The Tools and Materials I Use as a Mural Artist
Behind every finished mural, whether it’s a dramatic portrait, an abstract explosion of texture, or a high-energy graffiti composition lies a world of tools, materials, and techniques that most people never get to see.
I often get asked:
“What do you paint with?”
Or:
“How does a mural artist build an artwork on such a massive scale?”
Today, I’m opening the door and revealing the tools that make my creative process possible.
This is the equipment I work with every day as a professional mural artist from the sketching stage to the final glossy finish.
Digital Tools, Where Every Mural Begins
Before paint ever touches a wall, the idea starts digitally. I sketch and design murals using:
Illustrator
Photoshop
These allow me to explore structure, shape, balance, color impact, emotion, and flow. Nothing is random, every mural is designed to feel intentional, powerful, and polished.
Spray Paint and acrylics, The Heart of the Work
Spray paint isn’t just a medium, it’s an identity.
I use professional paint brands like:
Amsterdam Acrylics
Molotow Premium
MTN 94
Each brand offers something different: saturation, softness, glare, durability, precision. I select paints based on the wall texture, project weather conditions, and overall style.
Stencil Crafting, Precision and Depth
Many people recognize my murals from stencil layering and line portraits.
For that, I use:
Precision Cutting knifes
Cutting mat
200grams Paper
Stencils allow maximum depth with razor-sharp control. It’s controlled chaos and that’s why I love it.
Brushes, Rollers & Texture Tools
While graffiti is my signature, some murals demand softer transitions or bold textures. My toolkit includes:
Fine liner brushes
Foam rollers
Texture knives
Dry brushes
Sponges
Edge softeners.
Primers and Wall Treatments
Walls are unpredictable. Some breathe, some crack, some crumble.
Before painting, the surface must be brought to life using:
Gesso primer
Concrete binders
UV-resistant sealers
This ensures the artwork lasts for decades.
Finishing Varnish, The Final Shield
Every mural deserves protection.
I use clear coats that provide:
UV resistance
Weather durability
Anti-fade support
Smooth color longevity
The artwork remains bold, even under rain, wind, or burning sunlight.
Why Professional Tools Matter
A mural isn’t just wall art, it’s architecture.
It belongs to the environment.
It impacts people every day.
The tools I use aren’t random. Every product, every material, every device is carefully selected to match the:
Scale
Texture
Mood
Lighting
Industry
Story
Tools shape results, and results shape emotion.
FAQs
How long does one mural take to complete?
Anywhere from one day to several weeks depending on wall size, design complexity, and preparation.
Do you use the same materials for indoor and outdoor murals?
No, exterior murals require different primers, finishes, and paint durability standards.
Do tools affect mural pricing?
Yes, quality materials ensure long-term durability, and each project is quoted based on scale + materials + detail.
Final Thoughts
Tools don’t make the artist.. but the right tools allow an artist to deliver exceptional work. My murals are not just painted; they are engineered through structure, chemistry, detail, and energy.
If you want to learn more, explore custom options, or discuss a mural for your space, feel free to connect with me through contact.
— Asko Art
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