Daniel Smith Inc

Daniel Smith, which is not nearly as convenient to urban dwellers as Artist and Craftsman Supply in the U District or Utrechts on Capitol Hill, is mostly for artists who paint on easels. You will not find much diversity or inspiration beyond that, such as clay, glass, stone or metal supplies, a decent frame selection, or products out of the ordinary. Prices seem high given the journey required to check them out. Seattle could use a more eclectic outlet for creative outlet. Kind of cranky, not particularly responsive staff, too. These are not evangelists for self-expression.

Posted 01/05/09 | Report Abuse

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I recently switched over to getting supplies at Utrecht from Daniel Smith. They have the exact same products and quality but lower prices. Daniel Smith sold me brushes that apperared quality but ended up crappy. And even worse is that their store is seriously tucked away and far out from where I live. All in all, I would still reccommend getting paper from there, they have excellent quality and I can rest easy knowing a project won't fall out of hand.

Posted 04/01/08 | Report Abuse

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Sure, Daniel Smith has great products, but how bout the demos? they are fabulous! talented artists demonstrate (FOR FREE!) how to make works of art. Oftentimes, you will be given a small amount of supplies to make something at the same time as the presentor!

Posted 11/22/05 | Report Abuse

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Daniel Smith in Seattle, WA is always a must -stop for me whenever visiting the city. This huge art store carries almost everything that is needed for any artist.

I usually meandering through the paints as they seem to be cheaper here than other places, though "cheap" over here at Daniel Smith is still pricey. But that's the price you pay for quailty paints and supplies.

I truly support the leaning environment that is established in this place as there is always a class taking place in this establishment. It's good to see how different artists approach their work using a variety of tools and techniques. It only bolsters the sales as people readily look for such items when classes are over.

Daniel Smith also offers a discount for students, even if you are from out of town. As long as you have proof that you are a student, watch the savings come in. But for the rest of us, sales are always happening so we never feel left out.

This is a wonderful place for anybody who has a creative itch waiting to come out. All the tools are ready for that explosion to occur, and Daniel Smith's knowledgable and friendly staff will help point you in the right direction.

PROS: Great staff, lots of supplies, interesting classes
CONS: Can be pricey

Posted 07/31/05 | Report Abuse

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I went in here looking for some special brush, they didn't have it in stock, so the salesperson worked with me to find it and special ordered it for me, they are a great store and have friendly people there. When I been recently on there website I had no trouble with finding what I needed and when I went into the store to get it, all I had to do was say what I needed and a worker had it before I got to the section. I recommend this to anyone.

Posted 03/02/05 | Report Abuse

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It doesn't get any better than this as far as selection and quality goes. Whether you are shopping through their catalog or in their huge SODO retail location, Daniel Smith has got the coolest products around. From the highest quality paints and canvas to neato desks, portfolios and kids supplies, DS never ceases to wow. The staff there is near fanatical in knowledge and if they happen to not know something they will find someone on staff that does.

Additionally, they have in-house classes taughton an array of topics by some great local talent.

If there is any downside to DS it is the premium prices but you get what you pay for. Their materials never let me down when I rely on them.

Posted 02/27/05 | Report Abuse

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Its hard to say which is more impressive - the store or the website. However, its much more fun to pick up the pencils and brushes, lightly brush the textures of surfaces and browse through the interesting, unusual or new products. The store is huge and may be overwhelming on your first visit but the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, which put me at ease right away. I loved learning that their PrimaTek housebrand of paint is made in Seattle. Classes, a free newsletter and more are offered at the store, but bargains are available at the website. Decisions, decisions!

Posted 02/27/05 | Report Abuse

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