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Best Art Supply Stores In Minnesota

They say an artist is only as good as the tools in his kit, but without a good place to find quality brushes, paints, pencils and paper, you just might starve. These establishments from across the state will give you a go-to when your crayons get dull or your glue gun clogs. Whether you're a graphic designer, a kitchen table scrapbooker or a paint-by-numbers type, you'll find the products you need at these top Minnesota spots for artists.

Dick Blick Art Materials
3867 Gallagher Drive
Edina, MN‎ 55435
(952) 831-6061
www.dickblick.com

Dick Blick Art Materials (formerly known as ArtSign) has been a Twin Cities fixture for artists for decades. Artists and hobbyists alike appreciate that the store is staffed with actual artists who truly know the products. Sign up for the frequent user discount card, print out a 30-percent-off coupon and ask about Dick Blick brand products to find the best values. Dick Blick has locations in Edina, Minneapolis and Roseville.

Wet Paint Artists' Materials and Framing
1684 Grand Ave.
Saint Paul, MN 55105
(651) 698-6431
www.wetpaintart.com

Wet Paint is comprehensive art store with something for just about everyone; hobbyists, pros, kids and novices will all find what they need at Wet Paint. With a huge room dedicated solely to children, a custom matting and framing section and even packages for supplies bundled to correspond with area art classes and workshops, Wet Paint is heaven for the creative adult or child. Since 2000, City Pages has named Wet Paint has named Best Art Supplies Store seven times. Wet paint is located in the Mac-Groveland neighborhood in St. Paul.

Picture This! Scrap That!
115 Downtown Plaza
Fairmont, MN 56031
(507) 235-3505
www.picturethisscrapthat.net

Picture This! Scrap That! claims it is the largest craft store in southern Minnesota, and with its craft section, craft toy store, framing services and teacher's shop, it's not hard to believe. You can sign up for its newsletter, hang in the "teacher's lounge" and even follow the shop on Facebook. Picture This! Scrap That! has daytime hours Monday through Saturday and is also open Thursday evenings.

Related: Best Places To Buy Local Art For Less Than $100

The Old Schoolhouse
2335 Monroe Ave. S.W.
Bemidji, MN 56601
(218) 751-4723
www.theoldschoolhousebemidji.com

Don't let that forgotten set of oils or broken easel derail a lake country artist's retreat. Head toward The Old Schoolhouse and restock that travel kit. Located in, you guessed it, a former school, just south of Bemidji, The Old Schoolhouse features a large selection of quality art supplies. You can also visit the art gallery for inspiration or purchase a frame for your new masterpiece. The Old Schoolhouse is open all year, and most days you'll find owner Lois Dale behind the counter, offering discounts and advice.

Pineapple Art Center and Supplies
124 W. 1st St.
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 722-2919
www.pineappleartscenter.com

The Pineapple is an art co-op, run by artist volunteers. It features a classes, studio space and a gallery, as well as a broad array of art supplies. Sign up to be one of the cooperative volunteers and you'll save 15 percent off all of you purchases while meeting other artists and helping the art community in Duluth. Volunteers also get free studio space and consignment opportunities.

Related: Best Local Art Enthusiasts In Minnesota To Follow On Twitter

Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for eight years. She loves covering all things Minnesota and her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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