The Haul: Illustrator Anita Cheung Highly Recommends Oversized Scrunchies, Chunky Crayons and More

Vancouver illustrator Anita Cheung shares a few of her favourite things.

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.

Blundstone 1671 Boots with Heel

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

Dupe of the Skagerak Noboru Stool

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

Object Index Boring Scissors

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

Bare Hands The Natural Pedicure

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

Paragon Stone-Milled Tea Powders

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

Marvy Uchida LePen in Black and an Unlined Midori Notebook

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

 Stabilo Woody 3 in 1

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

A Bronze Age Scrunchies

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

MORE FROM THE HAUL

Shoe Designer John Fluevog’s Favourite Things
Comedian Julie Kim’s Recent Best Buys