Illustrator and graphic designer Anita Cheung practised a lot of restraint when putting together this list of favourite recent purchases and essentials. “I held back from going full-tilt on the rare art supplies,” says Cheung—impressive, if you’ve ever seen her colour-coordinated stash of collaging papers.
1. Blundstone 1671 Boots with Heel
My (much more fashionable, older) sister likes to make fun of me because these are my go-to boots for all weather and all hobbies. It’s raining? Blundstones. Hiking? Blundstones. Doing some gardening? Blundstones. Riding a horse? Blundstones. $250, australianboot.com
2. A Dupe of the Skagerak Noboru Stool
As a five-foot-tall person, step stools are life. My brother-in-law (TMW Millwork) is very talented and he made me a custom step stool that’s a dupe of the Noboru from Skagerak. I use it for its obvious purpose of reaching high places, but also as a seat, a side table and a nightstand. The real deal: $770, oldfaithfulshop.com
3. Object Index Boring Scissors
As someone who works a lot with cut paper, I’ve gone through my fair share of scissors. I picked up this pair from Japan last year and it’s currently at the top of my list. It feels solid in my hands and slices through anything like a breeze—even the stickiest, soggiest, glue-iest washi paper is no match for its blades. $46, kohezi.com
4. Bare Hands The Natural Pedicure
This is so “unsexy” to admit, but dry, cracked heels are unfortunately a genetic trait in my family. (RIP to my socks every three months.) No amount of pedicures or cheese-grater foot filing ever seemed to solve the issue, until my sister-in-law gifted me with The Natural Pedicure by Bare Hands. The foot file is like magic and, as a bonus, it looks super sleek so it isn’t embarrassing to keep out in the shower. $58, oneofafew.com
5. Paragon Stone-Milled Tea Powders
Like most people, I need a little caffeine boost every morning. I never really got into coffee, so instead I turn to matcha and tea for the hit. I’m a big fan of Paragon’s ceremonial matcha; however, for summer, I love their jasmine green tea powder for its pop of florals. Jasmine green, $24.45 for 50 grams, paragontearoom.com
6. Marvy Uchida LePen in Black and an Unlined Midori Notebook
I’m always scribbling down lists, notes and random thoughts and I’ve been exclusively using this combo for over six years! I love the inkiness and the feeling of a fresh LePen nib, especially when paired with the smooth and creamy pages of a Midori notebook. $2.70, opusartsupplies.com; $20, buchanst.com
7. Stabilo Woody 3 in 1
I first bought these for my nieces but they’ve quickly become a core part of my own sketchbook/drawing practice— especially when I’m on the go. They turn into paint with a bit of water, their chunky grip is fun to use and they make drawing feel low-pressure and playful. $6, collagecollage.ca
8. A Bronze Age Scrunchies
I know scrunchies come in and out of fashion, but for me they never cease to be a closet staple. You’ll often find me with a low bun or ponytail so an oversized scrunchie makes it all look a little bit cuter, and less like I’m cosplaying ye-olde- colonial-man. $32, abronzeage.com
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