[You might also be interested in the following post... 101 Websites For The Artist: A Masterlist]
Overjoyed.
Situated at Little India, which by the way is a brilliant place to go sketching in Plein Air, I recently found Overjoyed. They do door to door delivery for purchases over $150. I haven't visited them, though, so I can't say much about their store or customer service.
Address: 89 Short Street, Golden Wall Centre, #B1-08, Singapore 188216
If you're an artist that would like to purchase Zentangle® products, you're in luck. Everything Is Art is a reseller of original Zentangle products. They sell original white and black tiles, Apprentice tiles, Bijou tiles, and Zendala tiles. They're also willing to sell Micron pens with purchase of tiles. Purchases will be sent to you via normal/registered mail, depending on your preferences.
See what products they have available via this link.
Art Friend.
History
They opened their original outlet in 1981 at Bras Basah Complex, and till' today, it still remains.
In the late 90's, they opened their Peace Centre branch. It is the equivalent of a book shop that is meant to serve the Art Institutions around the area, namely NAFA, LaSalle and SOTA. It has always been small and only carries the essentials. It briefly moved to IOI plaza and later, a shophouse across the road before going full circle back to Peace Centre.
They once had a branch in Buona Vista, but that branch moved to Clementi. They also opened in Takashimaya, but that branch closed down and will be relocated someplace else soon.
Currently, they're located only at Plaza Singapura (their newest branch. see a review I did of it via this link), Bras Basah, Clementi, and Peace Centre. (To the boss of Art Friend; if you're reading this, might you consider opening a branch nearer to the East side of Singapore..?)
Good to Know
They stock Bristol boards, and have just started stocking Arches paper. I also really love the Fabriano paper that they have.
They're the sole distributor of Derwent, my favourite brand of pencils and pens- Coloursoft, Inktense, and Graphik pens.
They do free delivery if your total purchase amounts to more than SGD$150.
Membership is free if you spend over $100 in a single receipt or $10.70 for a 2 year membership. Renewal is waived if $600 is spent within the two years or if $5.35 is paid.
They sell a very large variety of things; from craft products, to papers and pads, sketchbooks and canvases, easels, paintbrushes ad paints, coloured pencils, dyes, scrapbooking papers, pens... You name it. Link to all the branches' address: https://artfriendonline.com/OnlineUsers/locates
Related: List of Prices of Art Materials In Singapore
Straits Art Co.
They don't have a website, so if you ever need to contact them, dial 6338 1710. Located at North Bridge Centre #01-27, 420 North Bridge Road, (S)188727, it's right near Art Friend, so if you decide to visit Art Friend at Bras Basah, drop by there too. They stock Van Gogh watercolors, a huge range of soft pastels, artist grade oils and acrylics, and easels too. What makes them unique though (and this I'm very sure of,) is that they're the one and only store on the island that sells clay heads. You know, those clay statues that art schools use for sketching practice. They're also the sole distributor of Golden brand paints. However, the prices are pretty steep, so you might want to just drop by for a look see, look see first. They also stock sets of Prismacolors.
May I add though, that due to its smaller shop size, its staff to customer ratio is very high and they are extremely knowledgeable on their products, and very willing to guide you to the right products for your needs. So, if you're an artist in Singapore, ready to take the plunge to artist grade materials yet are a little lost as to what to buy, head here.
Art Studio & Gallery.
They have three locations! Bedok North, Bugis, and their newest one at Simei in East Point Mall. I went to the one at Simei. They sell brands that I am not familar with, and I think it's the start to a brand new adventure (and also my wallet crying). They also provide art classes and art jamming sessions within their store. Check out my review of the Simei store here.
Visualtroop.
Visualtroop is an online platform and marketplace that brings artists’ works alive through everyday products. Artists submit their works to the site so that the works can be printed onto shirts, tote bags, notecards, and art prints. Artists still retain the rights to their works and get 15% from products sold. It's an awesome way to make merchandises if you’re an artist, or support an artist by buying awesome merchandises.
The site is well designed and easy to navigate. I love the “Quick View” function that the site has. Local shipping is made via Singpost. Charges vary depending on whether you choose regular or registered mail but they're very affordable. International shipping starts from $6 to $50, depending on what you order.
I actually wrote a full review about them. You can check that review out if you click on this link.
You can visit their site by clicking right here.
Art Mark.
It's situated at #04-35, Bras Basah Complex, Blk 231, Bain Street, Singapore 180231. They are the only shop in Singapore to have open stock Prismacolors. It's the place where I get my Black Grape and Ginger Root when they're all used up. Although, I feel, you're better off buying paper from Art Friend at the 2nd storey.
A head's up though; they have bad customer service and are unhelpful when you ask questions about products. I only visit them to buy open-stock Prismacolors, that's all. And until they improve in that area, I'll continue to recommend Straits Art Co, and online shops for purchasing boxed sets of Prismacolors.
They also sell sets of Caran D'ache, (which I'm still saving up for) and the 132 Premier Prismacolor set. Link to their website right here; http://www.artmark.com.sg/
Krafers Paradise
They're located at City Square Mall, #04-19/20/21 Farrer Park. So it's really close to Farrer Park MRT station. I did a review of their store via this link.
Maple Treehouse
Located on the 5th floor of IMM. www.mapletreehouse.com (Not visited yet, so I can't comment on how the shop is like.)
Tinkle Art and Crafts
They have a showroom but operate mostly as an online store. They also offer craft classes, and why I'm listing them here is because they sell a lot of silicone molds and resin, and a lot of people ask me where they can get them. So, here you go. :) You can view their webstore here: http://www.tinkleartncrafts.com/
Spotlight
Located at Plaza Singapura, on the 5th floor. This shop sells lots of craft and sewing things. They do stock many things. However, their art-related materials seem to be more expensive, so I'd recommend doing a price check and comparing it with prices from other shops. It's a great shop for scrapbooking, fake flowers, halloween costumes, and little craft things though.
Made With Love
Located at Orchard 313. Made With Love stocks lots of scrapbooking materials... Lots of patterned papers, stickers and stamps.
Paper Market
Again, this is another store for all your scrapbooking needs. Lots of pretty papers, and stamps, and stickers.
Golden Dragon
My mum loves this place. They sell all sorts of beads, zippers, ribbons, yarn, and felt. And also pieces of cloth and other things for needlework and craft. They open from 10am to 8:30pm from Monday to Saturday, and 12:30pm to 7:30pm on Sundays and Public Holidays. Located at 101, People's Park Centre, Upper Cross Street #02-51 Singapore 058357, do drop by to visit them some day.
Graf Von Faber Castell
Located at ION Orchard, #04-13, Singapore 238801. This is an outlet that sells all sorts of Faber Castell products– I especially love their Polychromos. Polys are available open-stocked from here but only if you buy a minimum of six pencils of the same colour. (Which is silly, if you ask me... but oh well.) If you're so inclined to give them a call, you may do so at (65) 6339-6388.
Royal Art
They're located at 91 Bencoolen Street, Sunshine Plaza, #01-72, Singapore 189652. They also have an online at the shopping portal Qoo10: http://www.qoo10.sg/shop/Royalart. (Not visited yet.)
BONUS: What about money saving stores?
At IKEA, you can find very cheap newsprint to practice sketching on. $6.70 for 40m long by 45cm wide, or so I'm told. They also stock ready-made frames. If you're looking for a cheaper alternative to framing your art, just so you can hang it up, IKEA might be worth a look.
Link to stores are here: http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_SG/ikny_splash.html
There is a shop called DIASO where everything goes at $2. There you can find sketchbooks, electric erasers (at 2 bucks, it's a steal.) and many other things. Here's a small lined notebook I bought at DAISO that now serves as my sketchbook.
Related: A list of all branches of DAISO stores in Singapore.
So, there you have it. All the Art shops in Singapore with all their available links in one post. If I've missed any stores, do leave me a comment in the section below. :) And if you have any questions, write to me at < stephanie_jennifer@ymail.com > .
Great post! You're really resourceful. Respect!
ReplyDeleteBtw, it's called Daiso, not diaso
Thanks for dropping by and taking the time to comment. The error has been fixed. :) You're very kind to have pointed the typo out. I'm glad you enjoyed the post.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much. You've been very generous in sharing the information :)
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you for your kind comment. I hope the information helps as many people as possible. :)
ReplyDeleteAlso check out my other post "References for Artists: Master List". I think it's a really useful post for anyone who is into Art.
Link: http://everythingis-art.blogspot.sg/2013/03/reference-for-artists-master-list.html
These are good ideas. I have shopped at DAISO in other parts of Asia and they have really nice supplies. It is sometimes hard to find art materials that are easy to attach to cloth or fabric using regular glue.
ReplyDeleteEven so, the materials that we use on a day to day basis are easy to use in numerous ways and they have a wide variety there. You can send paper and card through the dryer for a weathered look, add alcohol or some other solvent apart from water to them-each solvent produces different looks.
I do know that DAISO sells beads and felt cloth in their craft section.
ReplyDeleteAnd the dryer idea is very original. :) Alcohol and salt works great with watercolours, but I'm also concerned as to whether they would affect the archival quality of the work. You can also use a product called Zest-It with coloured pencils (although I've never tried it myself). And there's a wide variety of products which you can mix with acrylics like retarders, matte/gloss finishes, and texture mediums.
As always, keep experimenting to see what works/doesn't work for you.
Thank you so much ! I'm french and I'm gonna move to Singapore for 10 monthes, I'm illustrator and was afraid to not find any art stores there ! Takashimaya and DAISO sound very japanese, do you know if I can find japanese supplies like copic markers or Tachikawa pen ?
ReplyDeleteI know Art Friend sells Copic markers in open stock and in sets. So, depending on where you live, you might want to visit an Art Friend branch that is nearest to you. I have never heard of or seen Tachikawa pens before, but you might try asking the stores whether they stock them or not. If all else fails, perhaps consider buying online. Here's a link that I found: http://www.jetpens.com/Tachikawa-Comic-Nib-Fountain-Pen-G-Model-Nib-Fine-Black-Ink/pd/4577
DeleteThe art materials in Singapore are a little expensive, but if you can't find a particular item that you want online suppliers like Amazon.com or DickBlick.com are the best alternative.
If there's anything else you'd like to ask, leave me another comment or contact me at
< stephanie@everythingis-art.com >
Hope that helped~
Choco, if you are looking to buy Copic markers, I suggest going to Mapletreehouse instead. It's situated in IMM. Google it and you'll find the website. Copic markers sold at Art Friend after 15% discount was around $5.15 each. From Mapletreehouse, it's only $4.50 each. I'm a member of both Art Friend and Mapletreehouse. So go check it out and have fun!
DeleteThank you, Dreamy C! Looks like I have to visit Mapletreehouse soon! :D
DeleteDo you know where to find painting for glass material? Like decorion, idea etc
ReplyDeleteGlass is not my medium of choice, therefore I am lacking knowledge in that area... However, I think Art Friend should stock paints for glass material. Perhaps you might try giving them a call to enquire. :)
DeleteDo you know any art stores that sells hair chalks?
ReplyDeleteTo chalk your hair, look for soft pastels. NOT oil pastels. Art Friend sells soft pastels, but a cheaper alternative would be DAISO. It's $2 for a box of 6 soft pastel sticks. I'm not sure how well the DAISO pigment would hold up hair, but since it's only $2, you might want to give it a try first before buying artist grade soft pastels.
DeleteHope that helps~
Hi, do u know of anyone who charges for scrapbook? I would like to hire someone to do a scrapbook containing photos and memories of my terminally ill pet as memories for my kids.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear about that.
DeleteI don't know anyone in Singapore that makes personalised scrapbooks in Singapore for sale, but I did find two websites that were willing to create scrapbooks for you. You could enquire them about how much it'd cost for internatinal shipping:
http://www.alignwithdesign.com/index.html
http://www.lilyavenue.com/index.html
Alternatively, you could always put up an online ad asking whether any artists are willing to custom make a scrapbook for you. Try gumtree, or online classified for that.
Hi, I'm the owner of "Scratch a Memory" which is a Singapore based company selling customize scrapbook, cards, paper bags, or any other art & craft available. Please contact me at rice.chua2014@gmail.com.
DeleteHello, may I know where can I get the grow in the dark alphabet sticker??? Need Urgently!!! :))
ReplyDeleteNot too sure where to get them, but a few places I would look to is:
Delete1. Art Friend
2. Popular outlets
3. According to a google search on the issue, Bloomington Greeting is a shop that sells the stickers.... They have 2 outlets in Singapore, 1 is at Anchorpoint (opp IKEA), the other is at Plaza Singapura.
And, an alternative would be to buy glow in the dark paint, and paint out the letters.
Hope that helps~
Can I know Where can I get glow in the dark paint in Singapore?
DeleteSame as my above answer:
DeleteI would suggest calling Art Friend to enquire to whether they have glow in the dark paint.
Otherwise try online stores like dickblick.com, amazon.com, or ebay.
Or see this: http://www.darkniteglow.com/glow-shop/
Hi do you know where I can get Prismacolors other than from Art Mark?
ReplyDeleteBy the way, do you know the price for 72 Prismacolor Coloured Pencils and 132 Prismacolor Coloured Pencils?? I checked the official art mark website but there have not been any information about the price.....
Art Friend. I made a post with all the prices of art materials in Singapore. Although, I haven't added the prices of Prismacolours yet.
DeleteLink: http://www.everythingis-art.com/2013/09/prices-of-art-material-in-singapore.html
Keep that page bookmarked. I'll make a trip down to Art Friend sometime soon and check out the prices of Prismacolor pencils for you then. :)
Update: I've called Art Friend, and they said that Art Mark was the supplier. So I called Art Mark and they said that there isn't any stock currently, and that it'd take a month for the stock to replenish.
DeleteFrom my personal purchase though, if I remember correctly, the box set of 132 cost slightly over $300.
Hi, I'm looking for gouache painting, but in large quantities (min. 1L by color)... I've seen a few big bottles at Art Press Takashimaya, but not a lot of choice, and the colors were really horrible.. do you have an idea where I might found this ? Thanks a lot !
ReplyDeleteHello, Paula.
DeleteI'm not very familiar with gouache, but you could try contacting Straits Art Co, or Art Friend. I think Straits might be able to help you order from their supplier if you're buying large quantities, and Art Friend is a major store, so you might have luck with them. Call them to enquire. They both are usually very pleasant and helpful. (Sorry I took so long to reply you..)
Hello, is there any place to find some pigments in Singapore ? I would like to make my own paint... Thanks?
ReplyDeleteWhoa. Making your own paints, huh. That's very ambitious of you. I'm curious to know your reasons for doing so though... Mixing your own paints makes them prone to being unstable/not consistent. It's also a time consuming process...
DeleteBut having said that, I would say that I don't know of any places in Singapore that sell artist-quality pigments. They're hard to come by as it is these days... Cause there's very low demand. Many stores stock artist grade paints though, and if you have any further queries, I'm always here to help. :)
Hi i was wondering where can i buy hair chalk other than Art Friend?
ReplyDeleteAs I wrote in an earlier comment:
DeleteTo chalk your hair, look for soft pastels. NOT oil pastels. Art Friend sells soft pastels, but a cheaper alternative would be DAISO. It's $2 for a box of 6 soft pastel sticks. I'm not sure how well the DAISO pigment would hold up hair, but since it's only $2, you might want to give it a try first before buying artist grade soft pastels.
Hope that helps~
Hi, may i ask, where can I get paintbrushes that's not in a pack? my aunt went to spotlight recently but they don't sell them separately anymore. for acrylic paint thanks. (i've never rly been to art shops lol so idk what they sell in there sorry if it sounds dumb LOL)
ReplyDeleteThe first shop that pops into mind is Bras Basah's Art Friend. They sell a large variety of open-stocked paintbrushes. I don't really know whether other art friends sell open-stocked paintbrushes, so you might want to call them to ask first. :)
DeleteHope that helps~
Hi, do you know where sell chipboard used to make scrapbooks?
ReplyDeleteI believe a shop called "Paper Market" has what most people need for scrapbook making;
Deletehttp://www.papermarket.com.sg/freshnews/homepage/
Hi do you know where to buy metal craft rings?
ReplyDeleteI'm not too sure about this, but I do seem to remember that Art Friend @ Buona Vista sells them.
DeleteDo call them to enquire.
Hi do u know how much does resin for craft cost in art friend? And among the art stores u mentioned, where sells the cheapest resin? Thanks
ReplyDeleteI'm not familiar with resin and I think it'd be good if you called Art Friend (and other art stores) directly to ask them.
DeleteThanks for commenting! :)
Hello do you know if the Art Friend branch at buona vista do sell fabric dye? And do you know where to get mod podge photo transfer medium? :)
ReplyDeleteContact art friend directly to ask them.
DeleteI do know you can get modge podge from Amazon.com.
Hello do you know which art store in Singapore sells Mod Podge photo transfer medium? :)
ReplyDeleteCall each store to enquire.
DeleteIf all else fails, Amazon.com sells modge podge.
Uhm, I would like to inquire more about prismacolors, do you know where else it is sold? Other than Art Mark. I searched but only stores in Canada and US sells it. Thanks and I'll be looking forward to your reply!
ReplyDeleteStraits Art Co. sells boxed sets. Other than that, Art Mark is the main supplier.
DeleteThanks for the reply, I'll look for it when I'm in Singapore. This saves money rather than going to US
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeletei am looking for some Pentel waterbrushes. Do you know where I can get ones?
Thanks
I'm not sure whether they stock Pentel brushes, but I do know that Art Friend stocks watercolour brushes. Give them a ring to find out.
DeleteDo the art friend sells copic marker?
ReplyDeleteYes, they do. As far as I know, the bugis branch and the orchard branch both stock copic markers- individually and in sets. :)
DeleteThis post really helped me heaps with my move back to Singapore! Finally I know where to find some supplies to start up my commissions! Thank you so much Stephanie :) Love your artwork & blog!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome. And thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.
DeleteAnd, correct me if I'm wrong, but you also followed me on Instagram (thachna87). Thanks for the support. I really appreciate it! :)
Hello, you mentioned that Straits. Art Co. sells prismacolours in sets and i was wondering if you could tell me the price range for the 150 prismacolour sets...
ReplyDeleteI do not know the exact prices.
DeleteGive them a call, sweetheart. I provide as much information as I can on this blog, but you have to do some things on your own. Once again, here is their number: 6338 1710
For an idea of how much art materials cost in Singapore, see this link: http://www.everythingis-art.com/2013/09/prices-of-art-material-in-singapore.html
Hi there
ReplyDeleteIm thinking of starting watercolor painting! Could u suggest some affordable brands and tell me the supplies to get ? thanks!
I tried working with watercolours before, but the fluidity of water and the difficulty in controlling it made the entire experience very frustrating for me. I do, however, like to use watercolours to block in background colours. But I am in no way qualified to give you any certain advice.
DeleteTherefore, here's a link to a wonderful post on the basics of watercolours: http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=450810
I highly recommend that you read it through. www.wetcanvas.com's watercolor forum is also a gold mine of information. Hope I helped~
thanks so much :)
DeleteHello, It is very nice to see your page and it gives me a lot of info.
ReplyDeleteYour art works inspire me a lot.
I have one question, where we can buy Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Marker in Singapore!!
I need to draw outline in my stone Mug.
Thanks very much,
Suuchit
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a nice comment.
DeleteTry Art Friend. And if you don't have luck there, buy from DickBlick.com or Amazon.com.
there isn't sharpie branded but other oil-bassd markers are available there :) the one at orchard is closed down and will be opening soon but the one at bugis sells a few varieties of oil-based markers which is available in many different color. the ZIG one with a small tip costs 2.68 and it works out really good on my glass mug.
DeleteHi! Do you know where I can find shadowbox frames in Singapore? :/
ReplyDeleteIKEA sells small ones, I think. Or you can go to any major frame shops to enquire about their prices.
DeleteHi there!
ReplyDeleteDo you know anywhere that sells cheap and reasonable prices of glue gun and also crepe papers?
Thanks! :)
I would think any major hardware store would stock hot glue guns. Try Spotlight: http://www.spotlight.com.sg/store/sg-store/
DeleteArt Friend, maybe? Give them a ring.
If all else fails, order online. DickBlick.com or Amazon.com.
What a great review! Well done Jennifer. I've added a link to this and your post with the review of art prices in Singapore to my website Art Supplies Around The World - Resources for Artists
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot..Hope to utilize the boring weekend now in a creative way.......:p
ReplyDeleteWell done...
Hi there, thanks a lot for this list and i just wanted to add - YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT ART MARK !!!!!!!!!!!!!! They are the RUDEST, GRUMPIEST store i've ever encountered!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI asked if they had Kolinsky - and the female bitch who tends the store said they only had sable. I tried to educate the stupid bitch that Kolinsky IS sable, "Einstein"!!! To which, she kept repeating herself that she only had sable. Then, she passed me to a bastard male who said very rudely "It's not our business to know the technical details of what we sell"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Can you imagine THAT!?!?
So you work at a store but you don't know if you have Kolinsky?!?! Because you can't be bothered with that detail?!? Another "Einstein" i guess!!
I told the male bastard, I'm not asking for technical details per se, i'm trying to say that Kolinsky IS Sable, so repeating that you have sable doesn't mean you don't have a Kolinsky, which you might have! With that, i stormed off! What a bastard prick and his stupid bitch associate!!!
DO NOT GO TO ART MARK people, they suck!!! They need a serious attitude adjustment!!
I am so glad someone said something about Artmark. They have the WORST customer service EVER. They are condescending and extremely rude; do not go there.
DeleteI wanted to add one more thing - Art Friend's staff are not bad, friendly and helpful - but yes the man at Straits Art is simple wonderful - sooooooooooooooo patient, friendly, and nice!!! Do go to these stores please!! Such wonderful attitude and customer service!!! They need to be advertised and spoken well of!!
ReplyDeletehi thanks for the post but you missed out Spotlight at plaza sing they a lot of things there not just art supplies.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of spotlight before this, but I'd add them to the list once I drop by their place for a visit. :) Thanks for the heads up though. I appreciate it.
DeleteHi Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your information, I am happy to read so many shopping options for art materials. (:
Can you also add Maple Tree House www.mapletreehouse.com (IMM 5th floor) and Made With Love www.madewithlove.com.sg (Orchard 313) your list? Check them out as they do have mediums, alcohol inks and acrylic paint as well. Recently I found Sharpie in Popular and hot glue guns in Daiso.
Hello there.
DeleteYou're very welcome. I've already added the suggestions and will drop by to both shops when I have the time so that I'm able to give some reviews of them soon. :) I've also added the materials to my "prices of art materials in Singapore" guide. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. I really appreciate it. :)
I am interested to make silicone molds for soaps and soap box liners, anyone know where to get mold builder and silicone mixture and catalyst for that?
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry but I don't have any knowledge on silicone molds so I'm not able to provide any useful links or phone numbers.... You could try calling the shops that I've listed above to ask them for help though.
Deleteyou can buy the silicone at tinkle art and crafts (google it). an alternative if you just need the mold once is to use the silicone that uses a caulking gun. those are easier to find and are cheaper then the silicone rubber. for the silicone that uses a caulking gun, you need to add gylcerin ( i got mine from a private pharmacy in tampines) read up here
Deletehttp://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/load/hypertufa/msg1217385422593.html
That's very helpful, Anon. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment. I'll be sure to add the info on my main posts some place. :)
DeleteCan I know which store is close with Peninsula Excel Hotel? ?
ReplyDeleteWell, Peninsula Hotel is located near City Hall, so I'd say Art Friend at Bras Basah, and Straits Art Co. You could also go towards Orchard and visit Made With Love, Spotlight, and the Art Friend located there.
DeleteSingapore is really so small and well connected (compared to its European and American counterparts) that you can literally just travel from one side of the island to the other side in slightly over an hour.
Hope you have a great time when you come visit our sunny island. :)
What is a good price range for canvas and easel in SG?
ReplyDeleteI have no idea how much easels cost and I really can't help you cause I'd need to know what kind of easel you're looking for. You'd be much better of if you either call the shops to ask, or go to the shops yourself to see what they have to offer.
DeleteA short list of prices for canvases can be found here: http://www.everythingis-art.com/2013/09/prices-of-art-material-in-singapore.html
Hiiii
ReplyDeleteI would like to know if theres any good art n craft stores in the east?
If not, thank you :)
All shops I know of are listed here. So if you do not see any shops near your place, then you're out of luck.
DeleteSingapore is relatively small, though. You could always travel to town or Bugis when you're out with family or friends.
You're welcome. :)
hi may i know where do they sell a crayon or paint, that are for clothes, (not washable)
ReplyDeletethx for d help :)
Art Friend sells fabric dyes and fabric markers. Not sure whether they sell fabric paints, though. Give them a ring ring to find out. :)
DeleteHi Stephaine!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this amazing post for sharing these places with the us!
Do you happen to know any shops that sell/make wood boxes around a3 sizes?
thanks for helping~ :))
Certain Art Friend stores sell wooden items. I'm not sure whether they sell it in A3 sizes though. Try Spotlight too.
ReplyDeleteAnd if that fails, you could always try going to a frame shop and ask whether they could make a custom one.
You're welcome and I'm glad I could help.
Hey Fellow artist
ReplyDeleteI just came across ur site recently, and really liked it.
Saved me all the trouble of googling where all of the art friend branches are
Just wondering if you heard of panpastels?And if art friend has them??
Apologies for the late reply.
DeleteI would guess that Straits Art Co sells them as they have a wide variety of pastels. Art Friend would be my second bet. Call them to inquire. If that fails, you can always order from DickBlick.com or Amazon.com. :)
You're welcome on the help. I try my best. :)
And thank you for the compliment. I really appreciate it.
Went to mapletreehouse at IMM building this week. Small (office space on the fifth floor) but I caught sight of a few noteworthy items like Bristol boards (price tag not clear, but I believe it is $8.99 for A4 size, 10 or 15 pieces, I cannot recall now) and Copic Sketch markers retailing lesser than Art Mark's. In case you guys are wondering, although they carry Copic markers, they are mostly the sketch range. Open stock is limited (each priced at $4.50). 72 piece set is retailing at $330+
ReplyDeleteThey have a worthy collection of scrapbooking items and housebrand cardstock which are more affordable (20cm by 20cm, solid colour, 25 pieces for $5 to $8). They also carry whole spools of divine twine ($14) and the twinery (also $14) and in 15 yards for $1.50 to $2.50 each.
Things are arranged rather haphazardly (perhaps only for the moment?) and it is good to ask the staff there. Due to small space, there is a high staff to customer ratio and most of those who walked-in seemed to be repeat customers.
Pros: affordable cardstock (they are having promotion right now), acceptable selection of scrapbooking items for small shop size. Staff seems to carry knowledge of their products
Cons: not really as organized as one would like - takes time to slowly look through for items; not really the place for artists looking for paints/papers - you'd fare better in Artfriend.
Thank you for dropping by and taking the time to leave a detailed comment. :) I really appreciate it.
DeleteHi.
ReplyDeleteWanna ask whether u know where I can get affordable polyester stuffings for soft toys in Singapore? Thanks in advance.
I'm an artist, not a craft person... So I wouldn't know.
DeleteBut my best guess would be at Art Friend or Spotlight.
If all else fails, try online stores. :)
Hi I would like to ask if anyone know anywhere in singapore sells soap colourant or mica for handmade soap? I couldn't find it at all anywhere :(
ReplyDeleteI have no knowledge on soap making. I'd search online to find them- that's your best bet. :/
DeleteThank for posting just a wonderful resource . I am asking for your opinion where should I visit if I want to purchase those vintage stuffs for collage . You like those flower, and small little vintage stuffs because I need them for my end year examination . Thank you :)
ReplyDeleteI'm an artsy person, not a craftsy person, so I'm not too familiar with craft things. I'm sure you'd be able to find such things at lots of craft stores in town area. Try Spotlight, for one. They have plenty of craft things. :)
DeleteHey! This is great resource of information - thanks for sharing! I'm new to Singapore and was looking to buy some "Golden" Brand Iridescent Acrylic Paint - specifically in Bronze for a DIY home project! Do you know if this brand is available in Singapore?
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure whether any shops specifically sell Golden brand (I've heard of it before, though.) I know for sure that Art Friend sells acrylics; both in iridescent shades and in metallic shades. Drop by any of their stores to have a look see. Prices of their paints are also listed on my "prices of art materials in Singapore" post. :)
DeleteUpdate:
DeleteI found out that the exclusive retailer in Singapore for Golden brand acrylics is Straits Art Co.
Cheers. :)
hello! im looking for cheap resin and maybe with resin hardener too. i've heard that there's some in daiso, but i've searched the tampines, parkway & vivocity's outlets to no avail. im pretty young so crafting's just a hobby and i wish to find cheap (and maybe good?) resin. really hope you can help, thank you so so much! ((:
ReplyDeleteI, for one, never knew Daiso sold resin. So this is new info to me. I'm skeptical that Daiso would sell resin cause it's expensive in most places, and I'm wondering how they'd make a profit selling it for just a mere $2..... The only place I ever knew that sold resin was Art Friend. If you see my post titled "Prices of Art Materials in Singapore" (you can google it), I've listed resin to be sold for the following prices;
DeleteEnviroTex Lite- $16.90 (118ml), $39.90 (473ml), $114.90 (1.89l)
Easy Cast- $24.50 (236ml)
I'm in no way a die-hard craft fan, so perhaps there are other places that sell resin cheaper.
Maybe Spotlight sells them? Also perhaps look for online suppliers. The numbers to the stores are listed in the above post, and it never hurts to call to inquire. :)
I wish you the best of luck and joy in your crafting journey. :)
thank you so so so much! ((: im really grateful for your help and it helps a lot!
Deleteyes, daiso sells resin at 5g each little tube and still at $2. it might be expensive but its in small tubes so it would be good for people crafting a little. i think only some outlets carry the resin. but i know for sure that the Plaza Singapura outlet sells them as i recently bought resin from there.
once again, thank you for your help and time to reply! ^^
You're very welcome. Will be adding that info to my posts to help others.
DeleteAnd thank you for taking the time to come back to tell me about it and telling me that I helped you. It really brightened my day. ^-^
Hi you know of any place which sells no sew fabric glue? Cant seem to find it!!
ReplyDeleteI'm pretty certain Art Friend sells them.
Deletehttp://www.artfriend.com.sg/locates.html
Any idea where to find Angelus acrylic paint? :/
ReplyDeleteNever heard of the brand.
DeleteAnd if it's acrylics you're looking for, there's really no point in finding a specific brand cause quality will be about there across all brands.
Try Golden (from Straits Art Co), Winsor and Newton or Cryla (from Art Friend). Prices of Art Materials in Singapore: http://www.everythingis-art.com/2013/09/prices-of-art-material-in-singapore.html
Hope that helps. :)
Will it work on fabrics? (:
Delete@Louise I don't think acrylics would work well with fabrics... Try Marabu fabric sprays or Zig fabric pens. Art Friend stocks those.
Deleteit is available at art friend. i made a trip to the one at bugis. they sell it at spotlight too. :)
DeleteAngelus Paint is great for sneakers and easy to use, as well as durable. You can find it at http://paintsonline.wix.com/paintsonline
DeleteHi, can I find metallic bookmark at Art Friend?
ReplyDeleteYou can find bookmarks at any gift shops.
DeleteHave you tried Carousell? Or Christian shops? Or novelty gift shops?
Thanks for the excellent recommendations! I really need to get down to Ikea as soon as possible!
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you for taking the time to leave a nice comment for me. ^-^ I'm glad you found the post useful.
DeleteIkea is located at Tampines and at Alexandre. Really worth going down to see all that they have to offer. :)
Hi, can I find gold leaf size adhesive at your store.
ReplyDeleteAgain, I'd say this;
DeleteI'm an independent artist and none of the stores give me commission for referring people to their stores. I am merely doing this because I enjoy helping people and sharing my knowledge with others.
That being said... You can find spray adhesive and other types of glue at Art Friend.
Do you know where I can get resin for a decent price?And which brand of resin is good?
ReplyDeleteI'm not a craft person so I have not actively sought best deals for craft things like resin... So do your own research and hunt around if you want the best deal. What I know, though, is that Art Friend stocks a variety of resin. I've listed them on my "Prices of Art Materials in Singapore" post (there's a link to it in this post, right after the intro to Art Friend.)
Delete[The following is copied from that post...]
Resin
• Resin from DAISO. 5g tubes for $2. Not sure whether available islandwide, but they're apparently available at Plaza Singapura.
• EnviroTex Lite- $16.90 (118ml), $39.90 (473ml), $114.90 (1.89l)
• Easy Cast- $24.50 (236ml)
Hope that helps.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDo u know where can find cheap foliage cluster? Art friend very expensive.
I want to buy in bulk.
Which Art shop is the cheapest in Singapore?
Ask an Art Friend representative whether you could get a discount on your large purchase.
DeleteI really think Art Friend has very reasonable prices....
Try Amazon, maybe?
Hi do you know where I can find Faber Castell Polychromos?
ReplyDeleteAs I know of; only Art Mark sells Polychromos in Singapore.
DeleteYou could also buy from Dick Blick, or Amazon.
They're a good brand of CPs, from what I heard. I'm sure you'll love them. :)
I think there is a Faber Castell shop located at the top floor of ION Orchard, they should have that.
Delete@Wenyi Omg. I completely forgot about Faber Castell's shop at ION. Gonna' add that info to my post soon.
DeleteThank you for being so helpful! ♡
Hi,I want to know where I could be able to find felt
ReplyDeleteDefinitely Daiso. Otherwise, I think Art Friend sells some.
DeleteHi im looking for a shop that sells caran d'ache colour pencils per piece. Have you seen any of the stores that you've visited sell one by chance? ive check artmark but they said they dont sell any more white ones . coz thats the colour i need:(
ReplyDeleteDickBlick is your friend, then.
DeleteI didn't even know Art Mark sold Cara D'ache in open stock. They are hella' expensive, though.... Maybe you might try other brands; Derwent, Prismacolors.... If you're using white for highlights, you can even try using acrylics. :)
Thanks for this- extremely useful. As a newcomer to Singapore trying to access classes/materials and all information connected to Art this is most useful . Cheers- Kala
ReplyDeleteYou're very welcome. :)
DeleteGlad I could help.
Where can I find Transfer paper?
ReplyDeleteBy "transfer paper" I assume you mean those papers you can use to transfer a design onto a shirt. I assume art friend sells them. I'll check with them.
DeleteIf you mean carbon paper, the paper you use to transfer a drawing onto a different paper; Daiso sells them.
Thanks 😁
ReplyDeleteHi there,
ReplyDeleteany idea where i can find water transfer paper? thanks!
I have no idea what that is, so I can't tell you where to find it...
DeleteTry Amazon.com, perhaps?
Update: Some people do sell them on Carousell. :)
DeleteHope that helps~
Hi Stephaine!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post!
Have you heard of Zig Kurecolor Markers? Wondering where can i get them Singapore other than Online store.
They are sold in a variety of places. Most stationery stores will sell a selection. Try Art Friend. :)
DeleteI just bought the Kurecolor markers from NUS Co-op (the university's bookshop), you can find them at the Engineering/Architecture branch. Art Friend does not carry this brand of alcohol markers.
Delete@Wenyi Thank you so much for correcting me. The information will go on to help others. :)
DeleteI'll see whether I can find the time to pop by the bookshop sometime soon.
Where can i find Polymer Clay?
ReplyDeleteArt Friend.
DeletePaulinda is for crafts. Sculpted is for professional use.
Hope that helps. :)
Do you know where I can get promarkers?
ReplyDeleteYou can get them at Art Friend. :)
DeleteHi, any idea which arts store sell boxes which i can fit shirt as a gift?
ReplyDeleteThankyou
IKEA or Daiso.
DeleteYou're welcome.
Do straits art co sell angelus brand paint
ReplyDeleteApologies for the late reply.
DeleteI believe Art Friend sells them. Call the specific branch you'd be visiting to check on availability. Spotlight sells them too. :)
Well,you guys are luck...
ReplyDeleteYesterday I went to art friend to buy a copic 72 sketch b. And happy went home after I open it I found something weird the markers were square shape?! I though though I was some new design or something.but I know it is suppose to be a oval shape so I went online and checked it was indeed supposed to be oval and square shape is the original version.
Today I went to art friend to go and exchange the markers.but the say that they can't exchange it because the seal has be already open and customers can't buy it because the want new ones.
The day I went to art friend I ask art friend worker that I want to purchase the copic market 72 sketch b and she say do you want to just see or buy... I want to buy lol the is a glass box and I can see it...
She took it and went to the counter I payed the money and went home.and they say you can't open it?! How the heck should I know that I am not suppose to opne I had only been the second time I went to art friend seriously you think that I will purposely open it and ask you to exchange it?! Lmao wtf man.i wasted 414dollars and 1 hour of my life and achevie nothing but depresstion. If popular had sold copic do you think I will go to some art friend and buy copic if your wandering NO
*sign* what now I guess I have to figure out a solution and I will never visited no never come near art friend scam my money I had to borrow $200 from my mom and use my new year money to buy it.you think that's easy to me I am just a kid I don't have money ok .
Lesson learn never go to art friend again buy online from trusted stores.
Hello Yiheng Chen,
DeleteI'm really sorry to hear your unfortunate experience at Art Friend.
When we ask a store helper for a certain product because we're unsure of it, we expect the store helper to know more than we do.... So Art Friend did slip up this time around. It's sad that they didn't accept an exchange... But in their defense, the Copic markers set are sold in a translucent case and you could have checked the product before buying it.
However, all is not lost!
Here's a link to how different series of Copic markers are:
http://paperfections.typepad.com/paperfections/copic-faq.html
The main difference between Sketch and Classic Copic markers is that Classic holds more ink, but Sketch has a wider variety of colours. They're essentially the same thing. But if you're still uncomfortable with them, you could sell your current set on Carousell or eBay to recover part of your spending and then buy a new set of Sketch markers.
It's unfortunate that you had a bad experience. And I'm really sorry about it and I hope you'd find a work-around for the situation.
All the best and more,
- Stephanie Jennifer
hey there! just wanted to ask if this is real because my cousin wants to buy copics at short street
ReplyDelete89 in Little India.
I don't quite understand your question....
DeleteIs the information in the above post real? Is that what you're asking..?
Because, yes. Everything I write about on this blog is factual.
If you're asking whether Overjoyed (located at 89 Short Street) is real, then the answer is still yes. Overjoyed is a proper art shop. Although I haven't visited the shop personally, they do have an online website.
Cheers!
Selling hmmm good idea it has been a few weeks and no one is buying it interesting..
ReplyDeleteHi Yiheng, Chen,
DeleteIn your earlier comment, posted on the 5th of April 2015, you said you had bought your set of Copic "yesterday". Meaning, it has been just shy of a week since you bought your Copics.
In my reply to your earlier comment, I was empathetic and kind. I gave you more information on the differences between different series of Copics and even gave you ideas on how to resolve the issue. Please keep in mind that I am an independent artist who runs this blog to help others find information on Arts in Singapore.
Every company has their own return policy. I am in no ways affiliated with the companies I've listed in this blog post and writing passive aggressive comments to me will not help you in any ways. You could try writing to the company and tell them about your unfortunate experience to see what they could do for you. Other than that, if you have better ideas on how I could attempt to help you, please leave a reply to this comment.
Kind Regards,
Stephanie
Does Art Friend sell spray paint? If not, do you know stores that sell them?
ReplyDeleteYes, Art Friend definitely sells spray paints. I'm not sure whether ALL of their branches carry them, though. So do call the branch you're visiting before dropping by. :)
DeleteDo you know if I can find Caran D'ache Swisscolor water soluble colour pencils in Singapore? Looking for a set of 30s.
ReplyDeleteAlso, between swisscolor and prismalo, which do you think is better?
Hello Anon,
DeleteI'm not a fan of Caran D'ache due to how difficult they are to find and also because they're so expensive. To my knowledge, their Swisscolor set was discontinued so it's going to be really REALLY difficult to find it anywhere. Their current watercolour pencils should be the Museuem Aquarelle or their Supracolor.
I'm going to assume you meant "Prismacolor" (correct me if I'm mistaken). Comparing a watercolour pencil and a wax-based pencil is like comparing apples and oranges. They're of the same kind (they're both coloured pencils) but they're different things.
I cannot stand behind Prismacolor because they changed their manufacturers and this has caused the quality of their pencils to drop. Please consider buying some other brands.
For coloured pencils in Singapore, if you're just starting out, Coloursoft by Derwent are brilliant. Derwent also carries watercolour pencils (I haven't tried those) and Inktense pencils (which are really fun to use and that I love).
If you're willing to splurge more, Polychromos are the way to go. They also have watercolour pencil sets too.
Art Friend carries all of the pencils I've just listed.
Hope that helps! :)
Hi! I've been trying to find some panpastels in Singapore for quite some time now. Do you happen to know any store which sells them? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI believe Straits Art Co would be the likeliest place to get them. Give them a call to ask.
DeleteUpdate: You can buy pan pastels from Overjoyed now. :)
DeleteHi Stephanie! Really like your post here. Very helpful when it comes to finding all the art supplies that I need. Quick question: Do you know of any shop that sells Rosetta clutch pencils in Singapore? Grateful for the help! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Charmaine.
DeleteAre you specifically referring to the 2mm clutch pencil or the 5.6mm clutch-pencil-which-others-call-a-lead-holder?
Art Friend sells a whole slew of clutch pencils from technical brands like Staedtler, Rotring, and Geotec. They also sell lead holds from Cretacolor for 5.6mm leads.
Perhaps you'd like to make a trip down to Art Friend to check them out yourself?
If you need more help, you can always hit the reply button on this comment or hit me up via email at stephanie_jennifer@ymail.com
Hope that helps~
Hi Stephanie, you are such a helpful and sincere soul. Wow. May I know where I can find calligraphy pens or markers that are suitable for use on canvas pls? Thank you dear
ReplyDeleteHi Nas,
DeleteApologies for the late reply.
I don't really know why you'd want to draw on canvas with pens and I imagine that the nibs of your pens would get ruined really quickly... Pen and ink on paper, then framed looks good too. Or your could glue the paper straight to a canvas like I do.
If you're hard-bent on using pens on canvas, I'd suggest sanding down the canvas first. Or perhaps adding a layer of gesso on it. Pens with bigger tips would also work better... If say 0.5 and up only.
There are a wide variety of pens that could work... Zig, Microns, Copics, Sharpie, Derwent's Graphik.... It really depends on what kind of effects you're going for. You'd really have to do your own trials and errors to learn what works for you.
If you'd like to ask anymore questions or bounce ideas off of me, I'm always here to help. Reply this comment or send me an email if you'd like. :)
You're welcome~
-Stephanie
Hi stephanie, do you know where i can get sakura pigma micron pens?
ReplyDeleteThey're available at Art Friend for about $2 each.
DeleteI seem to recall that Popular sells them too but it might depend on the branch you visit.
Hope that helps~
Thank you for sharing the information.
ReplyDeleteWould you know where I can get good glitter pen such as Copic Spica Glitter Pen Clear?
Thank you
I have no idea where to get those pens.. Sorry.
DeleteIf I find anything suitable, I'll let you know, though. :x
-Stephanie
Hi
ReplyDeleteDo you know where I can get polychromos individually?
Thanks
Try the Faber Castell shop at ION. It's listed in the post. :)
Delete-Stephanie
Hi Stephanie
DeleteThanks for replying!Like to share with you that the shop is under renovation now. They responded that I have to order at least 6 pieces per colour if I want individual colours :)
Guess I will try to order online.
Thank you for getting back to me on this.
DeleteIt's great to know more info. about the shop. Ordering 6 pencils of each colour sounds like a pain in the butt, really...
You could try DickBlick.com... Or Amazon.com...
Or, you could perhaps consider a different brand of pencils. Although I love Polychromos for their lightfastness, they're not the easiest to get in open stock... Currently, I'm in love with Derwent's Coloursoft.
Also, for your reference, here's a website that compares a whole bunch of coloured pencils from different brands. I've found it really useful and hope it might be of some use to you too.
https://web.archive.org/web/20140107062622/http://colored-pencil-studio.com/
Hi! Any suggestions which Acrylic to use for leather. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHello there,
DeleteI'm not knowledgable in leather craft so I can't advise you on what kind of acrylics to use... However, I do know that you can get acrylic paint from Art Friend, and lots of other art stores listed above.
Hi, do u know where i can get cheaper copic marker instead of going to artfriend?
ReplyDeleteAccording to someone else, you can get cheaper Copics at Mapletreehouse.
DeleteHi! Do you know where I can get Spray-and-stick?
ReplyDeleteAre you talking about spray adhesives? Cause what I get when I google "spray-and-stick" are articles about deodorants..... :x
DeleteIf you're talking about spray adhesives, though, I'm pretty certain Art Friend sells one by Krylon. Not sure whether they sell other brands. But there's definitely Krylon. :)
Thank u for helping me get what I needed this website is the best.I told all the people I know about it and they really liked it.
ReplyDeleteThank you for supporting me and my blog. I really appreciate it. ^-^
DeleteI'm glad you found the post useful.
Hi! Thanks for the post- its really informative! Do you know if any of these mentioned places sell UV body paint?
ReplyDeleteI have no idea where to get UV paint, unfortunately.
DeletePerhaps try Aliexpress, or Amazon and such websites..?
Came across a small art supplies shop called Royal Art. The address is 91 Bencoolen Street, Sunshine Plaza, #01-72, S(189652). They also sell online at the shopping portal Qoo10: http://www.qoo10.sg/shop/Royalart. I'm not an artist, so I don't know if their prices are ok when compared to more well known shops here. I went there to buy Marco Raffine coloured pencils, which has some positive online reviews as decent quality at an affordable price (72 colours for around S$40). They are not artist grade like the high-end stuff, but not bad for general use, noticeably better than those for children. There is also the Marco Renoir line, supposed to be higher quality for professional use, but I haven't tried that.
ReplyDeleteThanks for compiling this database of art shops here, really very helpful!
I'm so sorry I missed your comment.
DeleteThank you so much for the added information. If I do drop by their shop, I'll be sure to add a review. :)
Hi guys, anyone know any shop that sells portable drafting table in singapore? thank you
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteanyone know if any stores selling Schmincke soft pastels in Singapore?
Thank you in advance
Hi, do you know if I can get copic sp multiliner refills anywhere ? If so, where?
ReplyDeleteHi :)
ReplyDeleteAnyone knows where can I get linoleum cutter and carve block in Singapore?
To Nicky Lian, Serene Tan, Lynelle Ma, and Rawini;
ReplyDeleteI am not ignoring your comments. I really have no idea where to get what you're asking for.
If anyone else that's reading the comments section knows any info about those materials, I'm sure they'll appreciate a reply. Thanks for the help. You guys are awesome.
To others just popping in to ask questions:
I still keep this blog very active. I still answer questions on all my blog posts, and my e-mail's inbox is always open too. > stephanie_jennifer@ymail.com :)
Hi may i know where i can get angelus paint? I googled and it led me to this website i read thru and maybe i missed it.
ReplyDeleteHahahaha. The comments are piling up. When in doubt, use ctrl+f if you're using a PC, and cmnd+f if you're using a Mac to find something on a page. :)
DeleteSomeone asked the same question. I wrote that I had never heard of the brand before, so I didn't know. But then another person replied saying that Art Friend at Bugis sells them. And so does Spotlight. I cannot confirm them as facts so do call the shops to enquire.
Hope that helps. :)
Stephanie, love your blog! I need your help please! I'm a 'returnee' to the world of Art - i.e. was a kid who loved art, then spent 20 years pursuing education and career only to return to my love of Art as an adult! I started out with water colours, and went from student grade to artist grade and am very careful with usage coz the paints and paper are so expensive (I'm a freelancer with limited funds). What I feel like doing is getting those large bottles of cheap paints and canvases - and paint with more abandon.
ReplyDeleteWould you know the best place to get affordable and large 500 ml bottles of paint like these http://www.sesco.com.sg/images/miscimg/L_acrylic.JPG?
And are such large bottles of paint usually acrylic only (as opposed to oil and watercolour)?
What brushes or type of brushes should i use for acrylic?
Where can I find canvases on the cheap? Esp stapled behind type canvases?
Do you think my idea is just crazy? Do art lovers buy large bottles of paint and bulk canvasses to paint freely?
Thanks a lot!! Hope to hear from you.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I'm also really happy to hear that you've returned to art. I'll be answering your questions in order, and adding additional info as I go along too.
DeleteI think 500ml oil paints are very very rare due to how oil paints are usually used. You later very thin layers and each layer takes a really long while to dry...
Watercolours don't come in tubs. They come in pans (the small little squares) or tubes. Watercolours last for a really long time, though. And if you're buying artist grade paints, they should be very pigmented and so a little goes a long way.
I know that student grade acrylic paints are sold in the large tubs like the one that you showed me. But I'm not sure whether they sell artist grades come in large tubs. I do know that they come in 225ml/250ml (can't remember which, exactly..)
There's also arguments between artists as to whether student/artist grade ACRYLICS have a major difference. Acrylic is a really new medium, so we don't quite know lightfastness difference between student/artist grade paints... See discussion here: http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=582518
Art Friend has some from Daler Rowney acrylic paints (both student and artist grade). They also sell Winsor and Newton watercolours. You can also try Straits Art Co for more artist grade materials.
Brushes come with bristles (the hair part of the brush) that come in natural, synthetic, and a mix of those two materials. Really, it depends on your budget as to which you prefer. For acrylic, I usually stick to synthetic. Also, don't mix the brushes you use for watercolour and those you use for acrylics.
Cheapest canvases would probably be from Art Friend. Straits Art Co sells some too. So does Art Mark (but I don't like their store because of the horrible customer service they provide)..
I wouldn't know whether painters buy things in bulk because I don't usually paint. I have a couple of tubes of acrylic- I buy colours as I need them. I have one large set of Winsor and Newton Cotman watercolours that I bought from Amazon... And that pretty much satisfies the times when I feel the want to work on canvas or do a watercolour background on paper. Otherwise, I'm a happy trooper with coloured pencils, and pens. I do know that artists always say that they collect colours... Hahahaha. I have full sets of coloured pencils from various brands, and those don't come cheap either... Plus, I have over two, maybe three dozen pens from various brands and of various nib sizes. So I imagine it'd probably be the same for artists who use acrylic and watercolours as their main mediums. ;)
Ways to save money:
If you feel like you're going to be shopping at Art Friend often, get yourself a membership. 10% discounts.
Sometimes, buying online when sales are on makes it cheaper than buying from shops in Singapore. Amazon.com is your friend. DickBlick is another.
Since you said you usually work in watercolours, I highly recommend reading this thread: http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=450810
Here's one for acrylics: http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1363257
And for oil painting, just in case you'd want it: http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=235455
Phew. I think that about covers all of it. Let me know if I missed any of your questions/if you have any further queries. :)
Hope that helps~
-Stephanie
Hi Stephanie, thank you sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much for your detailed response!! And sorry for my late reply!!! I really appreciate all the advice and info you provided, I went through your post with a fine comb and will visit that wetcanvas forum soon - and i can't wait to paint acrylics on canvas!! Thanks again!!!
DeleteYou're very welcome, darling. I understand that learning something new can feel overwhelming, so I wanted to help you as much as I could.
DeleteIf you have any questions, you can always reach me via this blog, or via my email. ^-^
Anyone know where they sell those oil based clay in Singapore?
ReplyDeleteI believe Art Friend sells clay. I'm not sure whether they're water or oil based, though.
Deletei already checked out art friend, they only sells those polymer clay.
Delete