Welcome to the first edition of Studio Finds!
I thought it would be nice to occasionally share some of the things around my studio that I use, enjoy or simply find inspiring. It might be a favourite brush, an interesting watercolour colour, a book I've been looking through, or something that makes my painting space a little more comfortable.
Not necessarily essential things or must-have supplies, just little discoveries and personal favourites that I'd like to share with you.
So, here's the first collection of studio finds. I hope you enjoy having a little look around!
This post includes a paid partnership with Musso and an affiliate link. All other items featured are personal finds that I use, enjoy or find inspiring.
1. Kuretake Brushes
Ironically, I didn't pick these up while visiting Japan, but in Lithuania, in a little gift and stationery shop. They caught my eye because I'd already had a great experience with a very similar calligraphy brush from Fuumuui, so I decided to give these a go. I bought them in two sizes (which sizes I don’t know, because all the writings on them were in japanese).
I now use them for my main washes and, really, paint pretty much everything with them. I love how much water they hold and their lovely pointed tips. The larger brush is particularly good for backgrounds and bigger washes.
It's one of those brushes that just feels right in your hand. And the price is very reasonable too!
I don't have a link to the exact brushes I bought, as I picked them up in a physical shop, but a quick search online should bring up similar ones.
2. Fuumuui Professional Natural Sable Extended Points Brushes
This isn't necessarily a brush I couldn't live without, but it's a very useful little helper in my studio.
I often like to paint long, extended lines with my brushes, and one thing I find particularly useful about this design is how much water it holds. Unlike some of my other brushes, it doesn't run out of water quite so quickly, which makes it easier to keep a continuous line going.
It's a slightly different brush to reach for, but a lovely addition to my collection.
3. A Studio Ghibli Architecture Book
This time I did pick something up in Japan! Although you can find this book in English too, which might save you from having to read everything through your phone using Google Translate, like I do!
I've been a massive Studio Ghibli fan since childhood. My first encounter was watching My Neighbour Totoro, and then, well... I may or may not have had a little crush on Howl. Shhh!
There's something about the world of Studio Ghibli that I've always loved. It creates this feeling of a dreamlike world where people have the opportunity to grow and become better versions of themselves, and where, somehow, things tend to work out.
But back to the book! It's a wonderful source of inspiration, offering a glimpse into the sketches, architectural ideas and artwork behind these beautiful imaginary worlds. I particularly enjoy seeing the thought and observation that go into creating these places.
4. Daniel Smith Mayan Blue
A little colour appreciation! If you've read my books or attended one of my workshops, this probably won't come as a surprise.
I absolutely love this colour. I've never quite come across a pigment like it. It mixes beautifully with greens and has this subtle granulation that I find absolutely delicious.
It's one of those colours I keep coming back to, and I often find myself reaching for it without even thinking.
The only downside is that it isn't the easiest pigment to find in every country, so if you come across it, it's definitely worth having a look!
5. Musso D7 SpaceFold Desk
Paid partnership with Musso.
I've had my eye on this desk for a while, so I was very happy when Musso approached me about collaborating and sent one over for me to try.
It's quickly become one of my favourite pieces of equipment in the studio. I use it whenever I need an extra working surface, but the best part for me is being able to tilt the surface and use it almost like an easel. It's particularly handy when I'm working with watercolour.
Another great feature is that it folds away when you don't need it. Although, in our house, it seems to be in use by someone all the time! My family and I keep finding different things to use it for.
Because it's on wheels, I can easily move it from room to room and change my painting environment whenever I feel like it. Now I'm just waiting for summer so I can take it out into the garden and paint there!
If you'd like to have a closer look, you can find it here:
Explore the Musso D7 SpaceFold Desk
Musso is currently running its Black Friday promotion, and from 6 November there's also a special Free Order Giveaway Campaign, giving customers a chance to have their orders for free.
You can find the details here:
You can also use my code INGABUIVE to get €25 off your purchase.
And that's it for my first collection of Studio Finds!
Some things are practical, some are simply there because I enjoy them, and others inspire me in ways that are sometimes difficult to explain. I think that's what makes a studio feel like your own little creative space.
I'll share more finds another time. Until then, happy painting!