As a painter, I’m always asked how I select the materials that I work with. It’s a very personal and individual process, but one thing all artists have in common is that, as many varieties as there are to choose from these days, we are always on the search for the perfect tools for our trade.

To give a recent example very close to home, just a few weeks ago, I was having trouble finding a group of brushes that were up to my standards. I’ve tried many types over the years, be they natural or synthetic, long handled or short, expensive or cheap.  Finally, after some focused research, and a little trial and error, I think I’ve narrowed it down to a small selection that works for me. Even so, I’m still experimenting, and I’m sure my preferences will change or new products will appear, or both.

Gone are the days of the typical neighborhood art supply store.  There is nothing quite like the experience of a physical store and in-person advice and assistance. But today’s increasingly sophisticated online shopping options afford the buyer opportunities to browse and compare, read reviews and benefit from discounts all from the comfort of home.

Being faced with all these choices may sound daunting, but the fact is, most artists are like kids in a candy shop when faced with a supplies catalog or well-stocked art store.  Even a casual conversation with a fellow artist can prompt new experiments and discoveries. With each new tool comes the possibility to step into uncharted territory and explore new avenues of creativity, and, to paraphrase Robert Frost in his poem “The Road Not Taken,” that can make all the difference.

Brian Sylvester is a guest blogger on WallSpin, and an artist on Zatista.