5 Tools I like to always have on hand in the studio

 
My studio taboret in my studio.

My studio taboret in my studio.

Painting requires a bunch of tools and miscellaneous stuff, I wrote a blog post about my top five tools, here is my list for random things I like to have on hand, and within easy reach when working on a painting in my studio.

  1. Long knitting needles for measuring with I need to be extra accurate and the curvature of my paint brushes are not good enough. Knitting needles are straight on both sides from end to pointed tip

  2. Ruler/straightedge - when blocking in complex AND symmetrical shapes I find using a straight edge to set up my center lines both horizontal and vertical to be very helpful.

  3. Cosmetic application sponges - these are super handy for oiling-in a dry painting for the next step. Do not get fancy sponges, but simple plan ones work great.

  4. Washed cat food can or similar to hold linseed oil or medium. I like using a disposable cup for my oils and mediums. That way when they get yucky, I can get rid of them.

  5. A Level - to make sure my easel is level and is holding my painting surface level. Sometimes my easel shifts a bit, this helps out with compositions that being exactly square are important.

There are many more tools I use. These are just some of the less ordinary ones that help out in a pinch.