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Artist & Craftsman Supply Cambridge
580 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
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Artist & Craftsman Supply Cambridge
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Review №1

This place is great! Well worth the bike ride across town. Despite Blick being everywhere throughout the city, I prefer to make the trek so I can support a local business. (They are also really nice)

Ja
Review №2

Lots of different stuff as well as a great selection of artist supplies- games, funny greeting cards, etc. Neat place!

Su
Review №3

Unique gifts and cards plus good selection + pricing on artist supplies

To
Review №4

Definitely not your local Michael’s... this is definitely THE place to go for any art student, for just about any and all visual arts major. Would highly recommend this place for those living on that college student budget, with this store’s selection and vastness of prices from inexpensive to reasonable to expensive. Best suited for the intermediate and advanced artists, the Artist and Craftsman Supply store still has something for everyone at every level of practice!!

Sh
Review №5

This is THE art store for great service, selection, knowledge, prices and overall vibe. We are from out of town and we’re glad to learn we can order online in the future.

El
Review №6

AWESOME crafts store. It is big inside. The staff generally are quite friendly. Almost anything you need for crafts is in there. From glitter to decorate t-shirts, to canvases, to yarn, clay, paints, markers, pastels... Also lots of unique gifts. A great place to support in Cambridge.

El
Review №7

Love love love this place! All the staff are wonderful decent helping people. They will walk you to where your product is. I found some great watercolor paper here and I get my paints here too. They have tons of things you didnt know you were looking for.And they have an elevator! Yay for the elevator. One drawback is their supply is limited and at the moment they dont have jewelry making supplies. Its not a huge place so they dont have every single art supply that ever existed but what they do have is quality. Go here instead of that other store across the street. And if you cant find what you are looking for go online or to that big art supply warehouse in Porter-- but the staff are not as nice as the staff here. Ten stars for the staff and 10 for the great quality art supplies they do have. Always happy to come in here. And if you ask nicely, they will order things for you

Me
Review №8

Staff is so great, absolutely love going here! I drive 1.5+hours to get here and love coming EVERY SINGLE TIME

Al
Review №9

Ugg Blick is useless across the road. This place looks like a sketchy dive from the outside, But have no fear! This place was a super convenient god send. They had everything Blick was out of stock of. It is way larger amounts and more diverse stock than Blick. Awesome. Will stop going to Blick and come in here. It reminds me very heavily of the old Pearl Art that used to be on the Blick side of the street back in the 2000s.HIGHLY RECOMMEND

RM
Review №10

Artist & Craftsman Supply is a vibrant space that truly caters to a broad skill set in art craft (beginners to advanced) and has enhanced their selection of items for childrens creative activities and whimsical gifts for all ages. Ive also had items professionally framed in the past at A&C. Although they may not have the best prices on some items, I prefer shopping at A&C because the relaxed store atmosphere and friendly staff.

Yo
Review №11

Wish they had more in stock when I was thereHardly had any of the goache, and had no sets of paints really. And had hardly any of the pencils I would have wanted to get. (Sumo grip)

Vi
Review №12

I love this place, hard to find parking and even harder to find the entrance but totally worth it.

Lo
Review №13

BEAUTIFUL SELECTIONS & PRICES!! THE EMPLOYEES ARE AMAZING PEOPLE!

Ni
Review №14

Wasnt very organized, but had good stuff. 👌

M
Review №15

Great staff and selection. Employee owned company.

Un
Review №16

My absolute favorite art supply store! In my opinion, the supply is way better than any other store in the area. The staff are super friendly and helpful, and everything is organized in a way that makes specific items super easy to find! The inside is super cool, with the basement, painted floor, and brick walls. I come here all the time, when I need something new or if one of my old supplies have run out.

Da
Review №17

Go for the prices, selection, and helpful staff. Charmingly scruffy basement location.

Je
Review №18

Very cute with a large variety of items. The cashier at the counter also let me know that I wasnt allowed to take oil paint onto the plane and saved me $10 and TSA frustrations!

Jo
Review №19

This place has absolutely everything to do with arts and crafts. Located in a basement in central square once you get down there its astonishing how big it is. The people working there are always friendly and knowledgeable. Plus they are relatively inexpensive. And employee owned. If it gets any better than this I havent heard of it

Za
Review №20

Artist owned and operated. Full stop.Seriously, if youre going to be channeling the muse, why go anywhere else? A&CS serves quality product at better prices, with clear eyes

Ni
Review №21

This store allows your mind to wander artistically which is perfect. Only problem is that they are consistently under stocked. Thats understandable to keep overhead low but sucks sometimes because you probably didnt come in here just to go home and purchase what you now know you need online. They make up for it with deep savings on rotating items.

Sy
Review №22

Ive worked with the Artist & Craftsman Cambridge team a few times now to order art supplies for events we had in the area. They are always so wonderful to work with and make the process super easy for our team! I appreciate the great customer service and look forward to working with them for any art supply needs we have in Cambridge.

Ki
Review №23

My friend and I visited spontaneously, as weve never seen the place before. And Im glad we did, because they have an awesome selection of items and brands at a discounted price! There are things for every type of artist.

An
Review №24

Cool place! They have everything about painting and drawing and they have the nicest employees! Definitely recommend.

Re
Review №25

This place is awesome! It’s not for the commercialized crafter so much as it is for artists, art teachers and students. This place is truly one of a kind. If you want the real art experience you must visit this store at least once. The people who work here know more about actually using this stuff than you could ever hope to anywhere else.

Pa
Review №26

Great place to find an assortment of art and crafting supplies. They also have a good selection of crafting, educational, and enriching toys that are probably for kids but I enjoy them. I found a nice pair of spy glasses (the ones in a box, not a bag) which I have been looking for. I like a particular type of paper and they were out of it so they ordered it for me and I was able to pick it up in about a week. They have low prices and give a discount to educators.

Wi
Review №27

How about carry some supplies that people actually use. Staff seemed disgruntled and were not very helpful.No stars.

Co
Review №28

This is what an art supply store should feel like. The staff is great, selection is good, and it feels sincere while quirky. This employee owned co-op is many times better than the art store across the street. Love this store.

Me
Review №29

They have everything. So much more than any brand name or small art shop. I wanted to stay forever.I dont know if there was an elevator but it is down a flight of stairs.

An
Review №30

Fantastic selection, and if they are out of stock you can order it. Good staff who are friendly and knowledgeable. Pretty decent prices too.

in
Review №31

What a lovely art store with good vibes!! Its underground and has lots of colors. Theres a lot of doodles/drawings to look at which is done by random customers. So much to explore and so much variety. There are also games, toys, magnets, books, fake tattoos, masks, furniture etc to choose from along with all the art supplies. ♡♡♡♡

Be
Review №32

Wonderfully knowledgeble staff who enjoy helping you find and select the right products for whatever you want to do.Shop their quirky fun items for all ages.And if you LOVE drawing supplies get yourself a cashback plus card and go nuts because this store has mastered the art of keeping their prices down.Dont take my word for it. Go see for yourself. Artist and Craftsman does not disappoint!!!

Ph
Review №33

Been living in Cambridge for over a year and I just discovered this place. It’s amazing! Has everything you may need and at great prices. I’ll definitely make this my regular crafty stop.

Vi
Review №34

Very cool arts and crafts store! I was only here very briefly (to pick up some bass wood for a radio theater production.....its nearly impossible to find balsa or bass wood in stores anymore!) but I wish I could have explored more! I will definitely be back.

Au
Review №35

Artist & Craftsman is a strictly better choice than the larger franchised store nearby. The staff took the time to answer my questions and help me find some more obscure items that I was unable to locate on my own.Great aesthetic, beautiful environment. My only complaint is that the Red line sounds like the cars are passing about ten feet outside the wall. The storefront is in the basement, so it can be unexpectedly loud at times.

J.
Review №36

Love this place! Its a peaceful, happy place to be. You can just space out & look, touch, feel creative & inspired. The people who help are part of the ambience. I always feel my money is well spent.

Ma
Review №37

Kind of an underground surprise. You would never guess from the exterior that it was like a magical wardrobe of supplies!

Da
Review №38

This is an awesome spot. The variety of supplies you will ever need is pretty much all there. And in a great underground spot....makes an artist feel right at home. The prices are pretty fair and seem to be very conscious of many artists financial concerns including myself. On top of that, this is a coop run business; exactly what we need more of in this corporate takeover city. Definitely recommend supporting this local business while they help you with your creative needs!

wa
Review №39

The best art supplies store in Boston/ Cambridge! Dont be put off by the basement location. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful ... and friendly. The vibe is funky, but the merchandise is top quality. Much more congenial than Blick across the street.They also have an A1 framing service.

Ir
Review №40

Great source for wide range of basic and specialized art and craft supplies, gifts, and more. Staff members are patient and knowledgeable. Most items are reasonably priced, plus theres always some good stuff on sale. Well worth the trip to Cambridge.

Je
Review №41

This place is just amazing. I could live down there and be happy. Staff is knowledgeable, but doesnt hassle you while youre looking around. They offer assistance without being aggressive. I personally like being left alone in a supply store and only want help if I ask for it.

Je
Review №42

Not only does Artist & Craftsman always have what I need, but the staff is knowledgeable, helpful, and pleasant. Definitely the best art store in the city!

Ra
Review №43

This is the best art store in the area. They have everything you need whether you are a painter, draftsman, sculptor, or myriad other arts and crafts.Ive been to a lot of art store and this is absolutely the best one.

Ga
Review №44

This place is awesome! affordable prices, and everything art related you could ever want.

Mi
Review №45

Best sales staff!! All are so knowledgeable and helpful! Alex goes above and beyond every, single time! Love shopping here!!!

Ca
Review №46

A surprising dungeon of arts and crafts in the heart of Central Square - how delightfully Cambridge. Seems to be a great inventory of paint and craft supplies. I would check this place out first before trying Blick across the way.

Ke
Review №47

This store is amazing. Knowledgeable staff, unbeatable selection, and the walls, ceilings, and stairs are all painted and textured. Its an immersive experience, even for the non artist, or those just starting out and/or exploring.I will definitely come back here.

M
Review №48

Good selection. Better prices than blick for some products. Helpful staff.

An
Review №49

Huge basement full of art supplies. Decent to pricey.

Be
Review №50

Why go to Blicks! This place is way cheaper and cooler. They have awesome sales and the staff know theyre stuff

Pr
Review №51

Helpful staff and welcoming atmosphere

Ji
Review №52

Great supply of artists supplies, and lots of other quirky, fun items. A great place for small gifts for kids and adults alike, things like stocking stuffers or small birthday presents. Friendly, helpful staff. Nice local store to support.

ma
Review №53

This store is an artists dream come true. I honestly dont know how I survived my entire life without ever knowing about this place.Is it legal to marry a store in the state of Massachusetts? If so...*bends down on one knee*Will you, Artist & Craftsman, be my lawfully wedded store?

Ad
Review №54

Great store. It usually has everything I need (a different variety than blick). It can be a little pricey but most of the product is very good quality.The staff is hit-or-miss. Some cashiers make it very obvious that they dont care about you. While others are extremely friendly and helpful.

Ke
Review №55

I need to shell out the money and buy mini colored pencils with mini sharpener for $6. They also have toys, novelty items, crafts, probably the largest selection of picture frames in the area. Plaster, clay, paint supplies, socks, art bags, nightlights, mini animal erasers. Ive made a mini aquarium in a cup of water or pickle jar with mini eraser sea creatures and pebbles or marbles along with a driftwood stick and floating candle. Stop in. Im trying to sell a screenplay and need to keep drawing the cartoons when I have a few minutes and dont want to carry the heavy bigger Crayola colored pencils. My artwork will improve.

la
Review №56

Love the selection, quirkiness and that its an independent store. everything an artist needs. also a fun place for little gift ideas: games, novelties, gag gifts, masks, diy project ideas.

Li
Review №57

Great selection of craft-y things. Staff are hit and miss - some are friendly, welcoming and helpful and others seem like they just want you out of their store. Like this place for the products it offers though!

Op
Review №58

My FAVORITE art store in boston. The employees are always very knowledgeable and friendly, and the range of products is the widest Ive found. Pricing always seems fair. I used to frequent the location in Seattle and was so happy to find one here on the east coast.

Ch
Review №59

The ONLY place in Boston that you can purchase Angelus paint supplies. I used to have to order this stuff from NY or California. Now its in my backyard, practically.Wonderful staff and broad selection of all things art. Highly recommended!!

Ja
Review №60

GREAT SPOT TO BE RACIALLY PROFILED! I was excited to show my friend this store but instead of being able to enjoy himself, he was FOLLOWED BY STAFF ENTIRE TIME we were there. When I branched off to look down a different aisle I wasnt followed, watched at the end of every aisle, and pestered with helpful questions like he was, and neither were any of the other white customers!They have cameras all around and a monitor that is clearly visible from the register, but they decided to put the extra effort in to follow the only black person in the store. Dont be distracted by the walls and flooring - these are Artist and Craftsman Supplys true colors.Im completely disgusted, and will be letting everyone in my art classes know theyll be MUCH better off walking across the street to blick.

Re
Review №61

Has everything you could possible need and think of, from professional arts to crafts. Lots of charm.

Pe
Review №62

Great, funky selection- basic supplies to quirky gifts. Nice staff

B
Review №63

They have lots of interesting stuff, and its fun to poke around. But they dont have everything. They didnt have a wide selection of drawing ink, for example. Its worth comparing prices with the Dick Blick store across the street. Some things are actually cheaper over there.

Ka
Review №64

My favorite art store in Cambridge. With paint on the floor and a staff comprised of artists, you couldnt go to a better place to find inspiration. Discounts for teachers and students, on top of discounts on everything. How is it possible that it can be as cheap as Amazon? Magic, thats how.

La
Review №65

Nice selection of supplies, friendly and knowledgeable staff and some fun extras.

Ar
Review №66

Staff was very helpful and very clean environment

Ty
Review №67

A lot of supplies, good prices, and good service!I came in a day early for a screen print ink sale I didnt know of, and the clerk gave me the sales price anyways! WIN!

Sh
Review №68

Blick is slick and a&c is boho. And their prices are often better. Both have their charms and in most cases you want to check both because you and I know you have an art supply fetish.

Ra
Review №69

Rude staff. The store is great, but the staff were gossiping and laughing at customers at the counter. Lack of professionalism.

Je
Review №70

This is a great place for any and all art supplies and the prices are comparable to or better than most other art supply stores that Ive been to in the city. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable (which is surprising, based on the lack of natural light down there :) ). I will continue to shop here.

Sa
Review №71

Great supplies, reasonably priced. All kinds of papers, canvases, paints, etc. and a good variety of imported supplies. Also fun random party supplies and novelties.

Ch
Review №72

This basement art supply shop has a massive selection and a funky feel to it. If chain art (or craft) supply stores feel a little austere to you, youll appreciate that this shop manages to have soul and selection without feeling messy.

Iz
Review №73

Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Great selection. Ive used the frame shop on multiple occasions and have been satisfied every time.

Me
Review №74

My favorite spot to shop for supplies. The staff are super knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend using them as they are also very affordable!

Du
Review №75

High quality supplies at reasonable prices.

sa
Review №76

Has everything you need for a decent price, a lot cheaper than Blick (still very good quality) and if you are a student come here because you get a discount.

Ch
Review №77

Found this store by recommendation of a fellow artist in the chain store across the street. What a Gem!!! Absolutely amazing store, staff and products! My new favorite store in the Boston area!

Ba
Review №78

A great place to get various arts and crafts supplies. You can find almost everything. Painting, drawing, sculpture, casting, scrapbooking, you name it. There is also a custom frame service with a large selection of options. They also provide discounts for students and teachers.

Me
Review №79

Amazing place and you can find all sort of hardware.

Wi
Review №80

Huge variety of art supplies at very good prices...much larger variety and much lower prices than Blicks which is just across the street !

Fa
Review №81

Staff was helpful. Cool place to poke around too.

Ja
Review №82

Broad practical selection - plus some zaney doo-hickey gift things!

Ar
Review №83

Its hard to leave this place that how awesome it is. Everything and iven more than u need

Br
Review №84

They have everything here, and at amazing prices! I love their pen selection, and they sell a lot of speciality pens, brush pens, ink, etc. And way more affordable than Blick!

Sa
Review №85

Wonderful assortment of glitter ... the herpes of art supplies

Ha
Review №86

Great selection, better prices than blick

Ge
Review №87

Very happy with the selection and some great prices on several items.

Bl
Review №88

Love this store. Has so many supplies for so many crafts its amazing

Yi
Review №89

I go to the Cambridge, MA branch. They always go out of their way to help you, and some prices are very low. Some things they charge half what Blick does! You just have to decide what you want before you go, because else youll end up taking the store home :P Definitely check out their $2 bin, and their $1 brushes.Its hard to find the store, though, because their sign is faded, and just says Artist Supply or something like that. Its a huge basement room.

Pa
Review №90

Great art store, with large selection and helpful staff. Also theyre underground and have great AC, so a nice place to stop in during the hot summer days.

Si
Review №91

Wonderful arts and crafts store. Its hard to stop by without buying anything. I primarily shop here for paints and canvases.

Su
Review №92

The prices are mostly unbeatable. They have a selection of just about everything and staff is very nice and helpful

Mi
Review №93

Awesome! Unassuming outside, big giant basement of stupendousness! Whats your artistic passion? Find your supplies here!

Ia
Review №94

Good selection of art supplies. The employees are generally horrible and unhelpful - some were screwing around and throwing things at each other from across the room when I was there. Replace with robots, please.

El
Review №95

Wonderful store. Great prices and knowledgeable staff: called to see if both they or Blick had item in stock. Both did when I went to visit, but Blick employees didnt even see they had the item when I called!Lots of unique crafting materials and traditional art supplies that are hard to find elsewhere, too.

E
Review №96

Whenever Im stuck for odd craft supplies, I think to myself I bet A&C has it. And lo, most of the time, thats correct. Today it was embroidery floss, in a respectable range of colors.This is also a prime place to go for last-minute gifts. The novelty items are a bit pricey, but immensely convenient and sure to be a winner. Today I could barely resist buying a pair of kneesocks that said badass across the top.You keep doing you, A&C.

Co
Review №97

Always well stocked and seems like a nice group of folks.

Fi
Review №98

They have very limited selection of one shot and Ronan. Fun store plan on spending a long time in there they have everything

Ca
Review №99

Seems like it was run by artists and I got great deals on my purchase.

Review №100

Have pretty much all youre looking for.

Information
97 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:580 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
  • Site:http://artistcraftsman.com/
  • Phone:+1 617-354-3636
Categories
  • Art supply store
  • Craft store
  • Educational supply store
  • Picture frame shop
Working hours
  • Monday:10AM–6PM
  • Tuesday:10AM–6PM
  • Wednesday:10AM–6PM
  • Thursday:Closed
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:10AM–6PM
  • Sunday:10AM–6PM
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
Planning
  • Quick visit:Yes
Payments
  • NFC mobile payments:Yes
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