Above Ground Art Supplies Call +1 416-591-1601
Toronto Downtown Art Supplies

Real materials. Useful advice. A downtown art store that still feels human.

Above Ground Art Supplies has been serving sketchers, painters, designers, students, and working artists from 74 McCaul Street for years. If you need the right paper weight, a better brush for gouache, or custom framing that doesn’t feel cookie-cutter, you can walk in, ask questions, and leave with exactly what you need.

We usually answer inquiries within one business day, and in-store pickup questions are often handled faster than that. A little imperfect, maybe. But honest, practical, and very Toronto.

Response time:
Usually within 1 business day
Location:
74 McCaul Street, Toronto
Specialty:
Art supplies + custom framing

Services & in-store pricing guidance

Prices vary by brand, size, and finish, but these ranges help customers plan before they visit or send an inquiry.

Art Supplies

Studio essentials

From CA$8

Everyday materials for drawing, painting, and mixed media. Good options for beginners, stronger options for people who already know what cotton rag feels like.

  • Sketchbooks, pads, loose sheets, boards
  • Brushes, inks, acrylics, oils, gouache, markers
  • Canvas, palettes, knives, adhesives, tools
Custom Framing

Framing consultations

From CA$95

Bring in a print, original piece, diploma, or exhibition work. We help with sizing, mat choices, glazing, and a frame style that suits the artwork rather than fighting it.

  • Simple and archival-minded options
  • Advice on glass, mounting, and finish
  • Estimated timelines explained up front
Project Help

Material matching

Free with visit

Not glamorous, but extremely useful. Tell us what you’re making and we’ll suggest a sensible material combination so you don’t overspend or buy the wrong thing twice.

  • School and portfolio projects
  • Gift and hobby recommendations
  • Small-batch studio restock advice

How it usually works

Simple. No mystery steps. No hard sell.

Step 01

Tell us what you’re making

Share your medium, size, deadline, and whether the job is for class, client work, or your own studio practice.

Step 02

We narrow the options

Instead of pointing at a wall of products and wishing you luck, we help reduce the list to a few materials that make sense.

Step 03

Get pricing and timing

For framing, we outline likely cost ranges and production timing. For supplies, we can flag practical alternatives when a premium line is not necessary.

Step 04

Pick up and get to work

You leave with the right materials, or with a framing order moving forward, without the usual downtown runaround.

About the shop

Above Ground Art Supplies is known around downtown Toronto for practical advice, dependable stock, and a staff that understands the difference between a class requirement and a serious long-term studio purchase. That matters more than people think.

We serve OCAD-area students, local illustrators, painters, printmakers, designers, and people walking in because they finally decided to start drawing again after ten years. Honestly, some of our best conversations start that way.

Our custom framing side is handled with the same approach: thoughtful recommendations, clear communication, and finishes that support the artwork instead of overpowering it.

Why customers trust us

  • Convenient downtown Toronto location near studios, schools, and galleries
  • Friendly product guidance instead of vague upselling
  • Custom framing available for artwork and presentation pieces
  • Fast inquiry response target and clear next steps
  • Established local reputation with repeat customers

Contact: [email protected]
Phone: +1 416-591-1601

Recent customer feedback

Representative local-style reviews based on the kind of service customers expect from a downtown art supply and framing store.

“They actually listened.”

I came in for materials for a portfolio review and expected to be overwhelmed. Instead, someone walked me through board options, adhesives, and a better marker set for what I was doing. Saved me money too.

— Nadia P., Toronto · February 14, 2026

“Framing process was clear from day one.”

I had two prints framed and appreciated that the recommendations were practical, not pushy. The final result looked clean and professional, and the timing was explained properly at the start.

— Marcus L., Queen West · January 29, 2026

“A rare helpful shop downtown.”

I needed acrylic supplies in a hurry before a weekend workshop. Stock was solid, staff were friendly, and I didn’t leave with a bag full of stuff I didn’t need. That alone deserves five stars.

— Erin C., Toronto · December 8, 2025

Frequently asked questions

Do you help students choose materials for specific assignments?

Yes. If you bring the assignment brief, reference photo, or supply list, we can usually suggest a sensible set of materials without overcomplicating things.

Can I ask about framing before coming in?

Absolutely. Use the contact form to share the artwork size, medium, and any deadline. We can give general guidance before an in-person consultation.

Do you carry beginner-friendly art supplies?

Yes. We serve first-time artists, hobbyists, and students as well as professionals, so there are usually entry-level and premium options available.

How fast do you reply to inquiries?

We aim to respond within one business day. Stock and framing questions with clear details often get quicker replies.

Contact Above Ground Art Supplies

Address:
74 McCaul Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3K2, Canada

Phone:
+1 416-591-1601

Email:
[email protected]

Best for faster help:
Include your medium, size, quantity, and timeline. For framing, add rough dimensions and a photo if possible.

Send an inquiry