Shopping for art tools? - don’t forget to look at the hardware store!

Discover the best hardware store tools for artists! From paintbrushes to rags, explore essential tools and techniques for perfecting your artwork and adding something a little different to your toolkit - you wont find these at the art supplies store.

Who says art supplies need to be limited to traditional art stores? Sometimes, the hardware store can be a treasure trove for unique tools at budget prices that can be repurposed for artistic endeavours. I find most of my favourite go to tools are from the hard ware store. Here are some unexpected tools I use, that you can find at the hardware store to apply paint in your mixed media artwork:

1. Paint Scrapers:

Head to the paint section of your local hardware store and look for paint scrapers. These handy tools are typically used for removing old paint, but they can also create fascinating textures in your artwork. Experiment with different scraper sizes and shapes to achieve a variety of effects, from controlled lines to expressive marks.

2. Foam Brushes:

While foam brushes are commonly used for applying paint or varnish to surfaces, they can also be excellent tools for mixed media artists. Their soft, absorbent foam heads allow for smooth paint application and can create interesting textures when dragged or stippled across your surface.

Masonry Trowels come in a variety of shapes and sizes - all are great for applying paint and harder to control than a palette knife if you are wanting to loosen up a bit.

3. Masonry Trowels:

Don't let the name fool you—masonry trowels can be surprisingly versatile in the art studio. These sturdy tools are typically used for spreading mortar or plaster, but they can also be used to apply paint to create bold, impasto effects. Play around with different trowel sizes and shapes to achieve various textures and marks.

4. Paint Rollers:

Paint rollers are commonly used for large-scale painting projects, but they can also be employed in mixed media art to cover larger areas quickly and efficiently. You can cut out sections of a foam roller to create unique textures and patterns to add intriguing designs to your artwork. You can also experiment with applying paint to only certain sections of the roller to create visual texture.

5. Squeegees:

Typically used for spreading or removing liquids, squeegees can be a valuable tool in mixed media art. They allow you to create smooth, even layers of paint or medium, as well as intriguing texture when dragged across your surface. Look for silicone or rubber-edged squeegees for the best results.

Remember, when using tools from the hardware store in your artwork, it's important to clean them thoroughly after each use to ensure they don't get gummed up with dried paint – unless of course, that is the look you are after 😊.

6. Fencing Brushes:

Fencing brushes are typically large with coarse bristles. They are great for applying paint or medium where you want texture and visible brushstrokes. Due to their size, they are also great if you want to loosen up and have less control of the marks you make.

Screwdrivers are great mark making tools

7. Screwdrivers and Nails:

Anything with a point or an edge can be used to scratch or scrape back into paint. Screwdrivers and nails are perfect and come in a variety of widths and sizes.

Rags - every studio needs a large bag for cleanup and creation!

8. Rags:

Rags are a must have in any studio for clean-up, but they can also be used to create art. You can apply or remove paint using a rag in many different ways. Experiment with wet and dry rags used to dab, wipe or squeeze paint onto or off your work to see what works best for you.

So there you have it - expand your horizons without shrinking your bank account and venture into the aisles of your local hardware store to discover unconventional tools that can enhance your mixed media art. Paint scrapers, foam brushes, masonry trowels, paint rollers, and squeegees are just a few examples of the unexpected gems you can find. Embrace the versatility of these tools, experiment with different techniques, and let your creativity flow. The possibilities are endless when you think outside the box and incorporate unconventional tools into your artistic journey. Happy exploring!

Hardware Store Tools for Artists