How to Open an Art Supply Store

Art supply stores cater to aspiring artists and people who love arts and crafts.

An art supply store is a perfect venture for entrepreneurs with a love of art and a passion for business. If you are a painter, a person who makes crafts or just someone who appreciates a beautiful piece of artwork, you may be well-positioned to manage a store that sells art supplies. To be a successful store owner, you must find the right location for your business, research the competition in your area, and build relationships with suppliers to get competitive rates on merchandise.

Instructions

1. Evaluate the competition. Visit other art supply stores in your area to determine what products they offer, the hours they operate and how long they have been in business. Make several visits to get a feel for how busy the stores are at different times of the day. See what classes they offer for adults and children and when they conduct them. Take note of any discounts they offer to customers and ask the store owners if they advertise in local newspapers or other places. Be congenial and try to build a rapport with the owners, as they are a source of valuable tips. Some owners may be wary of your inquiries and not want to share information. If this is the case, seek advice from those operating a store farther from your planned business.

2. Find a location. Look for a site that will be large enough to accommodate the art supplies you plan to sell. Pick an area that is busy, such as in a mall or main part of town. Think about leasing a store so you will have the option to move if you find the space does not meet your needs.

3. Advertise your business. Potential clients include elementary schools, colleges, daycare centers, summer camps and churches. Distribute fliers and business cards there and at area stores and on supermarket bulletin boards. Include email address and website information. The right marketing strategy will increase your customer base.

4. Build relationships with vendors. Find wholesale dealers who sell art supplies at good rates by looking in your local phone book or online. Ask the vendors what types of discounts they offer for those buying in bulk. For colleges, your supplies may consist of canvases, palettes, acrylic paints, as well as different brush types, easels and chairs. These supplies are needed to stock an art studio. Schools purchase items such as crayons, smocks, clay, finger paints, tissue paper, cardboard, glue and glitter.

5. Consider opening a franchise. Contact a reputable business broker who specializes in the sale of art supply store franchises. Interview several brokers until you find a person who has years of experience, can provide references of satisfied customers, and is pleasant to speak with in person and on the phone. Understand that purchasing a franchise will require you to pay franchise fees and conduct your business in a way that meets all franchisee guidelines.

References

• Internet Based Moms: Start an Art Supply Business
• Blick Art Materials
• StartupBizHub: How to Start an Art Supplies Store