We all know that craft making with kids is a great way to foster creativity. But instead of going out and getting all the materials by yourself, why not include the kids in the buying process? If you’re imagining a disaster scenario involving spilled paint and marked up walls at the store, fear not! We’ve got the scoop on which art and crafts stores provide kid-friendly experiences. These San Diego stores make selecting the supplies almost as much fun as the project itself!
Photo Credit: Anthony F. via Yelp
Paper Tales
This paper and craft boutique in the heart of Point Loma is packed with a huge assortment of the finest stamps, scrapbooking papers, paints, and other delightful supplies. Kids will love the shabby chic décor and sparkly trinkets sprinkled throughout the store. And the adorable play area is sure to occupy the rowdiest of toddlers. There are blocks, a play kitchen and a chalkboard table for kiddos to get creative with and gain inspiration for their next project. Keep an eye out for their fun events and classes, too!
3960 W. Point Loma Blvd.
San Diego, Ca
619-222-2610
Online: papertales.com
Photo Credit: Carmen V. via Yelp
Artist and Craftsman Supply
The selection at this friendly, Hillcrest arts and crafts store is vast. But before you get overwhelmed, just stick to the front of the store and you’ll find everything you need to have a fabulous craft day. This section has all kinds of items for making creative projects with kids. Kiddos can have their pick of paints, glitter glue, 3D sidewalk chalk, paper mache animals, and craft boxes. You’ll have a hard time pulling them away from all the stickers, temporary tattoos, rubber animals, and even a decent variety of toys and fun socks. Little ones will love the bright and colorful floor!
3804 4th Ave.
San Diego, Ca
619-688-1911
Online: artistcraftsman.com
Photo Credit: Beads and More Facebook Page
Beads and More
Got kids who love making jewelry? Take them to Beads and More, located half a block from the sand in Pacific Beach. If they’re beginners, the helpful staff can point them in the right direction with an impressive selection of beads, perfect for making necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to come with your kids and hang out for a while. There are tables set up at the back of the store where they can make jewelry, and also toys for small children to keep them occupied. Ask about classes and birthday parties!
4150 Mission Blvd. Ste 111
San Diego, Ca
858-483-4190
Online: sandiegobeads.com
Photo Credit: Art FORM website
Art FORM
Art FORM is a non- profit organization that provides arts education to schools and the community for little or no cost. By making recycled materials accessible for projects, kids can learn ingenuity and creative problem solving. The Creative Reuse Store is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This is where kids can shop for clean, reusable scrap materials. Most items can be purchased for a low cost donation of $1, $2, $5 or $10. Expect to find materials such as fabric, paper, plastic, foam sheets and more. They also accept donations, so gather up those items your kiddos are no longer using and donate them to a good cause.
3316 Adams Ave. Suite B
San Diego, Ca
619-795-0013
Online: artformsandiego.org
Where do you like to take your kids for arts and crafts supplies? Let us know in the comments!
— Marissa Mullen
