Dina Wakley Scribble Sticks are pigment sticks that are water-soluble like watercolor pencils. You can draw directly onto your journal or surface, then activate the color with a wet brush to create soft, blended backgrounds. They’re also great for bold, opaque marks on top of acrylic paint or mixed media layers. The dual dry-and-wet capability is what makes them so unique and fun to experiment with.

This all depends on personal preference , skill level, and supplies being used to create. There is not a one size fits all option which is why we offer so many options.  Smaller journals with one surface are a more comfortable starting point for beginners where something like the Dina Wakley Media Journal is perfect for a more experienced mixed media artist. It includes a variety of surfaces (burlap, canvas, cotton rag, watercolor paper and kraft) that let you experiment with different textures and techniques.

For beginners, you don’t need the entire Dina Wakley Media line at once. Start simple with:

• A journal
• A few acrylic paints, including white
• A set of Scribble Sticks
• One or two stencils
• Optional: Gloss Spray for adding vibrant, glossy layers

This gives you a foundation to explore mixed media techniques and layering without feeling overwhelmed.

Dina Wakley media tools include gloss sprays which are opaque acrylic sprays that dry glossy. They’re perfect for splattering, spraying through stencils or creating quick washes, and are water-soluble while wet but permanent when dry.

Acrylic paints are heavy and applied with a brush or brayer. They’re better for thicker, more controlled applications and layering. Think of sprays for expressive, spontaneous effects and paints for structured, detailed work.