10 Painting Kit Accessories You Didn't Know You Needed: A Buying Guide

Painting kits are a fantastic way to dive into acrylic art with everything you need in one box—canvas, paints, brushes, and instructions. But even the most thoughtfully curated kit can be enhanced with a few extra accessories that most beginners don't think to buy. Whether you're working on a detailed landscape like "Sunset in Chicago" or a whimsical animal piece, having the right tools beyond the basics can make a huge difference in your comfort and final result.

Many new artists assume they must use only what comes in their kit, but the truth is that a small investment in accessories such as palette knives, brush sets, and paint storage solutions can unlock new techniques and prolong the life of your supplies. This buying guide covers ten underrated accessories that will help you get the most out of every Paintingtogogh kit, whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring pro.

Palette Knives – Unlock Texture and Dimension

Palette knives are one of the most transformative accessories for acrylic painters. While the brush that comes with your “Gwen’s Pretty Pink Hydrangeas” kit is perfect for fine petals, a palette knife lets you apply thick, buttery layers of paint that create stunning three-dimensional texture. Use it to mix colors on a palette or to scrape and spread paint directly on the canvas for an impressionistic effect.

A basic flexible steel palette knife is affordable and easy to clean. Look for a diamond-shaped blade that tapers to a point—it offers control for both broad strokes and fine details. Adding this tool to your setup will immediately expand your painting vocabulary and make floral or landscape pieces more dynamic.

• Tip: Clean your palette knife immediately after use with a dry cloth, then wash with soap and water to prevent paint from hardening on the blade.

Brush Sets – Invest in Variety and Precision

Most painting kits include a standard set of brushes, which is great for getting started. However, as you tackle pieces with fine lines or intricate details—like the feathers in “Birds of a Feather”—a dedicated brush set with a range of shapes and sizes becomes invaluable. Round brushes for thin lines, filbert brushes for soft edges, and flat brushes for broad strokes each serve different purposes.

When shopping for brush sets, look for synthetic bristles that hold their shape and snap back after use. A set of 10–12 brushes covering sizes 0 to 12 will give you all the flexibility you need. Keep your original kit brushes as backups and use your upgraded set for everyday painting—you'll notice a clear difference in control and paint flow.

Paint Storage – Keep Your Acrylics Fresh Longer

Acrylic paint dries fast, which is both an advantage and a challenge. The small pots in your kit are perfect for single sessions, but if you want to save leftover paint for another project, airtight storage is a must. Silicone paint palettes with lids are ideal—they let you mix colors, cover them, and reuse the paint the next day without drying out.

Another option is a set of small airtight jars or wet palettes that use a damp sponge to keep paint workable for days. This accessory is especially helpful when working on multi-session pieces or when you want to preserve custom mixes from a kit like “Sunset in Chicago.” Proper storage reduces waste and saves money over time.

• Tip: Spritz your palette with water before closing the lid to create a humid environment that slows drying.

Easels – Support Your Canvas Comfortably

While you can paint flat on a table, using an easel improves your posture and viewing angle, leading to better control and less fatigue. A sturdy tabletop easel is perfect for small- to medium-sized canvases found in most painting kits. It frees both hands and allows you to step back and assess your work from a distance.

For those who paint often or want to go larger, a floor-standing easel offers adjustability and stability. Consider a convertible model that can handle both canvas and boards. Even a budget-friendly metal easel will elevate your painting experience and make you feel like a professional. Pair it with a comfortable chair, and you're set for hours of creative flow.

Auxiliary Tools – The Little Extras That Add Up

Beyond the big-ticket items, a few small accessories can streamline your process. Disposable palette paper eliminates cleanup; silicone mixing cups are great for diluting paint without waste; and paper towels are essential for quick blotting. A brush holder or drying rack keeps bristles in shape, and a fine mist spray bottle lets you rewet paint on the palette.

For your first few kits, we recommend adding a small apron or smock to protect your clothes, and a pair of nitrile gloves if you dislike paint on your hands. While none of these are flashy, they collectively make painting sessions more efficient and enjoyable. They also help you maintain your supplies so that kits like “Chasing Waterfalls” can be painted with precision and ease.

• Tip: Store brushes upright in a container with bristles pointing up to prevent bending.

Investing in just a few key accessories can transform your painting experience from good to great. Whether you're adding textures with a palette knife, upgrading your brush set for finer details, or simply keeping your paints fresh with proper storage, each accessory helps you get the most out of your Paintingtogogh kit. Ready to elevate your next project? Explore the full collection of kits and accessories to find everything you need for your creative journey.