Are you wondering what art supplies to buy for your elementary classroom?
Whether you’re a brand-new art teacher setting up your first classroom or a veteran teacher working with a limited budget, purchasing the right materials can make the difference in how children experience art-making.
There is nothing worse than a poor quality liquid tempera when you are expecting a paint rich with opaque color.
This comprehensive post breaks down exactly what you need, where to buy it, and how to make every dollar count.
From essential supplies that serve as your classroom foundation to smart purchasing strategies that stretch your budget, you’ll discover how to stock your art room with confidence – without buying things you’ll never use.
Quick Answers: Buying Art Supplies
What are the most essential art supplies for elementary classrooms? The most important materials include white 12″ x 18″ sulphite paper (for both wet and dry media), liquid tempera paint, watercolor sets, markers, oil pastels, and brushes. These versatile materials support 80% of elementary art projects that we offer.
How much should I budget for art classroom supplies? A basic setup for 500 students runs approximately $1,200Â annually, depending on your vendor and whether you purchase class packs. See our detailed budget breakdown below.
Should I buy class packs or individual supplies? Class packs (like 256-marker sets) offer better value and consistent quality. They’re easier to organize into table caddies and ensure every student has access to the same materials.
What’s the difference between sulphite paper and construction paper? Sulphite paper is 76-80 lb heavyweight paper perfect for both drawing and painting. Craft construction paper is thinner, tears easily when wet, and fades quickly—not ideal for classroom use.
These materials form the foundation of your art program and support the widest variety of projects. Start here before purchasing specialty items.
Download Your Free Art Supplies Checklist
This comprehensive checklist includes:
– Choose the Best Supplies for your Classroom Needs.
– Understand the Different uses of your Supplies.
– Select Supplies from our Recommended Brands.
– Organize what Supplies you have or still Need.
Where Should I Buy Art Supplies?
Popular Online Retailers for Art Teachers
Amazon
– Best for: Quick delivery, competitive pricing on Crayola products.
– Pros: Fast shipping with Prime, easy returns.
– Cons: Prices fluctuate; check before major purchases.
Discount School Supply
– Best for: Bulk purchasing, early childhood materials
– Pros: Teacher discounts, frequent sales
– Cons: Minimum order requirements for free shipping
Sax/School Specialty
– Best for: Wide selection, quality materials
– Pros: Comprehensive catalog, education-focused
– Cons: Can be pricier than competitors
Nasco
– Best for: Arts and crafts variety, unique materials
– Pros: Extensive selection, good for specialty items
– Cons: Shipping can be slow
Blick Art Materials
– Best for: Professional-quality supplies, specialty tools
– Pros: High quality, artist-grade options available
– Cons: Premium pricing on some items
Shopping outside the US? Find art supply vendors in your country
Money-Saving Shopping Strategies
Compare prices across vendors: The same Crayola marker class pack might vary by $20 between retailers. Create a spreadsheet comparing your top 20 items across 3-4 vendors before placing orders.
Buy during sales: Back-to-school sales (July-August) and end-of-year clearance (May-June) offer significant savings. Stock up on basics during these windows.
Join teacher discount programs: Many vendors offer educator pricing—always ask even if it’s not advertised.
Split large orders with colleagues: If your school has multiple art teachers, combine orders to reach free shipping thresholds or bulk discounts.
Ready to Stock Your Art Room?
Your Next Steps:
– Download the supplies checklist to see exactly what you need.
– Check with your administration about purchasing procedures.
– Compare prices across 3-4 vendors for your top items.
– Start with basic supplies if working with limited budget.
– Set up your organization system as supplies arrive.
Want More Support?
Teaching art involves so much more than just buying supplies. From classroom management to lesson planning to organizing your space, we’re here to guide you through every aspect of art education.
Explore these helpful resources:
- 8 Tips for Nurturing a Positive Art Teacher Mindset
- Behavior Management Strategies for the Art Room
- Your 8-Step Plan to Organizing Your Art Room
Join The Sparklers’ Club for complete curriculum, lesson plans, and ongoing support that keeps you organized, inspired, and confident. Sign up for the waitlist to be notified when enrollment opens.
What Are Your Must-Have Art Supplies?
Every art teacher has their tried-and-true favorites. What materials are absolute staples in your classroom? What’s one thing you couldn’t teach without? Share in the comments below—we love learning from our teaching community!
Related Resources
- What is Sulphite Paper?
- The Best Art Paper for Every Project
- Where to Find Art Supplies in Your Country
As a brand new art teacher I am so incredibly grateful for this wealth of knowledge and experience! Thank you so much for sharing!
What about guillotine paper cutters?? I know it’s not a consumable, but it is my #1 MVP. The last one I bought the ruled lines were not true, so it takes much longer because I have to make sure the edges/corners are square. I am working on my art show now and ugh–too much time spent on that. I need to go ahead and replace it now while I still have a bit of money left!
Adding a price range and recommended brands would be helpful. Also, making a list with boxes on the left-hand side that can be checked off would be helpful! 🙂 Thanks for this!!!