Dots N Doodles moved from its 10th Street location a few months ago, but when it came to having a grand opening, Scott Leahing, co-owner, said the new space at 303 Marine Drive needed work and they put it off. Now, as summer nears, he said he and partner Tim Masuelli decided it was a good time to launch the store. 

On April 20, they had an open house with representatives from the Trails End Art Association, product demonstrations, snacks and coffee sampling by Three Cups Coffee House.

When they first got started in 2007, Leahing said, the feeling was warm, cozy and fuzzy. Now they are honing in on fine art supplies, concentrating on distinctive art products for serious minded artists, whether they are hobbyists, professionals or others. 

The lines were carrying cant be found everywhere, Leahing said. In fact, Dots N Doodles carries the largest supply of Italys Maimeri products in the United States, he said. 

The new store welcomes shoppers with a colorful array of paints, brushes, books and art supplies as well as an open back room where the demonstrations were held below local artwork hung on the walls.

Dave Thompson, an independent representative, cut mats with precision as he demonstrated the Logan Artist Elite mat cutter among other products.

Dave got us into this business, Leahing related. Hes been in the business 40 years. Tim and I were looking for something to do after moving to Astoria from Portland. Someone mentioned the need for acrylic paint and the duo put out feelers, which led to Thompson. He represented major lines of art materials and the birth of an art supply store took place. 

Across the room, Kari Foteff, representative for Strathmore Artist Papers, entertained a growing number of enthusiasts with samples of brushes, pens and papers. She said, I am happy to support independent stores. Its so good to see the brick and mortar stores still in business. Its great to support people like Tim and Scott, she said. I like the new space. Its open and gets good traffic.

Five coffees were offered by Carly Lackner of Three Cups Coffee House. 

We like cross-pollinating with other businesses, Leahing said.

Its really about relationships, not a one-way enterprise. We want to make the space interactive for the small community and we like to follow the examples of other businesses who have creative energy.

Beginning in May, Dots N Doodles will offer classes in watercolor, block printing and many other mediums.  

Catherine Thoele demonstrated paints used on glass, metal and tile. Visitors gathered round as she showed her expertise with paints. Shes the No. 1 rep and distributor, Leahing said. She knows everything. Thoele said she represents 250 companies and 50,000 items.

Through good relationships with vendors, customers, friends and representatives, Leahing said he and Masuelli want to make shopping, classes and events positive experiences. 

We hope to create a lot of synergy, he said.