Buying Guides
Art Supplies for Beginners in Pakistan: What to Buy First
Nov
Starting to draw or paint is exciting, but walking into an art shop can be confusing. You do not need everything at once. This guide explains what a beginner in Pakistan should buy first, what can wait, and how to choose between paints and markers.
Step 1: Start with sketching
Almost every artist starts with pencil drawing. It is cheap, forgiving and teaches you shapes, light and shadow.
- Sketch pencils in a few grades (for example 2H for light lines, HB, 2B and 4B or 6B for dark shading)
- A kneaded or soft art eraser
- A sketch book or drawing sheets with slightly thick paper
- A sharpener or a small cutter for a fine point
Once you are comfortable, charcoal pencils give richer blacks for portraits and still life.
Step 2: Add colour
When you want colour, choose one medium and learn it well before buying the next.
Colour pencils and crayons
The easiest way to start with colour, and great for children too. See our crayons and colour pencils.
Water colours
Water colours are affordable and portable. You need thick paper that does not wrinkle, two or three round brushes and a jar of water. They take practice, but the soft blended look is worth it.
Acrylic paints
Acrylics dry fast, cover well and work on canvas, wood and paper. They are a good choice for bold paintings and craft projects. Wash brushes before the paint dries.
Markers
Alcohol-based art markers give smooth, bright colour and are popular for illustration, anime-style drawing and design sketches. Use marker paper or thicker sheets so the ink does not bleed.
What can wait
- Large canvases and easels: start small on sheets or canvas boards
- Big professional paint sets: buy a few basic colours and mix the rest
- Special tools and mediums: add them when a project needs them
A simple beginner kit
- Sketch pencils set + eraser + sketch book
- One colour medium (colour pencils, water colours or acrylics)
- Two or three brushes if you chose paint
Browse everything in our Fine Arts section. We deliver across Pakistan with Cash on Delivery, and offer same-day delivery in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for beginners, water colours or acrylics?
Acrylics are more forgiving because you can paint over mistakes. Water colours are cheaper and easier to carry but need more practice.
What pencils do I need for sketching?
A small set with hard and soft grades, such as 2H, HB, 2B and 6B, is enough to start.
Can children use these art supplies?
Colour pencils, crayons and water colours are great for children. Use alcohol markers and acrylics with adult supervision.
