Where to buy supplies
Base Supplies Kit
5-pencil method supply kits are now available.
They are US$34.95.
Go checkout the kit.
Other supplies are available here.
Supplies from Dick Blick
If you prefer to buy specific items, here are links to the supplies from Dick Blick.
Sanford Turquoise Drawing Pencils
You’ll need the 4H, 2H, HB, 2B, and 4B. I recommend getting 2 of each pencil because it’s much better to draw with a full-length pencil and so you’ll want switch to a fresh pencil once the pencil becomes too short.
Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Board Pads
Be sure to get the Vellum surface. There are 3 sizes that you many find useful:
1) the 9″x12″ is good for carrying and doing exercises (item #13307-1003)
2) the 11″x14″ is good for exercises and is nice because it gives a little more room to work in and not be cramped around the edges of your drawing (item #13307-1005)
3) the 19″x24″ is what you’ll need when doing a portrait. It’s important to have this larger size so there’s enough room around the edges and doesn’t cramp your drawing (item #13307-1001)
Design Kneaded Rubber Eraser
Be sure to get the largest size. It’s good to have 2 or 3 of these around. (item #21502-2720)
X-Acto “Powerhouse” Electric Pencil Sharpener
(Here’s a better deal at Staples)
X-Acto “Powerhouse” Electric Pencil Sharpener
Blick Sketch Pad Boards
This is an optional item but is very handy when drawing a portrait on a large sheet. This is particularly helpful if you need to transport your drawing. (item #22945-1002)
Other items that I can’t find through Dick Blick or don’t have a recommendation on are …
1) An 18″ clear plastic ruler
2) The 2″ camel-hair brush
3) The electric eraser I use is no longer made and I’ve been experimenting with several other models. There are only a couple of models made that will work. I hope to be able to make a recommendation on which electric eraser is best soon.
4) Of course, the canning lid will need to be purchased somewhere other than an art store.
5) The standard swivel-arm lamp has a plastic base and tends to break. I recommend getting a lamp with a metal base, but these are generally close to a $100.