Should you invest in expensive art supplies, or are cheaper materials good enough?

In this episode of The Making & Musings Podcast, I explore a question that comes up again and again: do you really need expensive art materials to make good art?

I share my honest thoughts on both affordable and high-quality materials, and how each can support your creativity in different ways.

We gently explore:

• Are cheap art materials good for beginners?
• Do expensive art supplies make a difference?
• When is it worth investing in higher-quality materials?
• How can cheaper materials help you feel more آزاد and less precious about your work?

I talk about how using more affordable materials can help you loosen up, experiment, and create without fear of “wasting” supplies. At the same time, I also share why I love using higher-quality materials, and the difference they can make in terms of colour, texture, and overall experience.

Most importantly, I speak about something I feel quite strongly about: using your art materials fully. Not saving your “best” supplies for a special occasion, but allowing yourself to enjoy them as part of your everyday creative practice.

I also share when I personally reach for more affordable materials, and when I choose to use professional-quality supplies, so you can find a balance that feels right for you.

If you are building your art practice, starting a sketchbook, or wondering what materials you actually need, this episode will help you feel more confident in your choices and more relaxed in your approach.

Inside my creative community, we focus on making art regularly in a supportive and welcoming space. We paint together every Thursday, and you can always access the recordings to create in your own time.

If you have ever wondered which type of paint is best for beginners, or what the difference is between oil, acrylic, watercolour, and gouache, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Making & Musings Podcast, I talk you through the key differences between these four popular types of paint in a simple, calm, and practical way. I share how each one behaves, how it feels to work with, and what you might enjoy (or find challenging) about each medium.

We explore questions like:

• What is the difference between oil paint and acrylic paint?
• Is watercolour or gouache better for beginners?
• Which paint dries fastest?
• Which painting medium is easiest to start with at home?

I also share how I use these materials in my own art practice and sketchbooks. In my creative community, we mainly use watercolour and gouache, and sometimes acrylic paint markers, as they are accessible, versatile, and lovely to work with on a regular basis.

If you are starting your painting journey, returning to art after a break, or simply curious about trying a new medium, this episode will help you choose the right paint for you and feel more confident getting started.

I host gentle, weekly painting sessions every Thursday inside my creative community, where we explore sketchbooks, colour, and playful art-making together. You will also have access to all recordings, so you can create in your own time, at your own pace.

You can find me here on social media: Instagram 💕@makingsandmusingsFacebook 💕@makingsandmusingsShop 💕 https://www.makingsandmusings.com/shop​Freebies: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/freebiesBlog: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/blogPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/makingsandmusings

In this podcast episode, What I Did to Get Comfortable on Camera, I share how I slowly learned to feel at ease filming myself.I talk about my love for slow social media. The kind that takes a bit more time. For me, that means YouTube and podcasting. I love consuming slower content, and I wanted to create it too. But that meant learning how to be on camera without fear.I share what helped me get comfortable on camera over the years, both for YouTube, podcasting, and filming my painting and drawing courses. A big part of it was simply doing it, over and over again.I also talk about why I love seeing real people on camera. People in their pyjamas. People just back from a walk or a workout. Less polished. More human. That helped me realise I do not need perfect lighting, make-up, or a curated space to show up.This 10-minute episode is for artists and creatives who want to use YouTube or podcasting, but feel awkward or self-conscious on camera. I share gentle, realistic tips that helped me feel more confident over time.How I Got Comfortable on Camera – Slow Social Media, YouTube & PodcastingYou can find me here:Website: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/Online community: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/communityYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusingsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings

In this episode, I share how I truly prioritise art in my daily life. Not in a perfect way, but in a real and doable way. I talk about the small choices I make to ensure art stays important, even when life feels busy and full.

I explain the simple tricks I use to keep my sketchbook active and how I think about urgency and priority when deciding how to spend my time. I share how this way of thinking helps me protect space for creativity without guilt or pressure.

This is a very personal episode. I talk honestly about what works for me, what does not, and how I gently return to making art when I drift away from it. There is no ideal routine here, just practical ways to make art a regular habit.

I also speak about my creative community and how being part of a supportive space helps people prioritise art in their own lives. It is a calm, welcoming place where you can show up as you are and keep art going, one small step at a time. You can find the community here:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/community

If you would like to explore my classes, courses, and other creative projects, you can visit my website here:
https://www.makingsandmusings.com/

You can also find me and follow along on social media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings

The Cleverest Way to Save Big on My Sketchbook Course! 🎨📖

In this episode, I share a brilliant way for you to get the biggest discount ever on my Fill Your First Sketchbook in 30 Days course! By combining the waitlist discount and my creative community membership, you can save £62—which means you get two months of my community for free while taking the course. It’s a win-win!

Join the email waitlist for £25 off: www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook
Become a community member for an extra 20% (£37) savings: www.makingsandmusings.com/community

Follow me for more creative inspiration:
🌿 Instagram: @makingsandmusings
🎨 Facebook: Makings and Musings
📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings

Sketchbook Series – How to Develop Your Own Sketchbook Style

Finding your own artistic style can feel overwhelming, but here’s the secret—it happens naturally over time! In this episode, I’ll talk about what "style" really means, why you don’t need to force it, and how your sketchbook is the perfect place to explore and experiment. I’ll also share examples of famous artists whose styles evolved and why it’s completely okay for your own style to change too.

✨ Takeaway: Your style isn’t something you choose overnight—it’s something that grows with you. The best way to find it? Keep creating!

🎨 Challenge: Flip through your old sketchbooks and notice what you’re naturally drawn to. Then, try something new today and see how it feels!

📌 Let’s connect! Find me here:
🌍 Website: www.makingsandmusings.com
📷 Instagram: @makingsandmusings
📘 Facebook: Makings and Musings
📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings

You can now join the waitlist to my new course, Fill your first sketchbook in 30 days here:

https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

Sketchbook Series – The Difference Between a Sketchbook and a Finished Artwork

Do you ever feel like every page in your sketchbook needs to be "good"? In this episode, I’m exploring the important difference between a sketchbook and a finished artwork. Your sketchbook isn’t meant to be perfect—it's a space for play, practice, and exploration. I’ll share how great artists have used their sketchbooks, why process matters more than product, and how to let go of perfectionism so you can truly enjoy your creative journey.

✨ Takeaway: Your sketchbook is for YOU. Give yourself permission to experiment, make mistakes, and embrace the joy of creating without pressure.

🎨 Challenge: Today, take 5-10 minutes to fill a sketchbook page without worrying about the outcome. Just play!

📌 Let’s connect! Find me here:
🌍 Website: www.makingsandmusings.com
📷 Instagram: @makingsandmusings
📘 Facebook: Makings and Musings
📺 YouTube: Makings and Musings

You can sign up to my new course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

In this episode of our Sketchbook Series, I delve into the profound mental health benefits of maintaining a sketchbook. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, I share how the simple act of sketching has been a therapeutic outlet for me, aiding in processing emotions and reducing stress.

You can find my Sketchbook Course here:

https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

While I'm not a healthcare professional, numerous studies support the positive impact of creative activities on mental well-being. Here are five insightful studies highlighting these benefits:

1. Art Therapy's Role in Mental Health: This study discusses how art therapy can improve concentration, boost self-esteem, and reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels.
   Link: https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physician-health/art-mental-health-well-being-benefits-practicing-art-frank

2. Creative Arts Therapies and Mental Health: Research indicates that engaging in creative arts therapies can enhance focus, assist with processing emotions, and improve overall mental health.
   Link: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/the-intersection-of-art-and-health-how-art-can-help-promote-well-being

3. The Arts' Contribution to Mental Well-being: This article explores how participating in the arts enables individuals to manage various mental health conditions and psychological distress.
   Link: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/blogs/how-arts-can-help-improve-your-mental-health

4. Art Therapy's Effectiveness in Treating Trauma: A systematic review found that art therapy can be effective in treating traumatized adults, aiding in processing traumatic experiences and reducing related symptoms.
   Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553778

5. Creative Arts Enhancing Mental Health: An analysis of multiple studies found that art-based interventions significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly in pregnant and postpartum women.
   Link: https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/creative-arts-enhancing-mental-health

   
   

   Follow me for more creative inspiration:
   Instagram: @makingsandmusings
   Facebook: Makings and Musings
   Website: makingsandmusings.com

In this episode, I share practical ways to find inspiration in the world around you. Whether it’s nature, everyday objects, or simple moments, creativity starts with observation. Tune in for tips on cultivating curiosity, turning small details into art, and mindful challenges to spark your imagination.

Follow me for more creative inspiration:
Instagram: @makingsandmusings
Facebook: Makings and Musings
Website: makingsandmusings.com

Find the sketchbook course waitlist here:

https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

In this episode of the Sketchbook Series, Irene Ruby explores the different types of sketchbooks available and helps you choose the right one for your creative journey. From watercolour sketchbooks to mixed-media options, she shares her personal recommendations and tips on what to look for when picking the perfect sketchbook. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this episode will guide you in finding the ideal sketchbook for your needs.

Check out my Course: fill your first sketchbook in 30 days:

https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook

Follow Irene and Makings and Musings on social media for more inspiration and updates:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingsandmusings/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingsandmusings
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingsandmusings
• Website: http://www.makingsandmusings.com/