Frequently Asked Questions

If you don't see the answer to your question, ask an expert!

Is it expensive to take up art as a hobby?

Art has the reputation of being an expensive hobby, when in truth some pencils, an eraser and paper will provide hours of relaxation for only a few dollars. Giving children a box of crayons for “quiet time” has been mother’s trick through the decades. Why does it work? We all have an innate desire to transfer the images in our mind on to something like paper, a canvas or the wall, for others to see. It is our most primitive form of communication.

How do I know if a particular product is safe to use?

Check the label. All art materials sold in the United States are subject to the Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act (Public Law 100-695). This law requires that all art materials be reviewed to determine the potential for causing a chronic hazard and that appropriate warning labels be put on those art materials found to pose a chronic hazard.  The AP (Approved Product) Seal identifies art materials that are safe and certified in a toxicological evaluation by a medical expert to contain no materials in sufficient quantities to be toxic or injurious to humans, including children, or to cause acute or chronic health problems.

For links and more information on art materials safety, visit this page. 

What makes a material archival?

Archival techniques use materials that are least likely to alter or change the artwork or item. Any material that comes in contact with valuable artwork must be as chemically inert as possible. Archival papers are alkaline papers that will not deteriorate over time. National standards for permanence dictate that archival papers must be acid free and alkaline with a pH of 7.5 to 8.5, include 2 percent calcium carbonate as an alkaline reserve, and not contain ground wood or unbleached wood fiber.

For more information on archival techniques, visit http://www.hfmgv.org/explore/artifacts/archival.asp

What is the difference between economy or student grade and professional grade paint?

By adjusting the ratio of pigment to filler, or eliminating expensive pigments, manufacturers can provide a wide range of oils, acrylics or watercolors at non-intimidating prices. These are often referred to as “Student Grade.”

Artist or “Professional-Grade” paints have become common terms for paints in which manufacturers may use a higher quality of pigment in their colors.

Many beginners use the student grade strictly based on price point, but the paint you choose should ultimately depend on what you intend to do with it.  Consult with your local art supply retailer on the many factors involved in your choice of brand and/or color.

What is the best brand of paint/brushes/paper, etc.?

“Best” is a relative term. The intended use of the product and the desired outcome of your work determines what will be “best” for you. Ask your local art supply retailer to advise you of the working properties of, or differences between the products you wish to purchase.