Blick Art Materials

The Art Store is an art supply store that stocks all of the high quality, brand name products, that you don't usually find at your local discount art supply or craft store. They stock many unique and rare items, and it's the place to go when your art teacher tells you that you need a certain item, and after an extensive search, you can't find it anywhere else. Their staff is very knowledgeable, warm, and welcoming, and they can give you tips on the best products to buy, the right kind of paint for a specific project, or give you any other tidbits or information that you might need. They make you feel like they appreciate your business, and while the prices are not inexpensive, they are not exactly as outrageous as some arts and crafts stores that I have been too. Parking is available, but there's not a lot of it, due to the location of this store, the best way to get to this area if you plan to do a lot of shopping is using public transportation. You can expect that what you need will be in stock, with the price clearly marked, and if they don't have it, they can likely tell you where to get it. It might not be the best art supplies store to visit if you are on a strict budget, but if you are a serious artist, or you have a specific list of products that you have been unable to find anywhere else, then I would suggest visiting the Art Store, you won't be sorry that you did. More than likely, after a trip to this store, you will be inspired to try a new medium that you have never tried before, and they have plenty of products to help get you started.

PROS: Knowledgeable staff. Lots of product choices. Good service.
CONS: Pricey.

Almost any art supply you will ever need can be found at this store in Little Italy. This is where I stocked my supplies for art class in college. While the price can be rather expensive, the quality is great. They do make their own paint brand which makes their products quite competitive with brand name items. There is the added bonus of being in a fun neighborhood when you drop by for shopping. Most likely you will find something unexpected to do before heading home again.

It has the best selection of art supplies in San Diego but that comes at a cost. They have a lot of stuff to choose from but it's pretty expensive there. Usually the people that work there know thier stuff but not always so don't just trust everything they tell you.

I could get lost in this world of love. It is amazing. They have very art supply you could want... every size and color of every thing. Also a GREAT place for just getting a picture album or frame. You can also get great unique gifts. They carry a catalog for anything they may be able to order that they don't have in store... which can't be much. They also have great sales, and are located in the best place to take a walk and get some gelato. mmmm....

This store was once in La Mesa and moved to Little Italy. It's still the same store but it's really difficult to find parking. Especially on the weekends. The store carries lots of supplies however they are a bit pricey. I love to browse through this store but I very rarely buy anything.

Everything I've ever needed for an art project I've found here. It's got a great selection of everything art related, from paper to art books. Everything is really well organized and easy to find, and the workers are always around if you do need help with something. They give student discounts and have great sales all the time.

PROS: fun store to shop in
CONS: parking can be annoying if it's a weekend

Smack-dab in the middle of Little Italy, this store is what you would expect from a art supply superstore: great selection, but a bit on the expensive side. I found most of the same supplies and equipement as a Dick Blick's (for you East Coasters out there). However, I found several of the same items at local Michael's stores for less. Go here for those harder to find and higher quality art supplies.

PROS: Own parking lot; great selection
CONS: Higher than average prices