, metal sharpener, vinyl eraser, color wheel, color theory guide, wooden manikin, blending stumps, watercolor pad | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canson XL Mix Media Pad 9×12 |  | Best for Versatile Media and Easy Paper Removal | Size: 9×12 inches | Pages: Perforated pages | Manufactured in: France | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KINGART Ultimate Series 175 Piece Mixed Media Art Set, Colored Pencils, Oil Pastels, Acrylic Paints, Brushes |  | Best for All-in-One Versatile Art Creation | Number of Watercolor Cakes: 36 | Metallic Watercolor Cakes: 8 | Colored Pencils: 24 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Art Set, 55 Pack Painting Supplies Kit with Easel and Accessories |  | Best Overall for Versatile Artists | Item Count: 55 pieces | Paint Types: Acrylic, Watercolor | Includes: Easel, brushes, colored pencils, notebooks, drawing board | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Strathmore 300 Series Mixed Media Paper Pad, Side Wire Bound, 5.5×8.5 inches, 40 Sheets (117lb/190g) |  | Best for On-the-Go Practice and Sketching | Brand: Strathmore | Size: 5.5 x 8.5 inches | Sheets: 40 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prang Mixed Media Journal, Heavyweight, 8.5″ x 11″, 60 Sheets |  | Best for Durability and Versatility in a Portable Format | Size: 8.5″ x 11″ | Sheets: 60 | Binding: Spiral | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Sketch Book – Spiral Bound, 30 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Acid-Free Paper
This sketchbook stands out for its high-quality, acid-free paper that supports a variety of media, making it an excellent choice for newcomers exploring mixed media. Compared to the more extensive Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″, it offers fewer sheets but compensates with a lightweight, accessible design perfect for practice and experimentation. Its spiral binding ensures the pages lay flat and are easy to tear out, which is ideal for young artists or those just starting out. However, the limited 30 sheets may require frequent replacements for more ambitious projects, and the heavyweight paper can be less ideal for very wet media without bleed-through. This pick makes the most sense for beginners, students, or artists working on smaller projects who value ease of use over volume.Pros:- High-quality, acid-free paper suitable for multiple media
- Spiral binding allows pages to lay flat and be easily torn out
- Ideal for beginners and young artists with easy-to-remove pages
- Supports watercolor, acrylic, pastel, and ink
Cons:- Limited to 30 sheets, not enough for large or long-term projects
- Heavyweight paper may struggle with very wet media without bleed-through
Best for: Beginners, young artists, and casual users needing a portable, versatile sketchbook
Not ideal for: Experienced artists or professionals requiring larger formats and extensive paper volumes for complex projects
- Size:9″ x 12″
- Sheets:30
- Paper Weight:98lb / 160gsm
- Binding:Top Spiral Bound
- Material:Acid-Free, Bleed-Resistant Paper
- Perforation:Micro-perforated pages for easy removal
Bottom line: This sketchbook is perfect for beginners and young artists who need a portable, versatile surface for practice and small projects.
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Hardcover Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper for Drawing, Painting & Art
This sketchbook excels through its durable hardcover, 60 sheets of high-quality, recyclable paper, and a spiral binding that allows 360-degree page rotation, making it ideal for artists on the move. Compared to the 9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Sketch Book, it offers twice the sheets, appealing to those with more extensive projects or frequent use. The hardcover provides added protection for artwork, making it suitable for students, professionals, and hobbyists who need longevity and portability. On the downside, the larger number of sheets might be overwhelming for new users or those with limited storage space, and the paper’s resistance to very wet media isn’t specified—care may be needed to prevent warping.Pros:- High-quality, versatile paper suitable for multiple media
- Durable hardcover and spiral binding for longevity and protection
- Flexible 360-degree page rotation for comfortable use
- Portable size ideal for on-the-go artists
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets, which may require frequent replacements for heavy users
- Not specified if paper handles very wet media without warping
Best for: Serious hobbyists, students, and professionals who need a sturdy, portable sketchbook with more pages
Not ideal for: Casual artists or children who prefer smaller, lightweight sketchbooks for quick sketches
- Size:9 x 12 inches
- Sheets:60
- Paper Weight:98 lb / 160 gsm
- Binding:Spiral bound
- Material:Recyclable mixed media paper
- Cover:Hardcover
Bottom line: This sketchbook is well-suited for artists seeking durability, versatility, and a generous number of sheets for ongoing projects.
Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set in Wooden Case
This comprehensive 181-piece set offers an extensive variety of mediums, tools, and paper, making it ideal for artists eager to experiment across different techniques. Compared with the Kingart Ultimate Series, this set emphasizes a wide range of drawing, coloring, and painting supplies in a sturdy wooden case, perfect for both beginners and more experienced artists exploring new media. The large assortment can be overwhelming for casual users or those with limited storage space, and some may find the sheer volume unnecessary if they prefer focused kits. Its organization and variety, however, make it a versatile choice for dedicated hobbyists or as a gift for creative students.Pros:- Includes a wide variety of art mediums and tools for versatile projects
- Portable and well-organized in a durable wooden case
- Suitable for beginners to professionals looking to expand their toolkit
- Elegant packaging makes it a great gift option
Cons:- Large set may be overwhelming for casual or beginner users
- Some mediums may be underused if artists prefer specific techniques
- Weight and size could be cumbersome for frequent travel
Best for: Artists of all skill levels seeking a broad, organized collection for mixed media experimentation
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer tailored, minimal kits or those with limited storage capacity
- Number of Pieces:181
- Included Mediums:Watercolor paints, acrylic paints, watercolor cakes, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, sketching pencils, charcoal pencils, graphite sticks, charcoal sticks
- Tools:Natural hair brushes, synthetic brushes, sanding block, kneaded eraser, metal sharpener, vinyl eraser, color wheel, color theory guide, wooden manikin, blending stumps, watercolor pad
- Item Dimensions:19.69 x 12.56 x 2.95 inches
- Item Weight:7.05 pounds
- Material:Wooden case
Bottom line: This extensive art set is ideal for dedicated artists and students ready to explore multiple media with a comprehensive, organized collection.
Canson XL Mix Media Pad 9×12
The Canson XL Mix Media Pad is distinguished by its perforated pages, which make removing individual sheets straightforward—a practical feature not always found in art pads. Compared to the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″, it emphasizes ease of use and efficient workflow, especially for artists who need to display or share individual works. Made in France, the quality is consistently high, though specific details on paper weight and media compatibility are lacking, which could be a drawback for those with particular technical needs. Its simplicity and perforation make it ideal for classroom, sketching, or craft projects but less suitable for heavy wet media or detailed finished pieces.Pros:- Perforated pages for easy removal and sharing
- Suitable for multiple media types
- High-quality manufacturing in France
- Affordable and practical for everyday use
Cons:- Limited information on paper weight and media handling
- No specific details on durability for wet media
- Price range not clearly specified
Best for: Students, teachers, and casual artists who value easy page removal and versatile media support
Not ideal for: Professional artists or those requiring detailed technical specifications for heavy media use
- Size:9×12 inches
- Pages:Perforated pages
- Manufactured in:France
Bottom line: This pad is best suited for educators, students, and casual artists needing versatile media support with convenient page removal.
KINGART Ultimate Series 175 Piece Mixed Media Art Set, Colored Pencils, Oil Pastels, Acrylic Paints, Brushes
The Kingart Ultimate Series offers an expansive collection of 175 supplies, including watercolor cakes, colored pencils, oil pastels, and acrylic paints, making it a true all-in-one kit for broad experimentation. Compared with the Colour Block 181-Piece Set, it provides a slightly more curated selection of essential tools with high-quality options, suitable for artists at different levels. The wide variety encourages diverse techniques but might be overwhelming for casual hobbyists or those with limited storage space. While it lacks a dedicated storage case, its comprehensive nature makes it a strong choice for aspiring artists eager to explore multiple media without purchasing separately.Pros:- Wide variety of art supplies for multiple media
- Includes high-quality papers and essential tools
- Suitable for beginners and experienced artists
- Vibrant and metallic color options
Cons:- Large set may be intimidating for casual users
- Some items may run out quickly with frequent use
- No dedicated storage case included
Best for: Artists of all levels seeking a comprehensive, ready-to-use set for diverse mixed media projects
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer smaller, more focused kits or artists with limited workspace
- Number of Watercolor Cakes:36
- Metallic Watercolor Cakes:8
- Colored Pencils:24
- Watercolor Pencils:6
- Oil Pastels:24
- Acrylic Paint Tubes:12 (12ml each)
- Sketching Pencil:1
- Charcoal Sticks:3
- Nylon Hair Brushes:6
- Palette Knives:2
- Watercolor Lidded Tray Palettes:2
- Sharpener:1
- Erasers:2 (Vinyl, Gum)
- Mixed Media Paper Sheets:12 (9″x12″)
- White Drawing Paper Sheets:35 (9″x12″)
Bottom line: This art set is ideal for artists eager to experiment across a broad spectrum of media with a comprehensive, versatile collection.
Mixed Media Art Set, 55 Pack Painting Supplies Kit with Easel and Accessories
This comprehensive 55-piece set stands out for its all-in-one approach, combining acrylic and watercolor paints, a variety of brushes, colored pencils, and useful accessories. The inclusion of a sturdy wooden easel and storage boxes makes it highly portable, catering to artists who work both indoors and outdoors. Compared with the Strathmore Paper Pad, it offers a broader range of supplies, but the sheer variety can be overwhelming for absolute beginners who might prefer a simpler starter kit. Its high-quality pigments and durable materials ensure longevity, yet the limited info on paint quantities could lead to surprises in usage. The easel’s size may restrict larger canvases, making it less suited for serious large-scale work. Overall, this set is perfect for artists seeking versatility and all-in-one convenience, from hobbyists to professionals.Pros:- Complete set with a wide variety of paints, brushes, and accessories
- Portable with a sturdy wooden easel and convenient storage
- Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to pros
- High-quality pigments and durable materials
Cons:- Overwhelming for absolute beginners due to the extensive variety
- Limited information on the exact quantities of paints and supplies
- Easel size may not accommodate very large canvases
Best for: Artists of all skill levels who want a complete, portable mixed media setup for both practice and projects.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a minimal, easy-to-start kit or artists focused solely on large canvases, as the easel size may limit larger works.
- Item Count:55 pieces
- Paint Types:Acrylic, Watercolor
- Includes:Easel, brushes, colored pencils, notebooks, drawing board
- Material:Wood, high-quality pigments
- Suitable For:Beginners to advanced artists
- Warranty:1 year
Bottom line: This set makes the most sense for artists seeking a versatile, all-in-one kit suitable for various media and settings.
Strathmore 300 Series Mixed Media Paper Pad, Side Wire Bound, 5.5×8.5 inches, 40 Sheets (117lb/190g)
The Strathmore 300 Series pad excels for artists who need reliable, high-quality paper for diverse media, especially when working outside or in quick studies. Its acid-free, medium-weight 117 lb paper handles watercolor, gouache, ink, and pencil without buckling or bleeding, making it a solid choice over lighter papers like the Canson XL for durability. The compact 5.5×8.5-inch size is ideal for sketching on the move, but the 40-sheet limit might disappoint those working on larger projects or multiple pieces. While it’s versatile, medium weight paper may struggle with very heavy washes or prolonged wet techniques. This pad makes the most sense for artists seeking a portable option that still delivers professional-quality results.Pros:- Suitable for a wide range of wet and dry media
- High-quality, durable, acid-free paper
- Compact, portable size for on-the-go use
- Side wire binding for easy use and page flipping
Cons:- Limited to 40 sheets, which may be insufficient for intensive projects
- Medium weight paper might not support very heavy washes without warping
- Small size could be restrictive for larger compositions
Best for: En plein air artists, students, or sketchers who need a reliable, portable mixed media paper for quick studies and practice.
Not ideal for: Artists working on large-scale paintings or those requiring heavy washes, as the medium-weight paper may warp or bleed through.
- Brand:Strathmore
- Size:5.5 x 8.5 inches
- Sheets:40
- Weight:117 lb / 190 g
- Paper Type:Mixed Media
- Binding:Side wire bound
Bottom line: This pad offers a reliable, portable solution for artists who need versatile paper for quick sketches, but it may fall short for large or highly wet applications.
Prang Mixed Media Journal, Heavyweight, 8.5″ x 11″, 60 Sheets
The Prang Mixed Media Journal combines sturdy spiral binding with heavyweight, acid-free paper, making it attractive for artists who want a durable, all-purpose sketchbook. Its 8.5 x 11-inch size strikes a balance between portability and workspace, comparable to larger sketchbooks but more manageable for everyday use. Compared to the Strathmore pad, this journal’s spiral binding allows for easier flat use, while its heavy chipboard back offers extra support for wet techniques. However, only 60 sheets might limit extensive projects, and the lack of detailed info on paper weight beyond ‘heavyweight’ leaves some questions for artists with specific needs. Overall, it’s a versatile option suited for artists who prioritize durability and media flexibility in a portable book.Pros:- Sturdy spiral binding with a heavy chipboard back for support
- Heavyweight, acid-free paper suitable for various media
- Portable size comparable to standard notebooks
- Versatile for sketching, drawing, and light painting
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets, which may not suffice for large projects
- No specific details on paper weight or media support beyond ‘heavyweight’
- Spiral binding may catch on surfaces or be less suitable for framing
Best for: Artists who want a sturdy, all-in-one sketchbook for sketching, drawing, and light painting, especially those who prefer spiral binding for ease of use.
Not ideal for: Professionals working on large, multi-layered projects or heavy washes, as the sheet count and unspecified paper weight might limit heavy-duty work.
- Size:8.5″ x 11″
- Sheets:60
- Binding:Spiral
- Back Support:Heavy chipboard
- Material:Heavyweight, acid-free paper
- Recyclable:Yes
Bottom line: This journal offers a durable, versatile surface for artists who value portability and media flexibility, but may need more sheets for extensive work.
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on multiple criteria relevant to mixed media artists, including paper quality, versatility, durability, and value. We prioritized items that support a wide range of techniques, from drawing and watercolor to collage and mixed media layering. Ease of use, brand reputation, and user reviews also influenced the rankings. Products are ordered to showcase a balance of overall performance, cost-effectiveness, and specialized features, helping buyers find options for different skill levels and needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Mixed Media
Choosing art supplies for mixed media involves considering several key factors that impact your creative process and results. The right supplies should support multiple media types and withstand various techniques, from wet to dry media. Understanding these factors can help prevent common mistakes, such as selecting paper that warps or tools that don’t suit your preferred techniques. Here are some essential considerations to guide your purchase decisions.Paper Quality and Weight
For mixed media, the quality and weight of paper are paramount. Heavier papers, such as 98lb/160gsm or higher, resist warping and tearing when wet mediums like watercolor or acrylic are applied. Texture also matters; smoother surfaces are better for detailed drawing, while textured papers add interest to collage and mixed media layering. Investing in good-quality, acid-free paper ensures your artwork remains vibrant and intact over time.
Versatility of Supplies
Opt for supplies that support multiple media types—colored pencils, pastels, paints, and adhesives—so you can explore different techniques without switching tools constantly. Sets that include a variety of tools might seem costly initially but save money and space in the long run. Be mindful of whether the materials are compatible with each other, especially when combining wet and dry media.
Set Size and Storage
Consider how much space you have and your workflow. Larger sets with many tools offer creative flexibility but can be expensive and cumbersome to store. Smaller, more focused kits are ideal for beginners or artists on the go. Look for durable storage options like wooden cases or sturdy boxes to keep your supplies organized and protected.
Durability and Quality
High-quality brushes, pencils, and paints may cost more but tend to last longer and perform better. Cheaper supplies often wear out quickly or produce inconsistent results, which can hinder your progress. For serious artists, investing in durable tools ensures smoother application and better control, leading to more satisfying results over time.
Price and Value
While budget options are tempting, they sometimes compromise on quality. Balance cost with your artistic ambitions—spending more upfront on quality supplies can prevent frustration and additional expenses later. Consider whether a higher-priced set offers enough versatility and durability to justify the investment, especially if you plan to work with mixed media frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of paper is best for mixed media?
For mixed media, heavy, acid-free paper with a weight of 98lb/160gsm or more is recommended. This type of paper can handle wet media like watercolor and acrylic without warping or tearing, while also providing a good surface for dry media like colored pencils and pastels. Textured or smooth surfaces depend on your preferred techniques, but overall, thicker, high-quality paper tends to produce the best results and last longer.
Should I buy a set or individual supplies for mixed media?
Buying a set can be advantageous for beginners or those exploring different techniques, as it provides a variety of tools at a lower cost. However, for more experienced artists, individual supplies tailored to specific needs might offer better quality and performance. Sets often include tools you might not use frequently, so consider your workflow and whether the included items align with your artistic style.
Are more expensive supplies worth the investment?
Higher-priced supplies generally offer better durability, pigment quality, and versatility, which can enhance your creative experience. While initial costs are higher, they tend to last longer and produce more consistent results. If you work with mixed media regularly, investing in quality tools can be more cost-effective over time, reducing frustration and the need for frequent replacements.
Can I use watercolor paper for collage and mixed media?
Yes, watercolor paper is often suitable for mixed media because of its weight and durability. Its textured surface can add interesting effects, and it generally withstands wet media well. However, for collage, you might prefer smoother papers or specialized substrates depending on the adhesives and materials you use. Always match your paper choice to the primary media in your project.
How do I choose the right art set for my skill level?
Beginners should look for sets that include basic, versatile supplies like pencils, brushes, and a good quality paper pad, which allow experimentation across different media. Intermediate and advanced artists might prefer larger sets with specialized tools, higher-quality materials, and more options for layering and detail. Matching the set to your current skill level and intended techniques ensures you get the most value and growth from your supplies.
Conclusion
For those just starting out or working on casual projects, a compact, quality sketchbook like the 9″ x 12″ Mixed Media Sketch Book offers excellent value. Serious artists or those working on large, detailed pieces will benefit most from the Kingart Ultimate Series 175 Piece Mixed Media Art Set due to its broad tool range. If budget is a concern, quality paper and a smaller set can still support diverse techniques without significant investment. For artists seeking premium tools and materials, investing in higher-end supplies ensures durability and professional results. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your skill level, project scope, and creative ambitions.
