When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Blick Art Materials
Why Blick Art Materials is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Blick Art Materials stands out as one of the largest and most trusted providers of art supplies across the United States, boasting a comprehensive selection of over 90,000 items available online, through catalogues, and in over 60 retail stores nationwide. Established in 1911, its longstanding family-owned heritage enriches its reputation, offering a welcoming and inspiring environment perfect for artists, educators, students, and creative enthusiasts to meet and explore their passions together. With a broad range of products, from fresh cadmium-free oil paints to specialty tools, Blick supports artists at every level. The stores are more than retail spaces; they foster creative community engagement, educational opportunities, and personalized assistance by knowledgeable staff committed to helping customers realize their artistic visions. The company’s acquisition of Utrecht Art Supplies and the incorporation of Brooklyn-made paints further illustrates its dedication to quality and tradition. Blick’s blend of extensive product variety, expert service, and a deep-rooted commitment to the arts makes it an ideal gathering place for friends to connect, collaborate, and be inspired within the art-making journey.
Here's what people think of Blick Art Materials
As of recent, Blick Art Materials holds a 4.6-star rating based on 417 reviews.
Customer reviews reflect a strong overall satisfaction with Blick Art Materials, as evidenced by its impressive 4.6-star rating from over 400 reviews. Many customers praise Blick for its vast selection of supplies, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service, highlighting the staff's expertise and willingness to assist as standout features. Positive reviews often mention the convenience of both in-store and online shopping, noting the user-friendly website and reliable shipping options, including curbside pick-up services introduced in recent years. Additionally, Blick's commitment to innovation, such as the introduction of cadmium-free paints and a diverse product range, garners appreciation from environmentally and health-conscious artists. On the other hand, some negative reviews indicate occasional issues with product availability in certain store locations and delays in shipping or order fulfillment. A few customers have reported dissatisfaction with specific customer service interactions or challenges navigating stock across multiple platforms. Despite these critiques, the general consensus remains favorable, with many users acknowledging Blick's continuous improvements and supportive community atmosphere. Overall, the reviews confirm Blick Art Materials as a reputable and dependable resource for artistic needs, valued for both its extensive inventory and creative support.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
J. Lowery
This art store has everything you need ! From Copic alcohol markers to paints and more !. Very friendly staff and very helpful. I wish this store was closer to where I live but it's worth the drive. Let your artistic side flow and shop in this store. Blick is the best place to shop !
Phil M
Worst customer service in years and a complete waste of time. I was recently in the downtown Berkeley store and saw they had custom framing. I have a really nice piece that isn't a standard medium and thought they could help. The associate there said even though it's mentioned in the store they don't do it. The closest one is in North Berkeley. My disappointment has already started, but I say alright and decide to make an appointment when I have a free day. I go online, make an appointment for the day of (in a couple hours) and start my trip up the East bay. I arrive a little early and tell the cashier who uses the walkie requesting the framer. No big deal, I can wait. Two more associates come out and say the one person that does it is on lunch. He may be done in 10-15 minutes. "Great no rush. I'll be looking around the store." Fast forward a half hour when it's now past my appointment time, any associate that's seen me and asked if I'm doing alright I just say I'm waiting for the framer. No one even went close to the table, no one made an additional announcement, I'm standing in the same spot for more than 10 minutes and absolutely nothing. I even saw the exact frame I wanted and had the other options picked out. I only needed someone there to give me a quote. Total waste of my time trying yo do this in person. I thought it would be easy, but that seems too much to ask. I'm sure I can find several online options with no human interaction that would give better service.
Juanita Watkins
Big store, big selection, staff are friendly and helpful. Even when they don't know much about my more obscure interests, they *care,* and by golly they know where stuff is, and if it's hard to find, they'll hunt right along with you, and if it's out of stock, they'll discuss when it will be back AND discuss alternatives.
Beverlee Freyberg
I was in the store about 1 minute when an employee notices I was flailing in the acrylic paint department. (I left my glasses at home). I had a lot to purchase and he carried my basket, shared his expertise and read the small print on the paint tubes. I was in and out in just under an hour. Blick is well stocked on a variety of supplies. Shelves are neat and accessible.
Jack
Great store to buy art supplies. Conveniently located. Good selection and 2 for one deals sometimes. I notice a lot of Bob Ross products for sale , like “ Bob Ross air fresheners” ( please don’t stink up your studios with these, just don’t use turpentine)! and l don’t know the upshot with the controversy over his estate, but hopefully these profits are going to the most deserved parties.
How to reach Blick Art Materials
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Why Blick Art Materials may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Blick Art Materials with your friends?
If you are looking for an inspiring and fun place to gather with friends or family, Blick Art Materials is an excellent destination. This art supply store, with a solid rating of 4.6 from over 400 reviews, offers more than just shopping—it’s a creative hub where groups can immerse themselves in the world of art together. Rallying at Blick means stepping into a vibrant space filled with endless possibilities to explore various art supplies, discover new craft ideas, and even participate in creative workshops. Whether your group consists of seasoned artists or enthusiastic beginners, the welcoming environment encourages collaboration, creativity, and learning. It’s an ideal venue for meaningful social interaction while engaging hands-on with art materials ranging from paints, canvases, and brushes to specialty papers and sculpting tools. Hosting a meetup here fosters inspiration and conversation, making your gathering memorable and productive beyond the usual meet-and-chat experience. With convenient store hours accommodating different schedules, Blick Art Materials is designed not just for shopping but for connecting through creativity.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Blick Art Materials?
Blick Art Materials offers a rich array of activities that are perfect for group meetups. First and foremost, the store provides an extensive selection of art supplies that invite exploration and creativity. Whether your group wants to experiment with watercolors, acrylics, oils, or pastels, everyone can find materials tailored to their artistic preferences. Beyond purchasing supplies, Blick often hosts workshops and events where groups can engage in guided art sessions, improve skills, or try out new techniques together. These workshops are excellent for fostering teamwork and inspiration, providing a structured but casual environment for learning and fun. Additionally, Blick offers custom services such as framing, custom printing, and canvas stretching, giving groups the opportunity to create personalized artistic projects. These services support collaborative art endeavors that can continue well past your meetup. For those who appreciate browsing unique and quality materials in person, the tactile experience of feeling different papers, brushes, and textures adds a sensory dimension to your time at Blick. It turns a simple shopping trip into a dynamic group activity.
How does Blick Art Materials accommodate groups for meetups?
Blick Art Materials understands that social experiences around art benefit from accommodating group needs, making it a perfect meetup location. The spacious store layout allows groups to comfortably navigate aisles together, browse multiple sections, and share opinions on items. Additionally, the store’s friendly staff are knowledgeable and approachable, ready to assist with recommendations or answer questions for your group. This support enhances your visit by ensuring everyone finds what they need or discovers new materials worth trying. Blick’s central locations—such as their Atlanta or Savannah stores—are accessible by public transport and offer convenient parking, simplifying meetup logistics for groups coming from different parts of the city. The operating hours, often extending into the evening on weekdays and weekends, give groups flexibility in scheduling their visit, whether after work or during a weekend outing. For any special projects or large orders your group plans, Blick supports store pickup and delivery options, adding convenience and ensuring your creative plans run smoothly. Altogether, Blick’s accommodating environment facilitates stress-free group meetups.
Why is Blick Art Materials ideal for friends and family gatherings?
Blick Art Materials provides a welcoming atmosphere that makes it ideal for friends and families to gather and share creative experiences. This environment nurtures imagination and cooperation, which can deepen bonds among attendees. Children, teens, and adults alike find something engaging at Blick, making it a cross-generational venue that suits family meetups. It’s a place where you can learn from each other and celebrate diverse artistic interests without pressure or judgment. Moreover, the community feel of Blick extends beyond the store shelves, often connecting artists and hobbyists through events and shared projects. By meeting at Blick, your group can enjoy a purposeful and entertaining outing that combines social time with the personal satisfaction of creating art. The ability to leave with your own artistic supplies or even completed works adds a tangible and lasting element to your group time, making the experience valuable and memorable. Ultimately, Blick encourages more than just shopping—it fosters a culture of creativity and camaraderie, perfect for meaningful gatherings.
How can Blick Art Materials enhance a group’s creative projects?
Blick Art Materials acts as a powerful resource to help groups elevate their creative projects from simple ideas into accomplished works of art. The sheer variety of supplies available ensures that no artistic vision is limited by material constraints—whether your group is interested in painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, or mixed media. The option to tap into Blick’s custom services, including framing and canvas stretching, means your collaborative artworks can quickly be transformed into presentation-ready pieces. For groups involved in ongoing art projects, Blick’s availability of bulk supplies and store pickup simplifies organizing materials, so you can focus on creating without logistical hassle. The knowledgeable staff often provide expert advice, helping refine techniques or suggesting innovative tools that boost project quality. Moreover, the community workshops offered by Blick serve as educational incubators where your group can learn new skills that directly impact your projects’ success. When friends or family unite at Blick, it not only stimulates creative expression but also equips your group with the resources and know-how to bring your artistic ambitions to life.
What makes the shopping experience at Blick Art Materials unique for groups?
Shopping at Blick Art Materials is a unique experience that goes beyond standard retail, especially for groups seeking inspiration and interaction during their visit. The store’s carefully curated selection is a treasure trove of art supplies from basic tools to specialty items, inviting exploration and discovery. For groups, this environment encourages lively discussions about different products, sharing opinions, and exchanging creative ideas, turning shopping into an interactive activity. Blick’s layout allows multiple group members to browse freely without crowding, and with extensive product labels and information, even novices can learn alongside veterans. Seasonal promotions and store events also create a festive, engaging atmosphere that can enhance your group’s outing. The ability to compare different brands, types of materials, and techniques under one roof offers convenience and depth not typically found in standard stores. Altogether, shopping at Blick as a group is as much about the joy of discovery and learning than it is about purchasing supplies, making it a rich and rewarding experience.
Why is the community aspect important when meeting at Blick Art Materials?
One of the biggest appeals of holding a meetup at Blick Art Materials is the strong community connection the store fosters. Blick is not just a retail outlet; it is a community space where artists, hobbyists, and creative minds converge. This atmosphere benefits groups by embedding your gathering within a network of like-minded individuals passionate about art. The store often serves as a meeting point for art groups, classes, and events, facilitating opportunities to meet new people, share ideas, and expand your social circle. For friends and family, this community dynamic enriches your time by providing a broader context for creativity—an inspiring backdrop that encourages mutual growth and motivation. Furthermore, participating in Blick’s workshops and events connects your group to the local artistic scene, deepening your engagement and enjoyment. By rallying at Blick, your meetup gains the added value of belonging to a vibrant artistic community, which can inspire and uplift everyone involved.
How do Blick Art Materials’ store features support convenience for meetups?
Convenience is a critical factor when planning a group meetup, and Blick Art Materials excels at providing practical store features that support smooth and enjoyable visits. Many Blick locations, including their Atlanta and Savannah stores, are situated in accessible areas with nearby public transportation options and ample parking, simplifying arrival for all group members. The store’s extended hours, often open from early morning well into the evening, give flexibility to accommodate diverse schedules and make it easier to plan gatherings that work for everyone. Blick also offers services like store pickup and delivery, allowing your group to order materials ahead of time—perfect for busy schedules or when purchasing large quantities. Inside the store, spacious aisles and organized product displays facilitate easy navigation for groups, ensuring you can browse and shop without feeling cramped. Additionally, friendly and expert staff support visitors by assisting with product information and custom service appointments, enhancing your overall experience. These thoughtful features make hosting meetups at Blick stress-free and enjoyable.
What kind of custom services can enhance a group’s creative experience at Blick Art Materials?
Blick Art Materials offers a suite of custom services designed to enhance your group’s creative projects, adding professional polish and personalized flair. Services such as custom framing allow your group to display artworks beautifully, turning painted canvases or prints into gallery-ready pieces perfect for gifting or showcasing. Canvas stretching is another valuable service that ensures your artwork is properly prepared for presentation or sale. Further, custom printing options enable groups to bring digital designs or collaborative projects into a physical format, expanding creative possibilities. Scheduling appointments for these services allows your group to focus on creative decisions while Blick’s experienced team handles technical details, improving efficiency. These custom services are especially useful for groups planning exhibitions, art shows, or special presentations, turning creative gatherings into meaningful showcases. By taking advantage of Blick’s professional offerings, your group’s art can achieve a higher level of finish and impact, enhancing the overall creative experience.
How can Blick Art Materials inspire long-lasting friendships and collaborations?
Meeting at Blick Art Materials is not just about buying supplies; it’s about building connections through shared creative experiences. When friends or family gather here to explore art together, the process of making and learning fosters conversation, cooperation, and mutual encouragement. These creative interactions can spark new ideas, collaborations on projects, or even lifelong hobbies that bring people closer. Blick’s community events and workshops also provide opportunities to meet artists outside your immediate group, potentially leading to inspiring partnerships or creative networks. The inclusive and welcoming environment supports people of all skill levels, making it easier to forge friendships based on a common passion regardless of background. Moreover, the tangible results of your shared artistic endeavors—whether paintings, sculptures, or crafts—serve as lasting reminders of the bonds formed during your meetups. Blick Art Materials thus becomes a catalyst not only for artistic growth but also for deep, rewarding social connections within your circle and beyond.