Getting Ready to Create!
Each week of Stirred to Wonder includes a sketchbook-based creative prompt. While the prompts can be modified to work with whatever materials you have on hand, we suggest the following items to make the most of your experience:
a mixed media sketchbook
a pencil and pen
colorful art supplies of your choice, such as a simple watercolor set and brushes, colored pencils, or markers
a glue stick or Modpodge
tape (try some pretty washi tape!)
scissors
a straight-edge or ruler
More ideas below!
Sketchbooks & Paper
Canson Mix Media Sketchbook is a staple and can be found at most local craft stores.
This pretty option from 1Canoe2.com works well for most media, even gouache and light watercolor!
Arches watercolor paper is a little splurge, but it is so lovely to paint on!
Pencils & Pens
No need to get fancy (unless you want to). We find any average pencil to be a great tool!
You can also find sets of pencils like this one at your local craft store. The numbers and letters represent how hard or soft the pencil lead is. If you just want to get one, start with an HB!
Micron pens are such a fun, versatile tool. This variety pack is a favorite.
Add Some Color!
This tiny paint set provides good quality and portability. It even comes with a little brush so you can paint on the go!
BRUSHES
For lettering: Round, size 1
General painting: Round, sizes 4, 6, 12
Try adding color with colored pencils — don’t forget a sharpener!
Holbein acryla goache paints fall in-between watercolor, goache, and acrylic. Although a little pricier, these paints come in many fun colors.
OTHER TOOLS
Washi tape can add a pop of color and pattern.
A simple glue stick or some Mod Podge will help you with a few collage-type art prompts!
General Tips and Considerations:
Even if you wouldn’t consider yourself ‘artistic’ or are brand-new to a creative practice, remember that Saint Pope John Paul II insists that “all men and women are entrusted with the task of crafting their own life: in a certain sense, they are to make of it a work of art, a masterpiece” (Letter to Artists, 2).
No matter how comfortable you are with creative expression, keep these things in mind during our time together:
Your sketchbook is a safe-haven. It’s a place to explore and practice, try, fail, and learn. Its pages offer a space for reflection and prayer. It’s a space where constructive criticism is allowed, but judgement is forbidden! Every messy mark provides an opportunity to learn and grow.
P is for process, not perfection. Start where you are, with the materials you have, the skills you have. Recognize God in the process, and trust that if you make yourself available to Him, He’ll bear the fruit in due season.
Consistency is key. ‘Showing up’ to your creative practice regularly will not only help develop your skills, but will also provide space for the Lord to work through you!
Sharing is caring. You don’t have to share with others if you don’t want to, but connecting over creative exercises and experiences can open up beautiful dialogue. Creating together can be so fruitful! Throughout STW, share your creative works with us via email (hello@scatterandsow.com) or on Instagram or Facebook. Be sure to use the #stirredtowonder and tag @scatterandsow.