Handpainted Banner Supplies Recommendations

Handpainted kraft banners are having a moment. And I was not immune to it. I made my first one for my oldest daughter’s birthday and quickly became obsessed. Think 3am deep dives on methods and supplies. Finding random reasons to make one (I made one to put up for the Winter Olympics lol). So after all my researching and painting; I figured I would put together a list of supplies I wish I had.

So whether you’re just getting started or have been hand painting banners for a while and looking for new supplies. These are the supplies I personally love using and make the process so much easier. It’s proof that you don’t need expensive supplies to create beautiful banners.

My Favorite Banner Supplies

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Kraft Paper

I use contractor floor protective paper for my banner paper. It is thick and durable and I have never had any issues with my paint or markers bleeding through (always do your own test – you don’t want to find out at the end that all your paint or markers ended up on the wall or table or floor your paper was on). I have gotten mine at Lowe’s, Home Depot and Amazon.

Painter’s Tape

I spent so long looking for tape that would hold up my banner. Since I use heavier paper, most painters tape wouldn’t hold my banner for too long and within a few hours (being generous) it was already falling off the wall. I finally found this painters tape and I love it. For holding the paper up on the wall while painting, I usually use big pieces diagonally on the corners and for hanging I wrap the tape into circles and place on the back edges and vertically in the middle (depending on how large my banner is).

Brushes

I have used all different brushes but the one that I absolutely love makeup brushes. This recommendation is common but it is so common for a reason. Load the brush and it glides so smoothly making lettering a breeze. I use a bunch of different ones depending on the size that I need. Here are the ones I use. If I had to choose just one it would be the Wet n’ Wild eyeshadow brush; it’s inexpensive and small.

Paint

While I recently found my love for banners, I have been painting for years and I have always used Liquitex. I love the consistency and a little goes a long way. It is also really easy to mix to get the custom color you are looking for.

I have also used craft paint and I tend to reach for Folkart the most. They are affordable, opaque, and great quality. I usually use these when I have a specific palette in mind and don’t want to have to constantly mix colors to find the right one.

Projector

I really like this projector. It’s simple to set up and the quality is good. It connects to my laptop and iPad through Screen Sharing. I’m able to attach it to my tripod. It has a remote. One thing to note is that the power cord is a bit short so an extension cord may be helpful.

Reinforced Tape & Grommets

To add a little “extra” to my banners, I used reinforced tape on the corners (back of the banner) and add grommets. This allows the banner to be held up with string instead of tape and gives it an elevated feel. To apply, I first add the tape, then I use a hole punch, and then apply the grommets as instructed. I use this tape and this grommet kit. Tip – use a sharp scissor to cut the tape.

Additional Supplies

These are common household items that I use. They just make the process so much easier and more enjoyable.

Paper Plates

I use thicker paper plates for my paint palette to help make clean up a breeze. Any plate will do but I definitely recommend using a thicker one since the thin ones tend to get soggy and the paint can leak through. I use these since they are thick and coated.

Paper Towels

I love a good, thick, absorbent paper towel. I use them to wipe off my brushes after rinsing them or wiping up any mess so they need to be thick and absorbent. Nothing is more annoying than having your paper towel shred and have the pieces in your brush.

Plastic Placemat

I use a plastic placemat to protect my workspace. I use it under my paper plate and my paper towels and brushes. This keeps my workspace dry and free of paint.

Jar

I use an old jar for water to rinse my brushes in

Happy crafting!