SIMPLE, SMART & SUPER USEFUL
Being an artist isn’t just about technique it’s also about finding clever ways to make your creative life easier. Whether you’re painting late at night or trying to save materials, these 5 art hacks are game-changers. They’re simple, effective, and use things you probably already have at home!
1. Use an Old Gift Card as a Palette Knife🎨
We’ve all seen artists using palette knives to spread paint and create texture but what if you don’t have one? Here’s a hack: grab an old gift card, ID card and use it as your DIY palette knife.
Why it works:
The plastic is flexible but firm enough to move thick paints around. You can spread color smoothly, scrape back layers, or use the edge to create crisp lines.
Extra tip:
Cut the edge into waves or points for fun effects. It’s especially useful for acrylic or mixed media work when you want texture without buying new tools.
2. Bring Frayed Brushes Back to Life with Hot Water🖌️
Got a favorite brush that’s lost its shape? Don’t throw it away just yet. You can revive it with a bit of hot water.
How to do it:
Boil some water and pour it into a cup. Dip the bristles (just the tip!) into the water for 10–15 seconds. Then reshape the brush gently with your fingers and let it dry flat.
Why this helps:
The heat softens the bristles and allows them to reset into their original shape. It’s a lifesaver for older brushes or ones that accidentally got left in water too long.
3. Rubber Band Over Jar = No More Paint Drips 🫙
If you’re tired of wiping your brush on the rim of your paint jar and dealing with all the mess it creates try this simple trick.
How to do it:
Wrap a rubber band around the mouth of your paint jar or water cup. Use it as a clean edge to wipe off excess paint.
Why it’s genius:
No more messy jar rims or wasted paint. It also keeps your brush cleaner and your paint mix more consistent.
4. Use Masking Tape for Sharp, Clean Edges✂️
Want those professional, clean lines in your paintings? Whether you’re doing abstract shapes, borders, or just want a neat background, masking tape is your new best friend.
How to use it:
Stick down masking tape on your canvas or paper before painting. Press firmly to seal the edges. Once your paint is completely dry, peel off the tape slowly.
Why this works:
It keeps your edges clean, prevents color bleeding, and adds a super crisp contrast. Just make sure the tape isn’t too sticky, test on a corner first to avoid tearing the paper.
5. Mistake Jar: Turn Failed Art into Something New💭
Every artist has pieces they don’t love. But instead of throwing them away, turn those “mistakes” into new creative material.
Here’s the idea:
Keep a jar or box for art scraps like old sketches, watercolor swatches, or cut-up pieces of failed paintings. Later, use them in collage work, journaling, mood boards, or layered mixed media pieces.
Why it helps:
It turns disappointment into opportunity. Plus, flipping through your mistake jar can inspire new color palettes, compositions, or textures.
Small Hacks, Big Impact✅
Art is full of trial and error but that’s where the fun lives. These hacks aren’t just quick fixes they’re little boosts that help you create more comfortably and confidently.
Have a go-to art hack of your own? Share it in the comments we might just add it to our next post!
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