Art Supply suggestions;

Please note that I do NOT personally receive ANY compensation from any of the below mentioned  retail sources.

I suggest to my students to NOT purchase art supplies, but rather request really nice art supplies from parents and grandparents for Holidays and birthdays.  I tell them to spend their hard earned money on fun things, like music and games.  I explain that this is a wonderful chance for family to provide for them, as they are interested in the success of your future career, and if this can be encouraged through a nice gift, everybody wins. 

These are places I have used and found helpful.

(Again, if you have a suggestion, I would be happy to personally check it out.)

Photoshopuser.com is a great tool for future graphic designers.  This is an awesome website to check out.  It is a great membership to belong to, but it is a little pricey.  I am a member for three reasons. 1) Great bimonthly magazine, 2) incredible and understandable video tutorials.  3) There is an amazing help desk there.  If I have any Photoshop related question, I send the help desk an email and usually within a couple of hours, I get a personal response that is professional and very insightful.  The third reason is reason enough for me to be a member.  Photoshop user is a WONDERFUL gift, as this could be a stepping stone towards their career.  The below link is my personal referral option. 

Carlson's Paint in Wheaton

http://www.carlsons-stores.com

This is an excellent resource, very good prices, be sure to bring your student ID ( for an additional DISCOUNT!!!!)

Dick Blick in Wheaton

http://www.dickblick.com

They will probably have what you need.

Their prices are fair, quality is very good, but typically not the least expensive. 

My suggestion is to invest in good to great art supplies. 

Feel free to bring them in class, and then NOT share.