Journey Art Supplies Blog
Tips, Tricks, Thoughts, and inspiration from across the art spectrum.
Setting Artistic Goals for the New Year
It’s the start of a new year – that magical time when we pack away the holiday chaos, grab a fresh planner. and dream about all the ways we’ll make this year our best yet. But for artists, the new year isn’t just a chance to revamp our fitness goals or finally learn how to cook something—it’s an opportunity to refresh, reflect, and reignite our creative spirits (and snag some new art supplies, of course). So, let’s embrace the clean slate of January with some New Year’s resolutions tailored just for artists. Whether you’re an experienced painter, a dabbler with a sketchbook, or somewhere in between, these ideas will help you grow, explore, and enjoy your craft even more. Let’s check some out! Make Time to CreateLet’s face it: life gets busy, and sometimes our art takes a backseat. This year, carve out dedicated time for your craft. Whether it’s 15 minutes a day or a long session every Saturday morning, put it in your calendar and treat it like an unmissable date.Pro tip: Keep a small sketchbook handy for doodles on the go. You’d be amazed how much those little moments of creativity add up over time. Try Something NewGet out of your comfort zone! Always been a watercolor artist? Try your hand at pastels. Obsessed with realism? Experiment with abstract instead. Stepping into unfamiliar territory can reignite your creativity and help you discover new techniques and styles.Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff has all the art supplies you need for an adventure like this—just saying. We have all sorts of paints and painting accessories as well as artist brushes and drawing and illustration supplies. Take a Class or WorkshopEven seasoned artists can benefit from a fresh perspective. Sign up for a local workshop, join an online course, or even attend an art retreat. Learning from others can introduce you to new techniques, styles, or even materials you never thought to use.If you’re not ready for a formal class, our Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff YouTube channel has tons of free tutorials to spark some inspiration! Share Your WorkIt’s time to put yourself out there! Whether that means starting an Instagram account for your art, submitting to a local gallery, or just showing your work to friends and family, sharing your creations can build confidence and community in the art world.Remember, art isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. People love to see the unique way you view the world, so don’t hold back. Declutter Your Art SpaceThere’s nothing like a tidy studio to make you feel ready to conquer the world. Toss those dried-up paints, organize your brushes, and treat yourself to fresh art supplies if you need them. A clean space = a clear mind, and that’s the perfect way to start the new year! Document Your ProgressThis year, make a habit of photographing your work or jotting down a few notes about each piece you create. Seeing your growth over time is incredibly rewarding—and it’s a great motivator to keep going. You could even start a creative journal to track your projects, jot down ideas, or sketch out rough drafts. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just something that keeps your journey in one place. Create for the Joy of ItLastly, and most importantly, remember why you fell in love with art in the first place. Create without worrying about the outcome. Make a mess. Try something silly. Let go of the pressure to make every piece a masterpiece, and just have fun! Cheers to a Creative New Year! The new year is a gift—a chance to reset, refocus, and dive into your art with fresh energy. Whatever your goals, remember to keep it lighthearted and enjoy the process. Because at the end of the day, art is about expressing yourself and finding joy in the journey. So, grab your favorite brush, pop open those paints, and let’s make 2025 a masterpiece. Cheers to a colorful, creative year ahead!
Setting Artistic Goals for the New Year
It’s the start of a new year – that magical time when we pack away the holiday chaos, grab a fresh planner. and dream about all the ways we’ll make...
Creating On the Go: Portable Supplies for Artis...
Traveling is the perfect excuse to step away from your daily routine, but it’s also a great way to tap into your creative side! Whether you're on a weekend getaway or heading out on a cross-country adventure, capturing your surroundings by creating art can help make your journey even more memorable. And the best part? You don’t need to drag around a whole studio to make it happen! With the right products (like art supply organizers and portable easels), you can create some seriously stunning artwork no matter where you are. Why Creating on the Go is Inspiring Creating art on the go can be inspiring because it lets you capture the raw, unfiltered beauty of the world around you. Whether it's a stunning landscape, a quirky street scene, or the hustle and bustle of a local market, the act of drawing or painting in the moment helps you connect more deeply with your surroundings. There’s something truly special about creating memories through art while exploring new destinations. Here are some tips and must-have travel-friendly art supplies to bring along on your next trip: Travel Watercolor KitsWatercolor painting is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to capture the world around you. Travel watercolor kits are compact and lightweight, so they’re perfect for slipping into your bag without weighing you down. Look for kits that come with a small palette of colors, a water brush (no need to carry a separate container), sturdy cases, or art supply organizers to keep everything in place. Whether you're sketching a scenic view or just experimenting with color, a travel kit lets you get creative wherever you are. Compact SketchbooksSketchbooks and journal books are a must-have for any artist, and when you're traveling, it’s important to find one that's small enough to carry around easily. Look for sketchbooks that are designed to be portable— something that fits in your backpack or tote without taking up too much space. Quite a few travel sketchbooks have durable covers and high-quality paper that can handle different mediums like pencils, ink, and watercolor. Miniature EaselsIf you’re serious about painting or just want a stable surface while you’re creating outdoors, a miniature easel is a game-changer. These little easels fold up into a compact size but provide plenty of support for your canvas or watercolor block. They’re perfect for sketching landscapes on location, and many can be adjusted to different heights. Toss one in your luggage and set it up in a park or at the beach — it's a fun way to embrace the outdoors while still focusing on your craft. Portable Pencils, Pens, and BrushesWhen you’re traveling, you really don’t need a full set of art supplies. Instead, pick up a few high-quality portable pencils, pens, or brushes that are easy to carry around. For example, a set of watercolor pencils lets you draw and then add a splash of color with just a brush and some water. We also recommend trying to find multi-purpose tools that can serve more than one function — like a pencil that doubles as a brush or a pen that can be used for both sketching and inking. Keep It SimpleThe beauty of creating while traveling is the freedom to be spontaneous and inspired by your surroundings. Don’t worry about having all the supplies you think you should have. Focus on keeping your kit simple and versatile, with just the essentials. Sometimes, a pencil and a small notebook are all you need to sketch the things that catch your eye — the rest is just extra! Embrace What Plein Air Has to Offer We have plenty of plein air tools available for you to choose from in our collection, and they’re perfect for bringing along on your travels. For example, our selection of portable and plein air artist easels is extensive. We have everything you could need for your plein air setup, including French-style easels and folding tripod ones. We also offer organizers and travel kits, such as the Sienna Plein Air Supply Box and the Richeson Plein Air Travel Brush Set. Traveling doesn’t mean putting your creativity on pause. With the right portable supplies, you can make art wherever you go. So, grab your travel watercolor kit, pack a compact sketchbook, and get ready to capture the world one brushstroke at a time. If you need some inspiration, make sure to check out our blog. We have many posts on creating outdoors, such as A Simple Plein Air Oil Painting Set Up and Free Art Lessons on Plein Air Painting. Happy travels and happy creating!
Creating On the Go: Portable Supplies for Artis...
Traveling is the perfect excuse to step away from your daily routine, but it’s also a great way to tap into your creative side! Whether you're on a weekend getaway...
Where to Find Online Art Lessons for Adults
As the holiday season approaches, you might find yourself looking for the perfect gift for the artist in your life. This year, we recommend you skip the materialistic presents and instead give them something useful – online art lessons! The best part? They won’t even have to leave the house! There are plenty of options for taking art lessons online. In this post, we’ll be sharing our favorite sites and platforms that offer art lessons for adults. So whether you’re shopping for a friend or you want to treat yourself this holiday season, we have plenty of suggestions for you! What Are Online Art Classes? If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of online art lessons, we’ll give you a quick introduction. Online art classes are lessons that are available over the Internet, and they let users learn new techniques and enhance their artistic abilities. The structure of these courses varies depending on the platform you’re going through. Some classes are highly structured, but others can offer a more laid-back environment so you can work at your own pace. You’ll find that many of these classes feature either a live stream or pre-recorded videos for instructional purposes. There are lessons available for all ages, but for this post, we’re going to be focusing on online art lessons for adults. Where To Find Art Lessons Online There are a ton of options for taking art classes online, so figuring out where to begin can seem overwhelming at times. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of five well-known platforms in our industry that offer digital art lessons. Prices for these courses can vary, but we’ll include the prices (if we know them) so you know what to expect. SkillshareSkillshare is an online learning community that has recently risen in popularity, and for good reason. They focus on creative skills, so they have plenty of classes in the art department! This platform features short instructional videos on a variety of art topics. Available classes include graphic design, drawing, and even a course that teaches you how to make a living as an artist.A Skillshare membership is broken down into three levels. There’s the free version, the premium membership, and the team membership. You might be able to find options for free digital art classes to start with. You can also gift a month of Skillshare membership to someone. That gives them plenty of time to see what the platform has to offer! CG SpectrumIf your artist is more interested in animation and digital art, then CG Spectrum could be a great fit. This is a global online school that is home to mentors and students from all over the world. The platform offers either small group or one-on-one instruction for its students, and it’s all led by industry professionals. With CG Spectrum, you can take courses on subjects such as 3D modeling, animation, digital painting, visual effects, and game development. Their online classes are separated by experience level: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. ProkoFor artists who focus more on drawing, Proko is a great option. This platform features a library of over 100 free virtual art lessons. They take an exciting, entertaining approach with their many video tutorials. There is a paid version of Proko available, which includes extended lessons and extra features that aren’t available otherwise. If you’re wanting to start taking art lessons online, this is a great place to start! New Masters AcademyNew Masters Academy is unique in that it offers online art classes that you can take at your own pace. They provide streamed online art classes that are taught by real art experts. New Masters Academy has courses on just about anything, including modeling, drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital arts. This platform features an art school-like education experience at a fraction of the cost! You can purchase a subscription to New Masters Academy starting at only $49 a month. GnomonIf you want to take your artistry to the next level, then take a look at Gnomon. They’re known as a top school for visual effects in the entertainment industry. This platform is different from the others because it offers professional courses as well as degree and vocational certificate programs. They also differ from other platforms because their classes are held live! These three-hour class sessions are taught by industry professionals and allow students to receive feedback in real-time. So, if you are interested in starting a career in the entertainment industry, this program would be something to consider investing in. Cheap Joe's Art WorkshopsLast but not least, be sure to check out the online classes offered here at Cheap Joe's! We are proud to offer different levels of our art workshops for beginners, beginner-intermediate, intermediate, intermediate-advanced, and advanced based on your skill level. In these online classes, we cover everything from basic techniques to fast-paced, challenging exercises. To learn more about our classes, visit our page on Art Lessons and Workshops today. Take Advantage of our Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff YouTube Channel We hope we’ve convinced you to gift some digital art lessons to your artist friends this holiday season. However, if you’re not quite ready to spend money on the lessons (or if you just want to test some out for yourself), then you should check out Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff on YouTube. You’ll find tons of instructional art videos there for free! We have videos that cover all sorts of subjects, such as watercolor painting, acrylic painting, calligraphy lettering, and more. For example, check out the following video called Cheap Joe's 2 Minute Art Tips - Get Outside!
Where to Find Online Art Lessons for Adults
As the holiday season approaches, you might find yourself looking for the perfect gift for the artist in your life. This year, we recommend you skip the materialistic presents and...
Frank Webb: Design Before Color
One of my favorite artists is Frank Webb. His art embodies humorous freedom where nothing is really straight and his bold colors remind me of a vivid dreamscape. It was my honor to interview Frank a couple of years ago
Frank Webb: Design Before Color
One of my favorite artists is Frank Webb. His art embodies humorous freedom where nothing is really straight and his bold colors remind me of a vivid dreamscape. It was...
Basic Art Supplies Every Artist Should Have
We know all about that thrill of finding the perfect art supplies—the tools that inspire your creativity and bring your ideas to life. And if you’ve ever wondered what basic art supplies should be in every artist’s toolbox, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a rundown of the essentials that every artist, beginner or pro, should own—and a couple of wish-list items for good measure! A Trusty Pencil SetNo matter what medium you prefer, having good pencils is non-negotiable. For general sketching, an everyday HB pencil or a slightly softer 2B pencil are both versatile enough to handle most tasks. But if you want to dive deeper, add a 6B for rich shading, a 5H for delicate lines, or a water-soluble set for value studies and shading effects. A full set offers endless possibilities, and it’s the foundation for any great artwork. The Right EraserMistakes are part of the process, which is why having two types of erasers is essential:• Kneaded Erasers: Perfect for gently lifting graphite or lightening areas without fully erasing.• Vinyl Erasers: Ideal for clean, sharp corrections without tearing your paper. Plus, they’re long-lasting and resist graphite buildup.And don't forget a good pencil sharpener! Something to Draw OnA sketchpad is your portable studio. Choose lighter-weight paper for quick sketches or a heavier sketchbook for finished pieces. For mixed-media or watercolor sketches, choose sketchbook paper or pads that can handle ink or paint. And remember, drawing is a cornerstone skill—investing time here benefits every artist. We have plenty of art paper and boards to choose from, right here at Journey Art Stuff! A Painting SurfaceWatercolor artists need at least 140 lb. cold-pressed paper, available in sheets or blocks. Acrylic painters should grab panels or canvases—and don’t forget to buy extras! Having more surfaces on hand lets you experiment without fear of “wasting” materials. Check out our collection of watercolor paper today! Palettes for Mixing ColorsWhether you’re into watercolor or acrylics, a good palette is a must. For watercolorists, choose one with wells to store colors and a mixing area that’s easy to clean. Acrylic painters can go for disposable palettes or classic options with thumb holes. Journey Art Stuff has everything you need in the palette department. Pro tip: Joe loves using a spray bottle to rehydrate dried watercolor paint—easy and efficient! Quality BrushesGood brushes are an investment that pays off. American Journey Interlocked Brushes (for watercolor) and NewBristle Brushes (for acrylics) are customer favorites. They’re durable, affordable, and versatile, and available in a wide variety of shapes like rounds, flats, filberts, and fans. A solid brush can last for years if cared for properly. Browse our complete selection of artist brushes on our site. Paints That Wow• For Watercolorists: American Journey Watercolors are formulated with the highest quality and come in more than 120 vibrant shades with many colors only available through Journey Art Stuff!• For Acrylic Painters: American Journey Artist Acrylics offer 60 rich colors to explore. These high-quality paints make your palette pop and your creativity soar. Our full selection of paints and painting accessories is worth spending some time looking through! Wish-List Additions When you’re ready to upgrade your studio, consider investing in an easel or taboret - a game-changer for versatility. Many easels adjust to any angle for watercolor or pastel and convert to a sturdy upright easel for acrylic or oil painting. Our taborets have built in easels along with plenty of storage to allow you to organize your supplies in style and keep everything close at hand. Journey Art Stuff for ALL Your Art Supplies This list is just the beginning of what you can explore in the world of basic art supplies. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials or dreaming of your next studio upgrade, we have what you need to bring your art to life!
Basic Art Supplies Every Artist Should Have
We know all about that thrill of finding the perfect art supplies—the tools that inspire your creativity and bring your ideas to life. And if you’ve ever wondered what basic...
How to Make DIY Christmas Cards with Goof Proof...
"Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when everything sparkles—tinsel, snow, and maybe even a little glitter from your last art project. For us, it’s also the perfect season to grab our favorite supplies and dive into making handmade Christmas cards. This year, we’re walking you through the process of creating festive cards with Cheap Joe’s Goof Proof Greeting Cards—an absolute game-changer for personalized holiday greetings. Why We Love Cheap Joe’s Goof-Proof Cards Let’s start with the star of the show: Cheap Joe's Goof-Proof Greeting Card Set - Deckled Edge, Box of 25. These beauties make creating custom cards a breeze. The set includes high-quality 5x7 card blanks with matching envelopes and, most importantly, cold-pressed watercolor paper inserts. That insert feature is a lifesaver—you don’t have to worry about messing up your design directly on the card itself. If a mistake happens, just redo the insert, attach it, and voilà—no one’s the wiser. Plus, the deckled edges give them that elegant, hand-touched vibe. The Koda Card: Our Festive Inspiration This year, we painted Koda, a regal Red Limousin bull that’s practically Christmas-ready in his rich red coat. We envisioned him pulling Santa’s sleigh (reindeer deserve a day off too, right?). The result? A whimsical, festive piece of artwork that’s personal and fun to share. But here’s our pro tip for long holiday card lists: “Paint One, Print Many.” Create one larger painting, snap a great photo, and have it printed to fit the card size. This way, everyone gets a handmade feel without you pulling all-nighters to paint dozens of cards. Step-by-Step Card Creation Gather Your SuppliesHere’s what we used to make our cards:• Tracing paper (Cheap Joe’s Starving Artist variety—budget-friendly and durable)• Carpenter’s pencil (ideal for transferring patterns)• Kilimanjaro 300lb Watercolor Block (no warping, even with heavy washes)• Kolinsky Sable Brush Set (luxurious, precise, and worth the investment)• Dr. Ph. Martin’s Hydrus Liquid Watercolors (vivid, concentrated, and just fun to use)• Master’s Watercolor Tray (perfect for mixing and keeping colors wet longer) Create Your PatternAfter printing a black-and-white photo of Koda for reference, I used tracing paper and my carpenter’s pencil to transfer the design onto my watercolor paper. A kneadable eraser helps lighten heavy graphite lines—great for keeping your work clean. Layer Your Watercolor WashesI started with a light base wash for Koda, then layered deeper tones to add dimension. Santa’s sleigh got its own bold red treatment, and I used a touch of Phthalo blue for snow shadows. The process is so satisfying—each layer makes the image pop a little more. Photo FinishOnce the painting dried, I photographed it in natural light (pro tip: overcast days work best). After tweaking the photo, I printed it to match the card size. Mounting it onto the Goof-Proof cards was easy with the included adhesive strips. Creative Ideas for Leftover Greeting Card Materials Got leftover materials? Here are a few bonus projects: Turn small scraps into bookmarks or gift tags. Create coloring pages for kids by outlining a festive design. Design mini paintings or magnets as keepsakes. Whether you’re painting reindeer, snowflakes, or a festive bull like Koda, Cheap Joe’s Goof-Proof Cards make the process joyful and, well, goof-proof. Plus, the recipients get a one-of-a-kind piece of art they’ll treasure long after the holidays. So, grab your brushes and let the holiday magic begin!
How to Make DIY Christmas Cards with Goof Proof...
"Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when everything sparkles—tinsel, snow, and maybe even a little glitter from your last art project. For us, it’s also the perfect season...
The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists
Are You Ready For The Rush? It happens every year at this time, as everyone is getting ready for the holidays, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for that someone special.
The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists
Are You Ready For The Rush? It happens every year at this time, as everyone is getting ready for the holidays, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for...
Best Stocking Stuffers for Artists
Are you still searching for the perfect stocking stuffers for artists in your life? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with thoughtful, practical, and fun gift ideas that any artist will appreciate. Whether they're seasoned pros or just getting started, these items are sure to inspire creativity all year round. Make Shopping for Your Favorite Artist Simple Shopping for artists doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you shop at Cheap Joe’s. We’ve put together a wide selection of artist-approved tools, materials, and accessories that cater to every level of creativity, from beginners to pros. Whether you’re looking for practical supplies like brushes and palettes or unique finds like portable easels and travel art sets, we’ve got it all right here in one place. Plus, our team of art lovers is here to help you pick the perfect gift, so you can skip the guesswork and focus on spreading holiday cheer. With Cheap Joe’s, shopping for artists is simple, stress-free, and always inspiring! Here are a few of our favorite stocking stuffers for artists: Aprons and SmocksArt is messy—plain and simple. Help your favorite artist save their clothes with an apron or smock designed for painting, drawing, or sculpting. Look for ones with pockets for tools, so they can keep their brushes and pencils close at hand. We recommend the Cheap Joe’s Maker’s Crossback Aprons. Hand Protection and Clean-Up SuppliesPaint-stained hands and ink smudges are part of the creative process, but they don’t have to linger. Stock their stocking with artist-friendly hand soaps, barrier creams, or gloves to keep them clean and comfortable while they create. Check out the Marvelous Marianne's SavvySoap Hand and Brush Cleaner for starters. Brush and Tool StorageArtists always need help organizing their tools. A brush holder keeps brushes safe from damage. We recommend checking out our Cheap Joe’s Brush Holders, which are made from nylon and feature reinforced sides. You can also find sturdy pencil or marker cases to keep things tidy on the go. Portable PalettesFrom compact travel palettes to ceramic options for the studio, palettes are an artist’s must-have tool for mixing and blending colors. A fresh palette makes for an easy and appreciated stocking stuffer. The Portable Painter Watercolor Palette is a great choice. SketchbooksArtists can never have too many sketchbooks! Go for hardbound options like our American Journey Hardbound Sketchbooks and Watercolor Journal Set —they’re perfect for capturing ideas, doodles, or fully realized works on the go. Drawing Pencil SetsGift them a complete set of sketching pencils with various lead types, from soft to hard. This guarantees they’ll always have the perfect pencil for any project. The General's Kimberly Drawing Pencils - Set of 12 are an amazing choice, and they’re made in the U.S.A. Toss in a kneadable eraser for a bonus! Mini EaselsIf space is tight or they like to work on small-scale projects, our Cheap Joe’s Travel Table Easel is a fantastic gift. It’s compact, portable, and great for sketching, painting, or display. Lighting SolutionsGood lighting makes all the difference. A small, adjustable full-spectrum lamp fits nicely under the tree—or in a stocking! It reduces eye strain and ensures they see their colors and details accurately. We recommend the Daylight Smart Go LED Travel Lamp. Travel-Sized Art SuppliesWhether they’re plein air painters or urban sketchers, artists love compact tools. Think travel watercolor sets, mini brushes, or collapsible water containers for those who create on the go. The Da Vinci Watercolor Mixing Set In Travel Tin features paints that are permanent, with the highest tinting strength and pigment concentration available. Gift CardsLet’s face it—some artists are particular about their supplies. A Cheap Joe’s gift card lets them pick exactly what they need or want, making it the ultimate stress-free stocking stuffer. We have a Cheap Joe's Physical Gift Card and a Cheap Joe's E-Gift Card as well! Shop Cheap Joe’s for All Your Stocking Stuffer Needs When it comes to finding the perfect stocking stuffers for artists, we’ve got you covered. With a wide range of high-quality, artist-approved supplies and thoughtful gifts, we make it easy to find something that inspires creativity and fits snugly in a stocking. From practical tools like sketchbooks and palettes to innovative storage solutions and mess-proof gear, our collection is designed to delight creators of every skill level. This holiday season, let us help you fill stockings with gifts that spark joy and fuel artistic passion. From all of us at Cheap Joe’s, we wish you a merry and creative Christmas!
Best Stocking Stuffers for Artists
Are you still searching for the perfect stocking stuffers for artists in your life? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with thoughtful, practical, and fun gift ideas that any artist...
Fun and Inexpensive Ways to Frame Art
In my experience, the main hang-up some artists have when it comes to framing their work is that it can be expensive to have it done professionally or difficult and time-consuming to do it yourself. So this week, I wanted to show you some of my favorite quick and inexpensive ways to frame your work!
Fun and Inexpensive Ways to Frame Art
In my experience, the main hang-up some artists have when it comes to framing their work is that it can be expensive to have it done professionally or difficult and...
10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s
Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky beginnings, and the creative, art-loving people who make it all happen! Where It All Began: Boone Drug A Humble Beginning Among Aspirin BottlesCheap Joe’s Art Stuff started over 35 years ago in Boone, North Carolina, right inside the Boone Drug store. Joe Miller himself recalls stocking art supplies on a shelf between the aspirin and Ex-Lax. Turns out, this “prime” spot gave artists just the relief they needed! Today, the store still reflects that unique, local charm—and you might even spot some legendary artists on our walls, including works from Cheng Khee Chee, Lian Zhen, and Suzanna Winton, all part of our cherished "Art Hall Wallery." The Art Hall WalleryCheap Joe’s Boone location serves as our headquarters, and walking through the office is like stepping into an art gallery! We’re home to one of the finest collections of art, with pieces from top artists in the business. So, if you’re in Boone, NC, pop by and stroll down our hallway gallery! Our Team of Talented Artists An Artistic Team with Diverse TalentsCheap Joe’s team isn’t just knowledgeable about art supplies—they’re artists themselves! From watercolorists to encaustic artists, our employees have real experience creating art. For those who aren’t artists, we offer seminars, workshops, and product demos, making sure everyone has the expertise to help you find exactly what you need to bring your art to life. A Workshop Studio Worth the TripOur state-of-the-art workshop studio has been called the “Cadillac” of art venues! Students here have spacious workstations, ample lighting, and, of course, our fully stocked art store right next door. And thanks to our high-tech upgrades, every seat is the best seat in the house. We have large flat-screen monitors and an overhead camera, so everyone has a front-row view of instructor demos. No more craning your neck to see the magic unfold! Check out our variety of art lessons and workshops today! Our Guarantee & Giving Back Our 365-Day Unconditional GuaranteeAt Cheap Joe’s, we want you to love your art supplies as much as we do, so we give you a full year to decide. If anything doesn’t meet your expectations, just give us a call at 800-227-2788, and our friendly team will make it right. It’s a promise backed by the best guarantee in the business! Brushes for Vincent: Our Art CharityCheap Joe’s Art Stuff is the proud founder of Brushes for Vincent, a charity that helps bring art supplies to young artists in need. We believe in the power of art to change lives, so every penny you donate goes to orphanages, hospitals, and nonprofits, supporting budding artists who might be the next Van Gogh. A little goes a long way, and you can help us inspire creativity in children everywhere! Behind the Scenes with Cheap Joe Cheap Joe’s Past Life as a PharmacistBefore becoming the art guru we know and love, Joe Miller worked as a pharmacist at Boone Drug. But a gift of watercolor lessons changed everything. Joe was so inspired by that class that he stocked up on quality art supplies and began selling them at affordable prices. And that’s how Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff was born—bringing savings and quality to artists ever since! YouTube University: Cheap Joe’s StyleWant to learn the ins and outs of art techniques without spending a dime? Head over to Cheap Joe’s on YouTube! Our channel is packed with free tutorials and product demos. Whether it’s a quick tip on how to use a “paint pusher” or a full tutorial on stretching watercolor paper, we’ve got you covered. Art Supplies with a Personal TouchCheap Joe’s is renowned for its customer-centered approach, but did you know that some of our exclusive products, like American Journey paints, were developed based on feedback from local artists? Joe himself often collaborated with suppliers and customers to refine products, ensuring his art stuff met the practical needs of creators. It's a personal touch that sets Cheap Joe's apart as more than just a retailer—we’re proud partners and participants of the art community. A Fresh New Website for Easy ShoppingWe recently redesigned our website to make finding your favorite supplies and learning resources easier than ever. From improved navigation to more informative product pages, our goal is to make your online experience as smooth as possible. After all, finding the right art supplies should be a creative journey, not a frustrating scavenger hunt! Whether you’re a brand-new artist or a seasoned pro, Cheap Joe’s is here to support your creativity with the tools, advice, and inspiration you need. We can’t wait to see what you create! And if you’re looking for more information about our company, check out our About Us page.
10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s
Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky...
How to Make Christmas Greeting Cards
Sending Christmas cards is a tradition cherished since the 1840s, and for good reason—there’s something special about both giving and receiving those little notes of holiday cheer. But what if your Christmas card could do more than spread seasonal sentiment? What if it could double as a piece of art? You can easily make your own Christmas greeting cards through printmaking. Creating your own artistic greeting cards adds a deeply personal touch and turns a simple card into a lasting gift. Your design doesn’t have to scream “Christmas.” Instead, let it reflect your personality and style. A beautiful watercolor, a striking sketch, or even a festive mixed-media creation can become something frame-worthy. Recipients can display your art during the holidays—or year-round, depending on your theme. The key? Design with the intent to inspire. Fun Facts About Christmas Cards Americans send 1.5 billion Christmas cards annually. 85% of those cards are purchased by women. 91% of people over 55 continue this cherished tradition. Nearly 45% of all cards sent during the year are holiday cards. Create Your Own Cards with Cheap Joe’s One of our favorite ways to craft custom cards is with Cheap Joe's Goof-Proof Greeting Card Set - Deckled Edge, Box of 25. This all-in-one kit includes cards, envelopes, adhesive strips, and 4x6 watercolor paper blanks—everything you need to bring your holiday vision to life. Whether you prefer painting, drawing, or printing, this kit is a time-saver for any DIY card enthusiast. However, you can use any type of printmaking papers you’d like. Make It Memorable: Art That Multiplies Looking for some inspiration? Check out this “Winter Horses” project. Here’s how we did it: Transfer the pattern to the Ampersand Aquaboard. These boards have a unique clay surface that is textured and absorbent. They make lifting a breeze for watercolor so it’s difficult to make a mistake. They’re available in flat or cradled panels in various sizes. Completely saturate the surface with clean water. The first wash. The second wash. Adding detail. Refining detail. Completing the painting detail. Finished painting photographed and cropped for printing. This painting yielded a three-fer! Take separate photos of each horse and create an individual card from each. You end up with three unique cards from one painting! Pair your custom cards with affordable frames like the Nielsen Bainbridge Gallery Airfloat Wood Frame or Miller’s Traditions Gallery Wood Frames for a polished gift your loved ones will cherish. A Gift That Lasts Beyond the Season When you take the time to create something unique, your friends and family will look forward to your cards every year. And for those far away, a gift like this can be delivered for the price of a stamp! So, when is a Christmas card more than just a card? When it becomes a heartfelt work of art—a gift that keeps giving long after the holidays. Happy Christmas Card Day, and as always, Paint On!
How to Make Christmas Greeting Cards
Sending Christmas cards is a tradition cherished since the 1840s, and for good reason—there’s something special about both giving and receiving those little notes of holiday cheer. But what if...
A Deep Dive on Cheap Joe’s Magic Dragon Brushes
We're going to talk about brushes today, and I'm going to tell you about Magic Dragon Brushes, a unique brush, one that Cheap Joe's designed, and it's one that's just a great watercolor brush.
A Deep Dive on Cheap Joe’s Magic Dragon Brushes
We're going to talk about brushes today, and I'm going to tell you about Magic Dragon Brushes, a unique brush, one that Cheap Joe's designed, and it's one that's just...
