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getting started:
art supplies-
setting up your space
Suggested Supplies
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Basic paper: (This could be any of the following) blank computer paper, an art notebook, watercolour or multimedia paper. You might want bigger multimedia paper (18″ x 24), but it is not necessary.
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A pencil, pen or marker(s)
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Some type of crayons: wax crayons, oil pastels or chalk pastels.
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Some kind of paint: watercolour, tempura or acrylic
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A few paintbrushes of different sizes
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Something to mix your paint on, this could be a palette or just a yogurt container lid!
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Scissors
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Some kind of glue (glue stick, white, or tape
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A journal or paper to write on
Groups and sessions are designed to be flexible. You could do the whole group with just paper, wax crayons and a type of paint if necessary. Please don't feel like you need to have all of these things to get started or that you need to stick to these things. You can get creative and you can think outside the box. Look around your home or your neighbourhood and gather what inspires you. Notice what feels like a YES to you.
Extras
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old magazines or books for collage
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string, fabric or yarn
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glue gun
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air dry clay
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different colours and weights of paper
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sequins or glitter!
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different natural materials like sticks or rocks or feathers
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anything your heart desires! (notice what materials you are drawn towards and attracted to)
Where Do I Go?
If you want to order art supplies and are based in Canada you can check out:
Opus https://opusartsupplies.com
Desseres https://www.deserres.ca
Beam Paints https://beampaints.myshopify.com/
I suggest checking out your locally owned art stores if able.
America:
Blick: https://www.dickblick.com/
Michaels https://locations.michaels.com/
Visit your local Dollar Store or Walmart if you are on a tight budget! They often have a large selection of art and craft materials.
I also suggest start by shopping your home! See what you already have. Gather that scrap fabric that you keep in your closet!
Setting Up Your Space & Getting Ready
Try your best to give yourself 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the session to make sure everything is set up.
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Find a quiet place where you can talk freely and won't be overheard. If you remain indoors and there are other people in nearby rooms, let them know you won't be available during that time period and should not be interrupted.
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If possible, designate one area as the place you will sit for all your art therapy sessions.
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Try and find a place that is comfortable and where you can sit at a table or on the floor with room for your art making. Or perhaps you sit on your couch or bed, but you have a portable lap table. Whatever works for you!
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Make a ritual out of entering this area and creating a comfortable place for your session.
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Collect everything you will need and have it nearby: a glass of water, a cup of tea or coffee.
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Place your art materials within reach of yourself in an organized way. Perhaps you also have tissues, blankets, pillows or sensory objects that help you to ground.
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Attend to your physical needs before the session begins. Perhaps you stretch, use the washroom or do some breathing exercises before starting.
