1. Pencils and pens

This is a given. Even if we do most of our work on the computer, we’ll need scrap paper and pencils to jot down ideas or sketch thumbnails. Being without a pencil is asking for trouble.

2. Laptop

As aforementioned, this is where we do most of our work. Also, there will be headphones. Always headphones.

3. Mugs

Tea? Hot cocoa? Coffee? Probably empty, either way. We go through a lot of hot drinks.

4. A blanket (or slippers)

We need to keep warm somehow, especially in winter. And especially if your workstation is right next to a drafty window…

5. Notebooks and sketchbooks

Story notebooks, sketchbooks, to-do lists and reminders are usually all separate. Or, if the writer/artist is a little less particular, everything is contained in one loaded notebook. It probably has papers falling out of it and features a couple coffee stains.

6. (Sometimes) A graphic drawing tablet

For the artists, this is tantamount. Wacom is a preferred brand for most, being affordable and quality.

7. Cats

They hang around. They judge you. They wait. (For what? We don’t know).

8. Books

Writers and artists get inspiration from a lot of places, but books are one of the best inspirational resources available. Many writer/artists probably have multiple books nearby depending on the subject matter. (I’m currently working through a science fiction anthology, a writing magazine article and a book on how to draw dragons).

9. Snacks

Being without a snack is almost as bad as being without a pencil.

10. Drawing pencils and inking pens

Distinctly different than regular pencils and pens. Try asking an artist to ink a pencil sketch with a ballpoint pen and you will quickly find out.

11. Paint water

Too many artists are painfully aware of what happens when you mix up your tea mug and your paint water cup. Even after only using jars for paint water, I have found myself almost downing a swig of watercolor brew while dabbing hot cocoa on my paper.

12. Sticky notes

These are tiny, precious godsends. Small ones can go right on the computer screen frame. Big ones can cover an entire wall. Need to remember an idea at 12:45 a.m.? Slap one above your pillow and don’t worry about it until morning.

13. (Sometimes) A printer

These are a bit harder to come by, but once writers/artists have them, it’s glorious. Scanning artwork and printing drafts is suddenly a whole lot easier.

14. A desk lamp

For late-night creative sessions or for amplifying the light source on an art subject. Mostly for the late-night stuff.

15. Posters

Because what could be more inspirational than a giant spread of Captain America posing against a dramatic backdrop of the word ‘FREEDOM’? Not much!