Thrift/Craft Alternative Art Supply

I stumbled upon this store on Google Maps while I was researching for something entirely different. This store is beautifully tucked in the main grounds of Market Square, past the bustling doors of Green Cuisine and Whistle Buoy. You know you've arrived once the aroma of Hey Happy's ambrosial brew hits you and you're standing in front of an emerald-coloured period door against the building's original brick masonry.

True to its name, this art supply store offers an extensive selection of alternative crafting materials, from various painting mediums to vintage collage supplies, beads, spray paints, knitting tools, and even mid-century craft books. Whenever I need inspiration for my next art project or I'm on the hunt for unique event decor to DIY, this tends to be the storefront I add to my itinerary.

SUPPLY Victoria Creative Reuse Centre

The main difference between this art supply store and Thrift/Craft Alternative is that it offers more contemporary paints and bits & bobs if that what you're in the market for. Located in the historic Crystal Garden building in the heart of Downtown Victoria, this spot can be your detour or destination for the afternoon. It's easy to get lost in the paraphernalia that makes up SUPPLY Victoria. Its square footage may not be as sizeable as T/C, but every crevice offers something you may need. If you're lucky enough, you might even come across a barely used Windsor & Newton flat brush.

Honourary Mentions

Although not a bits-and-bobs craft store like the two mentioned above, these are a few local art supply stores I love to visit whenever I feel like getting lost in a tang of chemical notes from acrylic paints, browsing for the latest paint drops, or simply when I need a specific art tool:

1. Opus Art Supplies

I believe this is where everyone flocks to for all things art supplies here in Victoria. BC. Though, more specifically, everyone who is serious about their art. They offer a wide range of student and professional-grade paints and materials, plus an incredibly knowledgeable staff that’s always ready to help. As a self-taught painter, I find their expertise invaluable. Since I haven’t taken any traditional courses (yet), they’re great at explaining why certain supplies are chosen than others and helping me find the perfect tools and paints within my price point—while also considering the outcome I want for my artwork. Bonus: they host demos & events online and in-person. You might even witness one in action the next time you're at the store!

2. Monk Office and Art

Specifically, the one located on Fort St & Quadra. I frequent this brick-and-mortar store, sure, because it's within walking distance from home, but also because I find their selection of paint and painting supplies user-friendly when you're simply browsing. You can easily find your next watercolour travel palette here, or if you're looking for a hobby you can quickly get into- whether it's stationery, pottery out of modeling clay, or calligraphy.

3. The Papery

This stationary store is almost always in my calm lo-fi weekend itinerary. It's located in the bustling side of Fort St. Sandwiched between Crust Bakery- a personal pastry house favourite, and another cornerstone coffee house with exceptional prices (especially in this economy?!)- Tim Hortons. ;P

I like to swing by The Papery at the start of each year to pick up a fresh bullet journal and restock my journaling supplies, always adding a few new Tombow pens to the collection. They’ve got (possibly) the largest greeting card selection in Victoria- seriously, a whole wall of them- featuring works from local artists, as well as independent creators from across Canada and beyond. What really makes this place stand out, though, is its curated collection of high-quality Japanese stationery, including brands like Midori and Pilot. They also have a massive variety of washi tapes, stickers, and scrapbooking materials.

Thrift/Craft Alternative Art Supply interior