Today was my first venture into Paper Arts, and I must say - I am completely smitten. I could spend all day in this store! I enjoy a unique craft called quilling (or paper filigree) and typically order my paper online for my projects. I was planning to spend the day in Dallas so did a google search for "paper stores" and Paper Arts was first on the list. I was first directed to the website, and was a little disappointed with the lack of information. The disclaimer was that the website could not accurately reflect the quality of paper in the store.
So, I went in this morning. The website was right! More paper that I could ask for, in every texture and color, from every country on the map. I experienced interesting textures, vibrant and robust colors, and enjoyed paper from Thailand, Indian, Nepal, and many other countries. Many of the papers were quite reasonably priced (and I found the Dollar Corner at the back of the store, where each piece was $1). These pieces are not 8 1/2 x 11, by the way - the smaller pieces are about 12 x 24 but most pieces are even larger (and more expensive). Prices range from $3-6 typically for most papers, but go up to $25-30 for more rare and "costly to manufacture" pieces like cork and paper made from tree bark which was absolutely lovely.
Terri, the proprietor, was very knowledgeable. She's friendly and chatty but did not hover, and was perfectly at ease with my browsing her store for a couple of hours. She helped several customers simultaneously and was familiar with my craft (which is unusual). She made recommendations regarding the type of papers I might be interested in, and can order additional quantities which usually take about a week. She also conducts book-binding classes periodically. Terri told me that paper made from tree bark would not work well for my quilling project due to some pieces of bark that could not be bent or manipulated. She has 30+ years of experience with paper, and it shows in her level of knowledge and expertise.
I netted a total of 18 pieces today of various sizes and quality for a total of $51. I will DEFINITELY be returning to Paper Arts in the future. If you have any interest in paper, book binding, paper crafts, or stationery needs in general, please visit Paper Arts. I promise you will find paper that you just cannot live without. read more