Painting & Drawing Supplies: Second-Hand vs New

In depth

Buying second-hand art supplies can seem like a savvy move – a way to stretch your budget when colour is calling. However, it’s crucial to approach this market with a considered eye. While the initial cost might be lower, the longevity and quality of materials used for painting and drawing often dictate whether that saving is truly worthwhile in the long run. Used supplies can present challenges, primarily due to their age and previous use, which can affect their performance and suitability for your projects.

When considering a second-hand watercolour palette, for example, examine the condition of the pans themselves. Are they scratched or worn? Do they exhibit any signs of staining from previous paints? Even if the paint remains usable, damaged pans can compromise the mixing process and potentially contaminate subsequent layers. Similarly, with pencils and charcoal, inspect the length of remaining pigment. A significantly depleted pencil will require frequent sharpening, negating some of the cost savings. Look carefully for cracks in wooden blocks used to hold charcoal sticks – these are a common point of failure due to changes in humidity levels affecting the wood’s structure. Examining the condition of erasers is also important; worn or crumbly erasers won't deliver consistent results and can damage paper surfaces.

Drawing pencils, particularly softer grades like 6B, tend to be amongst the most vulnerable used art supplies. The graphite itself degrades over time, especially if exposed to air and light. While a pencil might feel initially smooth, it will gradually become brittle and break more frequently. This is exacerbated by frequent sharpening – each turn of the blade introduces friction that accelerates this degradation. Charcoal pencils are similarly susceptible to crumbling, particularly softer grades. As with pencils, inspect for cracks in the wood casing – this indicates potential weakness and premature failure. Watercolour paints, especially pan sets, can suffer from issues if they’ve been stored improperly. Moisture build-up within the pans can cause the pigment to clump or become unusable. Examine the seals on the lid; a damaged seal will almost certainly lead to paint drying out.

Acrylic paints present a slightly different set of considerations. They are generally more durable than watercolour, but their tubes and containers can still be affected by age. Older acrylics may thicken or separate, making them difficult to mix consistently. Furthermore, the seals on lids can degrade, leading to an increase in pressure within the container – a potential hazard if the container is damaged. If you’re buying used acrylic paints, pay particular attention to their viscosity; thick, pasty paint often indicates that it has deteriorated.

There are situations where purchasing second-hand art supplies makes perfect sense. For example, a student just starting out in watercolour might benefit from acquiring a used, well-maintained set of pan paints at a fraction of the price of a new one. However, for professional artists or those who require consistent performance and quality, investing in new supplies is generally advisable. The cost difference often reflects the superior pigment concentration, durability, and overall longevity of new materials.

Ultimately, deciding between buying used and new art supplies comes down to your budget, priorities, and tolerance for risk. If you’re a casual artist or simply looking for occasional supplies, a carefully vetted second-hand option might be acceptable. But when it comes to serious artistic endeavours, where consistency and reliability are paramount, investing in new supplies is almost always the smarter choice – ensuring you have the tools you need to create your best work without unexpected failures or frustrating compromises.