Amazing little store. Art supplies, stationary supplies, unique gifts, thoughtfully selected kids toys. I don't know how they do it in the space they have but they somehow manage to have everything I need no matter what I am doing - drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, school and work projects. I find the staff friendly and knowledgeable. I comparison shop and prices are competitive and on many items, better than those on Amazon. I really look forward to every visit to this little jewel of a store. read more

I ordered some Sculptey Clay and it was hard as a rock. I tried several ways to soften it but gave up and had to throw it out. What a waste. They should give their clay a squeeze before shipping it out. Very disappointed. read more

Ridiculously overpriced. Overcrowded with many items that aren't art supplies. More of a convenience store than art store.

The staff at this store are rude, I will never go here again. I was standing outside the front entrance of this store waiting for it to open.. because it only opened at 11am on saturday. One other customer was also waiting.. we stood there for half an hour waiting for it to open. We figured hey its saturday, gotta be open after 9 or 10 am but nope.. cadillac hours I geuss.. so anyways we chatted and waited there, and then one store employee shows up and proceeds to unlock the door.. and proceeds to tell me in a very rude fashion GET AWAY from the front of the store.. I was not in front of the door.. I was on the sidewalk not blocking the door.. she threw me a rotten snarky attitude. could not figure out why.. what I done? Anyways I told her okay Im done I'm not coming to this store every again.. her reply was GOOD.. what kind of staff is this? no thanks.. never again with that kind of attitude. read more

Rude, snickering, sarcastic Gen-Zee staff. My review needs at least 85 characters. Is this 85, now?

I used to live in The Annex and I used to be crafty. OK I was probably never that crafty, but I've just started revisiting my old DIY haunt, and I'm still a fan. I come here for fancy pens, cards and fabric dye. I heart fabric dye and how it can spruce up any wardrobe on a budget, it has proven especially helpful with those pesky fading black pants. These little black squares have seriously saved me about $500. Beyond my small purchases, this two story art-lovers mecca has an extensive paint, brush and canvas selection and a lot of neat little gifts by the cash register. This review is practically an ad for fabric dye! Oops. PEPPER PROPS to the staff. They really know their stuff, but are still patient with less crafty people like me who ask a lot of questions. read more

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DO NOT GO HERE. I was told I had to leave my knapsack behind the counter; it would have been well in reach of anyone who was walking through the door and wanted to take it. I said I didn't want to leave it, and the associate shrugged and said, "Well..." . I asked, "So I go elsewhere?" She nodded. I asked if she could lock it somewhere, and she said she could not. Midoco also does not assume responsibility for items stolen from behind the counter. If it's stolen, it's gone for good. I've always gone here for stationery, pen refills, etc., and will definitely not be returning. You have no right to ask customers for their bags if you cannot lock them up. Sonic Boom used to do it when they were on Bathurst, around the corner from you. It's really not that hard to organize. read more

Again, another popular/great browsing spot in the annex. I love looking at office supplies--maybe it makes me feel as though I will accomplish more if I have a nice pen, or dayplanner, or folder. It's like the unspoken promise that whispers from the aisles-- "buy these things, and you will enjoy working and you will be productive...for a change!" It's a cool mix of stuff in here, from stationery to sharpies as big as my face, to puzzles, crafts, balsa wood, whiteboards, kids' toys, giftwrap and ribbons, toys--all shamelessly but wordlessly taunting me. Browse away, browse away; but don't be surprised when you're tempted. read more

Midoco Art & Office Supplies - cute little metal lunchbox. - Office Equipment Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Every once I'm awhile I convince myself that I could be a painter. When the artistic hankering tugs at me, I head over to Midoco in the Annex to marvel at all the artists tools and talk to the very knowledgeable staff. They've got everything there! Giant pieces of construction paper, paints in every shade, brushes that would make Bob Ross smile with glee. I usually don't end up buying paints, but instead leave with some fancy pens and a new Moleskein notebook. I repeat the phrase "writing is art too" in my head while I buy them and it makes me feel better. read more

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I used to come here all the time during my college years as typically they had the best prices in Toronto for animation grade pencils, markers, sketchbooks, you name it. Their stock is huge and the prices are great. Also they restock all the time, so there are rarely empty pegs for art supplies that are essentials for you. They also carry other things like toys, costumes (for halloweeen), note books and other odds and ends other than artist tools. The staff are fairly helpful and know a lot about the products they are selling. They often ask if you need help and it's very easy to find staff in the store. The same can't be said for places like Curry's or Michael's. The check out is also very quick and painless and there never seems to be a huge line up when paying. They have clearance items on occasion including stretched canvas and marker packs, which end up being a great deal. Be sure to come here with some time to spare as you can get lost looking at all the art supplies throughout the aisles! I'll definitely be coming here for any artist tools I will need in the future. read more

Very cool place. You likey to makea the art? Yes, come here! You likey to have journal book to write/draw in? Yes, come here! You likey ice cube trays that look like your grandma's dentures? Yes, come here! You likey rude cards to send to your loved, and hated, ones? Yes, come here! You want to spend stupid amount of money on a pen with skulls on it? Yes, come here! BTW, WTF with skulls on shit, go away already. Friendly staff. Sad that they have a most wanted list behind the cash register from scum that have stolen from them. I was able to get a Georgia O'Keefe address book for my cousin here. I plan on going back after Christmas to get some of their boxed cards and wrapping paper once it goes on sale. I might also have to buy the concert ticket stub album as mine is full and I need a replacement. read more

I am not much of an art-er and craft-er, actually I am not one at all. But I am a good prankster and an even better gift giver, and Midoco has helped me tremendously in maintaining my reputation in pranking and gift-giving. Ergo, 5 bright stars, each made of a different precious metal. I have bought awesome fake vomit etc. from these guys which I have used effectively on a number of unsuspecting people. But more importantly, they are very well stocked with whimsical gifts. Who knew that finding non-standard issue wind chimes would be so difficult in this city? Last week I hauled ass to Eaton Center and returning empty handed hauled ass to Honest Ed's just at they were closing. Literally rummaged blindly through a completely dark and almost closed hardware section, and in sheer desperation bought a sad looking wind chime, which I regretted buying the moment I stepped out under the bright lights of Honest Ed's crazy yet appealing Vegasesque signage. I decided to see if Midoco was open and seeing their door open marginally at about 9:15 pm I squeezed in. I figured, once you're in they can't throw you out! Turns out they're open till 9:30 pm. Brownie points for that! I immediately found what I was searching for. Now, I know, that wind chimes aren't the most earth shattering of gifts, perhaps even a little lame, but it's a long standing inside joke/sentiment with friends! The other thing I've noticed is that they also carry gift tags. Apparently most stores only stock them during Christmas? What do people do the rest of the year? I've had to resort to my inner non arter and crafter to craft some pretty amateur gift tags in the past, but no longer now. Thank You Midoco. The staff is really friendly and helpful. The cashier chatted me up seeing my university tshirt, turns out his sister almost went to my school. The store is well organised, colorful and very inviting unlike Honest Ed's which I haven't been to in years and made me feel like I was suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder the moment I stepped in. Midoco has an endless supply of art and office supplies and if you get confused just holler at the staff. They're happy to direct you to the right aisle, make suggestions and even won't hesitate to help you spell things a la Gwen Stefanie spelling out B-A-N-A-N-A! Long live Midoco! read more

When I was younger, I had an obsession with stationary. I was that girl with the pencilcase bag full with pens, markers and pencils that I barely used. I would spend hours at Grand and Toy trying all the different pens, and choosing colourful notebooks which I would collect. As I got older, my pens collection whittled down and I had favourites, but my eyes still opened wide everytime I saw potential pens to try and have to stop myself from buying. And these weren't expensive pens, just regular ballpoint and later on, gel ink roller ball. I also remember my obsession with black felt tip pens at one point when I saw my then architecture boyfriend drawing with different felt tip sizes and thought it was the most simple yet beautiful thing I've ever seen. Now that I am out of university, there really is no need for too many pens, especially at the office (where they supply) or you keep a few favourites at home. But after visiting Midoco, I realized I have not changed. THE PEN AISLE IS AMAZEBALLS. If it wasn't for my boyfriend, not knowing about my past, I probably would have been there for hours and bought a bunch of things I probably would never use. They even had the pens that I used all through university which I thought I could only get in Hong Kong. They also had dozens and dozens of refills. I'm going to bring my favourite one that ran out of ink that I got from Japan and see what they can do about that. I also have a favourite mechanical pencil I need a eraser refill for. Now I've found a place that might solve all these problems. This place is also really good for gifts. They have some random things like funny post its that I've seen in gift stores, and puzzles and nice fancy notebooks. They also have the biggest collection of Moleskine notebooks I've ever seen. This is all coming from a non artsy, but the place is full up with art supplies (brushes, paint, markers) etc. I'm definitely coming back sans BF to spend an hour in here. 4 stars only because I didn't really buy anything and not sure of the costs here. read more

Midoco saves the day! Since starting school, I've been getting a lot of use out of my beloved Pentel Twist-Erase mechanical pencil. Because I am also a numbskull when it comes to math, I'm constantly erasing. When I went through the last eraser refill for my pencil, I panicked. Where could I find replacements? I went to four different office supply stores with no luck. I was just about to give up when Yelp led me to Midoco. They had plenty of the refill erasers, along with a smorgasbord of new writing utensil choices. Sadly, they don't have much by way of other Pentel pencils (boo), but they do have the Staedtler Fineliners that I love so much, in every color. They have other stuff, of course -- since Halloween is coming up, they have a bunch of wigs, makeup, and other goofy stuff. Also: Moleskines. Oh, yeah, and the have art supplies.: pastels, sketchbooks, paint brushes. It's not the largest selection, but... it's not bad. That said, Midoco is great to satisfy your pen/pencil lust -- a definite must-visit for stationery freaks. read more

This is a great little art supply store. It's not as hard-core as a Curry's is for art supplies but Midoco has a wider selection of things. Right now they have a bunch of fun St Patrick's Day seasonal items. The store is under reno which is the only thing stopping me from giving this place 5-stars. Can't wait for the unveiling and to bump this up a star level. I get all of my shipping tubes here. I used to have to buy them in bulk to get a decent price but for $0.65 to $1.35 each you can't go wrong. I've also found the items I've needed to improvise some DIY photography accessories. read more

Hands down one of my favourite art and crafts stores in the city. They have a huge selection of notebooks - an entire section dedicated just to Leuchtturm1917 notebooks! Their collection of Rhodia notepads and paper does fall a little short though. They carry a wide selection of every kind of stationary - different pens, pencils, paper, paints, etc. They have a small area in the back for frames and more bulky items and on one side of the store, they carry items more suited for children - toys, birthday gifts, and seasonal items. They also have a small section for miscellaneous items such as gift wrap and cards. The staff here is incredibly helpful and super knowledgeable, and if you're wondering whether they carry something or not, they are more than happy to check for you over the phone and they can order things into the store for you as well! They do tend to be on the pricier side though, since they do carry such an extensive quality collection of supplies. read more

Midoco is a pretty rad shop full of all sorts of art supplies plus office supplies, greeting cards, kids arts & craft kits and some other odds & ends. They also carry Halloween costumes and seasonal decor items at Christmas time, Easter, Valentines Day etc. I'm not an artist, so I cannot comment on the pricing, but the rest of the stuff appears to be fairly moderately priced. I love bringing my niece and nephew here when they are visiting (there are not too many interesting places for kids in the Annex) They also seem to be open very late on weeknights, which is useful when you're desperately in need of a last minute gift of card. read more

I don't know what getting excited about office supplies says about me, but Midoco is definitely a fun place to shop for them. Although you certainly can get by with the standard range that the big boxes offer, but having truly good tools makes work all that much better. Some of the highlights for me include their huge selection of pens. They have a whole section of Pilot ballpoints, in various colours and point sizes. They even have disposable fountain pens, which are really neat, and, at around $4, don't break the bank. There's also a 10% discount if you buy a whole box. Staedtler makes some of the world's best drafting supplies, and I have yet to find a better pencil than the ones they make. The paper selection is awesome too. From math to accounting to journals, they have it all. The Swedish Whitelines notebooks and paper stand out, as do the wide selection of graphing quads. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the store is small enough that you can usually find someone. People with giant backpacks and/or no awareness of their surroundings blocking aisles can be annoying if you're trying to get to what you need in a hurry, but that really isn't Midoco's fault. Come in here and buy something. Because life is too short for crappy pens. read more

This is a place for anyone. "Come as you are" - Nirvana. Regardless of what fashion you choose, or whether you're entering the store alone or with others, regardless of age and even one's level of artistic ability, this seems like a multi-level store, with much assortment, that you will indeed find the tools to exact your expression. I was in there again today, project in mind. I asked mainly two people for help, both were helpful (explained with some detail) and very non-judgmental. I left, admittedly having spent more than I wanted to, but satisfied that I found the quality, colours and products that I feel will help me get somewhere soon. The prices seemed to be the going rate. I guess. I haven't shopped at another art store recently, so I'm not sure. The place is clean, I like the neighbourhood, and I enjoy, as always, my shopping experiences here. Nearby parking in Green P lot just east and a touch south of this Midoco. read more

I've been going to this store recently for odd little things like hand stamps and silver ink Sharpies. One time I actually made the mistake and went to Grand & Toy to find a metal cash box and they had nothing of the sort. Should have just gone straight to Midoco because they never seem to let me down. I love this little shop. It's one of those places where you seem to find things you never knew you needed. The staff is always super nice to me and helpful in finding things. It's close to my house so I can pop over and grab some stuff the day of an event. It also makes me want to get back into painting and illustration, but for now I am happy they have the little office supplies I need. read more

A good store, just don't expect to be valued as a customer. I was a weekly regular at Midoco until the day I tried to return a $12 box of envelopes - too small for a particular purpose, never opened. I'd already driven by the week before and picked up the correct size and now wanted to return these. They refused. They knew me, knew I was a regular, saw the box was unopened, but I didn't think to keep the receipt for a box of envelopes I didn't expect to have any issues with. They also said it didn't matter whether or not I had the receipt because I'd bought them more than a week or two ago, and their policy says therefore no refund or store credit. I did give them the opportunity to turn me back into a happy customer - I sent a note on their website and tried to get a response through their Twitter feed, but no one ever responded to either. They really just don't care. I support local, independent stores rather than chains at every opportunity, but when service lacks both common sense and a personal touch, and you can find a better return policy at the Dollar Store across the street, Midoco becomes irrelevant fast. The same thing happened once with a kitchen shop on Front and I saw last month they're now closed for good. If Midoco's management can't be bothered to treat customers with a little consideration, I'm sure they'll reach the same conclusion too. read more

I went in to see if they carried the specific calligraphy nib I wanted. I asked the staff and they didn't have it, so I went to browse in the watercolour section since I've been meaning to grab some supplies. An employee asked if I needed help looking for anything in particular, to which I replied my usual, "No thank you, I'm just browsing." The employee then rolled her eyes and snarkily replied, "Yeah, because this is the place to do that." This was my first time visiting a Midoco, and definitely my last due to their unpleasant customer service. read more

Used to be a long time customer of Midoco, but not after a recent visit. I have a cognitive disability and was made to feel unwelcome and not accommodated by current staff. due to current restriction, staff refused to bring a variety of options of an item and would only pick up items by brand name as if I was familiar with them by name. Staff did not listen at time of checkout when I verbalized and presented them with my POS exemption. Won't be coming back. read more

Well stocked, nice store. My goto palce for small art projects. Bought Kikkerland Book Binding Kit. Instructions inside the kit not so clear, the linen thread is not long enough for the projects, get some extra thread before following instructions. Otherwise ok. Very basic, just two the most common bindings that can be found anywhere on internet (Japanese Stab Binding, 5-hole Pamphlet Stitch Binding) read more

Every once in a while I forget I'm an office drone and get the urge to run over to Midoco and satisfy my inner artist. This supply store is not only in a perfect central location, but it carries nearly everything you could need to bring yourself back to your old days hanging out in the art room in high school. The prices are fair, especially considering they've got a nice tidy corner on the market. The staff is especially friendly and helpful, and they've always got plenty of good advice on the products they sell. Other than art and office supplies, Midoco is also a great place to find fun little splurge items and cards, great for when you've left a birthday gift to the last minute and need to swing by and pick one up on your way to dinner. read more

OoooooooooMG! This palce has some of the cutest knick-knacks and kitschy nonsense you've ever seen! Most stores that sell novelty gifts are not cheap, and Midoco certainly maintains that rule. It is overpriced, in my opinion. However, it is an art store, not merely a novelty store, and most art stores are not cheap, I think. It has some cutesy things that are hilarious and make you want to spend money you can't afford to spend on things not worth the money they are asking for. However, if you can indeed afford it, you will definitely find cute things to give to anyone on your list here, as well as things to meet your own artsy craftsy needs. read more

I love office supplies. What I love even more, is being able to find items NOT MADE IN CHINA. Oh thank goodness for Midoco. I'll go here for all of my office and art supplies from now on. Pop in, and take a browse through everything, they have lots of things! read more

I walked in this store to look at some stationary, pens to be percise. They have most of the pens and pencils on display for customers to try, the Grand n Toy used. As oos as I saw that I heard from within myself, "heaven I'm in heaven And my heart beats So that I can hardly speak". The staff was friendly and helpful. I don't have much to say about the art supplies, because I can't tell good from bad when it comes to art supplies. For anyone into stationary this place is worth a vist. I picked up a fointain pen and will be goign back for more things. read more

this spot has an ample supply of different products for the painter, sculptor, draughtsman and artisan in you. they seem to have a bit of everything with a decent supply of many different products. if you want to be sure that you get all that you need in one spot, perhaps your needs might require more specific tools or products, then there inventory is not as extensive as other art stores in the city. i noticed, though, that they had quite a few products for kids whether itd be plastacene type products, crayons or something simply for fun like build a monster kit. and if you need stuff for a party like streamers and the like or perhaps you are going to a party and you need a card, well theyve got that too. read more

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It's rare to find a small art supply shop survive in these days of big box-dom, but Midoco is alive and strong. This location has a young staff of artists each of whom are helpful and knowledgeable on a variety of subjects. More than once I've overheard them talking to each other about this art show they'll be in or that restaurant that their art will be feature in, and it just warms my heart to know I'm in a store run by people who really care about what they're selling. read more

Decent variety of art & craft supplies. Lots of interesting things like blank watercolour post cards, toy cameras, etc. I LOVE the giant display of coloured markers and pens! Got to come back and get some of those! read more

Midoco Art & Office Supplies - Office Equipment Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Love this store for notebooks and cool office supplies that you won't find in Staples. I've found some cool office organizers and folders that I've never seen anywhere else. They also have a lot of art supplies, which I know nothing about, but they have lots of notebooks and pens. They have lots of random cool things, too, like toys or knick knacks. Some of it is a bit too gifty, but some of it is pretty cool because it's hard to find. read more

Kind of awesome for a small neighbourhood art store. They have everything from serious artist supplies, to school supplies, to toys and gifts. I even bought my favourite umbrella there. My six year old is always up for a trip to "the Art Store". Who isn't? Edited because this review is supposed to be about the Queen Street East location. I'm sure the Bloor St. one is great too! read more

Absolutely love it! I'm really happy to have found this after moving to the neighbourhood. My wallet, not so much though-- as I'll probably be coming here quite a bit. I'm a bit of a fountain pen nerd and absolutely adore that they have a pretty decent selection, and now have my eye on one of their Kaweco Sport pens! They also have some fantastic stationery (where else can I find Leuchtturm1917 books in Toronto?) and a great selection of other writing utensils (I'm a big fan of their selection of German and Japanese stuff!). The customer service there is pretty fantastic too, even though I wasn't committing to a purchase they let me investigate the fountain pens under the cabinet. Will be coming back (frequently). read more

Recently went in the evening to purchase an ink cartridge. When the cashier rang it up, he told me it was $78. Despite showing the cashier on my phone that the same ink cartridge costs $20 at Staples and telling him that I'd purchased the same cartridge from Midoco for around the same a month before, neither he nor his manager would correct what is obviously either a mistake or a shameless attempt to gouge unsuspecting customers. I realize the store is not primarily focused on selling ink cartridges, but I was incredibly annoyed that I wasn't able to print an important document because of this incompetence. Despite living around the corner from the store, I will never return for any of my office supply needs. read more

I was shopping from this store for all my stationery/art needs. The last time I went to the store I was shocked by the staff's behaviour and the way they communicate with a customer. After reading other reviews, it is clear to me that they do not respect customers and I'm surprised how they are still running a business with that attitude. The employee was extremely passive aggressive, rolling her eyes, making me feel like she wants to kick me out. I bought what I need and left, and for sure, this is the last time I'm buying something from them. Please avoid this store. read more

I love Midoco! Have I said how much I love Midoco? If I want wet art supplies like brushes and paint I'll go to Curry's, but since most of my art is writing and drawing Midoco has everything I want. I have never seen so many pens or such a variety of blank books (including some Paperblanks that I haven't seen elsewhere -- take that, Indigo!). read more

Midoco located in the always wonderful annex is a fantastic art and office supply store. Architecturally the store is very tasteful with clean lines and a contemporary exterior. They carry a vast selection of fine quality art products and supplies. Prices are within market value and are reasonable. The staff is helpful and friendly. Midoco inspires you to be more creative and to open your imagination. There is really something for everyone in this store whether you are an artist, or you require stationary supplies or a fun unique gift for a child or friend. After I watched the film "Exit Through the Gift Shop" I became obsessed with Banksy and this furthered my love of street art. I popped into Midoco and picked up some radical stencils both shapes and letters, some spray paint and voila! stencil art! This provided me with hours of personal entertainment in a creative capacity. Plus it feels great to support local Toronto businesses and to keep the annex community thriving! I highly recommend Midoco Art & Office Supplies! read more

Similar to another reviewer, I was recently stopped and told to submit my bag to an employee behind the counter (I'm a 50 yr old high school teacher that had gone to Midoco to purchase a Daytimer for the upcoming school year). As the other reviewer has stated, they will not accept responsibility for your bag if it is submitted and stolen. Inside my bag is my wallet, ID, ipod, tablet, etc., and so I am not going to hand over my irreplaceable, personal, and expensive items to someone who refuses to take responsibility for them. Furthermore, it is my experience that establishments which attempt to establish such a policy are all too often subjective in their request (gender, looks, etc), and run the risk of alienating their customer base (by essentially labeling you as a thief when you walk into the store). As a customer, not only am I not responsible for their security, but I should not be harassed and made to feel that my business is not wanted or needed. Overall, it is a very bad policy and so I will take my business elsewhere. read more

Love Midoco! Supplies, art supplies like brushes and paint I'll go to Curry's, or if I'm writing and drawing Midoco has everything I want. So many pens , so little time.elsewhere read more