Top 13 Art Supply Stores in Toronto

Embarking on your artistic journey in Toronto is an exciting endeavor, especially if you aspire to enroll in one of the city’s prestigious art colleges. As an aspiring artist or a student preparing for art college admission, the quality of your art supplies plays a pivotal role in shaping your creative path. Fortunately, Toronto is home to a dynamic and diverse array of art supply stores, each offering its unique specialty and catering to a wide range of artistic needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be your artistic tour guides, helping you explore the top art supply stores in Toronto. From traditional paint and canvas outlets to specialized shops for niche art forms, we’ve scoured the city to bring you a curated selection of stores that are not just shops but artistic destinations in their own right.

Whether you’re an emerging artist, a seasoned professional, or a student looking for the perfect supplies to enhance your portfolio, our journey through these top art supply stores will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate Toronto’s creative landscape. So, let’s embark on this artistic adventure together, discovering where creativity thrives, variety abounds, and artistry knows no bounds in the heart of Toronto.

Gwartzman’s Art Supplies

Gwartzman’s Art Supplies is a hidden treasure in the heart of Toronto. This independent and locally-owned art supply store has been serving artists for over a century, making it a true institution in the city’s creative landscape.

Specialty:

Gwartzman’s is renowned for its extensive range of fine art materials, graphic design supplies, and printmaking equipment. Whether you’re a traditional painter or a printmaker exploring innovative techniques, you’ll find the tools and materials you need here. The store’s shelves are stocked with high-quality paints, brushes, canvases, inks, and specialty printmaking papers that cater to both students and professionals.

Expertise:

What sets Gwartzman’s apart is its knowledgeable and passionate staff. They not only assist you in finding the right materials but also provide valuable insights into various art forms. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned artist, their expertise can help you make informed choices and elevate your creative projects.

Legacy of Support:

Gwartzman’s isn’t just a store; it’s a haven for artists looking for personalized service and a sense of community. They actively support local artists and often host art exhibitions and events that showcase the talents of Toronto’s creative community. When you shop at Gwartzman’s, you become part of a legacy of artistic excellence.

Above Ground Art Supplies 

Above Ground Art Supplies has multiple locations throughout Toronto, making it a convenient choice for artists of all levels. This store chain is known for its diverse product offerings and competitive prices.

Specialty:

Above Ground Art Supplies caters to a wide range of artistic disciplines, from drawing and painting to printmaking and sculpting. The store’s comprehensive selection includes budget-friendly options, making it ideal for students. You’ll find high-quality art materials, sketchbooks, canvases, and tools for various art forms under one roof.

Savings and Loyalty:

What makes Above Ground Art Supplies stand out is its commitment to helping artists save money over time. They offer a loyalty program that rewards regular customers with discounts and exclusive deals. This affordability factor is especially appealing to art students who are conscious of their budget.

Knowledgeable Staff:

The staff at Above Ground Art Supplies are known for their friendly and approachable demeanor. They understand the unique needs of students and emerging artists, and they can assist you in selecting the right materials for your projects. Whether you have questions about paints, brushes, or any other art supplies, you can count on their expertise.

DeSerres Toronto-Uptown 

DeSerres is another well-established art supply store chain in Toronto with multiple locations, including the Toronto-Uptown store. This store is a fantastic option for artists seeking a diverse range of art materials and craft supplies.

Specialty:

DeSerres offers a comprehensive selection of art supplies that cater to both fine artists and craft enthusiasts. Whether you’re into acrylics, watercolors, or mixed media, you’ll find a vast array of paints, brushes, and other materials to explore your creative potential. They also stock craft supplies, stationery, and art-related gifts.

Promotions and Discounts:

One of the appealing aspects of DeSerres is its frequent promotions and discounts. As an art student, you can take advantage of these offers to stretch your budget further while acquiring top-notch art supplies. Keep an eye on their website and in-store signage for special deals.

Variety and Creativity:

DeSerres encourages creativity by providing a wide variety of materials and tools. Whether you’re pursuing a traditional art form or experimenting with mixed media, you’ll find the resources to bring your ideas to life. Plus, their commitment to quality ensures that your artistic journey is supported by dependable materials.

Daniel’s Art Supplies 

Daniel’s Art Supplies is a creative oasis located in Toronto’s vibrant Chinatown. This unique art supply store caters to artists of all backgrounds and specialties.

Specialty:

Daniel’s Art Supplies prides itself on offering a wide range of art materials, from paints and brushes to sketchbooks and drawing tools. What makes this store stand out is its location in the culturally rich neighborhood of Chinatown, where you can find a fusion of artistic inspiration from different cultures. It’s an ideal destination for students looking for diverse and multicultural artistic experiences.

Community Connection:

Daniel’s Art Supplies is not just a store but a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts. They often host events, workshops, and art exhibitions, creating a sense of community among creative individuals. If you’re seeking artistic inspiration beyond the store shelves, Daniel’s is the place to be.

Unique Finds:

Exploring this store can lead you to unique and culturally-inspired art materials that can add a special touch to your creative projects. Whether you’re interested in Asian brush painting or simply want to explore new mediums, Daniel’s Art Supplies has something to offer.

ARTiculations Art Supply 

ARTiculations Art Supply is an art supply store that is more than just a place to purchase materials; it’s a space where art and community converge.

Specialty:

ARTiculations Art Supply provides a curated selection of art materials that cater to artists who appreciate quality and uniqueness. You’ll find a wide range of paints, brushes, sketchbooks, and specialty art tools. What sets this store apart is its commitment to supporting local and emerging artists by offering a platform for them to showcase their work.

Workshops and Events:

If you’re looking to expand your artistic skills, ARTiculations hosts a variety of workshops and events throughout the year. These opportunities allow you to learn from experienced artists and connect with fellow art enthusiasts, making it an excellent resource for students seeking to enhance their artistic knowledge and network.

Community Engagement:

ARTiculations Art Supply is deeply rooted in the artistic community of Toronto. They actively engage with local artists, art organizations, and the neighborhood to promote creativity and artistic expression. By shopping here, you’re not just supporting your own artistic endeavors but also contributing to the thriving art scene in Toronto.

Midoco Art & Office Supplies 

Midoco Art & Office Supplies is a versatile destination for artists and students alike. With multiple locations in Toronto, including the popular Queen Street West spot, Midoco offers an extensive range of art and office supplies.

Specialty:

Midoco is known for its ability to blend art and office essentials seamlessly. For art students juggling both creative projects and academic work, this store is a one-stop shop. You’ll find a wide selection of art materials, from paints and sketchbooks to stationery and academic supplies, making it a convenient choice for students pursuing a holistic education.

Variety and Expertise:

The store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff can assist you in selecting the right materials for your projects. Whether you need supplies for art school assignments or personal creative endeavors, Midoco has you covered. Their commitment to both art and office needs ensures that you can efficiently manage your academic and artistic pursuits.

Collective

Collective is not just an art supply store; it’s a space where artists can elevate their creative visions. This boutique-style store offers a unique shopping experience for Toronto’s artists.

Specialty:

Collective specializes in providing high-quality art materials that cater to professional artists and discerning art students. Their selection includes paints, brushes, drawing tools, and canvases, all chosen to meet the demands of serious creatives. If you’re looking to invest in top-notch materials for your portfolio or personal projects, Collective is a great choice.

Curated Selection:

What sets Collective apart is its commitment to curating a selection of premium art supplies. They carefully choose each product to ensure that artists can work with the best materials available. The store’s intimate atmosphere and personalized service create an inspiring environment for those looking to take their art to the next level.

Michaels 

Michaels is a well-known name in the world of arts and crafts. With a convenient location in Toronto, this store offers a wide array of art and craft supplies for artists and hobbyists.

Specialty:

Michaels is a go-to destination for artists and crafters looking for a diverse range of materials. You’ll find everything from paints and brushes to beads, fabrics, and framing options. Michaels caters to a broad spectrum of creative pursuits, making it suitable for art students exploring various art forms and crafts.

Artistic Exploration:

One of the benefits of shopping at Michaels is the opportunity to explore different artistic mediums. If you’re a student eager to experiment with new techniques or materials, this store provides a platform to do just that. Plus, their regular promotions and discounts make it a budget-friendly choice for students.

Homebase

Homebase is more than just an art supply store. It’s a creative sanctuary that supports the artistic endeavors of Toronto’s community.

Specialty:

Homebase prides itself on providing a curated selection of art materials that cater to a wide range of artists. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, or printmaker, you’ll find high-quality paints, brushes, and specialized tools. What sets Homebase apart is its focus on supporting local artists by offering unique and locally-made art supplies.

Community Engagement:

This store is deeply connected to Toronto’s artistic community. Homebase often hosts art events, exhibitions, and workshops that allow artists to connect and collaborate. If you’re looking for a store that not only supplies materials but also fosters artistic growth and community engagement, Homebase is a fantastic choice.

Toose Art Supplies 

Toose Art Supplies is a specialty art supply store is a haven for artists seeking unique and hard-to-find materials.

Specialty:

Toose Art Supplies offers a curated selection of art materials with a focus on quality and uniqueness. Whether you’re into traditional painting, illustration, or specialized art forms, you’ll find materials that spark your creativity. The store is known for its collection of rare and imported art supplies, making it an excellent choice for students looking for something distinctive.

Rare Finds:

Exploring Toose Art Supplies can lead you to hidden treasures and materials you won’t find in mainstream stores. If you’re an art student eager to stand out with your creative projects, this store can help you discover unique tools and mediums to express your artistic vision.

Emporium Vitreum

Emporium Vitreum is a unique online Canadian enamel supply company that caters to artists specializing in enamel art. While not a physical store, Emporium Vitreum serves as a valuable resource for enamel artists across Toronto and Canada.

Specialty:

Emporium Vitreum specializes in providing enamel artists with high-quality supplies and materials. Enamel art is a niche but captivating medium that involves fusing glass powder onto metal surfaces, creating vibrant and intricate designs. The store offers a diverse range of enamel colors, tools, and accessories for artists looking to explore this fascinating art form.

Online Convenience:

As an online store, Emporium Vitreum provides the convenience of shopping for enamel supplies from the comfort of your own studio or home. They ship across Canada, making it accessible to artists in Toronto and beyond who are passionate about enamel art.

Expert Guidance:

The store also provides valuable resources and guidance for artists exploring enamel art for the first time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enamel artist, you can find the tools and knowledge needed to create stunning enamel pieces.

SOHO Art Supplies

SOHO Art Supplies is a beloved art supply store where artists can find a diverse range of art materials to fuel their creative projects.

Specialty:

SOHO Art Supplies prides itself on offering an extensive variety of art materials suitable for artists of all levels. Whether you’re a student exploring different mediums or a professional seeking specialized tools, this store has you covered. Their selection includes paints, brushes, sketchbooks, canvases, and more, making it a versatile choice for artists.

Student-Friendly:

SOHO Art Supplies understands the needs of art students, and they offer a range of affordable materials ideal for those on a budget. Students can find quality supplies without breaking the bank, making it an excellent resource for those pursuing art college dreams.

Community Engagement:

The store actively engages with Toronto’s artistic community by hosting art events and exhibitions. Artists often gather here to share their work and experiences, fostering a sense of camaraderie among creative individuals.

Palette Art Supplies 

Palette Art Supplies offers artists a tranquil and inspiring environment to explore and shop for art materials.

Specialty:

Palette Art Supplies is renowned for its commitment to providing artists with high-quality materials and tools. Whether you’re a painter, illustrator, or sculptor, you’ll find an array of paints, brushes, and specialty items that cater to your creative needs. The store’s selection is curated to ensure that artists can work with dependable and top-notch materials.

Inspirational Setting:

What sets Palette Art Supplies apart is its beautiful and tranquil setting. The store’s ambiance is designed to inspire creativity, making it an ideal place for artists to gather their thoughts and select the perfect supplies for their next masterpiece. It’s more than just a store; it’s an artistic oasis in the heart of Toronto.

Knowledgeable Staff:

The store’s staff is known for their expertise and commitment to helping artists find the right materials. Whether you have questions about specific paint pigments, paper types, or art techniques, the knowledgeable staff can provide valuable insights to enhance your artistic journey.

Conclusion

As we conclude our artistic journey through the vibrant landscape of Toronto’s top art supply stores, we’re reminded that art is not just a medium of expression; it’s a lifelong pursuit of creativity, inspiration, and self-discovery. Whether you’re an aspiring student, a seasoned professional, or someone simply passionate about art, these stores have something to offer every creative soul.

From Gwartzman’s Art Supplies with over a century of artistic excellence to Emporium Vitreum, an online haven for enamel artists, and all the diverse destinations in between, Toronto’s art supply stores are more than just shops; they’re gateways to boundless creative possibilities.

Each store we’ve explored has its unique specialty and a commitment to serving artists, students, and enthusiasts. They offer not only a wide array of high-quality materials but also an environment that fosters inspiration and community. Whether you’re seeking top-notch paints, brushes, sketchbooks, or rare and specialized supplies, Toronto’s artistic landscape has you covered.

So, as you embark on your artistic journey, armed with the knowledge gained from our guide, remember that your choice of art supplies is an investment in your creative legacy. Explore, experiment, and express yourself. Craft your artistic legacy with the materials that resonate with your unique vision, and let your creativity shine in the heart of Toronto. Happy creating!