Before truly diving into your first work of creative genius, it’s important to consider your work space.  You’ll be spending a great deal of time there and it should be comfortable and inspiring for you.  I like to be near a window, standing or occasionally sitting at my easel.  You may enjoy working at a table.  What’s important is that you’re comfortable.  It’s essential to have these basic materials: 

• Proper lighting (more on this later)
• A chair or stool (even if you stand most of the time)
• Reference material (an old music  stand to support it works great)
• Your palette (a table with a sheet of glass is perfect)
• Paint (I use Gamblin based out of Portland, OR)
• Mineral spirits
• Paper towels 
• A hand held mirror 

Did I miss anything? I’d love to hear from you about any materials that you love to use!