Learning Art
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6 Essential Oil Painting Supplies for Beginners

Author:

George

Updated:

12.03.2025

Oil Paint Supplies for Beginners
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You’ve finally decided to start oil painting! Excited, you start researching - only to realize just how many supplies there are. Do you need premium paints? Which brushes actually matter? And what about solvents—are they even necessary?

It’s easy to get ahead of yourself and splurge on expensive supplies, only to feel guilty about using too much or wasting good materials while learning. On the other hand, going too cheap can backfire—low-quality paints and brushes make the experience frustrating, leaving you wondering if the problem is your skills when it’s really your tools.

The good news? You don’t need professional-grade supplies to start. There are plenty of affordable, high-quality student-grade materials that work beautifully for beginners. We can help you choose the essentials, so you can start painting with confidence.

"You don’t need the best materials to make great art. What matters is understanding how to use what you have.” - James Gurney, an Illustrator & Author

1. Oil Paints

Oil Paints - Oil Painting Supplies

Oil paints come in two main types: traditional and water-mixable. Traditional oils are better for a rich, smooth blending experience but require solvents for cleanup. Water-mixable oils, on the other hand, thin and clean with water. So, they are safer and more convenient.

Traditional Oil Paints

Pros:
✔ Rich, buttery texture and smooth blending
✔ Used by professional artists for centuries
✔ Wide range of colors and brands available

Cons:
✖ Requires solvents (like turpentine or odorless mineral spirits) for cleaning and thinning
✖ Takes longer to dry, requiring proper storage between sessions

Best for: Artists who want the full traditional oil painting experience and don’t mind using solvents.

Water-Mixable Oil Paints

Pros:
✔ Can be thinned and cleaned with water (no need for solvents)
✔ Easier cleanup and less toxic
✔ Works well for artists painting in small or home studios

Cons:
✖ Slightly different texture—can feel stickier or dry faster
✖ Fewer brands and color selections compared to traditional oils

Best for: Beginners who want to avoid solvents and prefer a more convenient, beginner-friendly option.

Tip: You can mix water-mixable oils with traditional oils, but doing so removes their ability to be thinned with water.

Student-Grade vs. Artist-Grade Paints: What’s the Difference?

FeatureStudent-Grade PaintsArtist-Grade Paints
Pigment QualityLower pigment, more fillersHigh pigment concentration, minimal fillers
Color IntensityWeaker colors, may need more layersStrong, vibrant colors with better coverage
Mixing AbilityCan be harder to blend smoothlyBlends well and mixes cleanly
PriceMore affordableExpensive but lasts longer
Who It’s For?Beginners, students, casual paintersAdvanced artists, professionals, serious learners

Tip: If you're starting with student-grade paints, you can slowly upgrade one color at a time to experience the difference in quality. Avoid ultra-cheap brands—they can make learning more frustrating.

Starting with a Limited Palette

Instead of buying dozens of colors, start with a limited palette to build your color-mixing skills. Many professional artists recommend:

✔ Basic Palette:

  • Titanium White
  • Cadmium Yellow or Yellow Ochre
  • Cadmium Red or Alizarin Crimson
  • Ultramarine Blue or Phthalo Blue

Tip: The Zorn Palette (Titanium White, Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Red, Ivory Black) is a great limited palette for portrait painting.

Andrew Tischler, professional oil painter & YouTuber - “Your color selection should be based on versatility. A warm and cool version of each primary gives you unlimited mixing possibilities.”

2. A Palette for Mixing Colors

Palette - Oil Painting Supplies

Once you have your oil paints, you’ll need a palette to mix them. A good palette should be flat, non-absorbent, and easy to clean so you can blend colors smoothly. While some palettes are reusable, others are disposable for quick cleanup.

Best Palette Options for Oil Painting

Palette TypeProsConsBest For
Glass PaletteEasy to clean, durable, smooth mixing surfaceRequires a sturdy setup, can break if droppedArtists who want a long-term, professional palette
Acrylic/PlexiglassLightweight, smooth, easy to cleanCan scratch over time, needs conditioningPainters who want a reusable and portable option
Wood PaletteClassic look, absorbs excess oil for a natural feelNeeds to be conditioned with oil, harder to cleanTraditionalists who enjoy a seasoned palette
Palette Paper (Disposable Pads)No cleanup, convenient for quick sessionsNot as durable, wasteful over timeBeginners or those who don’t want to clean palettes
Plastic PaletteCheap, lightweightStains easily, hard to cleanBudget-conscious painters who don’t mind replacing it often

Tip: If you choose a glass palette, place gray or neutral-toned paper underneath to see colors more accurately while mixing.

3. Brushes – What You Really Need

Brushes - Oil Painting Supplies

With so many brush types, sizes, and materials available, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming. But the truth is, you don’t need an entire collection to start painting. A few well-chosen brushes will do the job while keeping things simple and affordable.

Best Brush Types for Beginners

Brush TypeShape & Use
Why It’s Useful?
FilbertRounded, flat tip
Most versatile—good for blending, soft edges, and detail work
BrightShort, flat bristles
Great for strong, defined strokes and thick paint application
RoundPointed tip
Good for fine details, outlines, and controlled strokes
FlatSquare tip
Ideal for bold strokes and covering large areas
Fan (Optional)Thin, spread-out bristles
Blending, soft textures, and special effects

Tip: If you're just starting out, a set of Filberts and Rounds in different sizes will cover most painting needs.

Natural vs. Synthetic Brushes

TypeProsConsBest For
Natural Bristle (Hog Hair)Holds more paint, good for thick applicationsWears out faster, more expensiveTraditional oil painting techniques, impasto
Synthetic BristleAffordable, durable, easy to cleanHolds less paint, may not blend as smoothlyBeginners, fine details, smooth painting styles

Tip: Synthetic brushes are great for beginners because they last longer and don’t require special care. Hog hair brushes work well for thicker applications and textured strokes.

Essential Brush Sizes

You don’t need a massive set—just a few key sizes in the right types.

Small (#2–#4): Fine details and delicate strokes
Medium (#6–#8): Versatile for most painting tasks
Large (#10–#12): Broad strokes and background work

Tip: Larger brushes help avoid over-detailing too soon, keeping your paintings loose and expressive.

Best Beginner Brush Brands

Budget-Friendly: Winsor & Newton University, Princeton, Daler-Rowney Graduate
Mid-Range: Rosemary & Co., Silver Brush, Escoda
Professional: Raphael, Isabey, Da Vinci Maestro

A few quality brushes will take you much further than a large, cheap set—buy smart, take care of them, and they’ll last you a long time! ????

4. Painting Surfaces – What Works Best?

Painting Surfaces - Oil Painting Supplies

Choosing the right surface for oil painting is just as important as picking the right paints and brushes. The texture, absorbency, and durability of your surface can affect how your paint applies and how your final piece looks. While canvases are the most popular choice, there are budget-friendly and DIY alternatives that work just as well—sometimes even better!

Best Surfaces for Oil Painting

Surface TypeProsConsBest For
Canvas (Stretched or Panel)Classic texture, ready-to-use, widely availableStudent-grade options may be lower quality
Beginners & experienced artists alike
Canvas PaperAffordable, space-saving, great for practiceNot as durable as traditional canvases
Sketching, testing colors, and practice
Canvas PanelsSturdy, budget-friendly, easy to storeLess absorbent than stretched canvas
Beginners who want a real canvas feel without the cost
Wood/MDF PanelsSmooth, durable, won’t warpNeeds to be primed with gesso
Artists who prefer a rigid, professional surface
Acrylic Gessoed Hardboard (DIY Option)Cheap, smooth, customizable sizeRequires extra prep time
Budget-conscious artists who want quality at a low cost
Oil Paper (Specialized Paper for Oils)Doesn’t require priming, easy to storeCan feel different from traditional canvas
Artists who need a portable and disposable option

Tip: Avoid regular sketchbook paper—it’s too absorbent and won’t hold oil paint well.

What is Gesso & Do You Need It?

Gesso is a primer that preps a surface for oil paint by preventing paint from soaking through. Most store-bought canvases come pre-primed, but if you're using wood, MDF, or raw canvas, you’ll need to apply a few coats of gesso first.

Acrylic Gesso – Most common, dries quickly, works for oils & acrylics
Oil Gesso – Traditional option, takes longer to dry but gives a richer feel

Budget vs. Professional Choices

  • On a budget? Try canvas paper, student-grade canvas panels, or DIY gessoed MDF boards.
  • Want a professional feel? Upgrade to linen canvas or custom wood panels.

5. Solvents & Mediums – What You Need (and What You Don’t)

Solvents and Mediums - Oil Painting Supplies

When starting oil painting, you might hear a lot about solvents and mediums. Some artists swear by them, while others paint without them entirely. So, do you actually need them?

The short answer: No, you can paint straight from the tube without using solvents or mediums. However, they can help with certain techniques, like thinning paint or speeding up drying time. Let’s break it down simply.

Solvents – Do You Need Them?

Solvents are mainly used for cleaning brushes and thinning paint. Some artists use them, but others avoid them because they can be strong-smelling and toxic.

SolventWhat It DoesDo You Need It?
Gamsol (Odorless Mineral Spirits)Cleans brushes, thins paintUseful but optional
TurpentineStronger, traditional thinnerNot recommended (toxic fumes)
Zest-It / Sennelier Green for OilA safer, non-toxic alternativeGood if you want a solvent
No solvent (Oil & Soap for Cleaning)Cleans brushes naturallyBest for beginners

Tip: If you want to avoid solvents, clean your brushes with oil (like linseed oil) followed by soap and water.

Mediums – What Do They Do?

Mediums are used to change how the paint feels and dries. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need them, but they can help as you experiment.

MediumWhat It DoesDo You Need It?
Linseed OilMakes paint smoother, slows dryingBest beginner-friendly option
Walnut OilSimilar to linseed but less yellowingOptional
LiquinHelps paint dry fasterOnly if you want quick drying
No Medium (Paint from Tube)Keeps natural textureYes! This is perfectly fine

Tip: If you want to try a medium, start with linseed oil—it’s the easiest to use.

6. Do You Need an Easel?

Easel - Oil Painting Supplies

While an easel isn’t absolutely necessary, it makes painting much easier. Working upright helps with perspective, reduces strain on your neck and back, and prevents dust or debris from settling on your painting. If you paint flat on a table, colors may look distorted, and your arm movements will be more restricted.

For beginners, a simple tabletop easel (around $20–$40) is a great starting point. If you have more space, a standing H-frame or A-frame easel offers better support. However, if you’re on a budget, even propping your canvas against a wall works—it’s just less stable. The key is to find a setup that’s comfortable and lets you paint freely! 

Optional but Useful Oil Painting Supplies

Optional Oil Painting Supplies - Palette Knives

While you only need a few essentials to start oil painting, some extra tools can make the process easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable. These aren’t must-haves, but they can help improve your painting experience as you progress.

ItemWhy It’s Useful?
Palette KnivesBest for mixing paint (better than brushes) and can be used for textured painting.
Rags or Paper TowelsHelps clean brushes, wipe excess paint, and keep your workspace tidy.
GlovesProtects hands from paint and solvents, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Apron or Old ClothesOil paint stains permanently, so it’s best to wear something you don’t mind getting messy.
Brush Soap (e.g., Marseille Soap)Extends the life of your brushes and makes cleaning easier.
Palette Seal or Cling WrapHelps keep paint fresh between sessions so you waste less.
Painting KnivesSimilar to palette knives but designed for applying paint directly onto the canvas for unique textures.

Tip: You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with the basics, and add tools as you discover what works best for you! ????

Budget vs. Premium: Where to Invest Your Money

Not everything in oil painting needs to be high-end. Some supplies are worth splurging on, while others can be budget-friendly without affecting your results.

Where to Save:

  • Canvas & Surfaces – Use canvas panels, canvas paper, or gessoed MDF boards instead of expensive stretched linen.
  • Solvents – If you use them, Gamsol is affordable and lasts a long time. You can also skip solvents altogether and clean brushes with oil and soap.
  • Easel – A budget tabletop or A-frame easel works fine in the beginning.

Where to Invest:

  • Paints – Student-grade is fine to start, but upgrading to artist-grade paints over time gives richer colors and better mixing.
  • Brushes – A few high-quality synthetic or natural brushes last longer and perform better than cheap sets.
  • Palette Knives – A good metal palette knife makes mixing paint much easier and doesn’t wear out like brushes.

Tip: If you’re going to splurge on one thing, choose better paint—it makes the biggest difference!

Conclusion

Starting oil painting can feel overwhelming—there are endless supplies, conflicting advice, and the constant worry of wasting money or using the "wrong" materials. But the truth is, you don’t need the most expensive tools to create great art. What matters most is finding reliable, beginner-friendly supplies and focusing on practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best brand of oil paints?

The best oil paint brand depends on your budget and skill level. For beginners, student-grade options like Winsor & Newton Winton, Gamblin 1980, and Van Gogh offer good quality at a lower price. For professionals, brands like Old Holland, Michael Harding, and Williamsburg provide rich pigments and smooth blending. Mid-range options like Sennelier Rive Gauche and Gamblin Artist Oils balance quality and affordability.

Are cheap oil paints worth it?

Cheap, low-quality oil paints often contain too many fillers, leading to weak colors and poor blending. Student-grade paints from trusted brands (like Winsor & Newton Winton or Gamblin 1980) are fine for beginners, but avoid ultra-cheap, no-name brands. It’s better to start with a few good-quality colors than a large set of low-quality paints.

How can you tell if oil paint is good?

Good oil paint has high pigment concentration, smooth consistency, and strong color coverage. Check quality by:

  • Reading the label – look for single-pigment colors, not filler-heavy mixes.
  • Testing opacity – good paints should cover well without streaks.
  • Feeling the texture – it should be creamy, not too runny or stiff.

Do oil paints go bad?

Oil paints don’t expire but can dry out over time. Well-stored paints last decades if kept sealed in a cool, dry place. Signs of bad paint include:

  • Hardened or dried-out texture
  • Excessive oil separation (can sometimes be mixed back in)
  • A rancid smell (especially in linseed oil-based paints)

If the paint is still workable after mixing, it’s fine to use.

What is the best palette for oil paints?

The best palette depends on preference, but glass palettes are popular for their smooth surface and easy cleanup. Other good options include:

  • Wood palettes – Traditional but need oil conditioning.
  • Acrylic/plexiglass palettes – Durable but may scratch.
  • Disposable palette paper – Convenient but not eco-friendly.

For better color accuracy, use a neutral-toned palette instead of white.

How to make homemade oil paint

To make oil paint at home, you need dry pigment, linseed oil, and a grinding surface. Start by placing a small amount of pigment on a glass or marble slab, then add a few drops of linseed oil to create a thick paste. Using a palette knife, mix them until the pigment is fully coated. Next, use a glass muller to grind the mixture in circular motions, ensuring the oil binds evenly with the pigment. Adjust the consistency by adding more oil if needed—paint should be smooth but not runny. Once fully mixed, store it in airtight metal tubes or glass jars to prevent drying. Be sure to wear a mask and gloves when handling dry pigments, as some can be toxic.

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Author:George
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George, CEO of Photo2painting, is a passionate art lover and entrepreneur. He founded Photo2painting.com from scratch, inspired by his artist friends. As the company's CMO, he manages content and marketing.

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