The Tuff Stuff Eraser Stick Is Now Being Manufactured as the Factis BM2 Eraser

Celebrate the return of the Tuff Stuff Eraser Stick, now known as the Factis BM2 Eraser by General's Pencil Co. After being discontinued, artists searched for a worthy replacement, but the Factis BM2 delivers the same quality and durability at an affordable price. Available at DickBlick.com, it’s perfect for precise erasing without damaging your paper. Keep your drawings clean and your erasing effortless with this beloved tool!

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Why Take Drawing Lessons?

You Used to Love Drawing

Then something happened:

They told you you couldn't draw well.

You couldn't figure out how to make it look "right".

They told you, you didn't have "the eye" for it.

When you were young, they said, "Better stick to writing/basketball/math" or later, "Better stick to your day job".

Only the people who taught themselves were able to draw, and they were called, "talented".

"Creativity Scars" (as referred to by Brene Brown) are real and can be quite painful. So why take drawing lessons?

However, they are not the whole story, nor are they the end of the journey.

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Austin Summer Camps for Your Creative Kiddo

Looking for the best Austin summer camps for your creative kid? Check out my top picks that help kids grow and explore outside the classroom. From art camps like The Contemporary Austin Art School and Smudge Studios, to filmmaking with Austin Film Society and coding at Minecraft Camps, there's something for every interest. Don't miss LZM Studio's upcoming cartooning camp, where kids can create their own characters and stories! Whether your child loves art, entrepreneurship, or adventure, these camps offer fun and learning all summer long.

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Graphite Pencil Review: For the Love of the Graphite Pencil

As an artist and educator, I’ve tested a variety of graphite pencils to find the best options for drawing. From budget-friendly brands like Marco Raffine to premium choices like Tombow Mono, I’ve discovered that higher-quality pencils offer smoother textures, better durability, and less breakage. While cheaper pencils may seem like a bargain, they often cause frustration with frequent breakage and rough textures. In this review, I compare popular brands, helping you choose the right pencil for your art—whether you're a beginner or experienced artist.

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Recommended Gift Art Supplies for the Budding Artist

Here are some great gift ideas for the art lover in your life - just as the holiday season approaches. I posted something similar a couple of seasons ago, but this updated list includes new finds and changes due to suppliers and technology. These are my recommended gift art supplies for the budding artist!

Art supplies make a perfect gift--because it is the gift of an experience--something that will reward the receiver for much longer than just the holiday season. They are the tools that give the art lover in your life a learned skill that lasts. On that note, here are some of my most coveted supplies with links to easy online suppliers at a good price. Happy shopping!

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