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Sketchpads

​Okay, here's a more human-sounding version of that art supply guide:

1. Paper & Sketchbooks

Paper is super important for art. The right sketchbook can really make a difference in how your art looks!

Paper Types:

*   **Drawing Paper**: Good all-around paper for pencils, pens, and charcoal. It's not too heavy, so it's great for practicing.
*   **Bristol Paper**: A smoother, heavier paper that's awesome for detailed ink work and markers.
*   **Watercolor Paper**: A thick paper that can handle a lot of water without bending. It comes in rough or smooth versions.
*   **Mixed Media Paper**: This paper can handle pretty much anything you throw at it - wet or dry media!

Sketchbooks:

*   Come with spiral binding or glued.
*   They are great for taking out for art to go.
*   Come in tiny sizes as well as really big.

Paper Thickness:

*   **Lightweight**: Best for quick sketches and notes.
*   **Medium weight**: works with dry media or markers.
*   **Heavyweight**: Go for this with media with water.

Paper Texture:

*   **Smooth**: perfect for ink and super-fine details.
*   **Medium**: Works okay with every type of media,
*   **Rough**: Ideal for charcoal and pastels.

2.  Drawing and Sketching Stuff:

*   **Pencils**
    *   Graphite:
        *   H Pencils: good for light lines and tech drawings.
        *   B Pencils: Dark lines and shading.
    *   Colored Pencils:
        *   Wax: Easy to blend.
        *   Oil: strong colors.
        *   Water: Can be used with water for watercolor effects.
*   **Charcoal**: Great for dark shading. Warning: It smudges easy!
*   **Pastels**
    *   Soft: Easy to blend.
    *   Hard: good for details.
    *   Oil: Mix them like paint!
*   **Pens**
    *   Fine Liners: Great for details.
    *   Brush pens: Good for calligraphy.
*   **Markers**
    *   Alcohol: Strong colors.
    *   Water: Easy to wash.
*   **Erasers**
    *   Kneaded: Great to blend with.
    *   Rubber/Plastic: For erasing mistakes.
    *   Gum: Good for delicate papers.
    *   Electric: Best for precise work.
*   **Sharpeners**
    *   Normal: Good for work on the go.
    *   Electric: Saves time for a lot of use.

3.  Painting Stuff:

*   **Paints**
    *   Watercolors: Need water to use.
    *   Acrylics: Dry quick, you can layer this on paper, wood, or canvas.
    *   Oils: Dry slow and need special brushes
*   **Brushes**:
    *   Shapes: Round, flat, fan, etc.
    *   Material: Real or fake.
    *   Sizes: Small for details, big for color washes.
*   **Palettes**:
    *   Flat: For acrylics or water color.
    *   Knives: For thick paint mixes.
    *   Cups: For water or liquid paint.

4.  Other Useful Supplies:

*   **Blending Tools**:
    *   Tortillions: good for shading with charcoal or pencil.
    *   Fingers: To quickly blend soft shading.
*   **Rulers**:
    *   Useful for even designs and structures.
*   **Fixatives**:
    *   Keeps your drawings from falling off.
*   **Storage**:
    *   Boxes for small items.
    *   Folders for artwork.
    *   Organizers for desk.

5.  Picking Gear:

*   Think about what you're using (pencils, ink, paint) because each needs different paper and tools.
*   Thick paper is a must for paint.
*   For art on the go, get a spiral sketchbook and a pencil set.
*   For art, you want to last, get acid free paper and super durable colors.

6.  Taking Care of Your Stuff:

*   Sharpen and cap your pencils to keep them safe.
*   Wash your brushes now!
*   Keep sketchbooks flat to avoid bending.
*   Keep art away from sun to protect it.

7.  Pro Tips:

*   Try different medias to find new styles.
*   Gradually add colors for depth.
*   Use textured paper for cool designs.
*   Keep a journal for art to get skills.
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