Packing for Creativity: The Basics of My Artist Residency Supplies

As I reflect on my recent artist residency in Northeastern France, I want to spill the beans on the practical side of things - the supplies I packed.

Navigating the unknown territory of sourcing art materials abroad was a challenge, and I'm here to share the lowdown on what made it into my suitcase.

This blog post is a backstage pass into my creative process, focusing on the essentials that filled my toolkit. From brushes and dyes to the tried-and-true favorites and experimental tools, each item played a part in shaping my artistic journey.

Whether you're silk painter planning your own residency or just curious about the nitty-gritty of a creative adventure, this dive into my chosen supplies is for you. Let's keep it real and explore the basics that fueled my artistic exploration.

What I shipped:

I began by compiling a list of art supply essentials, jotting down every item I typically use while silk painting. I carefully considered what I truly needed, what I could do without, and items that the residency might already provide.

Once my list was complete, I delved into researching customs regulations, ensuring adherence to appropriate guidelines and restrictions for international shipping. Additionally, I took into account the secure packing of these items to prevent any potential leaks or damage during transit.

1. Silk Fabric:

   • 3 yards of pre-washed 16mm Habotai silk

   • 2, 14 x 72 inch 8mm Habotai Silk scarves

2. Silk Paints/Dyes:

   • I was torn on the dyes, I recently switched over to using mostly DuPont Silk Dyes, however there were so many colors and I can only pack so much. Therefore, I brought my Jacquard Red Label Dyes in all 20 colors.

   • I poured one ounce of each color into a labeled 10 ml Clear Empty Squeezable Drop Bottle, placed them into a Tupperware container surrounded by bubble wrap. I then taped the Tupperware container shut and placed it into a gallon size ziplock to prevent any leaking.

3. Brushes:

   • Typically I use my Karen Sistek brushes to paint with, however I didn’t want to lose them in the mail. Instead I opted for an assortment of cheaper brushes from Amazon.

   • Detail brushes for intricate work

   • I placed all of the brushes in a Ultrech brush holder to protect them.

4. Auxiliaries:

   • Due to safety regulations, I was not able to mail a can of Magic Sizing. Instead I decanted the Sizing, pouring it into two 4 ounce bottles with lids. Before I closed the lids, I placed a small piece of saran-wrap over the opening to prevent leaking. I also wrapped these bottles in bubble wrap and placed them in a zip-lock.

   • I bought Isopropyl Alcohol and Vodka in Paris as these could also not be safely mailed.

   • 1 ounce of Dupont Cold Wax mixed 50/50 with decanted Magic Sizing

   • Silk salt

5. Palette:

   • 20 well palette

   • 2 round palettes with lids

6. Containers:

   • 4, 4 ounce travel bottles for the auxiliaries with labels

7. Spray Bottles:

   • 1 large fine mist bottle for applying Magic Sizing

   • 4 ounce travel fine mist spray bottle for Far, Far Away

   • One regular spray bottle for water, texture effects

8. PVC Pipes and Connectors:

   • 2, 24 inch PVC pipes

   • 2, 18 inch PVC pipes

   • 2, 17 inch PVC pipes

   • 2, 8 inch PVC pipes

   • 4, 3 inch PVC pipes

   • 8, 3-way Couplers

   • 4, 45 Degree Elbow Connectors

   • 4, Socket Couplers

   • All of these are 3/4 inch, schedule 40 PVC

9. Assorted Applicators:

   • Q-tips

   • Lip gloss applicators

   • Pointed Q-tips

   • Eyeliner brushes

   • Sea sponges

   • Dental tools

   • 2 Molotow refillable pens

10. Sharpies:

    • 1 Ultra fine black sharpie

    • 1 Fine black sharpie

11. Assorted Tools:

    • Tailors measuring tape

    • 12 inch ruler

    • Fabric scissors

12. Additional Tools/Silk Supplies:

    • Masking tape

    • Silk pins

    • General’s Sketch & Wash Pencil

    • Precut paper towels

    • Precut blue shop Paper towels

    • 4, Graduated pipettes

13. Shipping Supplies:

    • Heavy duty shipping box sized to fit all your materials

    • Bubble wrap

    • Saran Wrap

    • Zip-lock bags in assorted sizes

    • Packing Tape

14. Customs Documentation:

    • Clearly labeled and detailed list of contents for customs

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What I Packed:

1. Electronics:

   • iPad

   • Stylist Pen

   • Earbuds

   • Charging cords

   • International Plug Adaptors

I used a carry on size luggage and a fabulous anti-theft book bag I found on Amazon. I was able to fit 5 days worth of outfits, an extra pair of shoes, and all of my personal belongings into these two bags. I wore my winter coat onto the plane and stowed it on top of my suitcase during the flight. I tried to keep it very simple. If the airBnB or the residency supplied it, I didn’t bring it.

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What I forgot:

You read that correctly…I forgot three very basic things! I thought I had shipped my sketchbook, but apparently I thought I was going to pack it. In my mix up, I forgot it along with any kind of writing utensil and eraser. Therefore, I had nothing to write in, sketch ideas with, or plan!

Luckily, there was a left over mixed media sketchbook I could use at the residency and I was able to borrow and pencil with an eraser along with a pencil sharpener from the artist next door.

1. Sketchbook/Notebook:

   • For planning and sketching your designs.

2. Pencils and Erasers

3. Pencil Sharpener

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What I borrowed from the Residency:

1. Dryer

2. Water Container

3. Iron & Ironing Board

As I reflect on my recent artist residency in France, I want to express my gratitude for sharing in the excitement of packing and planning for this unique adventure. My carefully selected silk painting supplies stood as silent companions, ready to bring the canvas to life with vibrant hues and intricate strokes. Your support fueled my inspiration, and I enjoyed sharing the journey with you. Until then, let the silk painting magic continue to unfold!

Have a question? Reach out to me at RootedExpressions@gmail.com!

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