Makings and Musings Podcast

Makings and Musings

In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators. They will share tips on finding your creative flow, on art materials, What their creative journey has been and They share insights in how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! The latests episodes of the podcast are audio visual and You are invited to paint or draw with us! If you do we would love to see your work! If you tag me @makingsandmusings and my guest in your posts we can see and share it on our socials.

  1. Apr 6

    Should I use cheap or expensive art materials?

    Should you invest in expensive art supplies, or are cheaper materials good enough? In this episode of The Making & Musings Podcast, I explore a question that comes up again and again: do you really need expensive art materials to make good art? I share my honest thoughts on both affordable and high-quality materials, and how each can support your creativity in different ways. We gently explore: Are cheap art materials good for beginners?Do expensive art supplies make a difference?When is it worth investing in higher-quality materials?How can cheaper materials help you feel more آزاد and less precious about your work?I talk about how using more affordable materials can help you loosen up, experiment, and create without fear of “wasting” supplies. At the same time, I also share why I love using higher-quality materials, and the difference they can make in terms of colour, texture, and overall experience. Most importantly, I speak about something I feel quite strongly about: using your art materials fully. Not saving your “best” supplies for a special occasion, but allowing yourself to enjoy them as part of your everyday creative practice. I also share when I personally reach for more affordable materials, and when I choose to use professional-quality supplies, so you can find a balance that feels right for you. If you are building your art practice, starting a sketchbook, or wondering what materials you actually need, this episode will help you feel more confident in your choices and more relaxed in your approach. Inside my creative community, we focus on making art regularly in a supportive and welcoming space. We paint together every Thursday, and you can always access the recordings to create in your own time.

    9 min
  2. Apr 1

    What is the difference between oil paint, acrylic paint, watercolour paint, and gouache? | The Making & Musings Podcast

    If you have ever wondered which type of paint is best for beginners, or what the difference is between oil, acrylic, watercolour, and gouache, this episode is for you. In this episode of The Making & Musings Podcast, I talk you through the key differences between these four popular types of paint in a simple, calm, and practical way. I share how each one behaves, how it feels to work with, and what you might enjoy (or find challenging) about each medium. We explore questions like: What is the difference between oil paint and acrylic paint?Is watercolour or gouache better for beginners?Which paint dries fastest?Which painting medium is easiest to start with at home?I also share how I use these materials in my own art practice and sketchbooks. In my creative community, we mainly use watercolour and gouache, and sometimes acrylic paint markers, as they are accessible, versatile, and lovely to work with on a regular basis. If you are starting your painting journey, returning to art after a break, or simply curious about trying a new medium, this episode will help you choose the right paint for you and feel more confident getting started. I host gentle, weekly painting sessions every Thursday inside my creative community, where we explore sketchbooks, colour, and playful art-making together. You will also have access to all recordings, so you can create in your own time, at your own pace. You can find me here on social media: Instagram 💕@makingsandmusingsFacebook 💕@makingsandmusingsShop 💕 https://www.makingsandmusings.com/shop​Freebies: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/freebiesBlog: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/blogPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/makingsandmusings

    11 min
  3. 02/25/2025

    38. Sketchbook series: The mental health benefits of keeping a sketchbook

    In this episode of our Sketchbook Series, I delve into the profound mental health benefits of maintaining a sketchbook. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, I share how the simple act of sketching has been a therapeutic outlet for me, aiding in processing emotions and reducing stress. You can find my Sketchbook Course here: https://www.makingsandmusings.com/online-courses/course-fill-your-first-sketchbook While I'm not a healthcare professional, numerous studies support the positive impact of creative activities on mental well-being. Here are five insightful studies highlighting these benefits: Art Therapy's Role in Mental Health: This study discusses how art therapy can improve concentration, boost self-esteem, and reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels. Link: https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/physician-health/art-mental-health-well-being-benefits-practicing-art-frank Creative Arts Therapies and Mental Health: Research indicates that engaging in creative arts therapies can enhance focus, assist with processing emotions, and improve overall mental health. Link: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/the-intersection-of-art-and-health-how-art-can-help-promote-well-being The Arts' Contribution to Mental Well-being: This article explores how participating in the arts enables individuals to manage various mental health conditions and psychological distress. Link: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/blogs/how-arts-can-help-improve-your-mental-health Art Therapy's Effectiveness in Treating Trauma: A systematic review found that art therapy can be effective in treating traumatized adults, aiding in processing traumatic experiences and reducing related symptoms. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553778 Creative Arts Enhancing Mental Health: An analysis of multiple studies found that art-based interventions significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly in pregnant and postpartum women. Link: https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/creative-arts-enhancing-mental-health Follow me for more creative inspiration: Instagram: @makingsandmusings Facebook: Makings and Musings Website: makingsandmusings.com

    15 min

About

In this podcast we will hear from creatives and creators. They will share tips on finding your creative flow, on art materials, What their creative journey has been and They share insights in how they run their businesses in a world where sustainability is a must! The latests episodes of the podcast are audio visual and You are invited to paint or draw with us! If you do we would love to see your work! If you tag me @makingsandmusings and my guest in your posts we can see and share it on our socials.