For the artists out there, what are some art supplies that you use?

and what are some you can’t live without?

Also, are there certain brands of charcoal, pastel or colored pencils you find that works better than others? I find being a budding artist is a little complicated. There are so many different drawing implements, different types of paper, different drawing techniques. Would you be so kind as to share some techniques you use, drawing tips in general, and what kind of drawing tools you use?