TOOLS & MATERIALS
The materials used for Chinese brush painting are called the Four Treasures: brush, paper, ink, and ink stone.
BRUSHES
Chinese brushes are made of animal hair glued into a bamboo handle. New brushes are stiffened to protect the fibers.
Brushes contain either a single type of hair or a mixture of two or three hair types. Goat-hair brushes are very common and easy to find. Goat-, squirrel-, and rabbit-hair brushes are used for soft strokes (in paintings of animals, flowers, and fruit), and brushes made of wolf, badger, and horse hair are common for landscape work.
PAPER
The most common Chinese paper used for Chinese brush painting is Xuan. Known in Western countries as rice paper, it is very absorbent and strong. Other papers, such as grass paper and mulberry paper, are available in sheets and rolls. As a beginner, try painting on different types to learn their absorbency and general quality.
INK
Ink comes in stick and liquid form. An ink stick is made from charcoal or charcoal soot mixed with glues and oils. Ink sticks can be decorated, and the older the ink stick, the better the ink quality. Good-quality ink produces smooth and even tones. Although liquid ink is less expensive, it does not give the same tonality control as the ground stick ink.
INK STONE
Use the ink stone, which is made from carved stone or slate, to grind the ink stick. Ink stones come in different shapes, and the best is the Duan from South China. It is a good idea to start with a traditional rectangular or round stone (which is less expensive) to learn how to grind the ink. Find ink stones in various online shops.
COLORS, SEALS, AND OTHER USEFUL TOOLS
Western watercolors work well, but it is preferable to use Chinese or Japanese paints made specifically for this style. They are available in different forms: granules, powders, and liquids.
Seals form an integral part of the painting. They are carved in stone and printed using cinnabar paste. Artists can sign their paintings with their name seal.
Seal
Other useful materials include:
• a brush stand for resting brushes and keeping your station clean
• a brush holder to let brushes dry
• paperweights to keep the paper in place; simple pebbles can be used or traditional Chinese or Japanese decorated bars
• small plates or a palette for the colors
• a small water dropper
• felt to use under the paper
