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A couple of weeks ago, I shared a little art-world milestone: I treated myself to SUI Gouache paints, pans, and a gouache set. I made a carousel about setting up my new palette and filmed a first-impressions video simply because I was excited to play with them. It was a fun, personal purchase, and I didn’t expect it to lead anywhere beyond getting to know a new set of paints.
Then SUI reached out. They asked if they could run my carousel post as an ad and offered to send me their travel brush set as a thank-you. I was already thrilled. I also took a small chance and asked if they might include the glittery watercolors I’d meant to add to my original order but somehow forgot. I had been planning to pick them up with my next purchase, so I was genuinely delighted when they said yes.
Along with the brushes and watercolors, they sent the sweetest little travel palette that I can fill with colors of my own. It felt like such a thoughtful surprise, and I’m grateful that SUI noticed the way I share my art and invited me into this little collaboration.
There’s something especially meaningful about being recognized for my painting. Sweet As April and my handmade bonnets have been such a big part of my creative life for years, but painting, drawing, and exploring mixed media are also a very real part of who I am as an artist. It feels good to make room for that side of my work and to connect with a brand because of the art itself.
In my video, I swatch the paints, share my first impressions, and make a small painting so I can see how the colors behave on the page. I also try layering colored pencil over the paint, because I love seeing how different materials can work together. I’m always interested in the little details that make a medium feel enjoyable to use, from the colors themselves to the way a palette fits into an everyday creative practice.
I’m still getting to know these supplies, so think of this as an honest first look rather than a definitive review. My favorite part is having new materials to explore and a reason to slow down, make something, and see where the process takes me.
Most of all, I’m thankful for the unexpected encouragement. I shared that first post because I was excited about my paints, and it turned into a lovely reminder that showing up and sharing what you make can lead to connections you never planned for.
I've linked the YouTube video above if you'd like to see the paints in action, and thank you so much SUI Gouache for believing in me. This collaboration has meant more than you know, and I can't wait to see where the next chapter takes me.
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Disclosure: I purchased my original SUI gouache set, pans, and palette myself. SUI later gifted me the products mentioned here as a thank-you and asked about using my carousel post in advertising. Opinions and first impressions are my own.
Supplies mentioned
SUI Petit Watercolors — 8-color set
SUI Petit Rabbit Palette — 12 colors
SUI Professional Artist All-in-One Brush Set — 6 pieces
*Amazon affiliate link - I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. All opinions and first impressions are my own.