The Artist’s Secret Stash: Tools & Resources for Scrappy Creatives

Full Disclosure:
If you click one of the links below and buy anything on Amazon within 24 hours, I get a microscopic commission.

It costs you nothing, but it mildly irritates the same corporate gremlins who once removed my friend Pen De’Grof’s books because they “didn’t align with brand image.”

So if you enjoy supporting independent, stubborn, paint-splattered artists… or if you simply enjoy the idea that a few smug executives involuntarily fund my coffee habit, please click away.

I must admit to a sense of glee and joy with every penny I receive, knowing that this very minute, those same rich managers who put my friend Pen De’Grof out of business are now urgently having to have their recent acquisitions for their “Investment Portfolio” art collections authenticated.

Thank you for your support, you are making an old artist very happy.

Here are some of my recommended tools and resources to help struggling artists earn more from their art.
AND as a special treat!
Although most links are affiliate links, one special link is not and leads to a free prize you can download straight away. And you have already read the clue.

Click any link if you want to support a grumpy, underpaid creative… without spending any extra money.”

🎨 Digital Tools

XP-Pen Artist 12 Drawing Tablet
Affordable, beginner-friendly tablet that lets you practice digital art without breaking the bank. Perfect for artists who want to explore digital workflows while keeping costs low. Good enough to annoy anyone who says digital art isn’t real art..Check price and details on Amazon

Huion Inspiroy H640P Tablet
Compact, reliable, and budget-conscious tablet ideal for sketching, concept work, or starting a digital art career. No gatekeeping—just practical, functional design. You know what the art world doesn’t want you to see?” “Tools that actually help you survive, not just be another consumer.Check price and details on Amazon

Artist Drawing Glove
Keeps your hand smooth on tablets and paper while preventing smudges. Small investment that saves frustration and keeps you drawing longer.Check price and details on Amazon

🖌️ Traditional Art Supplies

Shuttle Art 101 Colours Alcohol Markers, Dual Tip Art Pens and Colourless Blender
Affordable marker set that covers a wide range of colours for illustration, journaling, or comics. Great for artists experimenting without expensive supplies. These are the ones that actually help you create, not continually spend money on art supplies.
Buy on Amazon

Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolour Pocket Set + Travel Brush & Paper Pad
Portable and durable watercolour kit for sketching anywhere. Helps you practice consistently without needing a large studio setup.
Buy on Amazon

Faber-Castell Wallet Pitt Pen Nibs Art Set, Assorted
Reliable, long-lasting pens for sketching, inking, or concept work. Affordable tools that let you focus on improving your craft rather than wasting money on gimmicks.
Buy on Amazon

📚 Books & Guides

Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist
Practical advice on selling your art, building income streams, and avoiding common traps. A must-read for anyone tired of gatekeepers dictating what counts as “real art.”
Get it on Amazon

How to Sell Your Art Online
Step-by-step guide to getting your art seen and sold online. Helps you bypass traditional galleries and middlemen, so you keep more of what you earn.Get it on Amazon

Steal Like an Artist
Encourages creativity through observation and remixing ideas. Perfect for rebellious artists learning to carve their own path without waiting for permission.
Get it on Amazon

💻 Workspace & Productivity

Adjustable LED Desk Lamp
Bright, adjustable light that keeps you painting or drawing longer without eye strain. Essential for artists who work irregular hours or cramped spaces.

Ergonomic Chair for Artists
Comfortable support for long drawing or painting sessions. Protects your back without fancy designer labels—just practical, reliable ergonomics.Check on Amazon

ERGOMAKER Standing Desk Converter
Allows flexibility to switch between sitting and standing. Helps you stay alert and creative without expensive studio upgrades.
Check on Amazon

🖼️ Practical Traditional Art Supplies

Golden Ratio / Proportional Divider
Classic tool for accurate composition and proportion. Helps you train your eye and build strong foundational drawing skills—without paying for expensive art classes.

6Pcs Sandpaper Pencil Sharpener

Unveiling a treasure trove of secrets, this book of thought-provoking content will take you on an exploration of the techniques, and consequences surrounding art forgery.

Cutting Mat Set A3

Small practical items that make life easier and protect your workspace. These cheap tools save time and keep your workflow smooth—perfect for a scrappy, rebellious artist setup.