Meininger Art Supply

4.0 star rating
41 reviews Rating Details

Category: Art Supplies  [Edit]

499 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
Neighborhoods: Southwest, Baker
(303) 698-3838
Hours:

Mon-Fri 9 am - 7 pm

Sat 10 am - 5 pm

Sun 12 pm - 5 pm

Price Range:
$$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street, Private Lot
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Up To 30% off and Up To 2 Months Rent Free when you call us today at (720) 263-0936. Certain restrictions, terms and conditions apply.

Review Highlights   

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"They have almost everything an artist needs." (in 9 reviews)
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"...and my bro always go and try out all the markers, pens etc." (in 8 reviews)
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"It is a really great place for little gifts as well." (in 5 reviews)
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41 reviews in English

  • Review from Emily T.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    1/3/2012

    We recently dropped into Meininger Art Supply to see what they had stocked in the way of screen printing supplies.  We did not leave empty handed.  After speaking to easily the most helpful employee ever, we left the store with everything we needed to start a makeshift screen printing studio in my home for around $120.

    The prices are about what you'd expect from any art store...maybe a tiny bit higher.  However, I'd be willing to fork over more money for the excellent service that we received while browsing and shopping.  I suppose I was expecting the place to be staffed by hipstered out art students who rolled their eyes when I asked beginner questions, but I was pleasantly surprised when Richard, an experience screen printer, found us mulling over inks and happily answered our questions, drew a diagram, walked us through all of the materials and then found a book that he had found incredibly helpful for in-home printing.  We were also greeted by three other people during our time in the store and all checked to make sure we were being helped.  Basically, the customer service went far beyond our expectations.

    The store is large and if you're like me and a recent Pinterest convert, then you may find yourself needing all sorts of artsy paraphernalia, crafting tools and other creative gadgetry, rest assured you'll be able to find it at Meininger's.  Plus, they have a big ol' parking lot on the side, so it's easy to duck in and spend some time browsing.

  • Review from Emilee H.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    11/27/2011

    This place is great!  It is probably the largest art store in the Denver area.  It has everything to calm you artistic crave.  It is a really great place for little gifts as well.  We got some animal butt magnets for a stocking stuffer! haha!!  The staff was super friendly and helpful.  They have a parking lot as well.

    Although I don't think it needs to be so over priced.

  • Review from Leopold W.

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    • 11 friends
    • 89 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    1/24/2012

    Go ahead - just set up direct deposit to this place for my paycheck.

    The selection of EVERYTHING is just great - the price ranges is even better as it offers options for beginners and experts so that a new hobby won't break the bank, but will still look better than a novice's work.  I could get lost in every part of the store for hours.  They have an amazing selection of papers, pens, markers, every type of paint, calligraphy tools and origami - just to name 6 of the probably hundred subsections of products.  

    The staff is always helpful - sometimes a little too watchful.  I promise I'm not gonna steal these ink pens! But that is understandable as I'm sure people try that crap especially with the good/expensive stuff which would only make prices/attitude worse - so I'll smile back and deal with it.

    I also love that the staff uses their brains - I'm not meaning to sound condescending, but the folks working at chain 'craft stores' have no clue about their products or art really - so it is fabulous that Meininger staff can offer advice and tips on the spot.

  • Review from Melissa C.

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    • 32 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    1/20/2012

    I wanted to give 3.5 stars because most items here are way over-priced.  But this place has saved me so many times when I have run out of paint, or need a last-minute item as I order 99% of my art supplies on the internet.  Normally I build my own canvases but every now and then they have wonderful sales on stretched canvas (the smaller ones as I always construct my larger ones).  And they do have a wide assortment of curious supplies, I find myself browsing other mediums and tools just for fun. And I love their fun novelty items near the front.  Their people are very nice and helpful.  I do love this place but wish the prices especially on the oil paints would come down.  I am also a bit surprised there is not another major/large art supply store in Denver.  Fun store!  :)

  • Review from Cliff T.

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    5/9/2011

    This is the most fun store for spending a lazy Sunday.

    I'm no artist but I could still spend a ton of money here. Just in gifts alone.

    The building is so cool.

  • Review from leah o.

    Minneapolis, MN

    5.0 star rating
    4/15/2011

    This is my first stop when I'm going on an adventure. I am really, really good at spending money here. As small as my budget may be, there's always $10, $20, $30 to drop at this store. I am always able to convince suspicious, penny-counting parts of me that it's money spent on ART, and ART should always be a spending priority.

    So for trips and vacations and weekend-getaways, I always like to stop in and pick up sketch books, Moleskines, new pens, Cray-pas, etc. And no matter what my original intent is for stopping at Meininger's, I always walk out with more projects, gleefully looking forward to an afternoon of tea, chalk, and India Ink.

    For someone like me who is so invested in their work life that they often forget their creative side even exists, this place is an awesome reminder jolt.

    Another thing- have you ever been to a Michael's? I think being a sullen asshole is a requirement for getting a job there. That, fortunately, is not the case here, where the nicest people in the world want you to buy crayons. That's all. Just buy crayons. Ok?

  • Review from Shannon C.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    10/30/2011

    LOVE this place!!! I can always count on the helpful staff at Meininger to help me find all the unique, and often hard to find, art supplies that I need for my illustrations, paintings, and book-making projects. This is by far my favorite store to get lost in for hours, even though I can't afford everything I want :)

  • Review from Groovy M.

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    • 1 friend
    • 36 reviews

    Parker, CO

    4.0 star rating
    7/24/2011

    Probably the biggest art supply store in Denver.  They have a decent amount of art supplies and you'll more than likely find something you can use.  Even if it's not exactly what you want.  However, they are overpriced, I only shop here if it's my last option.  Most of the employees I dealt with are fairly knowledgeable, and can point you in the right direction.  I would give this place 3.5 stars if I could.

    Summary:
    Pro: You'll find what you need.
    Con: Expensive.

  • Review from Jen A.

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    • 5 friends
    • 111 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    7/3/2011

    I absolutely love, love Meininger Art Supply. I've been a big fan for many years. And I make it part of my return trips to Denver to always drop in to see what is new. They were my supply shop for my art classes, and also it's a great place to go for books on art. What I like the most about it are the selection of papers, sketchbooks, gift ideas and calligraphic inks/pens. And the oil and watercolor supplies are not lacking, And what makes shopping here easy is that parking is off-street and free.

  • Review from Nina B.

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    • 14 friends
    • 17 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    5/11/2011

    Not sure about the other art materials here, but their canvases are decent and well priced.

  • Review from Andee H.

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    • 190 friends
    • 276 reviews

    Brighton, CO

    5.0 star rating
    5/16/2008

    As an art girl I fell in love with Meininger's the first time I went inside all those years ago. I am still in love.

    They have almost everything an artist needs.

    They have a superb selection of painting supplies, canvas, brushes, drawing supplies, and even goodies for the little artist's in your life.

    Plus did I mention how I am in love with their book selection? I love it...
    They also have a small, but good magazine selection.

    I do enjoy in the front of the store all the creative silly sometimes totally useless other times totally useful delightful items that change often, yet keep me coming back for more.

    Did I tell you about the paper? Oh, the paper... From the drawing  paper, handmade, decorative, and of course wrapping paper. I freaking love paper.

    Okay I am done geeking out on telling you about art supplies, just go and make something already!

  • Review from Erica A.

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    • 27 friends
    • 116 reviews

    Arvada, CO

    4.0 star rating
    1/15/2009

    A top art supply store.

    Amazing selections of oil, acrylic and water colors paints.

    They have everything!!!!

  • Review from Douglas R.

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    • 95 friends
    • 176 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    11/12/2008

    If there was a poster child for going off an tangents with a tint of OCD and ADD I am sure I would be it.

    I have a variety of interests and ART is on them I have very creative side and drawing helped me make it through my angstful youth, until I found sports!

    So back to that tangents and ADD/OCD etc. Heres theTangent Part: read a review and then started surfing art etc. Then sent like 20 Yelp compliments to a Artist on Yelp! When this store I bought all my art supplies from in College popped into me head. So here's the OCD: literally I will probably get off work, or I might even drive over on my lunch and go buy art supplies that I cant afford nor have the time to use! Heres the ADD: I will get home  after the girls practices what ever sport du jour is track or basketball I will cook, check home work, try to clean then I will turn on Pandora fire up the Xbox and run a TV show thru hulu on my PC LCD leaving said ART supplies in the bag I just purchased them.

    There is literally many places that I am like a kid in a candy store, electronics stores, buffets, strip clubs and Meininger's! This place is a veritable wonderland there are so many pencil, pens, brushes, and canvases. I could make my own comic or travel to Haiti like Homer and paint Palms in hurricanes, or go to Venice like Singer Sargent and paint a Venetian Canal Scene. What ever the out come this store really turns my creative side on and some day that fire will be stoked until it because a uncontrollable urge and the place I will go to get my supplies with be Meininger's!

  • Review from Heather C.

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    • 26 friends
    • 139 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    1/13/2009

    If you're an artist, craftsperson, or anyone that loves to create this place is like HEAVEN. Not only do they have art supplies, they have art magazines, kitsch, arty gifts,  and a kids arts/crafts/gifts section.

    I LOVE this place!

  • Review from Melissa R.

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    • 35 friends
    • 75 reviews

    Denver, CO

    2.0 star rating
    Updated - 8/13/2010

    yeah, I'm updating but not changing the rating, so what?! :)

    Anyways..........WHY ARE YOU SO EXPENSIVE MEININGERS?!?!?!?!
    Seriously, I get it that you're an independent, local shop....BUT, selling something for $27 more than what you can purchase it for from another store is downright ridiculoso!

    Um, so picture this, an item is $1.99 if bought individually, one would think if you buy the pre-packed item it would be cheaper (right?...right.) Nope, not for you dear Meiningers, you want to punish us...make me buy a 40 pack of pastels for $86 when I can buy them for $80 individually...Or better yet $59 from another place!!

    Oh-so-Lame.

    As much as I want to support local.....
    http://dickblick.com with overnight shipping was STILL cheaper than you.

    for shame!

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 2.0 star rating
      6/29/2009

      I dunno what to think of all of these 4 and 5 star reviews on here, besides the fact that people are… Read more »

  • Review from Gabby R.

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    • 0 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Inglewood, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/8/2008

    I love this store.. if your looking for something art/design related this is the place to go. Me and my bro always go and try out all the markers, pens etc.

    Love It!!

  • Review from cindy b.

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    2/8/2010

    This is the kind of place that I might go for a silly little project and end up staying two hours, spending more money than I intended, and feeling a bit depressed that I don't have time to actualize all the inspiration it gave me.  

    If you have a particular vision, tho, this is the place to get just the right tools, main ingredients, and even the extra stuff you think of to trim it when you are done.  Or just go buy some paper--they have the most wondrous selection of paper just for the fun of it.

  • Review from Tracie B.

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    • 72 friends
    • 311 reviews

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    11/4/2009

    Our daughter, the artsy-creative one in the family started taking art classes at The Arts Student's League at about the same time she was old enough to pick up a paint brush. We found early on that we would be "investing" lots of money in art supplies. That's when we discovered Meininger. Big and packed to the gills with everything for novice to professional artist. They also have a great selection of journals and fansy-schmancy pens and every color of ink under the sun. I also love the fact that they have lots of parking in their own private lot.

    Our daughter, now 23 is a wonderful artist and thankfully she now buys her own supplies.

  • Review from Ran T.

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    11/22/2010

    A local gem! They have good selection of paper, paint, colors, and much more. The staff are friendly, the products are in good quality. Yes, just like previous yelpers said, it's very pricey. The particular oil pastel I was looking for costs $20+ more in the store than elsewhere. But it's a local business and has been around for a long long time, so I want to support it. Check out their gift sections you would find the cutest and quirkiest items for sure.

  • Review from Carol N.

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    • 0 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Denver, CO

    1.0 star rating
    9/23/2011

    Although the selection is huge and prices aren't bad, the arrogance and rudeness of the employees (including managers) is too much to tolerate. Why continue to support a store that allows such negativity? Every time I spend money I am making a statement and I see no reason to support a company that encourages such behavior.

  • Review from Edie S.

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    • 0 friends
    • 27 reviews

    Grover Beach, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/8/2011

    I have not lived in Denver for many years, but have many fond memories of Meininger's. When I was going to Art School, it was where I found EVERYTHING that I needed and more. I could only hope for a store that grand here on the Central Coast of California. It makes my heart feel all warm and fuzzy that this is a place that is still doing well and going strong.

  • Review from Alma M.

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    4/10/2010

    If art had an Argonaut equivalent, it would be Meiningers.  It looks kind of small and ordinary on the outside, but go inside and any art lover will probably feel a bit overwhelmed.

    Why do I like Meiningers?  They're not a chain.  Employees are not pushy and are generally pretty knowledgeable about things.  Often, they are artists themselves and really love helping you find the perfect thing.  Some are nicer than others.  Even though they are always busy and packed, I've never waited a long time in line.

    Stuff I don't love: Yep...they are pricey.  I go here for the perfect blue acrylic that I can't find anywhere.  Or perfect paint brushes.  Not for run-of-the-mill supplies.  Regular stuff that doesn't require fondling, I get online or at discount places.  Even Michaels.  

    They do run out of stuff.  They do sometimes lack things like spray bottles.  They do lock some items up.

    Overall, though, I like this place.

  • Review from Norah L.

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    • 103 friends
    • 139 reviews

    Aurora, CO

    5.0 star rating
    2/19/2009

    I've been shopping at Meininger's for about 10 years now.  They're a little pricey, but there's not too many places here in colorado that you can find so many different creative tools as you can here.  Whether your into charcoal pencils, colored pencils, pastels, water colors, oil painting (me!), acrylic painting, calligraphy...and oh, so much more!!  
    The help can be hit or miss, but for the most part, the employees can be very helpful and knowlegable.  

    Also, they have a art club for kids, which I've heard is kinda cool for the artsy kiddies!!

  • Review from Daniel T.

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    • 14 friends
    • 188 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    2/2/2007

    Giant selection of everything but feels a little expensive. I also like how laid back this place is. I'm no artist, so I usually have no idea what I'm doing and just buying stuff to play around with but the staff is always very helpful and willing to explain without the irritated air of superiority that I find other places.

    A fun place to just wander around and think of the possibilities.

  • Review from Gitana G.

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    • 794 friends
    • 865 reviews

    Arvada, CO

    5.0 star rating
    10/20/2009

    The only place I could find a silver sharpie after I checked Wal-Mart, Target and some other places.

    Love the kitschy stuff by the register too.

  • Review from Zac Z.

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    • 7 friends
    • 116 reviews

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    8/31/2011 2 Check-ins Here

    big store always full of students, and that one guy who wants to stand out...but they are just about the only place you can buy art supplies these days, unless you go online...

  • Review from Leah D.

    Long Beach, CA

    2.0 star rating
    11/18/2010

    Pricey art supplies and a fairly limited selection don't really do much for me. Alas, if you live in Denver, they may be your only game in town for some things.

  • Review from misha r.

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    • 738 friends
    • 187 reviews

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    7/12/2008 2 photos

    H.R. Meininger's is a socially responsible art  retailer.  They sell art supplies and they support the arts locally.  They sponsor art education events and even make donations to art education.  They have special sales and events for local art teachers and artists. It'll make you salivate if you love art supplies, like I do.  Their supply selection is incredible.  If you're looking for a gift for an artsy type in your life this is where you must go.
    The staff are made up of mostly college art student types.  The owners really know their stuff, this is a generations old family business. You'll often find the owners at local black tie art events.    
    One good thing about Meininger's is you can take a workshop there no matter what age or skill level you have.  They hire professional artists and art teachers to teach one and two hour classes.  At times they'll have art demo's and even author's of art books in to sign copies.  They even have a unique web site.  It's an artists wet dream!

  • Review from Joanne H.

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    • 0 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    12/14/2010

    I LOVE Meininger's! I went in this past Sunday right before they were closing (15 min shy of close, and yes, I was THAT person) because I was on a mission and I knew what I was going in to get quickly.

    I got what I needed fast and asked the gentleman at the top of the stairs about placing an order for cutting matt boards to fit my archival box, I entirely expected to come back the next day and retrieve them, as it was almost closing time. He was working on something else at the moment- so imagine my surprise and amazement when he (without a moments hesitation) offered to put down what he was working on and cut the board for me while I waited.

    I am always amazed at the customer service in here. I mean, I LOVE the art supplies; but the fact that they have always gone the extra mile speaks volumes. They have very high quality supplies- pricey, yes, but worth it in the long run for most items!  LOVE THEM!

  • Review from Holly G.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    4/30/2009

    Fantastic! My favorite art supply store. Not only do they have great supplies but they have awesome little desk nick-nacks and art books/magazines.

  • Review from Maha K.

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    • 245 friends
    • 229 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    7/30/2008

    If you're an artist, you're going to go severely in debt just standing around on the main floor. Notify your creditors ahead of time to buy sympathy points (no pun intended).

  • Review from Tina C.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    4/10/2010

    This has to be one of my favorite stores of all time!  Be prepared to spend a lot of time in this store.  They have just about everything related to art on the planet.   Stamping supplies?  Yup.  Scrap booking supplies?  Yup.  Calligraphy supplies?  Yup.  A billion kinds of pens, sharpies, pencils, and specialty papers?  Yup.  They also have great cards and unusual, fun little gifts so if you ever have to shop for someone who has everything, this is the place to go.  I am in love, love, love.

  • Review from Ilona F.

    Denver, CO

    3.0 star rating
    12/20/2009

    I'm an artist and I usually only go to Meiningers when I've run out of supplies and need something ASAP to complete a project.  Normally I order my materials online where they are much cheaper. Having said that, Meininger Art Supply is well-stocked, the staff is friendly and helpful, and they usually have what I need even if the price is a bit high. They also have a nice selection of novelty items that make great gifts and it's always fun to browse their colorful and well-organized stock.

  • Review from Tara B.

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    • 223 friends
    • 359 reviews

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    1/2/2009

    Just about the only place to find many of oddball art supplies outside of a college campus. Whether you are looking for art supplies or a gift for the artiste in your life, it's nearly impossible to walk out of here empty handed. I found all my weird art supplies, a cool Christmas ornament, a slick art smock for my goddaughter and few novelty toys to boot.

  • Review from Jay F.

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    • 1 friend
    • 5 reviews

    Santa Cruz, CA

    4.0 star rating
    4/9/2010

    I used to really like this place when I lived in Colorado. Had a very good selection of art supplies, but also lots of other cool random things. I could kill a lot of time here.

  • Review from Jared B.

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    • 3 friends
    • 12 reviews

    Denver, CO

    2.0 star rating
    4/11/2009

    Like an abusive relationship, I keep going back to retail stores. And just like said relationship, I am always disappointed. I went in looking for white acrylic ink. They had it in the sub-par brand and in the top of the line brand in bulk. Nothing in between. I understand you can't keep a store fully stocked 100% of the time. But seriously, no white ink in 2-3 different brands? And you may not want to have your display of the ink look like whoever stocked it was quitting that day. They are fairly friendly and have a coupon on their website though.

  • Review from Jamie M.

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    • 4 friends
    • 26 reviews

    Henderson, NV

    3.0 star rating
    10/15/2009

    3 stars is the best I can give for Meininger's. Granted they do carry a nice selection of supplies, including some ultra fine (.005 and .03mm) pens and mechanical pencils that I use religiously. Checkout is usually prompt and efficient. But the flip side is you'll have a tough time finding help if you need into a locked cabinet or heaven forbid if you have a question about a product. You can search high and low for help and not find it. Their prices are on the high side compared to other art supply houses in other cities...sometimes quite a bit higher. If you need small quantities and need it fast, Meininger's is a great local option. But if you need bulk sizes or frequently order the same items one really needs to do some comparison shopping to get the best price.

  • Review from Leigh C.

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    • 6 friends
    • 20 reviews

    Denver, CO

    3.0 star rating
    2/27/2010

    Good art supply store with everything you'll need as an artist... prices are ok. But for the most part it would be g-r-r-r-eat if the employees would check their attitude at the door on their way in. Not sure why they all seem so unhappy and negative, but it hits you as soon as you dare to ask a question (oh the horror...). Only one good experience with a helpful enthusiastic employee so far (maybe he was a newbie). It seems Meininger's is in some sort of bubble... but it won't stop me from going next time I need supplies. I just won't expect to be greeted by a welcome wagon or more importantly by an employee who actually enjoys their job!

  • Review from Penelope W.

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    • 62 friends
    • 383 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    3.0 star rating
    2/2/2007

    1881-2006 Denver, Colorado Springs.  "Art supplies from around the world."  Though this is the claim, I do not see anything here that you cannot get at any other art supply store, I'm not sure exactly which items were from around the world."  But, really, what you net, Meininger has an assortment, plethora of, for sure.   There is lots and lots here.  Fancy pens, tissue paper, glitter, matte frames, drawling pads, an especially impressive display of easels, pastels, acrylic paints, large selection.   Standard prices.  And it's large!  Two stories in fact.  Even a cutting thing to trim your mattes in store!  In addition, here are some of the biggest canvases I have seen in an art store.  60 X 72!  Wow!  One of the most interesting not to mention useful items was true-to-form model of a dinosaur, that can be manipulated in various true-to life positions.  Also, paintbrushes galore!

  • Review from jody z.

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    • 19 friends
    • 43 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    3/24/2009

    I love this place! you can find just about anything there! and if it's that specialized they no where to get it. They are also extremely helpful- I've had some out there projects and they've always helped me figure out a way to do it!

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