brushes and other supplies
These are the exact brushes, paints, and surfaces I use in my studio every day. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned painter, these are tools I trust for professional results.
rosemary series 99 & 92
When I need the best quality brush for my small to medium details and just everyday painting with small rounds (which is MOST of my working day) these are my go to brushes, hands down. From the perfect point to the natural fibers that hold lots of paint and the general attention to detail overall with the brushes as well as customer service and quality delivery. A lot of care goes into these brushes and it shows. I take good care of mine so they last, but when it comes time to replace them I’m happy to choose these over and over!
Be sure to use my code “GAYERS” when checking out 🙂
princeton select series 3750
I use a variety of brushes as you will see through my process videos. Among those brushes you will see these little blue handle gems. These are an affordable synthetic brush that pack a punch. Do I prefer some more expensive natural hair brushes? Yes I do, however, for a long lasting and still high quality brush that doesn’t break the bank, I haven’t found anything that comes close. Even though I use other brand’s natural hair brushes you will still see me using these frequently in my videos and images.
gamblin galkyd lite gel
(formerly neo megilp)
I often experiment with my own medium recipes and will continue to do that. I also use turpentine or mineral spirits in my initial monotone layer. Once I’m further into a painting though, this is the medium I like the best. It has a nice buttery feel and works well as a glaze medium or just a nice medium for any painting style. It isn’t self leveling as the manufacturer points out so you need to be mindful of that if you want a perfectly smooth surface (which I do and am easily able to achieve with this medium). It dries relatively quickly and also with a satin finish which is important to me for a variety if reasons.
gamblin gamvar gloss
The quality that makes this varnish unique (as far as I’m aware) is that you can apply it once your painting is dry to the touch. Other varnishes require your painting to sit much longer, maybe even months. This varnish is also easy to apply and unlike other varnishes it is best if used sparingly in a single layer making it great for beginners who are afraid of varnishing as it is also super easy to remove with Gamsol. I have used this varnish exclusively for many years and it pairs SUPER well with the Galkyd Lite Gel (Neo Megilp). I am NOT sponsored by Gamblin and I use these products because they suite my personal tastes and methods
raphael softacryl 100
People always ask me about the varnish brush I’m using in most of my varnish videos and so here it is! I use a smaller brush for some of my smaller paintings but when I can I’m always using this one. It is specifically marketed as a varnish brush and is very soft. I have never lost a single bristle in my painting with this brush and am perfectly happy to recommend it to anyone. I take good care of it and have used it for years.
ampersand gessobord panels
My go-to everyday default surface for still life and trompe l’oeil painting. It’s archival, smooth, and works beautifully with both direct and layered oil techniques. The surface has very little texture but just enough for good friction with the brush and the panel is ready to use with no prep!
affiliate disclosure
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and trust as you will see throughout my social media posts and other content.