When it comes to art supplies for mixed media, versatility is key. The Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set stands out as the best overall choice, offering a wide range of materials in a durable wooden case. For those just starting out, the iBayam Art Supplies, 195-Pack Deluxe Drawing Painting Kit provides excellent value and variety. Meanwhile, the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″ is ideal for artists seeking a dedicated, high-quality surface for experimental work. Buyers face the challenge of balancing variety, quality, and price—more options often mean more complexity and less focus on specific needs. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these top picks and how to choose the right supplies for your style.
Get art and craft supplies delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Key Takeaways
- Versatile sets with a wide range of media options make for better all-in-one solutions.
- Dedicated sketchbooks with heavyweight paper enhance durability and workability for mixed media techniques.
- Higher-priced options typically offer better quality materials, but budget-friendly sets can provide surprising value.
- Portability and storage are often overlooked but critical for artists who work on the go or in limited space.
- Considering your skill level and project scope is essential—beginners should prioritize ease of use, while professionals may seek extensive variety.
| Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″ – 30 Sheets |  | Best Overall for Versatile Use | Size: 9″x12″ | Sheets: 30 | Paper Weight: 98lb/160gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| iBayam Art Supplies, 195-Pack Deluxe Drawing Painting Kit, 3 Sketchbook Set |  | Best for Complete Art Sets and Beginners | Number of Sketchbooks: 3 | Sketchbook Sheets: 30 each | Acrylic Pads: 20 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set in Wooden Case |  | Best for Versatility and Skill Development | Number of Pieces: 181 | Mediums Included: Watercolor, acrylic, watercolor cakes, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, sketching pencils, charcoal pencils, graphite sticks, charcoal sticks | Tools Included: Brushes, sanding block, kneaded eraser, sharpener, color wheel, manikin, blending stumps | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook 9×12, Drawing Paper Pad 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm |  | Best for Flexible, On-the-Go Use | Size: 9×12 inches | Sheets: 60 | Weight: 98 lb/160 gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SuFly Mixed Media Sketchbook 9×12, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Heavyweight Paper |  | Best for Heavy Media and Practice | Size: 9×12 inches | Sheets: 60 | Weight: 98 lb/160 gsm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set with Mixed Media, Paint Kit & Brushes in Aluminum Case |  | Best Overall for Versatile Creativity | Number of Colored Pencils: 24 | Watercolor Pencils: 10 | Acrylic Paint Tubes: 12 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HIFORNY 136 PCS Drawing & Sketching Set with Pencils, Watercolor, Charcoal, Colored Pencils, Sketchbook, Watercolor Book, Coloring Book, and Accessories |  | Best for Beginners and On-the-Go Artists | Number of Pencils: 9 types including charcoal, graphite, colored, watercolor, metallic, white charcoal, woodless graphite, colorless blender, eraser pencil | Sketchbook Size: 6 x 9 inches | Sketchbook Pages: 50 pages (30 white, 10 toned tan, 10 black) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Darnassus 132-Piece Art Set, Deluxe Professional Color Set with Portable Case |  | Best for Versatile Creativity and Beginners to Intermediate Artists | Color Pencils: 22 | Oil Pastels: 40 | Markers: 18 dual-tipped, 6 additional | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixed Media Art Set with Art Easel, Complete Art Supplies Kit |  | Best for At-Home and School Use with Easel Functionality | Number of Items: 55 | Brand: Artbreezing | Model Name: Art Paint Set | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″ – 30 Sheets
This sketchbook stands out for its high-quality, acid-free paper that handles watercolor, acrylic, pastel, and ink without bleed-through, making it a reliable choice for diverse mixed media projects. Compared with the MOFUNY Sketchbook, it offers fewer sheets but features micro-perforated pages for cleaner removal, which is ideal for artists who want to showcase or gift their work. However, its limited 30 sheets may not satisfy those working on larger or multiple projects, and the textured surface might not suit highly detailed or precise work. The spiral binding allows the book to lay flat, enhancing ease of use across media.
Pros:- High-quality, acid-free, bleed-resistant paper
- Spiral binding lays flat for comfortable use
- Micro-perforated pages for easy removal
- Suitable for watercolor, acrylic, pastel, and ink
Cons:- Limited to 30 sheets, which may be insufficient for extensive projects
- Heavyweight paper may not be ideal for very wet media without bleed-through
Best for: Artists of all levels who want a versatile, portable sketchbook suitable for multiple media and gifting.
Not ideal for: Prolific artists or those working on large projects, as the 30-sheet limit may be restrictive.
- Size:9″x12″
- Sheets:30
- Paper Weight:98lb/160gsm
- Binding:Spiral bound
- Perforations:Micro-perforated
- Material:Acid-free, fade-resistant
Our verdict“This sketchbook is perfect for artists seeking a versatile, portable option for mixed media experimentation and gift-giving.”
iBayam Art Supplies, 195-Pack Deluxe Drawing Painting Kit, 3 Sketchbook Set
This extensive kit offers a broad array of drawing, painting, and mixed media supplies, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those wanting a comprehensive set. Compared to the Colour Block 181-Piece Set, it includes more sketchbooks and a wider variety of supplies, organized neatly in a durable wooden case, ideal for travel and storage. Its main tradeoff is that the sheer volume of materials can be overwhelming for new artists, and there’s limited detail on the quality of individual items, which may affect their performance. It excels for those starting out and looking for an all-in-one solution.
Pros:- Wide variety of supplies for drawing and painting
- Organized in a durable wooden case for portability
- Suitable for a range of skill levels, especially beginners
Cons:- Large number of supplies may be overwhelming for some users
- No specific info on the quality or durability of individual items
Best for: Beginners or hobbyists who want a complete, organized art kit for multiple media at home or on the go.
Not ideal for: Experienced artists or those seeking high-end, professional-grade supplies, due to the lack of detailed quality info.
- Number of Sketchbooks:3
- Sketchbook Sheets:30 each
- Acrylic Pads:20 sheets
- Drawing Pads:20 sheets
- Canvases:3
- Colored Pencils:24
- Oil Pastels:24
- Watercolors:24
Our verdict“This set makes the most sense for budding artists seeking an all-in-one kit to explore mixed media without needing separate purchases.”
Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set in Wooden Case
This 181-piece set is a comprehensive selection perfect for experimenting across multiple media, from watercolor to oil pastels and charcoal. It includes a broad range of tools and mediums, packed in a sturdy wooden case, making it suitable for artists of all skill levels, especially those eager to explore diverse techniques. Compared to the iBayam Deluxe Kit, it offers more mediums and tools, but the extensive variety might be daunting for absolute beginners who prefer a simpler starter set. The absence of specific quality ratings for individual supplies could be a drawback for serious artists seeking professional-grade materials.
Pros:- Wide range of mediums and tools for creative exploration
- Portable, well-organized in a durable wooden case
- Suitable for all skill levels, from novice to professional
Cons:- Extensive variety may be overwhelming for beginners
- No detailed info on the quality of individual supplies
Best for: Intermediate to advanced artists looking for a versatile, all-in-one set to expand their mixed media repertoire.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those seeking a simplified starter kit, due to the large variety and potential complexity.
- Number of Pieces:181
- Mediums Included:Watercolor, acrylic, watercolor cakes, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, sketching pencils, charcoal pencils, graphite sticks, charcoal sticks
- Tools Included:Brushes, sanding block, kneaded eraser, sharpener, color wheel, manikin, blending stumps
- Storage:Wooden case
Our verdict“This set offers an excellent foundation for artists wanting to experiment with many media types, though may be too complex for absolute beginners.”
MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook 9×12, Drawing Paper Pad 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm
The MOFUNY sketchbook provides 60 sheets of thick, recyclable mixed media paper that supports watercolor, acrylic, charcoal, and more, with a ring binding that allows 360-degree rotation. Compared to the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″, it offers double the sheets but a similar paper weight, making it better suited for artists who need more space for their work. Its flexible binding and lightweight design make it ideal for artists working outside or traveling. However, the ring binding may wear with frequent use, and it might not support very heavy or textured mediums requiring thicker paper.
Pros:- Thick, high-quality paper that prevents bleed-through
- Flexible, 360-degree ring binding for ease of use
- Supports watercolor, acrylic, pencil, and charcoal
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets, not enough for large projects
- Ring binding may be less durable over time
Best for: Artists who need a durable, portable sketchbook for multiple mediums and frequent use on the go.
Not ideal for: Artists working with very thick or textured media that require specialized, heavier paper, or those needing a large number of sheets for extensive projects.
- Size:9×12 inches
- Sheets:60
- Weight:98 lb/160 gsm
- Binding:Ring binding
- Material:Recyclable mixed media paper
Our verdict“This sketchbook is best suited for artists seeking a portable, versatile option for diverse media on the move.”
SuFly Mixed Media Sketchbook 9×12, 60 Sheets, 98lb/160gsm Heavyweight Paper
The SuFly sketchbook features heavyweight 98lb/160gsm paper that handles a variety of media, including watercolor, acrylic, pastel, and ink, making it suitable for more textured or wet applications. Compared with the Mixed Media Sketchbook 9″x12″, its heavier paper offers better support for heavier media, but the spiral binding might be less ideal for framing or mounting artwork. Its durable hard cover and perforated pages make it a solid choice for students and hobbyists who need a sturdy, practical sketchbook for daily use. However, the 60 sheets may not suffice for frequent or extensive projects, and the spiral binding could wear over time.
Pros:- Heavyweight, supportive paper suitable for various mediums
- Perforated pages for easy removal and display
- Durable hard cover with lay-flat spiral binding
Cons:- Limited to 60 sheets, which may not last long for frequent use
- Spiral binding less suitable for mounting or framing
Best for: Students and hobbyists practicing with heavy media or needing a durable, portable sketchbook for classwork and projects.
Not ideal for: Artists working on very large or long-term projects requiring more sheets or a more refined binding for mounting.
- Size:9×12 inches
- Sheets:60
- Weight:98 lb/160 gsm
- Binding:Spiral
- Cover:Hard cover
- Paper Type:Mixed media
Our verdict“This sketchbook offers a sturdy, versatile option for artists working with heavier media or needing a durable practice pad.”
Color Block 151-Piece Professional Art Supply Set with Mixed Media, Paint Kit & Brushes in Aluminum Case
This expansive set stands out for its broad selection of supplies, making it ideal for artists who want to experiment across various mediums without purchasing individual products. Compared to the smaller, more specialized sets like the HIFORNY 136 PCS, the Color Block kit offers more variety, but this can also be overwhelming for beginners who prefer a focused starter kit. The aluminum case facilitates portability and organization, perfect for artists on the move. However, the sheer range of materials means quality may vary, and some users might find the assortment too extensive for their current skill level. This pick makes the most sense for experienced mixed media artists or dedicated hobbyists eager to explore multiple techniques in one package.Pros:- Extensive variety of tools and mediums for experimentation
- Portable, durable aluminum case for travel and organization
- Encourages creative exploration with multiple media
Cons:- Potentially overwhelming for complete beginners
- Variable quality across different supplies
Best for: Artists of all skill levels looking for a comprehensive, portable mixed media starter set
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer curated, high-quality essentials without feeling overwhelmed by too many options
- Number of Colored Pencils:24
- Watercolor Pencils:10
- Acrylic Paint Tubes:12
- Watercolor Paint Tubes:12
- Watercolor Cakes:18
- Soft Pastels:24 color tone + 7 grey tone
- Sketching Pencils:9
- Charcoal Pencils:3
- Case Material:Aluminum
Our verdict“This set is best suited for experienced artists or dedicated hobbyists who want a versatile, all-in-one kit.”
HIFORNY 136 PCS Drawing & Sketching Set with Pencils, Watercolor, Charcoal, Colored Pencils, Sketchbook, Watercolor Book, Coloring Book, and Accessories
This set offers a well-rounded collection of professional-grade drawing tools, making it a strong choice for beginners and artists who want a portable, all-in-one kit. Unlike the larger Color Block set, it provides a more manageable selection of supplies, including sketchbooks and multiple types of pencils, which simplifies the learning process. The nylon case enhances durability and portability, perfect for artists who sketch outdoors or at classes. However, the variety can still feel intimidating for absolute novices, and the pencils may need frequent sharpening, which could disrupt creative flow. This kit makes the most sense for beginners or students seeking a comprehensive yet accessible set for diverse projects.Pros:- Wide range of professional drawing and coloring tools
- Portable, durable nylon case for easy transport
- Includes sketchbooks and watercolor books for diverse projects
Cons:- Large supply quantity may be overwhelming for some
- Frequent sharpening needed for pencils
Best for: Beginners or students seeking a portable, all-in-one drawing and mixed media starter kit
Not ideal for: Advanced artists looking for professional-grade, high-end supplies or specialized tools
- Number of Pencils:9 types including charcoal, graphite, colored, watercolor, metallic, white charcoal, woodless graphite, colorless blender, eraser pencil
- Sketchbook Size:6 x 9 inches
- Sketchbook Pages:50 pages (30 white, 10 toned tan, 10 black)
- Coloring Book Size:A5, 20 illustrations
- Watercolor Book Size:A5, 12 pages
- Watercolor Paper GSM:300GSM
- Case Dimensions:12” x 8.74”
- Material:Nylon
Our verdict“This set is ideal for beginners or students wanting a comprehensive, portable kit for versatile artistic exploration.”
Darnassus 132-Piece Art Set, Deluxe Professional Color Set with Portable Case
This set combines a generous selection of coloring and painting supplies in a compact case, making it suitable for both beginners and hobbyists who want a variety of media without clutter. Its focus on color pencils, oil pastels, and markers complements other sets like the Color Block kit, but with a more streamlined selection for quick, versatile projects. The limited watercolor options could be a drawback for artists primarily interested in painting, yet the variety of media supports diverse mixed media approaches. The compact case enhances portability, but some users might find the number of supplies overwhelming or feel it lacks specific high-end materials for professional work.Pros:- Wide variety of art supplies for versatile use
- Compact, lightweight case for portability
- Suitable for all skill levels and ages
Cons:- Limited watercolor paint quantity for extensive projects
- Some may find the variety overwhelming
Best for: Artists of all ages and skill levels seeking a portable, versatile color and drawing set for mixed media projects
Not ideal for: Artists primarily focused on watercolor painting or those seeking high-end professional supplies
- Color Pencils:22
- Oil Pastels:40
- Markers:18 dual-tipped, 6 additional
- Watercolor Paints:18
- Accessories:Pencil Sharpener, Eraser, Palette, Brush, Writing Papers, Art Papers
- Case:Portable, lightweight
Our verdict“This set is best for artists who want a flexible, portable collection of color and drawing tools for casual or mixed media use.”
Mixed Media Art Set with Art Easel, Complete Art Supplies Kit
This set offers a comprehensive approach with a built-in easel, making it especially appealing for artists who prefer to work at a dedicated station, whether at home or school. The inclusion of acrylic and watercolor paints, brushes, colored pencils, and drawing accessories makes it a versatile choice, but the limited details about specific paint types and quantities suggest it’s better suited for casual or beginner projects. The wooden easel doubles as storage, adding convenience, yet it might not meet the needs of professional artists requiring more specialized or high-end materials. Compared to the more varied but less structured sets like the Color Block kit, this offers a more integrated workspace.Pros:- Includes a wide variety of high-quality supplies appropriate for all skill levels
- Sturdy, portable easel doubles as storage for convenience
- Ideal for both learning and casual creation
Cons:- Limited information on specific paint types and quantities
- Designed more for casual use than professional projects
Best for: Beginners, students, or casual artists who want a complete, portable studio with an easel for versatile projects
Not ideal for: Professional artists seeking high-end, specific materials or large-scale studio setups
- Number of Items:55
- Brand:Artbreezing
- Model Name:Art Paint Set
- Warranty:1 Year
Our verdict“This set is best for beginners or casual artists seeking a complete, portable art station with an easel.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on their versatility, material quality, ease of use, and overall value. We prioritized sets that offer a broad range of media—such as paints, pencils, and papers—since mixed media work benefits from flexibility. Durability and paper quality were key factors, especially for sketchbooks meant to handle wet and dry media. Price was also considered, but not at the expense of essential features like portability and construction quality. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and professional-grade options, aiming to help both beginners and seasoned artists find suitable supplies.Factors to Consider When Choosing Art Supplies For Mixed Media
Choosing art supplies for mixed media involves several important considerations. The right tools can elevate your work, while the wrong ones may hinder your creativity or lead to frustration. Understanding key factors like material quality, versatility, and storage options can help you make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls such as overspending on unnecessary items or selecting incompatible media.Material Quality and Compatibility
High-quality materials are essential for mixed media, especially when working with wet and dry techniques. Look for papers with heavyweight, acid-free, and textured surfaces that can handle watercolor, ink, and pencil without warping or deteriorating. Lower-quality options may tear easily or not hold up under multiple layers, so investing in durable media is often worthwhile for longer-lasting artwork.
Versatility and Range of Supplies
Mixing different media requires a broad selection of tools, from paints to pencils to adhesives. Sets that combine various options in one package can save time and money, but ensure they include the media you prefer. Overly specialized kits may limit your experimentation, so consider your current skill level and future projects when choosing a set.
Portability and Storage
If you frequently work outdoors or have limited studio space, portability becomes a significant factor. Compact, organized cases or sketchbooks with protective covers help keep supplies accessible and in good condition. Larger, stationary setups might prioritize variety over portability but can be less flexible for on-the-go work.
Price and Value
While investing in quality pays off, balance your budget with your needs. Starter artists might find value in affordable kits that cover basic supplies, whereas professionals should consider higher-end options for durability and performance. Remember, the most expensive set isn’t always the best; focus on the materials that align with your style and projects.
Skill Level and Ease of Use
Beginners should prioritize user-friendly supplies that don’t overwhelm, such as pre-selected sets with clear instructions. Experienced artists may seek extensive variety and professional-grade tools to refine techniques. Consider how much time you want to spend learning new media versus creating, and select supplies that match your comfort level and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine different brands of art supplies in my mixed media projects?
Yes, mixing brands can be beneficial, as different brands often excel in specific media or textures. However, compatibility is key—ensure that paints, papers, and other media are compatible with each other to prevent issues like bleeding, warping, or poor adhesion. Testing small samples first can help determine how well different supplies work together in your specific projects.
What is the best type of paper for mixed media?
The best paper for mixed media is heavyweight, acid-free, and textured, typically around 140-300 lb (300-600 gsm). This type of paper can handle various wet and dry media without tearing or warping. For flexibility, consider papers labeled as suitable for watercolor, acrylic, and mixed media work, ensuring they’re durable enough for multiple layers and techniques.
Should I buy a complete art set or individual supplies?
Choosing between a complete set and individual supplies depends on your budget, skill level, and specific needs. Sets are convenient and often cost-effective, providing a broad range of media for experimentation. However, individual purchases allow for more tailored selections, especially if you prefer certain media or want to upgrade specific tools over time. Balance your desire for variety with the quality of each item.
How important is storage for mixed media supplies?
Proper storage is vital for maintaining the condition of your supplies, especially when working with multiple media types. Organized cases or containers prevent damage and make it easier to access materials when inspiration strikes. For artists with limited space, compact storage solutions that protect supplies from dust and moisture are worth investing in, as they extend the lifespan of your tools.
Can beginners effectively use professional-grade art supplies?
Yes, beginners can use professional-grade supplies, but they should start with smaller quantities or basic versions to avoid feeling overwhelmed. High-quality tools often produce better results and are more forgiving, encouraging learning and experimentation. As skills develop, investing in more advanced supplies can further elevate your work, but initial choices should prioritize ease of use and learning curve.
Conclusion
The best overall pick for versatile, all-in-one functionality is the Colour Block 181-Piece Mixed Media Art Set, perfect for artists seeking a broad range of materials. Budget-conscious beginners will find exceptional value in the iBayam Art Supplies, 195-Pack Deluxe Drawing Painting Kit, while professionals or serious hobbyists should consider the Darnassus 132-Piece Art Set for high-quality, comprehensive options. For those just starting out, a dedicated sketchbook like the MOFUNY Mixed Media Sketchbook offers a reliable surface for experimentation. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and project scope—so select supplies that match your artistic ambitions.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.Halloween Picks
halloween
