When Year 7 students start their art journey, choosing the right tools and materials is really important. The world of art is huge, and each type of material has its own unique qualities. Knowing what to think about can help students express themselves better and make sure their artwork conveys the right message.

1. Purpose of the Artwork

Before picking materials, students should think about what their artwork is for. Is it going to be a bright painting, a careful sketch, or maybe a 3D sculpture? Understanding the purpose can help them choose the best tools. For example, if they want to create a soft, dreamy scene, watercolors might be perfect. But if they want bold, bright lines, acrylic paints or markers would be a better choice.

2. Properties of the Materials

Every material has special qualities that affect how it works:

• Watercolors are see-through and great for layering, which gives a light finish.
• Acrylic paints are versatile, dry quickly, and can look like either watercolors or oils depending on how they’re used.
• Charcoal has a rich texture but can be messy, which can be useful for certain effects.
• Clay can be shaped easily, making it good for 3D projects, but it needs some knowledge about baking and finishing.

Students should try different materials to see how they work and how they can change them to get the results they want.

3. Skill Level

Students need to think about how skilled they are with different tools. Some materials can be tricky and require skills they might not have yet. For example, oil painting has specific techniques that can be hard for beginners. On the other hand, colored pencils and pastels are usually easier to handle. It’s best for students to choose tools that fit their abilities while also encouraging them to learn new things.

4. Budget Constraints

Art supplies can be expensive, so students should think about their budgets. There are many good materials at different prices. They can look for:

• Local art supply stores for discounts or special sales.
• Recycled materials, which can spark creativity and save money.
• Digital tools, which can sometimes be cheaper because they don’t need physical materials, but may require some software purchase.

Being smart with their budget can also help students be creative in their projects.

5. Visual and Tactile Qualities

How materials look and feel can really change how an artwork turns out. Students should consider:

• Color intensity and how different materials show colors.
• Texture, which can make the artwork more interesting. For example, using a palette knife with acrylics can create a thick effect, while soft pastels can give a smooth feel.
• Finishing touches like varnishes or sealers that change how the artwork looks when it's done. Students should try different things to find what they like best.

6. Environmental and Safety Considerations

Students should also think about the environment and safety when picking materials. Some traditional art supplies have chemicals that can be harmful. Teachers can help students find:

• Non-toxic paints and materials that are safer to use.
• Eco-friendly supplies, like recycled paper or natural colors, which are better for the planet.

It's important for students to understand both the art side of their materials and their responsibility to themselves and the Earth.

7. Availability of Materials

How easy it is to get materials can also affect what students choose. If they can find supplies easily in local stores or online, they might be more likely to use those materials. Students should get to know local art supply shops and even see what they have at home to boost their creativity. Finding unusual materials can lead to unique art that stands out.

8. Compatibility with Other Tools

Students need to think about how their chosen materials work together. Some don’t mix well, like oil paints and watercolors. Knowing how different materials interact can save frustration later on. It can also inspire them to try combined methods, where mixing different materials can lead to exciting results.

9. Personal Preference and Style

In the end, the tools and materials students choose often show their personal style. Encouraging them to look at different art styles or famous artists can help inspire them. They might find they like vibrant colors like the Fauves or the gentle lines of Impressionists. Trying out different tools can help them discover their unique voice in art.

10. Benefits of Experimentation

Lastly, it’s important for students to be open to experimenting. Art thrives when they can play and make mistakes. Encouraging Year 7 students to try new tools and materials can lead to incredible discoveries. Group projects and challenges can make this experience even more valuable, as everyone learns from one another. The art process is all about trying things out; mistakes can turn into great artistic finds.

In summary, Year 7 students should think about many things when choosing tools for their art, including the purpose of the piece, the materials' properties, their skills, budget, how things look and feel, safety, availability, compatibility with other tools, personal style, and the benefits of trying new things. Taking a thoughtful approach to choosing materials will help them on their creative journey and deepen their appreciation for making art.