If you're just getting into sketching outdoors or trying to refine your setup, you've probably seen a thousand supply lists floating around.
Some are minimal, others are overflowing with gear that looks more like a traveling art store than something you'd actually want to carry around. I've tried everything from hauling a full watercolor studio in my backpack to walking out the door with just a pen and a folded sheet of paper.
Over time, I’ve figured out what actually works for me – and what ends up being dead weight. If you’re wondering what urban sketching supplies you really need, this post breaks it down honestly, from one sketcher to another, without the fluff.
This isn’t just a checklist. It’s a realistic look at what helps you enjoy the process of sketching on location – without overcomplicating it. What matters most is that your kit is lightweight, dependable, and tailored to how you like to draw.
Key Points
- Start small and upgrade later. You don’t need a $300 watercolor set right away. You’ll learn more by using less. A minimal kit forces you to focus on composition and observation rather than switching tools every five minutes.
- Weight matters more than you think. A lighter kit means more energy for drawing and less fatigue. I've bailed on sketches before just because I didn’t feel like lugging everything around.
- One pen you love is better than five you kinda like. If you enjoy the feel of it, you’ll sketch more. Don’t underestimate the motivational power of a favorite tool.
Urban Sketching Supplies That Actually Matter
Let’s talk about the basics – what deserves a spot in your bag every time, and what can stay at home. Your kit doesn’t need to be fancy, but it does need to be functional, portable, and suited to your habits and style. It’s also worth considering how long you usually sketch, what the weather is like where you live, and whether you like to stand, sit, or move around while drawing.
Before I get into the detailed list, I want to share a few key points I’ve learned the hard way:
Sketchbook: The Backbone of Your Kit
There are a million sketchbooks out there. Some open flat, some handle wet media better, some feel perfect for fast gesture drawings. The best sketchbook is the one that makes you want to draw every day.
I used to obsess over paper quality and binding, but now I think more about what encourages me to open the book. I rotate between a Stillman & Birn Alpha for light washes and a cheap Moleskine for dry work. A sketchbook doesn’t need to be archival – especially when you’re learning. It just needs to handle your materials without falling apart.
If you're not sure where to start, try a few paper types and see how they feel when you're actually out sketching. For more on choosing the right sketchbook, my post on simple urban sketching covers some options for beginners.
Pens and Pencils: Keep It Simple
You don’t need a full pencil case or a roll-up wrap with a dozen compartments. In fact, the more tools you carry, the more decisions you have to make while drawing – which can slow you down.
My Essentials:
- A waterproof fineliner (like the Sakura Pigma Micron or Uni Pin) for consistent linework
- A brush pen (Pentel Pocket Brush is my go-to) for expressive, bold lines
- One or two colored pencils for subtle color accents (blue and ochre are great starting points)
- A mechanical pencil with an eraser for light sketching or layout before ink
If you’re curious about how different pens behave on the page, check out this deep dive into pen and ink urban sketching.
Watercolor or Not?
I used to think real urban sketchers had to use watercolor. That’s not true. You can be a sketcher and never touch a brush. That said, watercolor does add a nice pop if you're into it – and it’s surprisingly quick to work with once you get comfortable.
If you want to keep things compact, build a DIY palette using a small metal tin and your favorite pans or tube colors. I keep it to about 8 colors and mix from there. Skip the huge travel sets – they’re heavy and rarely used fully. I go into more detail on creating a functional urban sketching watercolor palette here.
A water brush is a great entry point. It combines portability and simplicity, but it has its quirks. If you don’t like the way it handles, bring a real travel brush and a small water cup instead.
The Right Urban Sketching Bag
Your bag makes or breaks your experience. Too big? It’s heavy and awkward. Too small? You're cramming everything and digging for your pen while your sketch moment disappears.
I use a sling bag with compartments and quick access zippers. I’ve also used a small hiking daypack and even a camera shoulder bag. What matters most is that it sits comfortably and opens easily. Avoid deep pouches where pens get buried. You want a setup where everything is one unzip away.
If you’re trying to figure out your own setup, this guide on the urban sketching bag might help.
Extras I Actually Use
Here’s the stuff I bring that’s not always on the typical supply lists – but makes my sketching sessions smoother:
- A small collapsible stool: huge difference for long sessions or busy urban spots without seating
- Binder clips or bulldog clips: to hold down pages on windy days
- A water brush or small travel brush (if using watercolor)
- Mini spray bottle: for rewetting watercolor pans in dry conditions
- Cotton rag or reusable napkin: for blotting, wiping, and cleaning
- Ziplock or pouch: to hold used tissues, keep things dry, or carry a snack
If you want to see a full breakdown of a go-anywhere sketch setup, here’s my urban sketching kit.
Where to Practice
Sometimes the best practice isn’t outside – it’s from photos. When it’s too hot, cold, or busy to sketch in public, I’ll pull up some urban sketching reference photos and do a warm-up session at home.
And when you’re ready to go out, location inspiration matters. Sketching street corners in New York or cozy neighborhoods in Seattle has completely different vibes. Each city offers its own rhythms and challenges.
Want More Help Getting Started?
If you're just beginning, my favorite book to recommend is Urban Sketching for Beginners. It walks through tools, techniques, and mindset without overwhelming you. It’s honest, visual, and easy to follow.
You can also explore the full urban sketching course or check out some hands-on urban sketching classes if you want guided practice and encouragement from the start.
For more resources, inspiration, and ideas, here's a full collection of urban sketching tutorials, sketching prompts, and beginner exercises. You can also explore more advanced topics like loose sketching techniques, how to sketch people in motion, or even working with markers and gouache.
Everyone’s kit looks a little different. It evolves as you do. But if you start with tools that make drawing easier, lighter, and more fun—you’re doing it right. Don’t overthink it. Just grab your favorite pen, a decent sketchbook, and go draw the world around you.