Painting outdoors, or "en plein air," is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature and let the natural world inspire your creativity. However, it also comes with its challenges—from unpredictable weather to logistical hurdles (hello, hiking to the perfect spot only to realize you've forgot your brushes!). After years of painting in various outdoor settings, I’ve gathered some tried-and-true gear to make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are my top five outdoor painting gear tips:
1) Bring a BIG Jug of Water
Whether you’re using watercolors or acrylics, having a large supply of water is essential. The number one mistake that beginner painters make with watercolor is not using enough water to clean brushes between colors. A big container of water makes for clearer colors, and for someone like me who keeps their palette "messy," cleaning brushes between colors in clear water is essential. Not only will you need water to clean your brushes and mix your paints, but it’s also vital to stay hydrated, especially on hot days. A big jug of water can double as a rinse station for your brushes and a lifesaver for you. Trust me, you’ll never regret bringing more water than you think you’ll need!
2) Wear Proper Gear (Especially in Cold Weather)
Outdoor painting can expose you to all kinds of weather conditions, which is part of the fun. For this reason, dressing appropriately is crucial. In colder weather, I recommend investing in thermal layers, a windproof jacket, warm mittens, and a great pair of waterproof boots. I also love my Vermont-based Skida neck warmer.
Being comfortable in your gear is essential so that you can focus on enjoying your painting.
3) Use a Painter's Pack that is Designed for Outdoor Artists
Transporting painting supplies can be a huge challenge, but a good painter’s pack makes it manageable. Look for a pack that has compartments for your brushes, paints, and other essentials, as well as straps to secure a tripod and a large canvas or drawing board. Keeping your materials organized and easily accessible is a game-changer when painting outdoors. My Mother-in-law got me this pack as a gift a couple years ago and it remains to this day one of the most useful and thoughtful gifts anyone has ever given me!
4) Bring a Pan Set of Watercolors
When it comes to painting with watercolors, you basically have 2 options: pans or tubes. Tubes are filled with liquid versions of colors, and pans are a kind of cake that is completely dry and needs water to be added to activate the color. For outdoor painting, portability is key, and a pan set of watercolors is one of the the best option. Compact and easy to carry, a good pan set allows you to travel light while still having access to a wide range of colors. You can experiment with your favorite brand, but my all time favorite is the Schmincke set.
5) Paint Brush Bamboo Roll
Brushes are expensive and prone to damage if they aren't stored properly. I've tried it all, and hands down the best method for storing brushes in or out of studio is this sushi-roll-type bamboo brush carrier. This allows brushes the air flow they need to dry, while also keeping the tips secure and protected from being smashed. Plus, there is plenty of room in the roll to store your favorite pencils and pens!
Outdoor Watercolor Painting Gear BONUS TIP : A Light Reflector
Natural light can be both a blessing and a challenge. Because I document my process for you, I am often combining painting and photography as I work. A light reflector helps me control shadows and direct natural light at just the right angle, and can be a life saver when shooting outdoors. The best thing about this light reflector is that it packs down really easily, making it perfect for all the on-the-go adventures.
Thats my top picks for outdoor watercolor painting gear! Hope this makes your next outing a little bit more organized so you can focus on the art. Enjoy the process and please share your results!
-Mira
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