I always use acrylic (tried oil for a few years but switched once i got the hang of acrylis again). Dont be afraid to layer! Sometimes the paint dries too quickly to get much detail in but if you mess up you can always paint right over it (not like oil, which takes a lifetime to dry! ugh) All you really need is paint, a palet, canvas & brushes. You can also water it down if you're having troubles with small details, clouds or grass, etc.