Finding the right art supplies for mixed media can feel overwhelming, as this technique blends various materials like paint, collage, and drawing. The Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its durable cover and quality paper that handles multiple mediums. The Prang Mixed Media Journal offers a budget-friendly option with heavyweight paper suited for beginners, while the Mixed Media Art Set, 55 Pack provides a comprehensive kit for artists who want versatility in one purchase. Each option balances performance, cost, and usability differently, with tradeoffs in paper quality, price, and portability. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of how these supplies compare and which might best suit your creative needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance paper quality and versatility, with the best overall offering durable, multi-medium friendly pages.
- Budget options like the Prang journal perform well for beginners but may lack the durability needed for frequent mixed media use.
- Art kits provide great value but can be overwhelming for those new to mixed media, so consider starting with a dedicated sketchbook.
- Size and portability matter: larger pads are better for studio work, while smaller options suit artists on the go.
- The paper’s weight and texture are key indicators of how well it will handle different mediums without warping or tearing.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ – Hardcover Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm
This sketchbook stands out for its high-quality, recyclable paper that supports a wide range of mediums, from watercolor to ink, making it an excellent choice for mixed media artists who need a reliable, portable option. Compared with the Canson XL Mix Media Pad, it offers a sturdier hardcover and spiral binding that allows 360-degree page rotation, which is ideal for working on the go. However, with only 60 sheets, it may not suit artists with large or prolonged projects. Its spiral binding, while convenient, might be prone to wear over heavy use. Overall, this sketchbook makes the most sense for artists seeking a durable, versatile sketchbook that travels well, even if it limits the volume of work per session.
Pros:- Supports multiple mediums including watercolor, pencil, ink, and charcoal
- Hardcover provides durability and protection for artwork
- Spiral binding allows full 360-degree page rotation for convenience
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets, which may be insufficient for larger projects
- Spiral binding can become prone to damage over time with heavy use
Best for: Artists who need a portable, high-quality mixed media sketchbook that supports multiple mediums and frequent use.
Not ideal for: Artists planning extensive projects or requiring large quantities of pages, as the 60-sheet limit may be restrictive.
- Size:9 x 12 inches
- Sheets:60
- Paper Weight:98 lb / 160 gsm
- Binding:Spiral bound
- Cover Material:Hardcover
Bottom line: This sketchbook is perfect for mobile artists needing versatile, durable paper in a compact format.
Prang Mixed Media Journal, Heavyweight, 8.5″ x 11″, 60 Sheets
This journal offers heavyweight, acid-free paper that is especially suited for sketching and dry media, making it a good choice for artists who value durability and environmental friendliness. Its sturdy chipboard back provides support during work, similar to the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″, but with a more traditional, bound journal format. Compared to the Canson XL Mix Media Pad, it’s less versatile for wet media, as its heavyweight paper may not absorb water as well. The 8.5″ x 11″ size is portable, but the limited 60 sheets might not satisfy artists with larger or ongoing projects. This journal is ideal for artists focused on dry media or eco-conscious creators, but less suitable for heavy watercolor use.
Pros:- Heavyweight, acid-free paper supports dry media well
- Sturdy chipboard back enhances stability during use
- Eco-friendly materials align with environmentally conscious practices
Cons:- Heavyweight paper may resist water absorption, limiting wet media use
- Limited to 60 sheets, which may not suit intensive projects
Best for: Artists who prefer heavyweight, acid-free paper for dry media and value eco-friendly materials.
Not ideal for: Wet media artists or those needing extensive pages, since the 60-sheet limit and heavyweight paper may restrict fluid work.
- Size:8.5″ x 11″
- Sheets:60
- Material:Heavyweight, acid-free paper
Bottom line: This journal is best suited for dry media artists seeking durable, eco-friendly paper in a portable format.
101 Mixed Media Techniques: Master the Fundamental Concepts of Mixed Media Art
This book provides a thorough introduction to mixed media techniques, making it an essential resource for beginners who want to understand fundamental concepts before investing in supplies like the Mixed Media Art Set. Unlike the Canson XL Mix Media Pad, which offers a versatile surface, this guide focuses on skill-building through exercises and examples, though it lacks detailed step-by-step instructions and visual guides. It doesn’t replace hands-on practice, but it helps artists grasp core principles. This makes it ideal for beginners or those seeking to deepen their knowledge, but less useful for artists looking for immediate project results without additional reference materials.
Pros:- Comprehensive coverage of fundamental mixed media techniques
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced artists looking to expand skills
- Includes practical exercises to reinforce learning
Cons:- Lacks detailed step-by-step instructions and visual guides
- No accompanying images, which may limit practical understanding
Best for: Beginners and students eager to learn foundational mixed media techniques and expand their creative toolkit.
Not ideal for: Experienced artists seeking detailed project tutorials or visual step-by-step instructions.
Bottom line: This book is a solid starting point for artists interested in mastering the basics of mixed media art.
Canson XL Mix Media Pad 9×12
The Canson XL Mix Media Pad offers perforated pages for easy removal, making it well-suited for artists who want to showcase or frame individual pieces. Its 9×12-inch size is comparable to the Mixed Media Sketchbook, but without the hardcover or spiral binding, it provides a more flexible, paper-focused solution. While the manufacturing in France suggests high quality, the lack of detailed information about paper weight or texture makes it harder to assess suitability for various media, especially wet media like watercolor. It’s a practical option for students or artists who prefer loose pages and need versatility, but less ideal for those requiring durable, bound sketchbooks for heavy media use.
Pros:- Perforated pages allow easy removal and display
- Versatile media compatibility suitable for diverse techniques
- Manufactured in France reflects quality standards
Cons:- Limited details on paper weight and texture, making media suitability uncertain
- No hardcover or spiral binding for added durability
Best for: Artists and students who want versatile, perforated pages for easy removal and display, especially in loose-leaf or mixed media projects.
Not ideal for: Artists needing a bound, durable sketchbook or detailed information on paper quality for wet media.
- Size:9×12 inches
- Perforated Pages:Yes
- Manufactured in:France
Bottom line: This pad caters to artists seeking flexible, perforated pages for mixed media projects and easy display.
Mixed Media Art Set, 55 Pack Painting Supplies Kit with Easel and Accessories
This comprehensive set provides a wide array of supplies, including acrylic and watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, and a wooden easel, making it ideal for artists who want everything in one package. Compared with individual sketchbooks like the Mixed Media Sketchbook, this kit emphasizes versatility and convenience, suitable for beginners or those who need portable, all-in-one solutions for outdoor or classroom work. However, the quality of accessories varies, and some users might find the assortment overwhelming or less suitable for professional projects. The easel, while portable, may be less stable on uneven surfaces. This set is perfect for newcomers and students, but less so for seasoned artists seeking high-end materials.
Pros:- Complete set with paints, brushes, pencils, and accessories
- Includes a wooden easel that doubles as storage
- Portable design suitable for outdoor and classroom use
Cons:- Some supplies may lack professional-grade quality
- Easel may be unstable on uneven surfaces
- Variety could be overwhelming for those seeking simple projects
Best for: Beginners, students, or artists who want a portable, all-in-one kit for diverse media and outdoor work.
Not ideal for: Experienced artists requiring high-quality, specialized supplies or a more refined set of tools.
- Item count:55 pieces
- Paint types:Acrylic, Watercolor
- Includes:Easel, Brushes, Colored Pencils, Notebooks, Drawing Board
- Material:Wooden box, plastic brushes
- Suitable for:Beginners, Students, Artists
Bottom line: This all-in-one art kit is a great starter for beginners and students looking for portability and variety, despite some quality tradeoffs.
U.S. Art Supply 9″x12″ Mixed Media Sketchbook, 2 Pack (60 Sheets), 98 lb (160 GSM) – Spiral-Bound with Perforated Acid-Free Paper
This set of two U.S. Art Supply sketchbooks stands out for its heavyweight, acid-free paper that can handle a wide range of media from watercolor to ink and collage. Compared with the smaller Strathmore 300 Series, these larger 9×12-inch pads provide more space for detailed work and experimentation. The spiral binding offers a flat surface ideal for sketching, though it may not be as durable as hardcover options over time. The perforated pages make it easy to remove finished pieces, which is perfect for sharing or framing. However, with only 60 sheets per book, larger projects might require additional pads, and the spiral binding can sometimes catch on surfaces or become loose with heavy use. This sketchbook is best suited for artists who want a versatile, large-format pad that can accommodate multiple media types without the bulk of a hardcover.
Pros:- Heavyweight, acid-free paper suitable for many media
- Perforated pages for easy removal
- Spiral binding provides a flat working surface
- Large 9×12-inch format for expansive projects
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets per book, which may be insufficient for bigger projects
- Spiral binding may be less durable over time
- Not ideal for very wet media without proper surface prep
Best for: Artists who need a flexible, high-quality sketchbook for mixed media exploration and larger projects.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a very durable binding for frequent travel or rough handling, or users needing a higher sheet count for extensive work.
- Size:9 x 12 inches
- Sheets per book:60
- Total sheets:120
- Paper weight:98 lb (160 GSM)
- Binding:Spiral-bound
- Perforated pages:Yes
- Paper type:Acid-free, archival quality
Bottom line: This sketchbook makes the most sense for artists who want a spacious, versatile pad that can handle various media and easy page removal.
Strathmore 300 Series Mixed Media Paper Pad, Side Wire Bound, 5.5×8.5 inches, 40 Sheets
The Strathmore 300 Series pad is a compact, versatile option for artists who need a portable surface for experimenting with wet and dry media. Its 90 lb (190 GSM) acid-free paper offers good durability, especially for watercolor, ink, and pencil work—comparable to the heavier papers used in larger pads like the U.S. Art Supply. The side wire binding makes it easy to flip through pages, though it may wear out faster with frequent use. At just 5.5×8.5 inches, this pad is ideal for quick studies, travel sketches, or practice, but it may feel cramped for larger or highly detailed pieces. Compared to the larger sketchbooks, it sacrifices size for portability, meaning larger projects might require additional space or an upgrade. If portability and quick access are priorities, this pad is a solid choice for mixed media experimentation on the go.
Pros:- Compact size for portability and travel
- Suitable for a variety of media including watercolor and ink
- Durable, acid-free 90 lb paper
- Side wire binding allows easy page flipping
Cons:- Limited to 40 sheets, which may be limiting for extensive work
- Medium weight paper might not handle very heavy washes well
- Side wire binding may be less durable over time
Best for: Artists seeking a lightweight, portable pad for sketches, practice, and quick studies in mixed media.
Not ideal for: Users working on large-scale projects or those needing a higher sheet count for extended work sessions.
- Size:5.5 x 8.5 inches
- Sheet count:40
- Weight:90 lb / 190 g
- Material:Acid-free paper
- Binding:Side wire bound
- Item weight:10.08 ounces
Bottom line: This pad is perfect for artists who want a small, portable surface for quick mixed media studies and practice.
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on their paper quality, durability, ease of use, and overall value for mixed media artists. We prioritized supplies that can handle a variety of materials like paint, ink, and collage without deteriorating. Ease of handling, size options, and price were also considered, along with how well each product fit different skill levels from beginner to professional. The ranking reflects a balance between performance, versatility, and affordability, helping artists select supplies that enhance their creative process without unnecessary compromise.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Mixed Media
Choosing the right art supplies for mixed media involves understanding key factors that affect your working process and finished piece. It’s important to consider the types of mediums you use most often, as some papers and tools perform better with specific materials. Budget, portability, and durability also play significant roles in making a suitable selection. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls like paper warping or limited compatibility, ensuring your supplies support your artistic growth.Paper Weight and Texture
The weight and texture of your paper directly influence how well it can withstand multiple layers of paint, glue, or ink. Heavier papers, such as 98 lb or 160 gsm, tend to be more durable and less prone to warping. Textured surfaces can add interesting effects but may also interfere with fine detail work. Choosing a smooth or lightly textured surface depends on your preferred mediums and techniques, but always prioritize sturdiness to accommodate various media without damage.
Size and Portability
Size impacts your working space and storage needs. Larger pads or sheets are ideal for studio settings and expansive projects, while smaller sizes are better for sketching on the go or travel. Consider whether portability is a priority, especially if you plan to work outdoors or at workshops. Keep in mind that larger supplies may require additional storage and handling, which could influence your choice based on your typical workflow.
Medium Compatibility
Not all papers or supplies handle every medium equally well. Watercolors, acrylics, and inks each have specific requirements, and using incompatible surfaces can lead to issues like bleeding or warping. Look for supplies explicitly designed for mixed media to ensure they support a range of materials. Testing small samples before committing to large projects can prevent costly mistakes and disappointment.
Budget and Long-Term Value
While budget options may seem appealing, they might not offer the durability or quality needed for frequent mixed media work. Investing in higher-quality supplies can save money over time by reducing waste and rework. Consider your artistic goals and frequency of use—if you’re experimenting or learning, a more affordable option could suffice, but for serious work, premium supplies often pay off in results and longevity.
Additional Tools and Accessories
Beyond paper and sketchbooks, tools like brushes, palette knives, and adhesives significantly impact your mixed media experience. A comprehensive kit might seem convenient, but ensure that individual tools meet your specific needs. High-quality brushes and adhesives can improve your control and the overall finish of your work, making it worth investing in reliable accessories alongside your primary supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use watercolors on regular sketchbook paper?
Using watercolors on regular sketchbook paper can lead to warping or bleeding if the paper isn’t weighty enough. For best results, choose a heavier, watercolor-specific paper that can absorb moisture without deteriorating. If you only occasionally use watercolors, a medium-weight mixed media paper might suffice, but for frequent use, investing in dedicated watercolor paper will produce more consistent and satisfying results.
Are art kits better than buying supplies separately?
Art kits offer convenience and a wide variety of tools and materials in one purchase, which is ideal for beginners or those looking to experiment. However, they may include items you don’t need or won’t use often, and sometimes the quality isn’t as high as dedicated individual supplies. For serious artists, selecting specific tools and high-quality materials separately often yields better results and a more tailored experience.
How important is paper weight when working with mixed media?
Paper weight is a key factor because it determines how well the paper can handle multiple layers of paint, glue, or ink without warping or tearing. Heavier papers, such as 98 lb or 160 gsm, are more suitable for layered techniques and heavier mediums. Choosing the right weight ensures your artwork remains flat and intact, especially when working on larger or more complex projects.
Should I start with a large or small sketchbook for mixed media?
Starting with a smaller sketchbook can be more manageable for beginners or those testing new techniques, as it requires less space and materials. Larger sketchbooks provide more room for experimentation and detailed work, making them better suited for more experienced artists or studio use. Your decision should align with your working style and available space, but having both sizes at different stages can be beneficial.
What is the best way to test if a paper is suitable for my media?
The most effective method is to do small test swatches with your preferred mediums on a sample piece of the paper. Observe how it reacts—whether it warps, bleeds, or tears—and see if it holds up after multiple layers. Testing allows you to evaluate compatibility without risking your main artwork, ensuring your supplies meet your needs before committing to larger projects.
Conclusion
For most artists, the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″ x 12″ offers a balanced combination of durability, size, and versatility, making it the best overall choice. Beginners or casual hobbyists will appreciate the affordability and ease of use of the Prang Mixed Media Journal. Serious or professional artists aiming for premium quality should consider investing in higher-end options like specialized papers or comprehensive kits. If you need a portable, all-in-one solution, the Mixed Media Art Set, 55 Pack provides excellent value for a diverse range of projects. Ultimately, your selection should align with your skill level, preferred mediums, and creative goals.
