So you have the skills, passion, creativity, and years of practice as a graphic artist, but none of it will matter if you don’t have the right tools to help you produce exceptional works of art.

Here are several of the essential tools and supplies for today’s graphic artists. Do you also have the same on your list?

Your Trusted Computer

A computer is one of the most important things modern graphic designers need. It doesn’t matter whether you have a Mac or PC, or which design software you use. Your creative process is unique, and only you know what tools and resources you need, so get whichever one you prefer.

A computer is one of the most important tools for a modern-day designer. Not only can you work on your projects (anytime, anywhere, too, if you have a laptop), you can also use it for research, further learning, and networking.

A Printer

There’s an unspeakable, indefinable difference between seeing your work on a screen and seeing it printed and being able to touch it. The form factor somehow makes it seem grander and more alive. Some artists may even find that a hard copy of their work makes it easier to find errors, because you see the whole thing on your hands without having to zoom in and out.

A printer can greatly help in this aspect of your art. And while some may argue that the cost of inks or toners can bog down your budget, all you truly need is to invest on whichever printer model you prefer. Also choose remanufactured options for your additional ink cartridges to continue printing your works.

Another advantage of having a printer is the ease of making your portfolio. Moreover, you can produce and sell prints of your original works for extra money, which, in turn, you can use to buy other resources, like upgrades to your computer.

Portfolio, Both Online and Offline

An artist needs to showcase his work, to let the world know what he’s capable of and how he’s progressed since he began his career. Having an online portfolio will not only help you get more clients and be spotted by potential collaborators, you can also develop a fan base of sorts, who will help in spreading your work even farther.

A printed portfolio is important even for work that’s strictly digital. You can use it to present yourself as a brand and make an impression. It’s also a way to show that your creativity goes beyond the digital realm. Presenting your portfolio on hard copy can show that you have vision outside the screen. It can be an art form in and of itself.

Traditional Art Materials

Just because your main area of expertise may be on digital graphic design, traditional materials like pencils, coloring media, and paper can still help develop your skills, especially the more intuitive side of your art. You can also “record” your thoughts as they are happening. It’s more immediate, as you don’t have to turn on your computer and open a program to doodle your random images.

There’s also a certain freedom with using traditional art materials. You’re not encumbered by the limitations of a computer program, and you can get a clearer picture of your ideas before you transfer them to your computer.

A Well-Organized Social Network

Social media can be a powerful tool when used properly and strategically. A well-organized online network has infinite possibilities for marketing, communications, and networking.

You can expand the reach of your work without spending too much, and even engage with your audience. Social media can also serve as an education platform as you connect with your peers, while also informing those unfamiliar with the creative process.

Inspiration

Inspiration can be a fickle thing that can strike anywhere (remember the pen and paper!). You can look through online galleries and portfolios to find that creative spark and use other artists’ works as a benchmark for your progress as well. But you may be able to find inspiration outside the digital world, too. It could be in the form of movies, music, nature, the people you meet, even a workout routine or a sport. Once you discover where your creativity receives its boost, do it more often to fuel your work.

As with everything, to each his own. Your creative tools can be as unique as your personal creative process. Some artists may even have a more extensive, specific list that helps them produce stellar creative work. What about you? What tools can you recommend for your fellow graphic artists?