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Arch Drafting Supply
Categories: Shopping Arts & Crafts Art Supplies Shopping Flowers & Gifts Art Supplies, Flowers & Gifts [Edit]
99 Missouri St(at 17th St)
San Francisco, CA 94107
Neighborhood: Potrero Hill
(415) 433-2724
Announcement
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- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 6 pm
Sat 12 pm - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
153 reviews for Arch Drafting Supply
Review Highlights
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"Don't forget to ask for the student discount." In 7 reviews -
"But I found oh so much more." In 5 reviews -
"Not just any rapidograph pens, but Rotring rapidograph pens." In 26 reviews
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153 reviews in English
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Review from Alice L.
Daly City, CA
1/9/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal 1 Check-in Here
I love Arch. They have the funnest stuff and the most useful stuff. From an Interior Design student to when I became an artist, I've been shopping here. They have art paper to the architectural scales. They offer 10% discounts to teachers and students. Their prices aren't bad either. If you've shopped around, you know that art and drafting supplies are expensive, Arch is just a tad below average I'd say. I love buying portfolio supplies here. Their mat boards and display items are really well priced, much cheaper then Flax.
It's super convenient off of 280, take Mariposa and turn left at Missouri. There's a little parking lot just north of the store towards 16th.
I LOVE ARCH, PLEASE SUPPORT THIS LOCAL BUSINESS so they can keep being awesome for years and years. -
Review from Cindy S.
San Francisco, CA
5/24/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I try to drop by Arch every time i'm in the area, but the last time I was there, they were closed randomly on a Wednesday afternoon at 3, and I still don't understand why. In the past, I have gone to Arch when they have their sales and they have some great stuff there. They have a great selection of portolios, archival papers, and storage options. They also carry a lot of good brands of paintbrushes and have a good number on sale. The gift section is sort of, eh- but I understand why they have it there. The salespeople are also helpful.... when I asked them for claybord, they didn't have it in the size I wanted, but offered to order it. That was great.
Still, I don't know if I want to go back because the last time I was there, I almost got mugged and the store was closed for unknown reasons. It's a bit like Flax in their selection, albeit with more drafting/architecture/painting stuff- but the selection isn't huge. I'm still a huge supporter of the store and will go to make sure these mom and pop stores stay afloat. I just hope they're open during normal business hours! -
Review from B B.
San Francisco, CA
4/22/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I really have nothing but good things to say about Arch.
It's hard to find anything to gripe about when it comes to this store, but if I had to mention anything, it may be that I could find a few staple design products cheaper elsewhere and more corporate locations. However, I'd much rather support this local business, which has gotten me out of several binds and has become a location I've grown to love. Let me tell you why.
They offer a 10% off discount to students and teachers
They offer delivery with business accounts (which is great at the design office
when you can't make the trek out to Missouri Street)
They have a huge inventory -- I have yet to need something for a project and not
find what I've needed there, including gifts, useless desk knacks and the like. I'm
sure there are things they don't carry but I don't doubt that their employees would
hesitate to help you find what you need.
The store is always very well organized, with random helpful notes about the
products and prices, when items are oversold or out of stock, etc.
They have parking in the back -- I've never NOT been able to find a spot!
The random specialty products they carry, such as reflective plastic envelopes
and large black rubber bands ( I say specialty because these are products that
are a little unique and that you can't always find at a standard art supply store)
Overall, I have yet to find a better art/design supplier. Arch is the best place to start looking for the products you need, and more likely than not will become the last place you'll need to visit.
Support your local businesses and start here first! -
Review from Elissa P.
San Francisco, CA
3/25/2012
Arch has been my go to art supply store for a while now, since its closer and easier to get to than flax.
I'm SERIOUSLY reconsidering never going back.
My boyfriend and I were there earlier today to get a couple supplies for a project. First we asked them if they had any sort of masonite board or clay board canvases and one of the girls told us they didn't carry anything like that at all. She obviously wasn't aware of their inventory because after 5 minutes of looking around on our own, we found it. We found the rest of what we needed, took a quick look around like we usually do, and then walked over to the register to pay for our things.
This is where it got bad.
No one was at the register, which was ok. We patiently waited for someone to come by. There was this girl looking around though, and I was pretty sure she worked there, but since she was paying no attention to us and telling a story to someone else. She kept walking around, stared at us, turned around and kept walking. I figured she had stepped in on her day off. Until another man stood in line behind us. She looked over again, saw him standing in line BEHIND us, and said "are you ready? I can help you."
THEN, the OTHER TWO girls showed up, we're STILL waiting at the register, and they walked over and helped him. Now there's THREE girls helping this ONE man, and we're still standing in front of him waiting at the counter.
WE ARE PISSED. My boyfriend says, "we were first, can WE get some help?" The girls look at each other and one of them says, I guess I help you at this register. WTF?? "I GUESS I CAN HELP YOU?". WTF. I just want to make it very clear how obvious it was we were waiting first. So obvious that the man stood BEHIND us in line. NOT ACCEPTABLE AT ALL.
I'll considering giving them my business again when their employees learn some fucking manners. -
Review from Sabina M.
San Francisco, CA
5/15/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
awesome selection of stuff, cool neighborhood I don't often get to explore since it's the opposite side of town, and friendly staff! Got everything I needed and more, along with some free coffee and pleasant vibes from staff. Will definitely come back again, just wish it wasn't so far from my abode!
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Review from Kelly K.
Updated - 4/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
Squirrel stickers are a hit in my office. Sent more to friends. Check 'em out before they are gone!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/3/2012
Lipstick colored push pins, dont know where else i could find such an item. Arch is great for gifts,… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer O.
San Francisco, CA
1/26/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I came in today just before my yelp deal was about to expire.
I really liked this place. To describe the vibe and merchandise, it feels like a cross between Cliff's Variety and Flax.
I bought some stationary, some pens and a notepad, cool brass stamps (to seal envelopes with wax) and one or two other unique, small things.
(i.e. An inexpensive, esthetically pleasing contact lens case; mod and very strong refrigerator magnets).
If I'd had more than 20 minutes to spend (more than) burning off my Yelp deal, I'm sure I would've found even more to love and upgrade Arch to a 5-star review.
Q: Why do they write out their sales receipts in long-hand on carbon receipts, as if it's 1974? Isn't it hard for them to keep track of their inventory? I mean, it's quaint but... -
Review from Lisa W.
San Francisco, CA
10/16/2011
They have just about everything and are walking distance from CCA's SF campus. The staff is super sweet and knows exactly where everything is--in case you just can't find/see it. Their inscrutable dog Otto is always a pleasure to see as well.
Don't forget to ask for the student discount! -
Review from cynthia r.
Fairfax, CA
4/6/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Terrific store. Most art supply stores stock the same range of stuff, but Arch tries harder. In addition to a huge array of art supplies, Arch offers books and artsy tschotkes that are way above the norm. Nice, low-attitude staff, too. Parking in back, woo-hoo! A great place to browse, buy and get inspired.
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Review from Mike H.
San Francisco, CA
12/30/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Such amazing selection and fantastic customer service! If I had more time I would have scoured the whole store. Highly recommended for all your art and paper needs.
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Review from Alan D.
San Francisco, CA
3/20/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I absolutely love this place! Arch is in an out of the way part of the city, but the trip is worth it. Prices are good, service is excellent, and the selection is great. Every time I've gone here they've had the items I needed at a reasonable price. Highly recommended!
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Review from Kat F.
11/1/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Quick Tip: Don't come here during a rainstorm, lest you be 'trapped' inside with no choice but to peruse the store from corner to corner and purchase practically everything in sight. This is a dangerous, dangerous place to come without a very strict shopping list in hand.
I found myself in this exact predicament last week except that I *did* have a shopping list: 300kg epoxy to fix a broken piece of jewellery.
Two hours later I walked out with an IKEA's-worth of things I hadn't anticipated buying. Arch was having an envelope blowout and I had no choice but to oblige - picked up 20 neon envelopes for $2 and got some mix 'n match square ones for CDs and homemade greeting cards. They also have an incredible selection of pencils and markers if you are actually of the artistic variety to warrant being in Arch Drafting Supply in the first place (I just pose as such). They have portfolio folders, binders and boxes for you to show off your work and a junkload of gift ideas in their miscellaneous section.
MUST NOTE: Otto, the house Boston Terrier puppy, is adorable and roams the store freely, and the staff is an eclectic and helpful cross-section of metal fans. You may hear sporadic death growls or grunting from the stock room, so don't be alarmed.Listed in: Stationery & Art Supplies: Or,…
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Review from Helen I.
San Francisco, CA
1/15/2011
Arch touches a special place inside of me.
It's called the "Art Supply Fetish Super Great" Place.
Aside from the random assortment of miniature toys, erasers, etc, in the revolving wooden cabinet, the best part about Arch is the plethora of sketchbook/paper pad/inkjet printable paper selection, oh, and if there's something that you wish to purchase but they are out of, they will notify you via phone when that item is in stock. No joke, man. I actually got a phone call from one of the sales people that my desired Copic pen nibs were in stock. Soooooo, soooooo great. -
Review from Eileen P.
Sunnyvale, CA
1/31/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Stuff I've Bought At Arch Over The Years (a sampling thereof)
Prismacolor pencils
Cretacolor leads
Sumi ink
Strathmore sketch pads
Davey Board
A heavy duty awl
Methylcellulose
Nori
Beeswax
Paintbrushes
Moleskines
Daler-Rowney sketchbooks
Arches cold press watercolor paper
Vine charcoal
... which is just about a tenth of what they sell here in this awesome art supply store.
I don't get to shop here as often as I'd like but when I do I make the most of my visits. And with a great selection of items, some not typically stocked at larger art supply stores, you can go wild at Arch. The prices are comparable to most other places, but the selection is tough to beat. Come here for your bulk paper needs especially! -
Review from Iggy R.
San Francisco, CA
2/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love this place! It has everything that I look for in an art store in SF. Free parking, easy parking!!
Plus a large assortment of paints, pens, paper products, frames, portfolios, art bins, and stuff I wasn't even looking for...but I wanted.
Friendly staff will help you with any questions. Great place to find small gifts and fun stuff for your desk. -
Review from Angela S.
San Francisco, CA
2/25/2011
Yay! An art/drafting supply store just a two - minute walk from CCA's SF campus! And it's not expensive or anything, either! They have chipboard here for less than they sell it for on campus!
Thank god for Arch Drafting supply! -
Review from Deborah C.
Belvedere Tiburon, CA
5/13/2011
Found it at Arch Drafting Supply! I was looking high and low for eco-friendly foam core presentation board and they have it. They carry Insite Biodegradable foamboard with SFI Certified paper liners. Graciano answered the phone and provided the solution that I needed. Graciano is sending a sample of this foam board to our ASID office so our designers can see it's unique qualities. Arch Drafting Supplies makes it easier to be green for our ASID designers. BTW it also also has recycled content.
Thank you!
Deborah Crosby, CID, LEED AP
Past President, ASID San Francisco Chapter -
Review from cat k.
San Francisco, CA
8/9/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal 2 Check-ins Here
I love little local gem shops! This store is great for supplies and gifts - the staff is cool, too! I always pop in here for work supplies. They have a great selection of papers of all kinds along with pens, notebooks, paints, and drafting supplies. I usually come here during the holidays to pick up gifts such as wallets, earrings, note cards, and albums. Pop in here if you are looking for any art supplies or unique gifts.
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Review from Kay M.
Belmont, CA
8/9/2010
oh arch. I have visited this place on a close to weekly basis for the last 4 years. You could call it lack of foresight, I call it convenience and a small amount of money at any given time. Being a student at CCA just a few blocks away, this place is a godsend for all my usual and more absurd designing/crafting/drafting needs.
The prices are always fair and the selection is good. The staff is friendly and helpful, and Otto the dog is adorable. They also have a cute gift section. Yay Arch! -
Review from Olma M.
Burlingame, CA
8/14/2006 3 photos
Me Likey! So much more than an art supply store. Everything from the exterior paint (very cool gold metallic shimmer!) to the inventory and layout is super fun and cool. I walked in here not needing anything, but walked out with all kinds of unique and quirky gift items. From little silver Buddha charms to a "Tragic Thoughts" (Tim Burton) journal, they have a great variety of gift ideas for all types.
During the 2005 holiday season, they had some very cool ornaments, too. Oh, and they supposedly have well-priced art supplies, too!Listed in: Retail Therapy
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Review from Brady K.
San Francisco, CA
3/1/2007
One of the two fetishes I will publicly confess to having is the love of stylish art'n office supplies. This includes over-engineered click pencils, ergonomic, gravity-defying pens, scientific lab graphing paper and moleskin-like journals. (Patagonia athletic wear is the other.)
On my way back to work from SF BBQ http://www.yelp.com/bi... I meandered down Missouri st. and my jaw went slack. Where the hell did this Sports Basement-sized paper store come from? My amazement was soon replaced with glee as I literally skipped around this gi-normous warehouse of every possible type of paper, pen and paint. Candy colored pens and supplies are meticulously arranged at the entrance just like chocolate and gum tempt you at the grocery store. I love the creative touches to the place, like the conveyor belt shelving system and the paintings of pens outside. Also the scent of the of the shop is homey like wood chips and books.
The only negative during my out-of-body experience was the realization that Arch is probably an institution or holy mecca of supplies to the arts'n craft crew of the City. I was yet again slow on the uptake. Fortunately I'm now on board - no longer will I settle for the overpriced, crappy sh** at Papyrus. Cards, supplies, wrapping paper, photo albums, amusing monkey toys... it's all at Arch. And its location has a handy mnemonic... remember the famous Arch of St. Louis on Missouri street. http://www.gatewayarch... -
Review from Quinn S.
5/17/2008
I had already cleaned out Pearl, Blick, two Utrechts and Flax.
Arch was the last place in the City with hinge clamps (aka. Jiffy Clamps) and I had an event the next day where a dozen of my students would be silkscreening t-shirts and posters for hundreds of museum visitors.
I jumped into a cab, as they were just minutes away from closing, and raced to Potrero Hill. Although I was only in the store for 2 minutes, the place was warm and inviting and the staff were helpful, efficient and knowledgeable. They knew exactly where to find what I was looking for and had them in my hand within 30 seconds. They rang me up at lightning speed despite the hand written receipts, and even gave me advice on the best bus routes to take back to the Financial District.
I'm looking forward to going back and staying for more than 2 minutes. -
Review from Dorothy S.
San Francisco, CA
7/29/2006
Don't let the "drafting supply" part of the name detract from what you can get out of the store. All kinds of artists can shop here but it is a great place for architects looking for an uber fine pen!!
Arch is tucked away in the Potrero Hill district near the California College of the Arts (CCA formerly known as CCAC) campus and there's plenty of parking as well. From small wood panels to watercolor blocks to useful art books, you can easily find what you need and it's student friendly.
I was pleasantly surprised by the price of the quality selection of art supplies and the outgoing staff. They'll definitely take the time to help you out!!Listed in: When I need something,…
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Review from Charlene L.
San Francisco, CA
7/3/2006
Had it with the Flax crowd? Looking for that organic shopping experience? Enjoy unfettered access to things that make you go "ooh"? Then Arch is the one, baby.
I came here to order paper for my wedding invitations, and they had THE perfect stuff. Hell, they had everything I needed: glue, folding bones, velcro, and everything you need. Low pressure and low attitude. Great place for gifts too.Listed in: Shop Whore!, So You're Going to Tie the…
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Review from Astrid X.
San Francisco, CA
2/25/2007
Finally, the art store I've always dreamt of finding---tucked away behind an unassuming facade in Potrero Hill.
After a single woefully short visit (too many other errands to allow dawdling), Flax, Amsterdam, Blick, Pearl, Utrecht, and all other soulless art supply stores are already forgotten.
Unpretentious, little to no artsy crap (i.e., the dreaded monet waterlillies mousepad), and an ambience somewhere between quirky thriftstore and converted loft.
Supplies are packed into vintage cabinets, the lighting is not the usual oppressive fluorescence, and perhaps most importantly, you find what you need and more.
I came in to get huge Rodia notepads and drafting pencils and both were cheaper than anywhere else in the city. Plus, as I was doing serious stocking up, I got a free ARCH bag to boot.
Already planning the next visit... -
Review from eve l.
San Francisco, CA
9/10/2008
EDIT: You know what? I'm going to add one more star because since my first visit to Arch, the staff has been nothing more than helpful, gracious, and, most importantly, SMILEY! I love it when people acknowledge me with a smile. Prices are still a bit too high though....
Eh, I wasn't really feeling it.
They (mostly) had everything that I needed it but it was like pulling teeth to get some help from the drowsy staff of underpaid art students.
The tons of cute stationary items that would usually leave me drooling lost my interest after seeing the crazy prices. $20 for a tiny moleskin planner? Really?
Psst, go to Blick; it's cheaper and has a more substantial discount. -
Review from Annelise D.
San Francisco, CA
8/9/2010
The thing to remember when dealing with Arch is that they specialize in drafting supplies. They're great for that, and there's a reason so many firms in the city order from them.
Painters and sculptors and whatnot might look elsewhere for 15 different brands of liquid acrylics or whatever; there are a lot of art and craft supply stores in town. Every single Arch hater on Yelp seems to expect it to be something it's not... and whose fault is that?
They also have their entire inventory in a pdf on their website, and if you call to ask if they have something, they know. They also know when they'll get more.
Then next time I start on a pen swallowing project, I know who I'll visit. -
Review from Sturm V.
San Francisco, CA
5/29/2010
Oooh, this place is an artist's dream. Or a dreamer who thinks they are an artist, they can find anything they can think of. And there is so much more than you can think of that you can get a ton of inspiration just from browsing around.
Kind of a warehouse in back with a kitschy boutique gift shop in front, but it works. I come here for supplies and inks, and inspiration. -
Review from Lisa L.
San Francisco, CA
1/28/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I love browsing through this place. I can always find things that I want. They sell everything from stationary supplies to random cute things you can put on your desk with no obvious purpose. Prices are moderate..not cheap but not outrageously expensive either. I bought my wedding invitation envelopes here. I really recommend coming here if you are doing a DIY art project or if you are just bored and in the area.
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Review from Mia R.
San Francisco, CA
3/26/2007
I love this place so much, it's almost too cool. Even the dog is too cool for me, he always walks up, smells my leg and as I reach down to pet him he walks away like he couldn't give a shit about me or a pat on the head. I want him to like me so bad.
They have all the art store essentials but then there is so much more, everything from fancy bookends to mini rubber pigs. Because I am financially challenged at this time I sometimes find it hard not to buy their well designed goodies, but there are options. If you are poor and crafty like I am they have some great stuff -various card-stock, ribbon, stamps, little toys. I made 12 lovely valentines for under $5. -
Review from laura f.
7/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
I have nothing but glowing things to say about all the arch guys. I've worked with them for three years now at two different offices for all of our art/paper/pen/pencil/moleskine/you name it needs. they are always friendly on the phone, delivery is prompt, and i always have a great conversation with them.
thanks guys for making my job fun! -
Review from Steve N.
Pacifica, CA
2/17/2007
I found out about this place from Yelp. I bookmarked it quite a while ago and forgot about it. I do architectural drawing as a part of my work and I thought it would be nice to get some professional quality supplies instead of the business store stuff that I had.
I bought some really nice quality things but to tell the truth I could have easily dropped a few hundred here.
I'm really looking forward to coming back.
7/23/07 I now come here every few months and my desk as well as my daughters room is littered with things that I bought here. This is the best place for office and craft supplies that I've ever been to period. -
Review from ninja M.
San Francisco, CA
9/16/2006
I love Arch.
I love Micron pens and paper. By the way some of the paper comes direct from the source and they cut it themselves=better quality paper that you dont find just any store. As well as a large variety of Epson paper and carlton color paper.
Everytime I have been there (multiple years) I have been helped in a great manner and they carry as well many items that are great for small gifts (bags, mirror-magnet sets, little notebooks and plenty letterpresesed-cards and notebooks)
Everything from the design student, pro-architect or collage fan could find their needs here.
(double score - ) they have bike racks right by the door. -
Review from elina r.
Oakland, CA
12/20/2006
Designers, Artists, Architects, people who like cool stuff: unite!
Arch is inspiration in liquid-concentrate form. They have everything!
I am a graphic designer, and I come here just to peruse the aisle and drool. Not that I've ever NOT bought something there. -
Review from Kate T.
San Francisco, CA
3/11/2008
My fiance's the designer and IIIIII love this place!
Last year for her birthday I thought it'd be fun to buy her a table-top drafting table, but knowing ABSOLUTELY NOTHING about design, I needed help. The boys at arch helped me out, didn't make me feel any more stupid than I already did, and still say hi to me when I come in with her.
I like the magnets and the pens. Ooooh. Pens. -
Review from Chandra W.
San Francisco, CA
12/12/2009
I'd like to give Arch five stars because of the amazing things they have in this amazing warehouse-esque space. three stars because it's a little far out there from everything else. But now I'm back to five because the ride over there is worth it all.
I went here to buy a portfolio and when they didn't have the size I wanted, they ordered it for me. They carry just about every type of Epson paper and ink cartridge so it's my one-stop-shop. And if that's not what you are looking for, they've got sketchbooks, magnets, billions of pencils & pens, note pads, sculptures, and a ton of other stuff that would make a great gift for anyone. (or yourself) -
Review from Ivan L.
7/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a super awesome drafting supply place. They got the pens, the pencils, little erasers, things in color, things in black & white, things to draw on, you get the idea. It's absolutely the best spot for graphic arts & writing supplies that I have found in the city.
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Review from Mitzi N.
San Francisco, CA
10/2/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Arch is the best hidden gem of the city, especially when I'm casting about for inspiration. The staff is very knowledgable and helpful and Otto always makes me laugh. They often have supplies that the bigger stores don't carry--their specialty is architectural model supplies. But, they also carry Gocco silkscreening supplies, and sell 8.5x11 specialty papers by the sheet/ream. And, they carry a huge inventory of neat a-Hah gifts that would be difficult to find elsewhere. Coolest store ever.
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Review from Timothy O.
Fresno, CA
8/13/2008
It's back-to-school time. Were you ever excited about buying school supplies? Did you ever want *just* the right Trapper Keeper? I can't be the only one. If you were that kid, and grew up into an adult, you'll probaby like Arch. It's a drafting supply store, and they have everything you need if you're an architect or a drafting student or a professional, but I'm none of those, and I was still enthralled. My friend chided me for not being able to make it past the pen display in the front. (I did eventually.)
They have a lot of interesting paper choices and a lot of cool desk organizer type stuff. If the list so far hasn't grabbed you, look for some other semi-random gift ideas as well. -
Review from Sanaz E.
San Francisco, CA
7/18/2007
For the love of ART please spread the word about this place. It's a city's gem...and don't keep it to yourselves...let's get this art supply store pumpin with avid art students and artists, as they're not as visible and centrally located.
This place is a bit smaller than FLAX but still carries all you need, and so much more personalized service. I just got into watercoloring and I got a rep to help me find the right brushes, paints and paper to work with; very helpful. It's a chill environment, and they have the best of the best, and art supplies you cannot find at Flax...they're thorough and they really care about carrying what you need...so just ask...they can probably order it.
If you're serious about creating something artistic - be it digital photography, painting, drawing...this is the place to go!
Plus they take student discounts!
