Art Supplies
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July 7, 2023
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5 min read

The Best Art Supply Stores in Singapore

Six art supply shops worth knowing in Singapore, from heritage stores to one-stop craft superstores, and what each one is best for.

Written by
Priscilia

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Half the battle with any art project is having the right materials to hand, and Singapore is well stocked once you know where to look. Some shops are heritage specialists, others are sprawling one-stop superstores, and the best one really depends on what you are making.

These are six art supply stores worth knowing, with what each one does best, so you can skip the trial and error and head straight for the shop that fits.

Interior view of Straits Art Co Pte Ltd showing easels, painting supplies, and art materials on shelves inside the store.

Straits Art Co

Straits Art Co, a cherished family-run store, has been a cornerstone of the Singapore art scene since 1940. They provide a delightful array of art supplies, from top-quality paints and brushes to canvases. You'll find popular brands like Daniel Smith, White Knights, and Talens among their offerings.

πŸ“ Address: 2 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 179102.

πŸ”— Website: Straits Art Co

Entrance of Art Friend store with yellow signage and glass doors showing art supplies inside.

Art Friend

Art Friend is a welcoming hub for artists throughout Singapore. Since opening in 1981, it has earned a reputation as a reliable source for art supplies. From paints and brushes to canvases and craft materials, Art Friend stocks popular brands like Winsor & Newton, Daler-Rowney, and Schmincke.

πŸ“ Address: Multiple locations: Bras Basah Complex, Plaza Singapura, and Clementi Central.

πŸ”— Website: Art Friend

Exterior view of Chalk N Pencils Art Studio with glass doors and window showing people painting inside.

Chalk N Pencils

Chalk N Pencils, more than just an art studio, offers a diverse range of art classes for both kids and adults. In addition to teaching, we retail art supplies featuring products that we trust and use, ensuring quality and value. Our selection includes renowned brands like Van Gogh, Rubens, and Holbein, catering to artists of all levels.

πŸ“ Address: 46 Kim Yam Rd, #04-11, New Bahru (School Block), Singapore 239351.

πŸ”— Website: Chalk N Pencils

Entrance of Overjoyed art and craft store with glass doors open.

Overjoyed

They offer a wide range of art supplies, including drawing materials, paints, brushes, and craft materials. They carry brands such as Molotow, Mungyo and Shinhan. Note: their Cathay and Cineleisure outlets have closed; you can find them at their Factory Direct Store or order online.

πŸ“ Address: 41 Jalan Pemimpin #01-03, Kong Beng Industrial Building, Singapore 577186.

πŸ”— Website: Overjoyed

Spotlight

Spotlight is one of the largest craft and art-supply retailers, with a Singapore store at Plaza Singapura. Alongside fabric, sewing and party supplies, it stocks a wide range of art materials, from paints and brushes to canvases, drawing tools and craft kits.

πŸ“ Address: Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839.

πŸ”— Website: Spotlight

Storefront of Krafers' Paradise showing shelves stocked with crafting supplies.

Krafers' Paradise

Krafers' Paradise is a delightful treasure trove for anyone passionate about crafting, whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out. With a vast selection of speciality papers, scrapbooking tools, and unique crafting materials, it's a place where creativity thrives. As the exclusive distributor of Montana Cans, it's a favourite among muralists and urban artists seeking top-notch spray paints.

πŸ“ Address: Sim Lim Square #04-74/75, 1 Rochor Canal Rd, Singapore 188504; and *SCAPE #02-07A, 2 Orchard Link, Singapore 237978.

πŸ”— Website: Krafers' Paradise

Curious how to use what you buy?

Our adult art classes let you explore different mediums hands-on, with guidance from our teachers. Take a look at how the classes run.

Explore our adult art classes

Which art supply store is best for a beginner artist?

For beginners, Art Friend and Overjoyed are excellent starting points, thanks to their sheer range, affordable student-grade materials and multiple locations. They offer comprehensive kits and general supplies. If you are just starting out, you might also consider one of our classes, where we provide all the materials, for both adults and children.

Where can I find specialised materials for art students working on a portfolio?

Art students often need specific, high-quality or specialised materials, such as large canvases, fine-art paper or particular paint brands. Both Straits Art Co (for professional-grade fine art) and Overjoyed (for variety and student discounts) are highly recommended.

Do all the major art supply stores listed offer online shopping?

Yes. Nearly all the major retailers listed, including Art Friend, Overjoyed and Krafers' Paradise, offer comprehensive online shopping with island-wide delivery in Singapore.

Are there safety guidelines for art materials intended for children?

Yes. Art materials intended for all ages, including children, must meet specific international safety standards that ensure they are non-toxic and safe to use. Look for AP (Approved Product) or CL (Caution Label) seals on the packaging, and make sure the product is clearly labelled non-toxic.

How do you travel internationally with art supplies, such as oil paints?

When travelling with art supplies, take the bare minimum: a sketchpad, pencils and watercolours. For items like oil paint or solvents, check airline regulations, as these can be classified as hazardous materials and are often restricted to checked luggage or prohibited entirely. Sticking to dry media or non-toxic, non-flammable water-based paints avoids most issues.