Dear Mr. KIA, My friends told me that even if Bangkok escapes the floods this time we’ll soon be underwater for good thanks to global warming. I wanna be prepared for the worse, so I came up with a list of things that I would need in case I do end up being stuck in my room for days. And my plan if that does happen is to spend my time producing a masterpiece. So to fulfill my list, can you tell me where I can buy art supplies at a cheap price? The Next Artist

Dear TNA, That’s certainly different to how I like to spend my time stuck at home (and requires less tissues as well). Preparing ahead is always a good thing, and being productive is even better! But why wait for a flood to get creative, just start painting now. My top tip is to avoid department stores as they like to charge you a bit more for art accessories. Try these more bespoke art boutiques instead.
Somjai 3 (143-145, Tri Phet Rd., Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, 02-222-6260) is a well-known franchise located on the opposite side of Suankularb Wittayalai School. They sell a wide range of stationery products, including oil and acrylic paints, canvas, and brushes. Prices for a 30x40 canvas start at B66, and tubes of oil paint start at B98. You can also get a size 0 brush for B6. Feel free to contact the store and ask them to mail the things you need, but you will have to pay for the mailing costs.
If you are planning on buying a large amount of art supplies, then I suggest you try Lim Charoem (1883/16, Phaholyothin 35 Rd., Ladyaw Bangkhen, 02-511-2974). Things cost a little bit more here than at Somjai 3 but if you spend more than B10,000 they will deliver the supplies straight to your house. Starting price for a 30x40 canvas is B70, and its B130 for a tube of oil paint.
Nanapun (102, Maharat Rd., Phra Barom Maha Ratchawang Phra Nakhon, 02-221-4688) is located close to Silpakorn Univeristy, next to S&P, so you can’t miss it. You can get a 30x40 canvas at B65, oil paint goes for B98, and it’s B6 for a size 0 brush. Nanapun’s currently has a special promotion: buy three oil paints, and you get one white oil paint for free, or a red oil paint if you buy three watercolor paints.