Tools and Resources for Digital Artists
- jasminehnatkova
- Jul 11
- 4 min read
My top recommendations!
I often get asked what technology I use, where my website is hosted and whether I have any top book or podcast recommendations, so here we are - all my favourite tools and resource recommendations in one place!
*** Please note many of these links are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and purchase I may get a small commission, with no extra cost for you. So thank you for using the links, I really appreciate it! ***
I cover all sorts in this post, so if there's something you're particularly interested in, feel free to zoom straight to it by clicking the relevant section below:
Technology
I've had an iPad Pro for a number of years now and it has been great! I like the size, there is ample storage and it is perfect for surface pattern design using the Procreate software.
The exact one I have is the iPad Pro 12.9 inch 3rd generation, although this version is pretty old now. I've linked a more recent version of the iPad Pro above.
I use an apple pencil as my stylus and it provides great functionality in the Procreate software.
Just be aware if you are buying the ipad and pencil separately, that not all Apple Pencils are compatible with all iPads! You need to carefully check in the description that the pencil you are getting works with the iPad.
I use this tripod for shooting reels and classes. It's very sturdy and very easy to clip my iPhone into.
I love that it allows you to face the phone downwards to shoot from above, perfect for showing people your process!
Software
I create all my patterns from start to finish in Procreate. It is a wonderful way to create patterns and can be used by both amateurs and professionals.
It is a one time purchase and is very affordable. You will need an iPad to run the app.
If you're keen to learn how to make repeat patterns in Procreate you can take a look at my Procreate Patterns Class!
I use Canva alll the time! It is basically a graphic design software that is extrememly easy to use.
I make all my sell sheets on Canva, as well as graphics for my website and pins for Pinterest.
I have never needed the premium version, so I just enjoy the free version!
Website
Wix
My website is hosted on Wix and I have been extremely happy with the service they have provided.
I don't have a lot of background knowledge in web design so I purposefully chose a platform that was 'drag and drop' (so I didn't need to write any code!) and Wix has been very easy to navigate.
I watched a few of their tutorials before I started and then I was good to go!
It's important for me to have a website as a base for my blog and my online portfolio. I particularly like the blog feature in Wix, and the portfolio feature which makes it ideal for artists and very easy to upload your work in a very aesthetic way.
Email Marketing
I use Flodesk as my email service provider and I absolutely love it!
As an artist it is so important to start collecting email addresses so you can share and market you work.
In Flodesk you can make emails look beautiful with their templates and wonderful drag and drop features.
Flodesk also makes it very simple to create sign-up forms and deliver freebies to your audience.
By using the link above you can get 50% off your first year with Flodesk - horray!
Creative Resources
This section is probably my favourite - here are all the places I go to for inspiration and ideas!
I've bought a skillshare membership for the past two years and I watch classes all the time!
Classes I watch range from surface pattern design, wesbite creation and digital marketing. There really is everything you need to give you a helping hand in your art business.
My children and I also take art classes together in the holidays which is always fun!
Using the link above will give you a month's free trial on Skillshare - yippee!
I love this book! Full of inspiring patterns from arists across time and across the world.
I love to flick through to get inpspiration for styles, motifs and colour palettes.
This pack of postcards is absolutely gorgeous and I couldn't possibly part with any of them by sending them to someone!
Perfect for little pieces of inspiration, whether it's a leaf shape, a colour or a filler motif.
I love looking through them to inspire my next pattern!
Podcasts
Podcasts are a great way to continue learning and growing even when you can't physically sit down at your desk. Here are a few that I have found particulalry helpful when it comes to art, surface pattern design and business:
Art and Audience - Stacie Bloomfield
The professional Creative - Bonnie Christine
The Amy Porterfield Show - Amy Porterfield
So there we have it - my top recommendations! I will add to this when I have new ideas, but do feel free to ask any follow up questions in the comments below.
Thanks Jasmine, I was going through all of your resources and blog posts and they are super helpful.