Wet Paint

Art supply store · Macalester-Groveland

Wet Paint

Art supply store · Macalester-Groveland

3

1684 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105

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Highlights

Wet Paint in St. Paul is an independently owned art supply haven, offering a unique selection and outstanding service since 1976, making it a must-visit for creatives.  

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1684 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105 Get directions

wetpaintart.com
@wetpaintart

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1684 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105 Get directions

+1 651 698 6431
wetpaintart.com
@wetpaintart

$$

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Jul 11, 2025

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@eater

"Offers a wide selection of art supplies, including pastels, notebooks, and watercolor sets." - Justine Jones

The Best Way to Staycation in St. Paul, Minnesota - Eater Twin Cities
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@onthegrid

"Artists of all kind, gather round. There’s a charmingly quaint art supply store in these parks by the name of Wet Paint. The store was established in 1976 and has always had a local owner who lives nearby. They have over 40,000 different items and are known for their knowledgeable and friendly staff. If you’ve got a question, they’ve definitely got an answer. If you’ve found yourself in a bit of a creative block, you can simply step into this store and you’ll already feel more inspired. From acrylic paint, spray paint, compressed charcoal, canvases, a plethora of paint brushes, to Justin Beiber – they’ve truly got it all! Whether you’re an art student, master fine artist or graphic designer you’ll definitely find something here." - MOD

On the Grid : Wet Paint
View Postcard for Wet Paint
@onthegrid

"Wet Paint, Summit Grand by MOD. Artists of all kind, gather round. There’s a charmingly quaint art supply store in these parks by the name of Wet Paint. The store was established in 1976 and has always had a local owner who lives nearby. They have over 40,000 different items and are known for their knowledgeable and friendly staff. If you’ve got a question, they’ve definitely got an answer.If you’ve found yourself in a bit of a creative block, you can simply step into this store and you’ll already feel more inspired. From acrylic paint, spray paint, compressed charcoal, canvases, a plethora of paint brushes, to Justin Beiber – they’ve truly got it all! Whether you’re an art student, master fine artist or graphic designer you’ll definitely find something here."

Minneapolis-St Paul
View Postcard for Wet Paint

Pete Willis

Google
This place could be addictive. Fortunately for my wallet I live to far away. Service wise, the staff is informative and kind. I am in no way an accomplished or highly skilled artist. I just love to draw. The personal interest they showed helped me to understand what to look for and how to compare various supplies. For those of you that are local, enjoy this place. You cannot get this kind of support in the big boxes or the online place with the delivery trucks. ;)

Jules Meyers

Google
Absolutely delightful art store. Fabulous selection of items across multiple mediums. Every staff member is SO kind and I love chatting with them!

Michelle C

Google
What a great place with the widest selection I’ve seen. Staff are very helpful. Prices vary from low to high, thus giving options for all budgets. Shocked to find such a selection of fountain pens, inks, and stationary from Japan.

Elisa Lobo Neese

Google
Artists little heaven on Earth. I love this place and how knowledgeable the staff is. My new interest is watercolors. They had all the supplies for beginners like me, to pros and well. Thanks Landon and Maria for helping me with the selections.

M F

Google
Very cool art store with tons of really unique and great supplies. Not sure why they aren't open after 6pm, as they would probably receive much more business from everyone who has to work 9-5pm everyday. It's impossible for me to make it here during the week which is really a bummer. I would love to be able to stop by and grab art supplies if I need to during the week, but they're closed by the time I get there. Still very cool store so I'll give it 3 stars.

Greg Seifert

Google
I started using the framing service here a few years ago and have had a good experience on multiple pieces. The unfortunate thing about them doing a good job is that the wait is a little long. There is 5 weeks lead time as of mid November 2023. Maybe that is standard for frame shops. I typically use them for original art because I think they see more of that than a typical framing shop.

AJP Somerville

Google
This is a very well-stocked store. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable with the information and recommendations they gave me. I'm still pretty new with watercolors and they were incredibly helpful. I found exactly what I need and I'll definitely be going back when I need to restock on more paper and paint!

Ireland Davis

Google
I don't think I've met friendlier staff to be honest! Lol Everyone was very nice and helpful. There's a nice collection of coloring books, and the store is easy and fun to navigate. I'll be back 😊

Tara L.

Yelp
I stumbled across this craft store and I'm so happy I did! I love planners, pens and everything journals and this store delivered. It spread to be small but once you go inside it's bigger than I expected and they have packed the store with goodies. Amazing collection of fountain pens and inks, regular pens and markers as well. They had paint, sketchbooks, journals, washi tape...the list goes on! Best part was the prices were good! I will be back!!!

Nakita K.

Yelp
I popped in here for a short 30 minutes to kill some time and found the spot to be awesomely stocked with a lot of great tools and resources x as an artist myself, I saw no shortage of supply here. They even had a small book section where I found a daily sketch journal. I wasn't planning on purchasing anything, but after finding this book I felt I had landed here for a reason. The staff were also super courteous and kind and approached me a couple times to support my shopping needs. I walked in wanting to kill time, and walked out happy customer feeling like my calling was once again knocking on my door. I am grateful for this visit and look forward to returning.

Elizabeth W.

Yelp
This store is dangerous. I am not an artist but I could spend a lot of money here. I stopped in to buy Christmas presents. Super helpful staff who helped me pick out pens for my nephew who is learning Japanese and a paint set for my sister. I found some excellent journal pens for myself and even bought drawing pens. The selection is vast, prices are reasonable and staff so helpful. Love it!

Jeff N.

Yelp
Smart, friendly staff. Excellent selection. Great workshops and classes. Cool mural in back.

Nicole B.

Yelp
Incredible art store! I came to pick out some craft activities for my kids (4 and 1) and they had such a nice selection of things to make and also craft boxes. The staff here is truly next level, incredible friendly and helpful! They helped me pick out the perfect complimentary colors for a painting, and guided me through some great project ideas for the kids. I love this store!

Wyatt L.

Yelp
This place is my favorite store in Saint Paul. They have a wide variety of arts and crafts, and the employees are both kind and knowledgeable. Very local, small business feel. I love coming here! Earlier this week I thought I lost my wallet at this store, and called back to ask if they found it. They didn't, and I came back the next day to check. They then told me when I called, they remembered me and retraced my steps to look for it for me. What incredible customer service.

Rogen A.

Yelp
Beautiful selection of countless art supplies. One time I came in and had my eyes on some fountain pens though being in high school I unfortunately couldn't afford any at the time. A sweet woman ended up finding me on my way out of the store and had purchased a pen and gifted it to me as she overheard me telling my friends I wish I had one. This just goes to show the type of people who come in here. After the fact, a store clerk showed me how to use my pen and how to refill it for future use.

Elisa H.

Yelp
A really neat art shop! The shop has a fountain pen section, the section has a good variety and even includes some pilots (and the prices were comparable to online stores). You can try the pen there -which I think is super valuable- and look at ink charts (come on, you know you need another ink even if you have 50 of the same shade) I also saw a nice watercolor and gouache section and crafts section The staff was very friendly and no shortage of help, a must see if you want an in-person art store

Janet D.

Yelp
Best art store in Minnesota with helpful and knowledgeable staff! It's my go to shop when I need supplies with prices only slightly higher than Amazon. I'd rather give my business to a small non-chain store than Amazon! Even if you are not an artist stop in at Wet Paint it's a great store to just browse through.

Joe I.

Yelp
Live nearby this location but have not frequented it. The second kid is big into drawing. And we consume lots of sketch pads as a result. I got the emergency SOS that we were out on my way home for work and so I stopped in. Instantly greeted in a friendly way when I walked in I explain the situation was brought over to the exact thing I needed. Checked out by another friendly staffer. I have no idea how the price compares to other locations or Amazon or whatever but the experience here was very positive and would bring me back. Recommended.

K G.

Yelp
I think other reviewers have pretty much covered all the bases - Wet Paint has an impressive selection of art supplies, books, journals, kits, coloring books, etc. I've found their prices to be comparable to chain stores and Amazon. They offer classes and do custom framing, and I've heard great things about both. I love the staff and the vibe. A really fun place. Shop local!

Magpie B.

Yelp
I love Wet Paint. They're all so lovely and so helpful, it's always a super positive experience. They carry high end materials that you may have trouble finding elsewhere, like Schmincke watercolor or Holbein gouache. I really appreciated how one of the people who works there used gender neutral pronouns for me when referring to me to another coworker. It's rare to experience such a simple respect and it made my day, along with the incredible watercolors I had picked up. Besides fine art supplies, they have tons of other fun stuff like notebooks (Decomposition notebooks are my FAVORITE), books, stuff for kids, and SO much more. They've got a lifelong customer in me.

Kathleen C.

Yelp
I was in town visiting family and someone told me about this store. I made sure I visited it. If you are a lover of quality art supplies this is the place to visit. The staff is knowledgeable about the art supply products. They sell full and half sheets of Chiyogami paper for collaging, bookmaking, etc. (three folders in fact). High quality paint, homemade paper, pens. It also looks they have art classes for all levels including kids. I want to keep stores like this alive and well.

Steve S.

Yelp
I took a print in to be framed and had very explicit instructions Kate did an amazing job and it turned out even better then I could've hoped it did I can't recommend them enough

Tarra G.

Yelp
If you're looking for anything art/craft related, don't bother shopping around, just come here as I guarantee they'll have it. I've been looking for 16x20 inch nice paper for a background of a frame project I'm doing and went to several places that didn't have that awkward sizing, nor would offer to cut to that size. I'd never been here but knew it existed, so I called to ask if they either had that size or could cut to size and from the very first phone conversation, to visiting the store and getting what I needed (they do have that size and do cut!) it was very easy and pleasant. The staff are wonderful, the store is very welcoming and fun to look around in, and the prices are good. They have everything you can think of. I'll definitely be back.

Helena S.

Yelp
This is an easy 5 stars. The staff seem like they are artists too which clearly makes all the difference in customer service and products ordered. I doubt you will be dissatisfied. Love this place! I love the acryla- gouache neons i buy there, vibrant and mixes well w my acrylics!

David Z.

Yelp
Everyone here was super helpful and super nice. Awesome selection. My new favorite art store!

Liz L.

Yelp
All I can say is if you want to get into creating artwork, just stop here. I decided I wanted to start painting watercolor a few months back and slowly started procuring supplies through Amazon and Michaels. As someone who wants to know EVERY detail about what a brush can do and the differences in paints, I found out fast that going to Michaels was doing me no favors in advancing my early watercolor career. After a search on Yelp for art stores, I found this true gem of a small business. I stepped in the doors being wary of being an overly needy beginner. Upon being greeted by the staff, I found no need to be concerned about that. The first time I came in was regarding paint brushes and what each brush does. I was blown away by the care the staff provided me with helpful tips, product recommendations in my price range, and ideas. The staff here clearly has a love and passion for painting that is positively contagious! So of course it was only a matter of time before I came back for some "splurge" items. I loved when I mispronounced Sepia when searching for watercolor tubes and the gentleman helping me cordially corrected me in such a kind manner. Another win is the variety of options they have here at different price points! As a novice to painting, I really didn't want to spend obscene amounts of money on supplies. This place was VERY competitive on prices. Considering the service, the atmosphere, and the prices this is a must stop for anyone in search of art supplies. I'm even getting butterflies planning out my next purchase while writing this review!

Jillian L.

Yelp
Love this local art supply store! Every time I visit the employees are very friendly and knowledgeable. They have supplies for beginners to more advanced artists. A place I love returning to! Also for those that are driving to this store there is a small parking area in the back!

M J.

Yelp
The happiness meter is almost always pegged here! The staff is knowledgeable and eager to help. The selection of items well thought out and reasonably priced. If you want a neighborhood store in which you feel like your art, your patronage, and your questions matter -- then I highly recommend this cozy little shop.

Annie H.

Yelp
I am not much of an artist but I certainly did not feel out of place at this store. The staff was incredibly welcoming and kind when helping me find what I was looking for. They gave me instructions and recommendations about the product that were extremely helpful for my project. In addition, they enforced safe procedures with COVID policies by only allowing a certain amount of people in the store at a time. Already looking forward to my next visit!

Jennifer S.

Yelp
This is a Wonderland of a shop for everyone with any sort of artistic inclination. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable and willing to assist. Space is loaded with great things: decorative and handmade papers, all sorts of pens, pencils and markers, inks, pastels, pencil sharpeners, erasers, books, art kits, storage containers, pads of paper, paints, brushes, easels, framing supplies, plain stationery, decorative stamps, embellishments, and on and on. Prices are very reasonable. Business is locally owned by a woman who lives right in the neighborhood. Several years ago, I purchased my first watercolor painting supplies here. I love to return here every so often to just browse at the cool stuff. Easy for me to do since they're right in the neighborhood.

Jessica T.

Yelp
Does your 8 year old NEED to learn origami only to NEED to learn calligraphy two weeks later? Problems solved. Any art related thing can be found here. They even have a room just for kids art/craft supplies and kits which I always go to for birthday gifts. The best part of this store is the staff. People greet you as you walk in and ask if you need help. And then they help with a nice attitude. Knowing my 8 yr. old I'm sure we'll be back soon.

Matt M.

Yelp
Wet Paint is the bomb. It's a local shop stacked with any art supply you can think of. Seriously, the place is crammed with anything you might need to get your Van Gogh on. It's like Harry Potter's Room of Requirement filled with any art supply you might desire. Their staff is always friendly and helpful, giving tips from personal experience and helping you find what you really need. Compared to other art stores in the Twin Cities, where I have received no attention at all, this is a super refreshing change. I just want to hang out with them and talk art. They often have deals and promotions, too- 50 percent off canvases is crazy good, and I feel like they run that one a lot. Wet Paint makes me wish I got artsy way more often than I do.

Matt R.

Yelp
Just picked up a fantaaastic custom framing/matting job. The staff is very talented (artists know their art supplies and color theory) and attentive - they spent time with us picking out exactly the right mat colors (they have many, many shades of white plus every other color you could want). The artwork was all odd sized - pre-cut mats wouldn't have worked. We could only afford to custom frame 2, but they matted another 6 or so that we will be able to buy ready-made or second-hand frames for. They had a great selection of reasonably priced framing materials - in a very very wide range of styles. In the end we spent about $350 to custom mat and frame 2 and mat another 6 and it was sooo worth it (especially considering we had some of this artwork in a drawer, waiting until we had the time and cash to get it done). I would say they spent close to 2 hours helping us figure out all of the matting/framing colors, lord knows how long it took to do all of the work so perfectly. I also really enjoyed talking with them about the art. I will definitely be back again when I can afford to do some more. I only wish I had the $500,000 it would cost to buy a house in Mac Groveland so I could visit more often. Thanks Wet Paint!

Ben T.

Yelp
PARADISE - for artists - paint, paper, TEXTURES and deals on good supplies. I would sometimes come here just to check out the same supplies or to feel the same sheets of thick watercolor paper that I know I could not afford just to be happy. Once it became a dangerous addiction, I started taking harder classes at Macalester that demanded more of my time so I would not be able to linger about at Wet Paint! The only way Wet Paint could earn 6 or even 7 stars is if they roast and serve fair trade coffee and offer free studio space. Of course then the place would be hopelessly packed with students eager to take advantage of that. STILL I think it should happen!

Jamie S.

Yelp
This is a fantastic art supply store. For a small space, they pack in an incredible selection for very reasonable prices. I started coming here after it was suggested by the professor who taught the 'architecture in watercolor' course I took at the U. They have so many high quality brushes and papers to choose from, and if I remember correctly, they even created a custom 'kit' for our course. Their employees are always so helpful and friendly, and they're clearly knowledgeable about the supplies they're selling. At some of the other art supply stores in the Twin Cities, I sometimes feel like I have to search awhile for help, and then I'm unsure whether to trust them, but I'm always promptly offered assistance by very credible individuals when I'm at Wet Paint. Plus, I love being able to support an independently-owned business. It also doesn't hurt that it's located in such a cute area, on Grand Avenue in St. Paul.

Heidi B.

Yelp
This is seriously the best art store I've ever been in!! I just found it the other day and I will definitely be back for more markers and paper! They are well-staffed and have many different options and price ranges. Yessss!

Qaiser B.

Yelp
Great variety of merchandise available along with a very knowledgeable staff. Which is very helpful for a novice like me. The shop is loaded with fascinating things to see, I usually browse for sometime even when I am done with shopping. The parking can be a little challenging sometimes, especially during the daytime. Also the shop can be a little pricey and the cost adds up if you do not remain careful.

Jenny S.

Yelp
Best art store on the continent! This place is dangerously fantastic- with helpful staff, papers from around the world and everything from kids' stickers to the finest French intaglio ink. They know what they are doing and they have it all!!! I'm glad I don't live closer or I'd spend my entire paycheck in this palace of art supplies.

Kurt M.

Yelp
This is the premier art store in town. They have one of the largest selections and by far the most knowledgeable staff in town. If you want something they don't have they can order it for you. Huge handmade paper selection I don't always buy all my stuff here but its definitely my favorite art store in town. You need to go here is you love art supplies like I do. Its easy to spend money here be careful. : )

H M.

Yelp
Although this is a pretty great spot for art supplies, their customer service is lacking. I've been in several times when the person at the counter literally says nothing as they're checking you out. No greeting, no nothing. Just looking bummed out and bored as you support their shop. I've also experienced some uncomfortable interactions with male employees there, awkwardly asking too many questions and not allowing me to just look for the supplies I need. I shouldn't have to explain why I like a certain thing or feel stared at when I'm trying to shop. Not cool. There is a female employee who works there that is very helpful and nice, so it's not like all of them are annoying. But dang, lighten up dudes!

Dee T.

Yelp
O.M.G. this place is heaven. I walked around in a stupor for 20 minutes, mouth wide open in wonderment, at all of the goodies packed into every available crevice. Outstanding paper, ink, and drawing supplies. Great staff - I visited when they were h e l l a busy and yet managed to be asked thrice if I needed any help (perhaps because I looked like I'd hit the mother lode). I went in search of Gocco supplies, and they, like everyone else in the world, were sold out, unfortunately.

Rachael M.

Yelp
I am very disappointed, I used to come here all the time and was always delighted with the supplies and service. I have to say I will never go back again. Very disgusted with the way we were greated with a grunt and "closing in 10 min." that was it, not good evening or anything else. My kids and I preceded to be followed/stalked around the store as we waited for the paper to be cut. Then we were told one price and got to the register and it was 3x as much. My children including my 16 mos. old baby were told to stop and get by their mom and even the manager/owner admonished my baby telling him to stop touching a paintbrush. Totally disgusted and very disappointed.

Ava P.

Yelp
I'm never buying supplies anywhere else ever again. This store and the people who work there are the absolute best. I needed a bunch of random supplies, and they assisted me around the store during the entire visit, for which I am very grateful, or it would have taken me much longer to find everything! They also know their stuff, and helped me choose between different papers and tools. And I can't get over how sincerely sweet everyone was. Such a wonderful store, full of wonderful people! I look forward to my next visit.

Steve U.

Yelp
there's no getting around the fact that this is _the_ art supply store in the twin cities. sure, blick's good for the odd notebook refresh and stocking up on the standard stuff, but when you want to feel really artistically inadequate you need to come here. they have pretty much everything, the staff is very knowledgeable and they know where to point me when i come in asking for a particular pen which i've recently seen / discovered and fetishized. if you suffer from an art paper and/or notebook fetish like i do, they're your hookup. they carry the moleskine line, the rhodia pads, exotic italian notebooks watercolor paper that could be used for shipping containers, you name it. then there's their paint selection and a wall of brushes. i'll stop now.

Drury B.

Yelp
Yo, for real, I don't normally write isht for stores on here, but SRSLY this place is just amaze. The staff came to my rescue and gave me exactly what I needed, and they had it on stock, and all of 'em just could not have been nicer. I am super snobby and obscure too, so for them to just blow it up like that for me, I could not be more happy and blown away by how wonderful these cats were. Love ya all, Dru

Lacey P.

Yelp
The workers here are EXTREMELY HELPFUL...like not even if you ask. They'll come up to you with the exact info you need/want to hear. They are independently owned, you can order off their website, and they always have some much-needed impulse buy at hand. They stock Gocco supplies (not for long!) and have probably the best artist paper selection in the state. I love it.

Lxs S.

Yelp
Everyone working here is friendly, knowledgeable and helps you make the best choice without being obnoxious or pushy. The selection of art supplies of every kind is astounding. Whether you are just starting out, a professional, or the aunt of an exceptionally artistically gifted 9-yr old (that's me), check this place out!!!!

Ye E.

Yelp
Hands down, the best art supply store I've seen! Wet paint has it all, minus the attitude. The prices are on par for most art supply places, the layout makes it easy to find what you need, and the sales staff is interesting, helpful, and funny. If that isn't the perfect art store, I don't know what is.

Jenae B.

Yelp
This store just gets better and better. They have expanded and rearranged and the store feels far more open and navigable. This has become our go-to for art supplies because it is locally owned and the staff is exceptional. They treat the 7-year-old artists in our house with respect and enthusiasm. My son has attended one of their classes, and it was phenomenal. I LOVE IT I LOVE IT I LOVE IT I LOVE IT!!!

Adam W.

Yelp
Certainly St. Paul's most solid art supply house. A big plus is the very friendly, knowledgable staff. No question is too silly, and staff will take whatever time is needed to get you up to speed. For you fountain pen geeks, Wet Paint stocks a variety of nice notebooks including the most excellent Clairfontaine brand. Lots of fun stuff here even for the non-artist. There are a few parking spots in back of the store, if parking on Grand is too daunting. Plus: locally owned!

Bill G.

Yelp
Very well informed and friendly staff. Will definitely be back next time I need supplies.

Liam C.

Yelp
Quality local art store stocked with the finest supplies are rare, if not barely existent. Wet Paint, however, has been a staple for local artists for years. They know their stuff and are always willing to help.

Michelle N.

Yelp
I am ADDICTED to this place!! They have everything I could possibly want or need as an art student and I spend way too much time and money there. Love it!

Claudia F.

Yelp
Amazing store with wonderful selection of art supplies! Staff is amazingly helpful as well and great at helping you find the best of what you are looking for. I went in looking for watercolor tubes and decided to find some brushes as well. Though I was looking for something more than the basic selection a really nice guy working there recommended a higher end brush and even brought out water and paper to test it. I have been to many art stores and never did any of them offer to let me try out an expensive brush before. I really did appreciate that extra step of care as I was able to see and feel how amazing they were and with the huge discount they have the brushes were a really good price too. Was also very kindly helped by a young woman with the diferent types and brands of watercolor paints and now with all the great info I have a much better idea of what I am looking for. I have become addicted with this store and will definitely be returning for all my future art supply needs. For any one who loves to draw or paint etc this is a must go to place. I'm also really glad they will be expanding as it will make it easier to navigate. I wish I had asked for the two employees names so I could go back and thank them!

PaNhia T.

Yelp
Stopped by Wet Paint to pick up some art supplies around 4pm today and my visit was not pleasant at all. I seriously don't understand why it got such good ratings. First off, I was annoyingly followed around by two staffs upon entering the store. The bald guy who followed me last was around long enough that he basically walked with me to the registered when I was ready to make my purchase. Secondly, when that man checked me out, he was so cold. There was no friendly "hello" or at the least a "thank you" because I just made a $80 purchase. All he said was "you owe me $20" as if I was going to walk off with my art supply and not pay him. I would have left the place and not buy anything but I had a $60 gift card to spend. The only nice thing that happened there was when one of the female staffs suggested a different canvas for me that would work better with acrylic paints. Although she was super nice, I will not be going there again. I don't enjoy being racially profiled and followed around.