Nature Journaling Supply List
Welcome! I’m looking forward to exploring nature journaling with you. I’ve tried to keep this list short and simple. You may have many of these supplies already — if so, feel free to use what you have, rather than buying new/expensive materials. You can find a printable-version of this list here: PCC_CRN15299_nature_journaling
. . .
Short list: sketchbook, pencil(s), pen(s), eraser, watercolor paints and a couple small to medium brushes, paper towel or rag. Optional: magnifying glass or loupe, small ruler.
. . .
Sketchbook:
Pick one that feels comfortable to you. I like 6×9 hardcover journals (the kind available at Michaels or Fred Meyers), but we’ll be using watercolors, so you may prefer to a sketchbook with mixed-media or watercolor paper. Spiral-bound sketchpads also work, but it can be awkward to bump against the spirals at times.
Pencil:
Any standard HB pencil. You may also want to experiment with a? H or 2H pencils, a mechanical pencil, or even a light blue or sienna pencil. (I like the lighter H and 2H pencils to avoid pencil smudges, while the blue/sienna colors work well with watercolors.)
Eraser:
Any basic eraser. (My favorite is the Staedler Mars Plastic eraser.) Kneadable erasers are also useful for lightening pencil lines without erasing them completely.
Pen(s):
A ballpoint works great for sketching. Optionally, waterproof pens (such as the micron fineliner) are useful as well.
Watercolors:
Any set with the three primary colors and a couple extras. For beginners on a budget, the Prang 16-Oval tray is a good option. If you want to a more mid-level set, look for the Winsor-Newton Cotman Field Travel set (make sure it includes Permanent Rose and Ultramarine).
Paint brushes:
For travel, I like to use a set of Pentel Aquash brushes. You can use any standard watercolor brushes, though, preferably with a small and medium round brush and one larger round or flat brush.
Other gear:
A small tub for water, plus paper towels or a rag. I also like to have a small ruler and either a magnifying lens or loupe, but will bring some spares for this class.