The supplies we use are not a reflection of the significance of the art we produce. 

As a self taught artist, I constantly had the notion that I wouldn't be able to produce the art that I wanted until I had specific supplies. If I had the right shade of yellow, the same water-soluble crayons, or exact learning gouache set as someone else, I would be able to develop to where I wanted my art to be. This "supplies fallacy" stunted my craft because it missed the point. The creative energy and curiosity didn't care about the materials; it needed me to be throwing in the effort with what I had. 

It needed me to be showing up for my practice. Here are some of the tools that I've found helpful to sustaining the practice of creating recently.

The first tool is the tiny corner pictured above, my creating nook. This is a corner of my living room that I have staked out as space to create. Given the limits on space and materials available, it creates comfortable limits for my practice. Large pieces that I won't have the time or space to complete, for instance, can't come here. Being able to work throughout the day on something small (and experiencing the joy that comes from completing it) helps me to feel productive while also continuing to build my skills.

Among the tools that live in my creating nook are those which are easy to use and tuck away quickly (before little hands abscond with them and claim them as their own). I initially hesitated at investing in Posca paint pens because I didn't think I would use them - but these little gems have actively sustained my practice with their limited colours and easy clean up. Whether they provide preliminary lines or final touches, they are a tool that constantly helps me to indulge my creating curiosity.

The other tools which help me sustain my practice (and develop it) are general productivity tools. Although I do have another social media account that goes into my traveler's notebook and planning obsession in more detail - I find it much easier to feel free to create and explore when I am actively planning and organizing around the rest of my responsibilities and my family's needs. Staying organized (or, at least the attempt to) enables me to feel empowered to create.