Plein Air Like a PRO!

Plein Air Like a PRO!

Your guide to taking your art (and your supplies) outside this summer. 

Ah, summer. The sun is shining, the breeze is inspiring, and your watercolors are practically begging for a field trip. That’s right—it’s plein air season, and whether you're new to outdoor painting or a seasoned sunset chaser, we’ve got tips, tricks, and tools to elevate your plein air game!

Plein Air Best Practices:

Before you set out on your next artistic adventure, keep these essentials in mind:

1. Pack Light, Paint Smart
You don’t need to haul your entire studio outdoors. Compact, travel-ready supplies are your best friend.

This week, grab the Daler & Rowney Aquafine Watercolor Travel Sets—they're beautifully pigmented, palette-perfect, and always priced affordably. That’s what we call traveling in style- without breaking the bank! 

2. Choose Brushes That Pull Their Weight

Leave the bulky brush roll behind. Our top pick? The da Vinci Casaneo New Wave Synthetic Travel Brushes—they unscrew and collapse into themselves, making them ideal for plein air painting without the hassle.

For a budget-friendly bonus, scoop up the W.A. Portman Travel Brush Sets, now just $13.56 (down from $29.95!). Quality and convenience? Check!

3. Don’t Forget the Easel!

Holding a canvas in one hand and swatting bugs with the other? No thanks. Enter: the W.A. Portman French Easel!, now just $79.99 IN STORE ONLY (reg. $149.95). Classic, collapsible, and beautifully balanced—it’s 2025's plein air essential. Don't sleep on this deal because once they're gone - they're gone for good! 

4. Stay Safe, Stay Fresh
Let’s be honest: the only thing worse than muddy color mixing is a sunburn.
    -Bring water—for drinking and painting.
    -Apply SPF generously (seriously, every exposed inch).
    -Wear a wide-brim hat or rock that artsy sun-shielding scarf.
    -Keep your setup streamlined—less stress, more inspiration.

5. Use a Palette That Travels Well
Don’t risk your favorite palette shattering mid-hike. The Van Gogh 12-Color Watercolor Set is vibrant, sturdy, and plein air-approved. It fits easily into your backpack, tote, picnic basket, or bike bag, and plays nicely with all your travel brushes! The plastic case is sturdy and REFILLABLE! Hello, gorgeous! 

Whether you're capturing that golden hour glow or just enjoying a quiet hour in Onondaga Park, make sure you’re equipped with the best. And remember, Studio Society Rewards members get exclusive first access to these sweet summer markdowns!

Paint boldly, pack wisely, and let the world be your studio!
Catch you outside!

XOXOX,

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