the Aficionado

 b y Sarah Blakeman Hi everyone, it's Sarah from Arlene’s. Today, I'm excited to show you what it's like to open one of our new Studio Series Watercolor Field Kit from Peter Pauper Press . This set comes with 48 colors, which I thought was really cute because it offers a wide range without being overwhelming, and it's also very affordable. One of the neat features of this set is the water brush that it comes with. It's a brush that you can fill with water, which is perfect for painting on the go. The set itself is compact and even has a thumb hole in the lid so you can hold it easily while standing at an easel or desk. Opening the lid, you'll find two mixing trays. One of them pops out, so you can attach it to the end for additional mixing space. The water brush has a cap and a plastic tip that you can use as a paintbrush, making it convenient for travel or when you don't want to use a jar of water. Let's try it out! I'll start with a nice, pretty bl...

  Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and if you're still searching for the perfect gift to show your love, look no further! Our very own Becky Zeh has handpicked 12 fantastic gift ideas that are sure to make your Valentine's, Galentine's, or even your bestie feel extra special. Check out her curated list below: 1. Elle Cree Paint-by-Number Kit: Unleash your creativity with this fun and relaxing activity. 2. Cavallini Vintage Mug - Mushrooms: Enjoy your morning coffee or tea in style with this charming vintage-inspired mug. 3. Peter Pauper Press Sealing Wax Stamp Kit: Add a touch of elegance to your correspondence with this classic sealing wax stamp kit. 4. FW Inks (Sundown Magenta and Flame Red): Create vibrant and beautiful artwork with these high-quality inks. 5. An Unofficial Coloring Book: Be A Diamond, Decades of Dolly Parton: Dive into the world of Dolly Parton with this unique coloring book. 6. Shizen Handmade, Deckled Edge Multi-Color Paper - Pack of...

The holiday season is a time of warmth, joy, and giving. As we embark on the quest for the perfect gifts, there's a unique magic in choosing to shop local and support small businesses. This year, more than ever, let's embrace the essence of small enterprises, recognizing the pivotal role they play in keeping our communities thriving and robust. Local Charms, Unique Gifts Shopping locally adds an unparalleled charm to our gift-giving traditions. Each item tells a story, carrying the character and spirit of the community from which it originates. Small businesses often offer a curated selection of unique, handcrafted goods that stand out in a sea of mass-produced options. The Heartbeat of Community Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. They contribute to the distinctiveness that makes our neighborhoods special. By choosing local, we are actively preserving the character and vitality of the places we call home. Arlene’s: Your Local Holiday Haven At Arlene’s, we ta...

The holiday season is upon us, and if you're struggling to find that perfect, thoughtful gift, look no further! We've curated a special selection of creative gems from the talented artist and illustrator, Sarah Blakeman. Dive into " Sarah's Holiday Hits " and discover unique and artistic presents that will make this season truly memorable. 1. Punilabo Stand Pen Case - Black Cat: Start the gift-giving journey with a touch of feline charm. The Punilabo Stand Pen Case featuring a black cat design is not just a practical accessory but a stylish statement piece for anyone who appreciates the intersection of functionality and creativity. 2. Fred 500 Piece Puzzles - MUSHROOM TOOMUCHERY by Helen Dardik: Puzzle enthusiasts and art lovers alike will delight in the whimsical world of "MUSHROOM TOOMUCHERY" by Helen Dardik. Fred's 500 Piece Puzzle offers a captivating challenge while showcasing the vibrant and imaginative illustrations that Sarah Blakeman holds d...

Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for the creative genius on your holiday shopping list? Look no further—Arlene’s has you covered with a curated selection of quality products at unbeatable prices, ensuring you'll make this holiday season Merry and Bright for the artist in your life! Expert Guidance for Every Level of Creativity At Arlene’s, we understand that the world of art is diverse, and every creative soul has their own unique style and preferences. Whether your loved one is a seasoned artist or just starting their creative journey, our expert staff of professional artists is ready to assist. With their wealth of experience, they can guide you to the perfect gift that will inspire and elevate the recipient’s artistic endeavors. Irresistible Holiday Deals This season, Arlene’s is spreading joy with incredible holiday deals on a wide range of art supplies. Here's a sneak peek into our fantastic offers: Pads: 30% Off – Elevate creativity with our high-quality pads, ...

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy of giving. Finding the perfect gift for your loved ones can be an art form in itself. This year, Arlene’s is your go-to destination for unique and thoughtful gifts that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you're shopping for the artistic soul, the puzzle enthusiast, or the candle lover, Arlene’s has you covered. Creativity Unleashed: HOTSOX and Beyond For the creative minds in your life, Arlene’s offers a selection of gifts that spark inspiration. One standout brand in their collection is HOTSOX, providing not just warmth but a canvas for creativity. These unique socks boast vibrant and artistic designs that make a statement, making them the perfect stocking stuffer for the trendsetter in your circle. Functional and Stylish: Cavallini Papers and BlueQ Arlene’s understands that a great gift should be both functional and stylish. Enter Cavallini Papers and BlueQ, offering an array of pouches and tote bags that seamlessly blen...