Journey Art Supplies Blog

Tips, Tricks, Thoughts, and inspiration from across the art spectrum.

person thumbing through a paint palette book

Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Paint Palette

Mona Lisa

Choosing the right paint palette is one of the most important decisions you'll make as an artist. It's where your paints live, mix, and come to life—ready to burst onto your canvas. But with the wrong palette, your paints can dry out or become a mess, leading to wasted materials and frustration. Whether you're working with oils, acrylics, or watercolors, there's a perfect palette out there for you! Are All Paint Palettes the Same? Not all paint palettes are created equal! Each type of palette is designed with specific mediums and artistic needs in mind. Oil painters often prefer traditional wooden palettes for their durability and ability to keep paints workable for extended periods, while acrylic artists lean towards disposable or airtight palettes to combat quick drying times. Watercolorists, on the other hand, have a wide range of options, from compact travel palettes to large porcelain trays that offer smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces. Factors like material, shape, size, and whether a palette has a lid or mixing areas can make a big difference in your painting experience. Choosing the right palette isn’t just about convenience—it’s about finding the best fit for your painting style and making sure your paints perform at their best. So, let's dive in and explore your options! Oil Painting Palettes Oil painters typically choose between two types of palettes: traditional wooden palettes and disposable paper palettes. Traditional Wooden PalettesThese classic palettes have been around for centuries—think Monet and Renoir. They're usually oval or rectangular with a thumbhole for easy handling, allowing you to balance the palette comfortably against your side. Available in various sizes, wooden palettes are durable and long-lasting. To prepare them for use, multiple coats of linseed oil are applied to create a smooth, sealed surface for easier mixing and cleanup. Oil paint stays workable for weeks, and many artists rarely clean their palettes, instead letting layers build over time to create a unique working surface. Disposable Paper PalettesFor those who prefer a more convenient option, disposable paper palettes are a great choice. They come in pads or sheets and feature a special coating that prevents oils from seeping through. You can mount them on a panel or keep them in a shallow plastic box with a lid to protect your paint from dust and debris. Some brands even include moisture sponges to extend the life of your paints. When you're done, simply tear off the used sheet and toss it—no messy cleanup required. Acrylic Painting Palettes Acrylic paints dry quickly, making palette selection extremely important. Artists often turn to disposable palettes, plastic peelable palettes, or even glass palettes. Disposable & Peelable PalettesDisposable paper palettes are perfect for acrylics because you can discard them when the paint dries. Peelable plastic palettes offer another easy cleanup solution; once the paint hardens, you can simply peel it off the surface. Both options keep your workflow smooth and efficient. Glass & Porcelain PalettesGlass palettes provide a sturdy, easy-to-clean surface that's great for studio use. They stay put while mixing, but their weight makes them less ideal for travel. Porcelain palettes, on the other hand, are stain-resistant and easy to clean but can be fragile and heavy. If you're working primarily in your studio, these options are worth considering. Watercolor Palettes Watercolor artists have a wide range of palette options, from compact travel palettes to large studio setups. Choices include plastic, porcelain, and specialty palettes designed by top artists. Plastic vs. Porcelain PalettesPlastic palettes are lightweight, affordable, and perfect for transporting between home and class. They come in various shapes and sizes, with some featuring deep wells to prevent paint from mixing too easily. However, plastic palettes can stain over time, which may require replacing them periodically. Porcelain palettes are a favorite for studio work. They're heavier and more fragile, but their non-porous surface makes them easier to clean and stain-resistant. They offer a luxurious feel and allow for smooth, even color mixing. Travel Palettes For artists on the go, travel palettes provide compact, portable solutions. Folding palettes with thumb rings offer a sturdy grip and maximize mixing space. Some travel palettes are small enough to fit in a pocket, making them perfect for spontaneous sketching sessions or quick field studies. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paint Palette Before selecting your palette, ask yourself these key questions: Do you primarily work in the studio or en plein air? How many colors do you typically use? Do you prefer lightweight or sturdy materials? Do you need a lid to keep paints moist and dust-free? Would you benefit from deep wells for larger brushes? Palette Care Tips No matter which paint palette you choose, proper care can extend its life and keep your paints fresh. When filling a new watercolor palette, fill the wells generously and allow the paint to dry with a slight skin on top to keep it moist longer. Adding a touch of gum arabic can help maintain a semi-moist consistency for quicker reactivation. To prevent mold, especially in humid environments, keep your palette covered but allow air circulation. If mold does develop, clean the surface with a diluted bleach solution and wipe it down with a damp cloth. Find Your Perfect Palette With so many options available, finding the perfect paint palette might take a bit of trial and error. But once you find the right one, it will become a key part of your creative process. Whether you're painting in the studio or on the go, the right palette can make all the difference in your workflow. Shop our selection of painting tools and accessories today to find the right palette for you. Happy painting, and may you find your perfect palette!

Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Paint Palette

Mona Lisa

Choosing the right paint palette is one of the most important decisions you'll make as an artist. It's where your paints live, mix, and come to life—ready to burst onto...

a black and white photo of a two story house surrounded with trees behind it

Winter Plein Air Journaling Made Easy

Mona Lisa

The winter season may seem like the most inconvenient time for plein air journaling, especially in the mountains, where the temperatures have been exceedingly low this year. However, it can be the most exciting time of the year for wonderful, paintable scenes.

Winter Plein Air Journaling Made Easy

Mona Lisa

The winter season may seem like the most inconvenient time for plein air journaling, especially in the mountains, where the temperatures have been exceedingly low this year. However, it can...

Goof Proof Color Wheels in travel size and full size

Our Review of the Goof Proof Color Wheel

Terry Henry

We appreciate tools that help artists of all levels unlock their potential when it comes to creativity. One standout product that helps with this is the Robert Burridge Goof Proof Color Wheel. Designed to simplify color theory and energize your art-making process, this product truly lives up to its name. Here's a closer look at why it deserves a spot in your studio! Usability The Goof-Proof Color Wheel is an accessible tool for both beginners and experienced artists. Based on five primary colors (red, yellow, green, blue, and purple) and their secondary counterparts, the wheel guides you to finding harmonious color combinations without the guesswork. You simply identify a dominant color, pair it with a focal point color, and finish with a "spice" color to add energy. But its simplicity doesn’t mean it lacks depth. For artists who prefer a loose, spontaneous style (like Burridge himself), the wheel encourages experimentation while grounding your choices in tried-and-true color theory. And if you're someone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of color mixing, this wheel offers clarity. Expertise of the Artist Robert Burridge’s background as an artist and educator shines through in the thoughtful design of this tool. The Goof Proof Color Wheel is rooted in his years of experimentation, making it as much a teaching aid as it is a creative spark. Burridge’s philosophy—creating without overthinking—resonates, especially when paired with his instructional materials like the Abstract Florals From Loose Colorful Splatters DVD. His demonstrations bring the wheel to life, showing you exactly how to translate theory into practice. Cost and Value At a modest price point, the Goof Proof Color Wheel offers an impressive value. Compared to traditional color wheels, it’s designed to inspire creativity, not just to inform. It’s not only a tool but a gateway to a fresh perspective on color. When you think about the hours of frustration it can save, it practically pays for itself in joy and productivity. Comparison to Similar Products While standard color wheels are helpful for technical understanding, they often feel clinical. This color wheel bridges the gap between utility and inspiration. Burridge’s unique focus on “spice” colors and intuitive combinations sets it apart from generic models. Plus, it’s versatile—it works whether you're painting abstract art or planning the palette for a rural barn scene. In Action Using the wheel is as fun as it is effective. In one example, Burridge suggests starting with a dominant color like purple. The wheel then directs you to pair it with focal colors like green-yellow and spice it up with accents of red-yellow and blue-green. The result? A striking composition that feels cohesive yet unexpected. Even my own experiments with the wheel earned high praise for how well the colors "worked." Final Thoughts The Goof Proof Color Wheel delivers exactly what it promises: an easy, enjoyable way to create stunning artwork. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your creative journey, this tool will enhance your process with confidence and flair. As Burridge says, “If you’re not having fun making art, then why are you doing it?” With this color wheel, fun and success go hand in hand. So go ahead and start shopping our options today. We even offer the Robert Burridge Goof Proof Travel Size Color Wheel for artists on the go! If you're ready to make color theory less daunting and more exciting, this is the product for you. Check out our Robert Burridge Goof-Proof Color Wheels and Composition Chart today. Don't just take our word for it—try it out and see what vibrant, "spiced-up" creations await!

Our Review of the Goof Proof Color Wheel

Terry Henry

We appreciate tools that help artists of all levels unlock their potential when it comes to creativity. One standout product that helps with this is the Robert Burridge Goof Proof...

American Journey Artists' Watercolor tubes of yellow and blue

Basic Art Supplies Every Artist Should Have

CJAS Staff

We know all about that thrill of finding the perfect art supplies—the tools that inspire your creativity and bring your ideas to life. And if you’ve ever wondered what basic art supplies should be in every artist’s toolbox, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a rundown of the essentials that every artist, beginner or pro, should own—and a couple of wish-list items for good measure! A Trusty Pencil SetNo matter what medium you prefer, having a good pencil is non-negotiable. For general sketching, a 2B pencil is versatile enough to handle most tasks. But if you want to dive deeper, add a 6B for rich shading and a 7H for delicate, light lines. A full set offers endless possibilities, and it’s the foundation for any great artwork. Check out our collection of Artist and Drawing Pencils to find the best of the best. The Right ErasersMistakes are part of the process, which is why having two types of erasers is essential:• Kneaded Erasers: Perfect for gently lifting graphite or lightening areas without fully erasing.• Vinyl Erasers: Ideal for clean, sharp corrections without tearing your paper. Plus, they’re long-lasting and resist graphite buildup. Something to Draw OnA sketchpad is your portable studio. Choose lighter-weight paper for quick sketches or a heavier drawing pad for finished pieces. For mixed-media work, choose a pad that can handle ink or paint. And remember, drawing is a cornerstone skill—investing time here benefits every artist. We have plenty of art paper and boards to choose from, right here at Cheap Joe’s! Your Painting SurfaceWatercolor artists need at least 140 lb. cold-pressed paper, available in sheets or blocks. Acrylic painters should grab panels or canvases—and don’t forget to buy extras! Having more surfaces on hand lets you experiment without fear of “wasting” materials. Check out our collection of watercolor paper today! Palettes for Mixing ColorsWhether you’re into watercolor or acrylics, a good palette is a must. For watercolorists, choose one with wells to store colors and a mixing area that’s easy to clean. Acrylic painters can go for disposable palettes or classic options with thumb holes. Our page of painting tools and accessories has everything you need in the palette department. Pro tip: Joe loves using a spray bottle to rehydrate dried watercolor paint—easy and efficient! Quality BrushesGood brushes are an investment that pays off. Cheap Joe’s Golden Fleece Brushes (for watercolor) and Serendipity Brushes (for acrylics) are customer favorites. They’re durable, affordable, and versatile, available in shapes like rounds, flats, filberts, and fans. A solid brush can last for years if cared for properly. Browse our complete selection of artist brushes on our site. Paints That Wow• For Watercolorists: Cheap Joe’s American Journey Watercolors come in 128 vibrant shades, backed by our 365-day return policy.• For Acrylic Painters: American Journey Professional Artist Acrylics offer 60 rich colors to explore. These high-quality paints make your palette pop and your creativity soar. Our full selection of paints and painting accessories is worth spending some time looking through! Wish-List Additions When you’re ready to upgrade your studio, consider these: Cheap Joe’s Easel Table: A game-changer for versatility. It adjusts to any angle for watercolor or pastel and converts to a sturdy H-frame easel for acrylic or oil painting. American Journey Taboret: Organize your supplies in style. Made from beautiful American ash, this rolling storage unit features three smooth drawers, brushed nickel pulls, and locking casters. Shop Cheap Joe’s for All Your Basic Art Supplies This list is just the beginning of what you can explore in the world of basic art supplies. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials or dreaming of your next studio upgrade, we have what you need to bring your art to life!

Basic Art Supplies Every Artist Should Have

CJAS Staff

We know all about that thrill of finding the perfect art supplies—the tools that inspire your creativity and bring your ideas to life. And if you’ve ever wondered what basic...

drawing of Koda the bull wearing a wreath collar, and a bell harness. A greeting card version is also shown.

How to Make DIY Christmas Cards with Goof Proof...

Tory D Manning

"Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when everything sparkles—tinsel, snow, and maybe even a little glitter from your last art project. For us, it’s also the perfect season to grab our favorite supplies and dive into making handmade Christmas cards. This year, we’re walking you through the process of creating festive cards with Cheap Joe’s Goof Proof Greeting Cards—an absolute game-changer for personalized holiday greetings. Why We Love Cheap Joe’s Goof-Proof Cards Let’s start with the star of the show: Cheap Joe's Goof-Proof Greeting Card Set - Deckled Edge, Box of 25. These beauties make creating custom cards a breeze. The set includes high-quality 5x7 card blanks with matching envelopes and, most importantly, cold-pressed watercolor paper inserts. That insert feature is a lifesaver—you don’t have to worry about messing up your design directly on the card itself. If a mistake happens, just redo the insert, attach it, and voilà—no one’s the wiser. Plus, the deckled edges give them that elegant, hand-touched vibe. The Koda Card: Our Festive Inspiration This year, we painted Koda, a regal Red Limousin bull that’s practically Christmas-ready in his rich red coat. We envisioned him pulling Santa’s sleigh (reindeer deserve a day off too, right?). The result? A whimsical, festive piece of artwork that’s personal and fun to share. But here’s our pro tip for long holiday card lists: “Paint One, Print Many.” Create one larger painting, snap a great photo, and have it printed to fit the card size. This way, everyone gets a handmade feel without you pulling all-nighters to paint dozens of cards. Step-by-Step Card Creation Gather Your SuppliesHere’s what we used to make our cards:• Tracing paper (Cheap Joe’s Starving Artist variety—budget-friendly and durable)• Carpenter’s pencil (ideal for transferring patterns)• Kilimanjaro 300lb Watercolor Block (no warping, even with heavy washes)• Kolinsky Sable Brush Set (luxurious, precise, and worth the investment)• Dr. Ph. Martin’s Hydrus Liquid Watercolors (vivid, concentrated, and just fun to use)• Master’s Watercolor Tray (perfect for mixing and keeping colors wet longer) Create Your PatternAfter printing a black-and-white photo of Koda for reference, I used tracing paper and my carpenter’s pencil to transfer the design onto my watercolor paper. A kneadable eraser helps lighten heavy graphite lines—great for keeping your work clean. Layer Your Watercolor WashesI started with a light base wash for Koda, then layered deeper tones to add dimension. Santa’s sleigh got its own bold red treatment, and I used a touch of Phthalo blue for snow shadows. The process is so satisfying—each layer makes the image pop a little more. Photo FinishOnce the painting dried, I photographed it in natural light (pro tip: overcast days work best). After tweaking the photo, I printed it to match the card size. Mounting it onto the Goof-Proof cards was easy with the included adhesive strips. Creative Ideas for Leftover Greeting Card Materials Got leftover materials? Here are a few bonus projects: Turn small scraps into bookmarks or gift tags. Create coloring pages for kids by outlining a festive design. Design mini paintings or magnets as keepsakes. Whether you’re painting reindeer, snowflakes, or a festive bull like Koda, Cheap Joe’s Goof-Proof Cards make the process joyful and, well, goof-proof. Plus, the recipients get a one-of-a-kind piece of art they’ll treasure long after the holidays. So, grab your brushes and let the holiday magic begin!

How to Make DIY Christmas Cards with Goof Proof...

CJAS Staff

"Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when everything sparkles—tinsel, snow, and maybe even a little glitter from your last art project. For us, it’s also the perfect season...

a drawing of Joe as Santa with a sack of gifts on his back. The text reads "Holiday Gift Guide Over 50 Gifts Under $50"

The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists

Tory D Manning

Are You Ready For The Rush? It happens every year at this time, as everyone is getting ready for the holidays, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for that someone special.   

The Best Holiday Gifts for Artists

CJAS Staff

Are You Ready For The Rush? It happens every year at this time, as everyone is getting ready for the holidays, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for...

Gloves in a bottle, pencils, and a gift note laying on top of a red and white stocking

Best Stocking Stuffers for Artists

Tory D Manning

Are you still searching for the perfect stocking stuffers for artists in your life? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with thoughtful, practical, and fun gift ideas that any artist will appreciate. Whether they're seasoned pros or just getting started, these items are sure to inspire creativity all year round. Make Shopping for Your Favorite Artist Simple Shopping for artists doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you shop at Cheap Joe’s. We’ve put together a wide selection of artist-approved tools, materials, and accessories that cater to every level of creativity, from beginners to pros. Whether you’re looking for practical supplies like brushes and palettes or unique finds like portable easels and travel art sets, we’ve got it all right here in one place. Plus, our team of art lovers is here to help you pick the perfect gift, so you can skip the guesswork and focus on spreading holiday cheer. With Cheap Joe’s, shopping for artists is simple, stress-free, and always inspiring! Here are a few of our favorite stocking stuffers for artists: Aprons and SmocksArt is messy—plain and simple. Help your favorite artist save their clothes with an apron or smock designed for painting, drawing, or sculpting. Look for ones with pockets for tools, so they can keep their brushes and pencils close at hand. We recommend the Cheap Joe’s Maker’s Crossback Aprons. Hand Protection and Clean-Up SuppliesPaint-stained hands and ink smudges are part of the creative process, but they don’t have to linger. Stock their stocking with artist-friendly hand soaps, barrier creams, or gloves to keep them clean and comfortable while they create. Check out the Marvelous Marianne's SavvySoap Hand and Brush Cleaner for starters. Brush and Tool StorageArtists always need help organizing their tools. A brush holder keeps brushes safe from damage. We recommend checking out our Cheap Joe’s Brush Holders, which are made from nylon and feature reinforced sides. You can also find sturdy pencil or marker cases to keep things tidy on the go. Portable PalettesFrom compact travel palettes to ceramic options for the studio, palettes are an artist’s must-have tool for mixing and blending colors. A fresh palette makes for an easy and appreciated stocking stuffer. The Portable Painter Watercolor Palette is a great choice. SketchbooksArtists can never have too many sketchbooks! Go for hardbound options like our American Journey Hardbound Sketchbooks and Watercolor Journal Set —they’re perfect for capturing ideas, doodles, or fully realized works on the go. Drawing Pencil SetsGift them a complete set of sketching pencils with various lead types, from soft to hard. This guarantees they’ll always have the perfect pencil for any project. The General's Kimberly Drawing Pencils - Set of 12 are an amazing choice, and they’re made in the U.S.A. Toss in a kneadable eraser for a bonus! Mini EaselsIf space is tight or they like to work on small-scale projects, our Cheap Joe’s Travel Table Easel is a fantastic gift. It’s compact, portable, and great for sketching, painting, or display. Lighting SolutionsGood lighting makes all the difference. A small, adjustable full-spectrum lamp fits nicely under the tree—or in a stocking! It reduces eye strain and ensures they see their colors and details accurately. We recommend the Daylight Smart Go LED Travel Lamp. Travel-Sized Art SuppliesWhether they’re plein air painters or urban sketchers, artists love compact tools. Think travel watercolor sets, mini brushes, or collapsible water containers for those who create on the go. The Da Vinci Watercolor Mixing Set In Travel Tin features paints that are permanent, with the highest tinting strength and pigment concentration available. Gift CardsLet’s face it—some artists are particular about their supplies. A Cheap Joe’s gift card lets them pick exactly what they need or want, making it the ultimate stress-free stocking stuffer. We have a Cheap Joe's Physical Gift Card and a Cheap Joe's E-Gift Card as well! Shop Cheap Joe’s for All Your Stocking Stuffer Needs When it comes to finding the perfect stocking stuffers for artists, we’ve got you covered. With a wide range of high-quality, artist-approved supplies and thoughtful gifts, we make it easy to find something that inspires creativity and fits snugly in a stocking. From practical tools like sketchbooks and palettes to innovative storage solutions and mess-proof gear, our collection is designed to delight creators of every skill level. This holiday season, let us help you fill stockings with gifts that spark joy and fuel artistic passion. From all of us at Cheap Joe’s, we wish you a merry and creative Christmas!

Best Stocking Stuffers for Artists

CJAS Staff

Are you still searching for the perfect stocking stuffers for artists in your life? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with thoughtful, practical, and fun gift ideas that any artist...

abstract art with orange, reds, blues and greens

Fun and Inexpensive Ways to Frame Art

Tory D Manning

In my experience, the main hang-up some artists have when it comes to framing their work is that it can be expensive to have it done professionally or difficult and time-consuming to do it yourself. So this week, I wanted to show you some of my favorite quick and inexpensive ways to frame your work!

Fun and Inexpensive Ways to Frame Art

CJAS Staff

In my experience, the main hang-up some artists have when it comes to framing their work is that it can be expensive to have it done professionally or difficult and...

a painted blue wooden board with Cheap Joes Art Stuff in a tan circle and a stylized paint brush through the circle

10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s

Tory D Manning

Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky beginnings, and the creative, art-loving people who make it all happen! Where It All Began: Boone Drug A Humble Beginning Among Aspirin BottlesCheap Joe’s Art Stuff started over 35 years ago in Boone, North Carolina, right inside the Boone Drug store. Joe Miller himself recalls stocking art supplies on a shelf between the aspirin and Ex-Lax. Turns out, this “prime” spot gave artists just the relief they needed! Today, the store still reflects that unique, local charm—and you might even spot some legendary artists on our walls, including works from Cheng Khee Chee, Lian Zhen, and Suzanna Winton, all part of our cherished "Art Hall Wallery." The Art Hall WalleryCheap Joe’s Boone location serves as our headquarters, and walking through the office is like stepping into an art gallery! We’re home to one of the finest collections of art, with pieces from top artists in the business. So, if you’re in Boone, NC, pop by and stroll down our hallway gallery!    Our Team of Talented Artists An Artistic Team with Diverse TalentsCheap Joe’s team isn’t just knowledgeable about art supplies—they’re artists themselves! From watercolorists to encaustic artists, our employees have real experience creating art. For those who aren’t artists, we offer seminars, workshops, and product demos, making sure everyone has the expertise to help you find exactly what you need to bring your art to life.   A Workshop Studio Worth the TripOur state-of-the-art workshop studio has been called the “Cadillac” of art venues! Students here have spacious workstations, ample lighting, and, of course, our fully stocked art store right next door. And thanks to our high-tech upgrades, every seat is the best seat in the house. We have large flat-screen monitors and an overhead camera, so everyone has a front-row view of instructor demos. No more craning your neck to see the magic unfold! Check out our variety of art lessons and workshops today!  Our Guarantee & Giving Back Our 365-Day Unconditional GuaranteeAt Cheap Joe’s, we want you to love your art supplies as much as we do, so we give you a full year to decide. If anything doesn’t meet your expectations, just give us a call at 800-227-2788, and our friendly team will make it right. It’s a promise backed by the best guarantee in the business! Brushes for Vincent: Our Art CharityCheap Joe’s Art Stuff is the proud founder of Brushes for Vincent, a charity that helps bring art supplies to young artists in need. We believe in the power of art to change lives, so every penny you donate goes to orphanages, hospitals, and nonprofits, supporting budding artists who might be the next Van Gogh. A little goes a long way, and you can help us inspire creativity in children everywhere! Behind the Scenes with Cheap Joe Cheap Joe’s Past Life as a PharmacistBefore becoming the art guru we know and love, Joe Miller worked as a pharmacist at Boone Drug. But a gift of watercolor lessons changed everything. Joe was so inspired by that class that he stocked up on quality art supplies and began selling them at affordable prices. And that’s how Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff was born—bringing savings and quality to artists ever since! YouTube University: Cheap Joe’s StyleWant to learn the ins and outs of art techniques without spending a dime? Head over to Cheap Joe’s on YouTube! Our channel is packed with free tutorials and product demos. Whether it’s a quick tip on how to use a “paint pusher” or a full tutorial on stretching watercolor paper, we’ve got you covered. Art Supplies with a Personal TouchCheap Joe’s is renowned for its customer-centered approach, but did you know that some of our exclusive products, like American Journey paints, were developed based on feedback from local artists? Joe himself often collaborated with suppliers and customers to refine products, ensuring his art stuff met the practical needs of creators. It's a personal touch that sets Cheap Joe's apart as more than just a retailer—we’re proud partners and participants of the art community. A Fresh New Website for Easy ShoppingWe recently redesigned our website to make finding your favorite supplies and learning resources easier than ever. From improved navigation to more informative product pages, our goal is to make your online experience as smooth as possible. After all, finding the right art supplies should be a creative journey, not a frustrating scavenger hunt! Whether you’re a brand-new artist or a seasoned pro, Cheap Joe’s is here to support your creativity with the tools, advice, and inspiration you need. We can’t wait to see what you create! And if you’re looking for more information about our company, check out our About Us page.

10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s

CJAS Staff

Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky...

 2 Cheap Joe’s Magic Dragon Brushes

A Deep Dive on Cheap Joe’s Magic Dragon Brushes

Tory D Manning

We're going to talk about brushes today, and I'm going to tell you about Magic Dragon Brushes, a unique brush, one that Cheap Joe's designed, and it's one that's just a great watercolor brush.

A Deep Dive on Cheap Joe’s Magic Dragon Brushes

CJAS Staff

We're going to talk about brushes today, and I'm going to tell you about Magic Dragon Brushes, a unique brush, one that Cheap Joe's designed, and it's one that's just...

person using Logan 650 Mat Cutter

The Logan 650 Mat Cutter: Your New Best Friend ...

Tory D Manning

Designed for serious volume artists and framers, the Go to Logan 650-1 Framers Edge Elite series mat cutter is a heavy duty, high production mat cutter with dual purpose straight and bevel cutting head on a sturdy 3/4" MDF base.

The Logan 650 Mat Cutter: Your New Best Friend ...

CJAS Staff

Designed for serious volume artists and framers, the Go to Logan 650-1 Framers Edge Elite series mat cutter is a heavy duty, high production mat cutter with dual purpose straight...

person using a spray bottle over a colorful canvas painting

Exploring Color with Spray Bottles

Tory D Manning

Joe Miller explains how to paint with watercolors using a spray bottle to diffuse water and create air brush effects. These watercolor painting techniques are helpful for adding highlights to your watercolor art work.

Exploring Color with Spray Bottles

CJAS Staff

Joe Miller explains how to paint with watercolors using a spray bottle to diffuse water and create air brush effects. These watercolor painting techniques are helpful for adding highlights to...