A lot of people who are just starting to make their own crafts at home get caught up in all the magazines and books and craft supply catalogs and begin thinking that the only way to actually buy craft supplies are through specialized stores and websites. I know people who make and sell a lot of craft items but they are barely breaking even because they are spending a lot of money on materials and not pricing the things they make very well.

Browsing for new craft materials in specialized catalogs and craft stores can be fun, but ultimately you need to be able to buy your materials at an affordable price. You’ll probably want to consider some of these surprising places for your discount art and craft supplies:

Large Discount stores: Sometimes the large stores that specialized in clearance items will have a whole art supply section that changes stock regularly. Check back often because the products available are likely to change from week to week.

Hardware stores: Yes, I know this sounds crazy, but if you’re looking to buy some unique craft tools and supplies then you really have to think about going to a hardware store and looking over their sections of fasteners, screws and even nails. I’ve picked up grommets, washers, and even some cool little metal clasps from my local hardware store and used them all in different craft pieces. Many hardware stores now have paint chips and even small samples of paint which can be used in a number of different craft projects. You can even make jewelry out of some of the washers and screws you find there!

Both of these types of stores are great places for finding cheap art and craft supplies. So keep an eye out the next time you’re shopping for tools or picking up some dish soap at the store: you might just be moments away from discovering some amazing deals on unique and affordable craft materials!