In this video I’m finally laying out all the new art supplies I’ve collected over the last few months and actually trying them as I go—because I love an art haul, but I love it even more when I can show you what the materials feel like on paper. It’s a very “cozy desk” kind of session: pens (yes, I’m still in my pen obsession era), paper comparisons, a few brush thoughts, and then painting and sketching so you can see what I reach for in real time. A big takeaway is that “fancy” doesn’t automatically mean “perfect for everything.” I talk about why I genuinely love Arches hot pressed for super smooth work (acrylics, mixed media, even pencils), but also why I personally don’t enjoy it for watercolour—the feel just isn’t it for me. I also share a paper that surprised me in a good way for gouache (Canson Aquarelle 60% cotton), and I introduce the Holbein Irodori Gouache set—my first full-size set—which you’ll definitely see again in upcoming process videos. And because it’s October/Inktober/Drawtober season, I chat a little about taking it easy with challenges this year, even with a fountain pen sitting right there.