Dick Blick Customer Service — Expert Guide for Artists, Educators, and Buyers

Channels, Availability, and First Contact

Dick Blick customer service can be reached through multiple channels: toll‑free phone, web chat, email, and in‑store service. The primary contact point for U.S. customers is the customer service line (toll‑free) at 1‑800‑828‑4548 and the company’s main portal at www.dickblick.com. For routine order questions (status, tracking, small changes) web chat or the account order page are usually fastest; many issues are resolved without waiting on hold.

Phone support is typically available on weekdays and is staffed by product‑knowledgeable representatives who can access order history, warehouse locations, SKU details, and shipping manifests. Expect initial hold times to vary by season; during peak periods (back‑to‑school, holidays, Black Friday/Cyber Week) average hold time can rise to 10–20 minutes, so using web chat or email with order number often yields faster documented responses.

Order Fulfillment, Shipping, and Tracking

Orders are shipped from multiple distribution centers; domestic fulfillment times are usually 1–3 business days for in‑stock items. Standard ground shipping in the continental U.S. commonly takes 3–7 business days after fulfillment; expedited options (2‑day, overnight) are offered at checkout with real‑time carrier pricing. Free standard shipping thresholds and promotions change seasonally; historically, free shipping promotions often begin around $49–$50, but confirm current thresholds at checkout.

To troubleshoot delivery issues you should have the order number, billing ZIP, and tracking number ready. If a tracking number shows “delivered” but you have not received the package, contact customer service immediately; Dick Blick collaborates with carriers and usually initiates an investigation within 24–48 hours. Refunds for lost shipments typically require carrier confirmation and can take 5–10 business days to post back to the original payment method once approved.

Returns, Refunds, and Special Orders

Dick Blick maintains a return policy that covers most unopened, resaleable items for a full refund within a stated window—commonly 30 days from delivery—except for custom‑made, cut or framed items, and certain hazardous materials. Items returned after the standard window, or returned damaged by the customer, may be subject to a restocking fee or partial credit; always confirm the exact return window and exceptions on the invoice or the website at the time of purchase.

To start a return, customers typically initiate the process online via their account order page or contact customer service for an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization). Keep the original packing slip, include proof of purchase or order number, and use a traceable shipping method; refunds are processed to the original payment method and can take up to two billing cycles depending on the bank or card issuer.

Damaged, Defective, and Warranty Claims

If you receive a damaged or defective product, document the damage immediately: take clear photos of the packaging (outer box and inner packing), the damaged item, and the shipping label. For paint, tools, or electrical items, note lot numbers or batch codes when present. Submit photos and the order number to customer service via web chat or email; a claims specialist typically responds within 24–72 hours and will either ship a replacement, issue a refund, or provide an RMA for return at no charge when the fault is verified.

Many branded products sold by Blick are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty in addition to Blick’s handling of the claim. For warranty claims that require manufacturer involvement, the representative will explain whether to ship the item back to Blick, to the manufacturer, or to pursue in‑field repair. Keep all correspondence and tracking information until the claim is fully resolved to avoid delays.

Trade Accounts, Education Sales, and Bulk Purchasing

Dick Blick offers specialized programs for educators, schools, and institutional buyers, including trade pricing, purchase orders, and dedicated account managers for large accounts. Educator discounts and supplies lists are common during the fiscal year for K–12 and higher education; institutional buyers often negotiate volume discounts and net 30 terms when annual spend meets thresholds—typically communicated directly through the education or institutional sales teams.

To set up a trade or education account, be prepared to provide a school tax ID, purchase order number, official letterhead, or reseller certificate depending on the discount structure. Account managers can also coordinate cataloging SKUs, scheduled shipments for semester supplies, and consolidated invoicing to simplify fiscal reporting for departments.

Practical Steps to Speed Resolution

When contacting customer service, having concise, verifiable information reduces resolution time significantly. Typical verification and resolution metrics are: initial acknowledgement within 24 hours, investigation or replacement decision within 48–72 hours, and refund posting within 5–10 business days after approval.

• Essential information to provide: order number, date of purchase, SKU or product name, shipping address ZIP code, and high‑resolution photos for damage claims.
• For bulk/education inquiries: annual spend estimate, number of students or users, desired delivery schedule, and any required invoicing terms (PO number, billing address).
• For returns: RMA number (if provided), exact reason for return, and whether you want replacement, exchange, or refund; indicate if return shipping label is required.
• Escalation path: start with first‑line rep → request supervisor if unresolved within 48 hours → contact customer service email with reference number → request escalation to corporate customer relations for unresolved disputes after 7–10 business days.

Final Recommendations and Best Practices

Document everything: save order confirmations, shipping emails, photos, and chat transcripts. Use the account system on www.dickblick.com to track orders and access invoices, and consider creating a trade account if your annual art supply spend exceeds a few hundred dollars—volume pricing and dedicated support will speed future transactions. For time‑sensitive classroom supplies or commission work, order well in advance of deadlines to allow for fulfillment variability during peak seasons.

By following these practical steps—providing complete documentation, choosing the appropriate contact channel for your issue, and knowing the escalation path—you can turn a service issue into a fast, predictable resolution. When in doubt, start with the phone line (1‑800‑828‑4548) or web chat for real‑time assistance and reference the order number in all follow‑ups.

What is customer to customer service?

Customer service includes actions such as offering product suggestions, troubleshooting issues and complaints, or responding to general questions. Each customer service interaction is an opportunity to grow your business. Great customer service is a competitive differentiator that drives brand loyalty and recognition.

Does Blick do refunds?

Blick’s guarantee policy dates back to 1911, and we have no reason to change it. If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of the merchandise you receive, you are entitled to a full replacement or refund of the merchandise value up to one year from time of purchase.

What is the Blick art materials controversy?

Andrews v. Blick Art Materials, LLC
The case, which cites alleged violations of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), alleges the defendant’s website contains accessibility barriers for which blind people “must rely on sighted companions to assist them in accessing and buying products on Dickblick.com.”

Does Michaels sell Blick?

Art and Paint Supplies | Brand: Blick | Michaels.

Is Blick an ethical company?

Blick Rothenberg is an ethical firm with strong values. Our Values: Collaborative: We are stronger together. We share knowledge, ask for help and empower each other to achieve more collectively.

How do I cancel an order on Dickblick?

Contact Blick. For purposes of providing notice of cancellation or termination or if you have any questions regarding these Terms, contact Blick at [email protected], at (800) 828-4548, or at Blick Art Materials, P.O. Box 1267, Galesburg, IL 61402-1267.