Karen Sako Supply List: SKETCHING

A relaxed, creative approach to drawing and painting from life.
Whether you sketch with pencil, pen, watercolor, or gouache, bring supplies that inspire you. Keep your setup light and 
portable so you can focus on capturing the moment.
Core Essentials (All Students)
Sketchbook – Etchr Labs sketchbooks are highly recommended for their versatility with pencil, ink, watercolor, 
and gouache. Choose a comfortable size — 5x8" or 8x10" are ideal.
Pencils – HB, 2B, or 4B for sketching and shading
Eraser – kneaded or white vinyl
Waterproof Pen – Micron, Pitt Artist, or fountain pen with waterproof ink
Small Ruler or straight edge (optional)
Paper Towels or Rag
Water Cups – one for rinsing brushes, one for clean water
Small Bottle of Water – for refilling your cups
Spritzer / Misting Bottle – to rewet gouache or watercolor
Travel Brush or Water Brush (if using watercolor or gouache)
Tote, Backpack, or Pouch – for easy carrying
🎨 If You’re Working in Gouache
Recommended Colors: Suggest Holbein, Titanium White, Jet Black, Cyan, Magenta, Primary Yellow
Plus: Cobalt Teal, Orange, Burnt Sienna, Ultramarine Blue
Brushes – a few mid-size Aspen Princeton brushes (rounds and ats)
Palette – white enamel or plastic tray
Water Container – with lid if painting outdoors
Misting Bottle – keeps paints fresh and workable
💡 Tip: Gouache pairs beautifully with pencil and ink. Use white gouache to reclaim light and enhance highlights.
💧 If You’re Working in Watercolor
Travel Watercolor Set (pan or tube)
Brushes – rounds (sizes 6–10) and one small at
Watercolor Sketchbook – Etchr Labs or Stillman & Birn Beta
Tissues or Paper Towels – for blotting

✒ If You’re Working in Pen & Ink
Waterproof Pens – Micron, Pitt Artist, or fountain pen with waterproof ink
Brush Pen or Water Brush – optional for ink washes
Extra Ink Cartridge or Pen Refills
🌤 Optional but Handy
Colored pencils or watercolor pencils
Binder clips to hold sketchbook pages down