One of the unexpected joys of living in the Netherlands is how easy it is to get creative without spending a fortune. I still remember the first time I walked into Action — it was like a playground for artists. From brushes and canvases to sketchbooks and vibrant paints, everything was there… and at prices that made it impossible not to experiment.
That kind of accessibility makes a huge difference. It takes away the pressure of creating something perfect and gives you freedom to just play. Especially as someone rediscovering painting as an adult, having affordable tools around has helped me stay curious and try new things — even if that means painting on sneakers, belly bumps, or hoodies!
If you’re in the Netherlands and looking to spark your creativity, I highly recommend checking out stores like Action, HEMA, or even Flying Tiger. You never know what fun tools you’ll find — and they might just kickstart your next little masterpiece.




