Top 5 Unexpected Wins from Blick’s Clearance Section
Things I didn’t need… but now love
We’ve all done it: popped into Blick “just to browse,” and emerged with an armful of strange art supplies we definitely didn’t go in for. Some of them… eh. But some? Some turned out to be absolute gems.
So, here’s my roundup of five random, overlooked, or on-clearance items from Blick that genuinely surprised me—in the best way possible.
🖍️ 1. Richeson Semi-Moist Watercolour Pan Set (Travel Size)
Bought on a whim because it was under a tenner and looked cute. Turns out: portable perfection. The pigment is shockingly vibrant, and it’s perfect for loose sketches or quick colour studies on walks. Bonus? It fits in a coat pocket.
🖌️ 2. Yasutomo Bamboo Ink Brush
Impulse buy. I thought it would be too scratchy or novelty-ish. But no—it flows beautifully with India ink and feels meditative to use. There’s something really satisfying about the balance and bounce of this brush. Total zen tool.
✂️ 3. Decorative Edge Scissors (Kid Section!)
Hear me out. I bought these half-jokingly, but they’re amazing for adding texture to collage borders or handmade tags. Great for journaling, card-making, and pretending I’m a scrapbook genius. No regrets.
🧼 4. The Master’s Brush Cleaner Soap (Mini Size)
It was next to the till. It was £3. I didn’t think much of it. But now? I refuse to wash brushes with anything else. It smells great, works fast, and has saved more than one crispy old brush from the bin.
🎨 5. Blick Metallic Acrylic Paint – Bronze
It was in the clearance bin with a dented lid. I picked it up for under £2 and honestly? It’s glorious. Smooth application, surprisingly rich colour, and it adds a subtle shimmer to anything from canvas to sketchbook backgrounds. I’ve since bought three more.
🎁 Honourable Mention:
The tiny easel and canvas combo pack. Did I need it? Absolutely not. Did it make a perfect mini-gift for a creative friend? Yes. Yes, it did.
The moral of the story? Sometimes the best supplies are the ones you never meant to buy. Next time you’re in the clearance section, grab something weird—you just might find your new favourite tool.
