Getting Started with the Mash-Up Art Pack
The iHeartArt Mash-Up Art Pack Bold + Bright is a complete portable art studio designed for artists ages 6 and up. It comes packed with 12 watercolors, 8 gel pens, 8 markers, 2 paint brushes, a 25-page art pad, and a Techniques Guide—all inside a fold-up art portfolio. Whether you're new to mixed media or looking for a versatile set to spark creativity, this guide walks you through how to use each component and combine them for bold, bright results.
Before you begin, lay out all the pieces on a flat surface. The portfolio itself doubles as a workspace, so you can keep everything organized. The included Techniques Guide offers project ideas, but you can also experiment freely with the supplies.
What's in the Box
- iHeartArt Mash-Up Art Pack Bold + Bright: Comes with 12 watercolors, 8 gel pens, 8 markers, 2 paint brushes, 25-page art pad and a Techniques Guide. Knowing exactly what's included helps you plan projects without needing extra supplies. The art pad is heavy enough for watercolor and marker use.
iHeartArt Mash-Up Art Pack Bold + Bright - iHeartArt Mash-Up Art Pack Bold + Bright: iHeartArt carries only top-quality supplies for artists 7 to adult. The pigments are richly saturated, so even young artists get vibrant results without frustration.
- iHeartArt Mash-Up Art Pack Bold + Bright: For ages 6+. Younger children may need supervision with watercolors and markers to avoid spills, but the set is designed for independent use by kids 6 and up.
Step-by-Step: Using the Art Pack
Follow these steps to create your first mixed media piece with the Mash-Up Art Pack.
- Start with a watercolor wash: Use the paintbrush and one of the 12 watercolors to paint a light background on a page from the art pad. Let it dry completely before moving to the next step.
- Add marker details: Once the watercolor is dry, use the 8 markers to draw outlines, patterns, or bold shapes over the wash. The markers' rich pigment stands out on top of watercolor.
- Enhance with gel pens: The 8 gel pens can add fine lines, highlights, or metallic accents. Try using a white or light-colored gel pen over darker marker areas for contrast.
- Experiment with layering: Combine all three media in one piece: watercolor for background, markers for mid-layer shapes, and gel pens for final details. The Techniques Guide includes specific project ideas if you need inspiration.
Creative Project Ideas for the Art Pack
The Mash-Up Art Pack is built for mixed media exploration. Here are a few ideas to try with the included supplies:
• Bold self-portrait: Use markers for the face, watercolor for hair, and gel pens for accessories. • Abstract landscape: Paint a watercolor sky, then add marker trees and gel-pen stars. • Pattern cards: Fold the art pad paper into cards and decorate with repeating marker and gel-pen patterns. • Color study: Paint a watercolor gradient, then overlay marker doodles in complementary colors.
Because the set includes 25 sheets, you can experiment freely without worrying about running out of paper quickly.
Tips for Best Results
Let each layer dry before adding the next to prevent smudging. The watercolors are water-activated, so use a clean brush and rinse between colors. Store the portfolio flat after use to keep the paper pad from bending. For younger artists (ages 6–7), demonstrate how much water to use with the watercolors—a little goes a long way.
The set also gives back: 5% of profits are donated to the Art Feeds International Program, which provides art lessons and supplies to kids in need. So every creative session supports a good cause.
