Preparing to go back to school after a long break feels impossible. With the start of winter quarter just around the corner, syllabi will start coming out. With syllabi comes the most expensive part of school: art supplies. Now this is not my first rodeo. As a sophomore, I have learned from experience how to not go about back to school shopping. That said, I give you the advice I wish someone had told me.
1. First and foremost, know that your professors are not perfect. They will forget to add supplies to your list and they will put supplies on your list that you don’t need. Don’t buy supplies until after your first class meeting. It will save you both time and the frustration of return policies.
2. Buying as you go is never a bad thing. Actually, it is recommended. Buying all at once will not only put a huge dent in your pocket, but you may have the chance to save money on special sales that may not be happening at the beginning of the quarter.
3. Shop around. Ex Libris is expensive, and I can honestly tell you that I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by checking out the prices at Blick, and if you have the transportation, even Michaels. It takes more time, but if you are on a budget it will pay off.
4. At all costs, avoid art stores the first week of classes. Those stores are absolutely crazy the first week back. Their back to school sales last longer than the first week of classes, I promise.
5. Sharing is caring. If you have a friend in the same class as you, consider splitting the cost of certain supplies you might not use all of.
6. Ask your professor if you can get a similar item to the one listed . Most of the time, your professor understands that a 12-dollar, one-ounce tube of paint is a little much. If you work with your professor, they will work with you.
7. Look online to see if there are better deals. Saving money is key in college, and if there is a better deal, take it. Just make sure you favor in shipping and handling.
8. Coupons are gifts from the art gods. Keeping up with coupons both online and in store is one sure- fire way to save some money.
9. Check on the SCAD Facebook pages for gently used art supplies. Most upperclassmen have no use for some of their supplies and sell them regularly. Most prices can be negotiated, which is a big plus.
10. Be conscious of what is going on in stores! During certain times of the year, Blick and Ex Libris have giveaways. The giveaways vary, but most of time, it is going to be something you need. Find out more about these by subscribing to weekly email newsletters. (They usually send coupons, too.)
Art school is expensive; there is no doubt about that. However, with a little planning, it is totally possible to not break the bank this upcoming quarter. Happy savings!