Local vs. Online: Where to Buy Art Supplies in Australia

There comes a moment in every artist’s life when you’re mid-project, completely in the zone, and suddenly, disaster strikes. Your favorite brush frays, your last tube of burnt sienna is nothing but a dried-up husk, or that expensive paper buckles under your first wash. Now you’re faced with a critical decision: do you run to the local art store, or start scrolling through endless online options, praying the colors match the screen?

After years of trial and error (and more than a few shipping disappointments), we’ve learned the hard way when to shop locally and when to click “add to cart.” Here’s the real, no-nonsense guide to buying art supplies Australia artists actually rely on, without the buyer’s remorse.

Why Local Art Stores Still Matter

There’s something irreplaceable about walking into a physical store, surrounded by shelves of paints, papers, and tools just waiting to be touched. Local shops offer advantages that online stores simply can’t replicate.

First, you get to test before you buy. No amount of online reviews can tell you if a brush has the right spring or if that “ultramarine” is actually more of a cobalt. Holding a sheet of paper, feeling its weight, and seeing how it reacts to a quick pencil test can save you from expensive mistakes.

Second, local stores often have staff who are artists themselves. They’ve tested the products, know the quirks, and can give you brutally honest advice. We once asked about a popular brand of acrylics, and the cashier, a working painter, immediately warned me about their tendency to crack when layered thickly. That’s the kind of insight you won’t find in an online product description.

And let’s not forget the instant gratification. When you’re on a deadline or suddenly inspired at 11 PM, knowing there’s a shop nearby that stocks what you need is a lifesaver. We’ve lost count of how many late-night dashes we’ve made for emergency masking fluid or a last-minute sketchbook.

When Online Shopping Wins

That said, online stores have their own unbeatable perks. For starters, they often carry niche products that local shops don’t stock. If you’re into Japanese sumi-e ink or French handmade pastels, you’ll probably have better luck online.

Price is another factor. Online retailers frequently offer bulk discounts, seasonal sales, and loyalty programs that can save serious money. We once needed fifty sheets of heavyweight watercolor paper, but buying them online saved me nearly half the cost compared to my local store, even with shipping.

Then there’s convenience. Shopping in pajamas at 2 AM because you suddenly remembered you’re out of gesso? Online stores don’t judge. Plus, wishlists make it painfully easy for family and friends to buy you actual useful gifts instead of another novelty mug.

The Smart Shopper’s Strategy

Over time, we’ve settled into a hybrid approach that balances the best of both worlds. For everyday basics, paints, brushes, sketchbooks, we stick to local shops. Being able to touch, test, and walk out with what we need is worth the slightly higher price.

For specialty items or bulk purchases,we go online. Things like large rolls of canvas, rare pigments, or replacement blades are often cheaper and easier to find with a quick search. We’ve also learned to plan ahead for big projects, ordering supplies during sales to maximize savings.

One underrated trick? Many local stores price-match their own online listings if you ask. We’ve saved a fair bit by showing a staff member the same product on their website for less.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Shopping experiences vary and not all are made to be the same. When shopping online, look out for ads that contain only stock images or vague descriptions, such as “artist-grade” without specifics. If the price is way too appealing to be real It probably is, particularly for brands that are premium.

In stores that are physically Beware of merchandise that is sun-tanned and dusty. We recently purchased a “new” bottle of ink which had been stored in the display for many years, and was totally separated. If the employees cannot answer simple questions about their products, it’s undoubtedly a red flag.

Where to Shop

For local shopping, chain stores such as Eckersley’s or Riot Art & Craft are solid, with good selections as well as knowledgeable employees. Smaller independent stores often have exclusive items and provide personalized service.

online, Art Supplies Online and Jackson’s Art are solid choices that offer fast delivery times and affordable costs. Also, the Sydney Art Store is another popular choice for well-curated, high-quality materials.

Conclusion

The most effective strategy is to combine both. Shop locally for the most essentials and the assistance they can provide However, don’t be afraid to browse online for more specific items or for better prices.

Whatever you decide to do however, the end goal remains the same: to spend your time less shopping, and spend more making. So, go get the art tools Australia artists rely on. Your next masterpiece is just waiting to be created.