Best spots to shop

Disclaimer: Apologies to anyone who isn't NYC-based (although they both ship)

Although I prefer to devote this space to other types of posts, there are two places here in New York that truly deserve the respect. As artists, it is sometimes difficult to find the supplies you need, as well as great service. These two stores have extremely knowledgeable staff who are more than willing to help you figure out what kind of material you need to get the job done:






New York Central Art Supply



Serving New York artists for over 100 years, New York Central is a smaller shop than some of those other giant supply stores in the city. However, they have an extremely extensive inventory of paints, drawing materials, etc. The second floor boasts the best paper selection and staff, in my opinion, in the U.S. They also seem to be the only ones in the city who understand the importance of carefully rolling the paper so that it doesn't crease or ding.
Location:

62 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10003
view on map
Store Hours:

Mon-Sat 8:30am-6:15pm
Sunday: Closed
Contact:
Store Tel: 212.473.7705 Orders: 800.950.6111 Fax: 212.475.2513






The Compleat Sculptor



For the past 14 years, the Compleat Sculptor is a great resource for anyone interested in anything remotely related to mold-making or casting. The main floor is full of plastics, silicones, and clays, as well as a very helpful staff, and the basement contains huge slabs of stone. While not always the cheapest place, it is worth the trip - you'll probably end up wasting less material if you get it right the first time.

Location:
90 Vandam (between Hudson and Greenwich)

Store Hours:
Mon/Thur/Fri/Sat - 9am - 6pm
Tues/Wed - 9am - 8pm
Closed Sunday

Contact:
Outside NY City: 800-9-SCULPT
Inside NY City: 212-243-6074
International: 0012122436074
Technical Support: 212-367-7561