We had a fabulous Spring roadtrip that included a day of shopping at art & paper stores in St. Louis. The first stop was For Keeps Sake. I have never seen so many 6" paper pads in one place … a true paper lovers playground.
The store has nice open spaces wtih plenty of room to move around. Some papers were sorted by company and others were sorted by occasion … so many pretty things.
This is the first time I had seen Artistic Outpost stamps for sale in a retail store … that made me smile.
They also had lots of manufacturer samples and ideas on the walls. These new-to-me stamps and embellishments from Darice were very lovely.
The next stop was Red Lead, a store I have wanted to visit for ages. Unfortunately, the hours posted on their website were outdated, and the store is now only open from 10-5 on Saturdays (and I was there on Thursday). I peered in the windows to get a glimpse of the beautiful art inside. After my very long drive, the owners (who were inside filling orders took pity on me … and subsequently updated their store hours on their website) and let me shop.
Since they were so gracious, I felt obligated to hurry, so I didn't get many pictures. Hopefully I can come back another time on Saturday and examine everything more closely. I'd love to take one of their classes.
They had so many fabulous charms & trinkets to sort through.
I've ordered from Red Lead on-line and their service is great if you want to check it out (at least make sure you sign-up for their mailing list … the e-mails are full of inspiration … and sometimes even special deals).
My final artsy stop was Art Mart … one of the coolest stores I've ever experienced. I think I could have spent an entire afternoon (if my dear husband hadn't been patiently waiting in the car).
I picked-up all sorts of gifts for family and friends … as well as a few treats for me too. How gorgeous is this rainbow of French Marbled Paper.
They had a wide variety of cards, books, gifts, papers and embellishments … and even some rubber stamps.
This table of paper flowers was particularly inspiring.
All of the staff were particularly friendly and helpfu. In addition to gifts, I picked-up some envelopes, stencils, tiny canvases, glittery stickers, and die cuts.
So if you're in St. Louis, I would recommend making time for all three stops. I don't mind buying many of my supplies on-line, but there's something extra-special about being able to see and touch the things you're going to purchase … not to mention all of the inspiration.
I'll be back later with more pictures from our vacation adventures.
Such fabulous pictures…you must have had soooo much fun!!!