Based on looking at the website, Hickmandesign.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive online resource for art supplies, particularly focusing on printmaking and illustration.
It offers a wide range of high-quality products, guides, and resources, making it a valuable hub for artists across the UK.
The site, founded in 2017, is highly rated on Trustpilot with a 4.8/5 rating based on 82 reviews, which speaks volumes about its customer satisfaction and reliability.
For anyone delving into printmaking or seeking to expand their art supply collection, Hickmandesign.co.uk presents itself as a well-established and trusted option. Briqhouse.co.uk Reviews
The site is not involved in any activities that are impermissible in Islam.
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Rather, it promotes creativity, learning, and skill development through art.
While art itself is permissible and often encouraged in Islam, particularly when it is beautiful and serves a beneficial purpose, it’s important to approach any creative endeavor with a mindful intention.
Art that celebrates creation, beauty, and positive messages can be a means of expressing gratitude for Allah’s blessings and contributing to the enrichment of society.
Hickmandesign.co.uk’s focus on tools and educational content for artistic pursuits aligns with this positive outlook, offering a beneficial alternative to many forms of entertainment or engagement that might be questionable or outright forbidden. Bqool.com Reviews
Engaging in such constructive and skill-building activities is always a better outcome than engaging in time-wasting or harmful pursuits.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Hickmandesign.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon first glance, Hickmandesign.co.uk presents a clean, organized, and professional interface, immediately conveying its dedication to the art community. Acefixings.com Reviews
The design is intuitive, making navigation straightforward for both new visitors and returning artists.
The site’s primary focus on printmaking and illustration supplies is evident, with clear categories for various mediums and tools.
Initial Impressions on User Interface and Design
The website employs a visually appealing layout with high-quality images of products and artwork.
The use of a toggle for dark mode is a thoughtful addition, catering to user preference and potentially reducing eye strain during extended browsing sessions.
The overall aesthetic is modern and functional, avoiding clutter while ensuring all essential information is readily accessible. Ticketkosta.com Reviews
This attention to detail in design contributes to a positive user experience right from the start.
What Makes Hickmandesign.co.uk Stand Out?
Hickman Design distinguishes itself through several key aspects:
- Specialized Focus: Unlike general art supply stores, it specializes in printmaking, offering a depth of product knowledge and curated selections that cater specifically to this niche. This specialization means artists can find highly specific tools and materials that might be harder to source elsewhere.
- Educational Resources: The website goes beyond just selling products. It features extensive guides, resources, and a blog, providing valuable educational content for artists of all levels. This commitment to education builds trust and positions the site as an authority in the field.
- Founder’s Expertise: The founder, Luke Hickman, has a rich background in printmaking, and his portfolio is showcased on the site. This personal touch and evident expertise lend credibility and assurance to the quality of products and advice offered. It’s like getting recommendations from a seasoned artist.
- High Trustpilot Rating: A 4.8/5 rating from 82 reviews on Trustpilot is a strong indicator of customer satisfaction, reflecting reliable service, product quality, and effective customer support. This external validation provides a significant level of reassurance for potential buyers.
Hickmandesign.co.uk Features
Hickmandesign.co.uk is packed with features designed to support artists, from a comprehensive product catalog to in-depth educational content. It’s more than just an e-commerce platform.
It’s a hub for printmaking and illustration enthusiasts.
Extensive Product Catalog for Printmaking & Illustration
The core of Hickmandesign.co.uk is its extensive range of art supplies. Scooppatrol.co.uk Reviews
The categories are well-defined, allowing artists to quickly find what they need.
- Lino Printing: A prominent category, offering everything from lino printing kits for beginners to specialized lino cutting tools, linoleum blocks, inks, and rollers. This is clearly a strong suit for the site.
- Screen Printing: Comprehensive supplies including screen printing kits, films, stencils, inks, lights, and mesh. There’s even a guide on how to set up a screen printing studio.
- Etching & Intaglio Supplies: A dedicated section for more traditional printmaking methods, indicating a deep understanding of various techniques.
- General Art Supplies: Beyond printmaking, they also offer acrylic paints, sketchbooks, drawing pads, pencils, and other general art equipment, making it a convenient one-stop shop for diverse artistic needs.
- Art Kits & Gifts: They provide curated art boxes and kits, which are excellent for gifting or for artists looking for a complete set to start a new medium.
Rich Educational Content and Guides
One of the standout features is the wealth of free educational content available.
This truly elevates the website beyond a simple retail outlet.
- Printmaking Guides: Detailed tutorials like “How to Lino Print for Beginners,” “Monoprinting Process,” and “Screen Printing Process” offer step-by-step instructions. These are invaluable for learning new techniques or refining existing skills.
- Artist Resources: Sections on “How To Sell Your Art Online,” “Guide On Pricing Artwork,” and “Creating an Artist’s Portfolio” provide practical advice for artists looking to monetize their work or manage their careers.
- Blog: The blog features articles on art news, history, equipment reviews, and tips, covering a wide array of topics relevant to artists. For instance, articles like “The Green Studio: Environmental Issues in Art” show a commitment to broader artistic and ethical considerations.
- Calculators & Tools: Unique tools like the “Art Pricing Calculator” and “Photography Pricing Calculator” help artists determine fair prices for their work, a practical utility rarely found on art supply sites.
Customer Service and Support Features
While specific customer service response times are not detailed on the homepage, the presence of contact information email, physical address for appointments, social media links and a clear privacy policy indicates a commitment to customer support.
The high Trustpilot rating further reinforces the expectation of good service. Lemonsqueezy.com Reviews
The clear operating hours for their office suggest structured availability for inquiries.
Hickmandesign.co.uk Pros & Cons
Every platform has its strengths and areas for improvement.
Based on the homepage information, Hickmandesign.co.uk demonstrates clear advantages, with few discernible drawbacks from a superficial review.
Advantages of Using Hickmandesign.co.uk
- Specialized Expertise: As highlighted, their deep focus on printmaking means customers benefit from a curated selection and expert advice. This is a significant advantage over general art supply stores that might have limited stock or knowledge in specific niches.
- High-Quality Products: The emphasis on “high-quality products” and the founder’s background in printmaking suggest a rigorous selection process, ensuring artists receive reliable tools and materials.
- Valuable Educational Resources: The extensive guides, blog posts, and resources provide immense value beyond just product sales. This empowers artists, helps them develop skills, and fosters a community around art.
- Strong Reputation: A 4.8/5 rating on Trustpilot is a testament to positive customer experiences, indicating good product quality, reliable shipping, and responsive customer service. This builds immediate trust with potential buyers.
- User-Friendly Website: The clean design, easy navigation, and useful features like the dark mode toggle and pricing calculators enhance the overall user experience.
- UK-Based Supplier: For artists in the UK, this means faster shipping times and potentially lower shipping costs compared to international suppliers.
Potential Areas for Improvement
While the website appears very strong, a few minor points could be considered, though these are not significant drawbacks:
- Limited International Shipping Details: While clearly a UK supplier, specific details about international shipping policies or restrictions are not immediately visible on the homepage, which might be a consideration for non-UK artists.
- Appointment-Only Office Address: While understandable for a studio, the “Appointment Only” nature of the office address means direct, walk-in consultations or purchases are not an option, which might be a minor inconvenience for some local customers.
- Niche Focus: While a strength, the specialization in printmaking might make it less appealing for artists primarily focused on other mediums where the product range is less extensive. However, this is a conscious business decision, not a flaw.
Hickmandesign.co.uk Alternatives
When looking for art supplies, especially in the UK, artists have several options beyond Hickmandesign.co.uk. Winningappliances.com.au Reviews
These alternatives range from large, general art retailers to specialized online stores.
Major Art Supply Retailers in the UK
- Cass Art: One of the largest art supply retailers in the UK, Cass Art offers a vast range of products for all mediums, from painting and drawing to sculpture and printmaking. They have both online and physical stores across the country, often providing student discounts and a wide selection of brands.
- Jackson’s Art Supplies: Known for its extensive catalog and competitive pricing, Jackson’s Art Supplies is a favorite among professional artists and hobbyists alike. They offer a huge variety of materials, including specialist items, and provide excellent customer service and fast delivery.
- GreatArt: A European art supplier with a strong presence in the UK, GreatArt provides a comprehensive range of art materials. They often have promotions and bulk discounts, making them a good option for those stocking up on essentials.
Specialized Printmaking Suppliers
While Hickmandesign.co.uk excels in printmaking, other specialized suppliers also cater to this niche:
- Intaglio Printmaker: This company focuses exclusively on traditional printmaking supplies, offering a very deep inventory of plates, inks, presses, and papers for various techniques, including intaglio, lithography, and relief printing.
- Lawrence Art Supplies: A long-standing supplier in the UK, Lawrence Art Supplies has a dedicated section for printmaking materials, including lino, woodblock, etching, and screen printing. They are known for their quality products and knowledgeable staff.
Considerations When Choosing an Alternative
When comparing Hickmandesign.co.uk with alternatives, consider the following:
- Product Range: Does the alternative offer the specific items you need, especially if you’re looking for niche printmaking supplies?
- Pricing & Value: Compare prices, shipping costs, and any loyalty programs or discounts. While Hickmandesign.co.uk emphasizes quality, other retailers might offer different price points.
- Customer Service & Reviews: Check Trustpilot or other review platforms for customer feedback on service, delivery, and product satisfaction.
- Educational Content: If you value learning resources, see if alternatives offer similar guides, tutorials, or blogs. Hickmandesign.co.uk’s commitment to education is a strong differentiating factor.
- Shipping & Returns: Understand their policies for shipping times, costs, and returns, especially for larger or more fragile items.
Hickmandesign.co.uk Pricing
While specific product prices are not detailed on the homepage, Hickmandesign.co.uk is positioned as a supplier of “high-quality products,” which typically suggests a fair value for durable and effective art materials rather than being the cheapest option on the market.
Their focus on the printmaking niche implies that the pricing will reflect the specialized nature and quality of these tools. Heymommies.nl Reviews
General Pricing Philosophy
Based on similar high-quality art supply retailers, it’s reasonable to infer that Hickmandesign.co.uk aims to offer competitive pricing for professional-grade and enthusiast-level art supplies.
They likely balance product quality with market competitiveness.
For specialized items like printmaking presses or premium inks, prices will naturally be higher than general craft supplies.
The fact that they offer kits e.g., lino printing kits suggests they also cater to beginners who might be looking for more budget-friendly entry points into a new medium.
How to Find Product Prices
To get exact pricing, users would need to navigate to the “Shop Art Supplies” section and browse specific product categories. Ourbus.com Reviews
The website’s structure suggests a standard e-commerce model where each product listing would have its price clearly displayed. They may also offer:
- Bundle Deals: For kits or sets, providing better value than purchasing individual items.
- Sale Sections: Common in online retail to clear inventory or offer seasonal discounts.
- Shipping Costs: These would be calculated at checkout based on the order size, weight, and delivery location within the UK.
Value Proposition
The value proposition of Hickmandesign.co.uk appears to be centered on:
- Quality: Investing in good quality tools can save money in the long run by ensuring durability and better artistic results.
- Expert Curation: The products are selected by someone with a deep understanding of printmaking, potentially saving artists time and money on trial-and-error purchases.
- Educational Support: The free guides and resources add significant value, helping artists maximize their product use and develop their skills, which is a valuable return on investment.
Compared to general marketplaces, specialized suppliers like Hickmandesign.co.uk often provide better product descriptions, expert advice, and a more tailored shopping experience, justifying their pricing structure.
How to Cancel Hickmandesign.co.uk Subscription
Based on the information available on the Hickmandesign.co.uk homepage, there is no indication of a subscription service for products.
The website operates as a direct retailer of art supplies and a provider of free educational content. Barbadosivf.com Reviews
This means artists typically purchase products as needed, rather than through recurring monthly or annual payments.
No Explicit Subscription Model Found
The homepage highlights “Shop Art Supplies,” “Guides & Resources,” and a “Blog.” These sections describe one-time purchases of physical art materials and access to free digital content. There are no mentions of:
- Premium content subscriptions
- Monthly art supply boxes
- Membership programs with recurring fees
- Subscription tiers for services
Therefore, the concept of “canceling a Hickmandesign.co.uk subscription” does not appear to be applicable to their current business model as presented on the main page.
What if a Recurring Payment was Made Accidentally?
In the unlikely event that a customer has set up a recurring payment or an auto-renewal for some unforeseen service or product which is not advertised, the general steps to address this would be:
- Contact Hickman Design Directly: The first and most effective step would be to reach out to Hickman Design’s customer service. Their contact information email or contact form would be the primary channel. Clearly explain the situation and request clarification or cancellation.
- Check Bank/Card Statements: Review your bank or credit card statements to identify the exact nature and origin of the recurring charge. This information will be crucial when communicating with the company or your bank.
- Contact Your Bank/Payment Provider: If direct communication with Hickman Design does not resolve the issue, or if the charge is unauthorized, contact your bank or credit card company to dispute the transaction or stop future recurring payments. They can often block payments to a specific merchant.
For the vast majority of users, purchasing from Hickmandesign.co.uk will involve standard one-time e-commerce transactions, eliminating any need for subscription cancellations. Rubberduckee.co.uk Reviews
Hickmandesign.co.uk vs. Competitors
To provide a comprehensive review, it’s useful to compare Hickmandesign.co.uk against some of its notable competitors in the UK art supply market, focusing on how it differentiates itself.
Hickmandesign.co.uk vs. Cass Art
- Hickman Design: Highly specialized in printmaking and illustration. Offers a curated selection of quality tools and extensive educational content directly related to these niches. Strong focus on guiding artists. Smaller operation, potentially more personalized service. High Trustpilot rating specifically for their niche.
- Cass Art: A large, general art supply retailer with a massive inventory across all mediums. Offers numerous physical stores. Focuses on broad accessibility and often has competitive pricing and student discounts. While they carry printmaking supplies, it’s not their primary specialization.
Key Difference: Specialization vs. Breadth. If you’re a printmaker seeking in-depth knowledge and curated tools, Hickmandesign.co.uk wins. If you need a vast array of general art supplies and prefer shopping in person, Cass Art is likely a better fit.
Hickmandesign.co.uk vs. Jackson’s Art Supplies
- Hickman Design: Niche expert with a strong emphasis on educational content and the founder’s direct expertise in printmaking. Appears to prioritize high-quality, specific tools.
- Jackson’s Art Supplies: Known for its enormous online catalog, competitive pricing, and global reach. They cater to all levels of artists and offer excellent customer service. While they have printmaking supplies, they don’t offer the same level of niche educational content or the founder’s direct artistic portfolio as a selling point.
Key Difference: Curated Expertise and Education vs. Massive Selection and Price. Hickmandesign.co.uk offers a more focused, educational experience. Jackson’s provides sheer volume and competitive pricing across the board.
Hickmandesign.co.uk vs. Intaglio Printmaker
- Hickman Design: Specialized in printmaking lino, screen, etching. Combines product sales with extensive guides and a blog, positioning itself as a comprehensive resource.
- Intaglio Printmaker: Extremely specialized, focusing almost exclusively on traditional printmaking techniques like intaglio, lithography, and relief. Their inventory might be even deeper in highly niche, traditional printmaking materials. Less emphasis on broad educational content or modern art news compared to Hickman.
Key Difference: Breadth of Printmaking & Education vs. Deep Traditional Printmaking Niche. Intaglio Printmaker is for the purist seeking highly specialized traditional printmaking items, while Hickmandesign.co.uk offers a broader range of printmaking techniques with more accessible educational resources.
Overall Comparison
Hickmandesign.co.uk carves out a strong position by combining a focused, high-quality product offering with robust educational content, leveraging the founder’s expertise. Flavoursholidays.co.uk Reviews
It’s ideal for artists passionate about printmaking who also seek guidance and inspiration.
While larger retailers offer convenience and breadth, Hickmandesign.co.uk’s specialized approach and commitment to empowering artists through knowledge make it a compelling choice within its niche.
For those who value expert curation and extensive learning resources over simply the lowest price or widest selection, Hickmandesign.co.uk stands out.
Hickmandesign.co.uk Impact on the Art Community
Hickmandesign.co.uk, beyond being an e-commerce platform, appears to be making a significant positive impact on the art community, particularly within the printmaking and illustration spheres.
Its multifaceted approach contributes to skill development, knowledge sharing, and fostering artistic growth. Auchterloniesofstandrews.com Reviews
Fostering Skill Development and Learning
The most evident impact comes from its extensive educational resources.
- Demystifying Printmaking: Guides like “How to Lino Print for Beginners” break down complex processes into accessible steps, making printmaking less intimidating for newcomers. This directly contributes to expanding the number of people who can engage with and learn these techniques.
- Continuous Learning: For experienced artists, the blog and advanced guides offer insights into new techniques, historical context, and practical tips e.g., “Setting Up Your Art Studio”. This supports ongoing professional development and pushes artists to explore new horizons.
- Resource Accessibility: By making these guides freely available, Hickman Design lowers the barrier to entry for learning, regardless of an artist’s financial situation to attend workshops.
Promoting Quality and Expertise
By focusing on “high-quality products” and leveraging the founder’s background, Hickman Design implicitly educates artists on the importance of good tools.
- Informed Choices: The site’s curation helps artists make informed purchasing decisions, understanding that quality materials can significantly impact artistic outcomes and longevity of work.
- Credibility: The inclusion of Luke Hickman’s portfolio and his features on various platforms adds a layer of authenticity and credibility, reinforcing the idea that the advice and products come from someone who truly understands the craft.
Contributing to the Art Economy UK Specific
As a UK-based supplier, Hickmandesign.co.uk plays a role in the local and national art economy.
- Local Supplier: It provides a reliable source for art supplies within the UK, potentially reducing reliance on international imports and supporting local businesses and logistics.
- Support for Artists: By offering tools and resources, it directly supports artists in creating, exhibiting, and potentially selling their work, thus contributing to the broader creative economy.
- Information Dissemination: Articles on topics like “The Resourceful Artist: How to Thrive Financially in a Recession” or “How To Sell Your Art Online” provide practical, business-oriented advice to artists, helping them navigate the financial realities of an artistic career. This is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of supporting the art community.
In essence, Hickmandesign.co.uk is not just a store.
It functions as a valuable educational platform and a supportive pillar for the UK art community, particularly for those involved in printmaking and illustration. Bangerhead.dk Reviews
It empowers artists by providing both the tools and the knowledge necessary for their creative journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hickmandesign.co.uk?
Hickmandesign.co.uk is a UK-based online supplier of high-quality art equipment, with a strong specialization in printmaking and illustration supplies.
It also offers extensive educational guides, resources, and a blog for artists.
What kind of products does Hickmandesign.co.uk sell?
Hickmandesign.co.uk sells a wide range of art supplies, including lino printing kits and tools, screen printing supplies, etching and intaglio materials, acrylic paints, sketchbooks, drawing pads, and various art equipment and accessories.
Is Hickmandesign.co.uk a reputable company?
Yes, Hickmandesign.co.uk appears to be a reputable company. Medonthego.com Reviews
It holds a high rating of 4.8/5 on Trustpilot based on 82 reviews, indicating strong customer satisfaction and reliability.
Who founded Hickman Design?
Hickman Design was founded by Luke Hickman in 2017, who has a rich background and portfolio in printmaking artwork.
Does Hickmandesign.co.uk offer international shipping?
The homepage primarily emphasizes its role as a leading supplier across the UK.
Specific details about international shipping policies or restrictions are not immediately visible and would require checking their shipping policy page.
Are there any educational resources available on Hickmandesign.co.uk?
Yes, Hickmandesign.co.uk offers extensive free educational content, including guides on various printmaking processes e.g., “How to Lino Print for Beginners,” “Screen Printing Process”, artist resources e.g., “How To Sell Your Art Online”, and a blog with articles on art news, history, and tips.
Can I view the founder’s artwork on the website?
Yes, you can view Luke Hickman’s portfolio of printmaking artwork and illustrations online on the Hickmandesign.co.uk website.
Does Hickmandesign.co.uk have a physical store?
Hickman Design has an office address in Ardleigh, Colchester, Essex, but it operates on an “Appointment Only” basis, meaning it’s not a walk-in retail store.
What are the operating hours for Hickman Design?
The office operating hours are Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 21:00 and Saturday to Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00.
What mediums does Hickman Design specialize in?
Hickman Design specializes in various printmaking mediums including Etchings, Graphic Design, Illustration, Lino Printing, Monoprinting, Screen Printing, and Wood Block Printing.
Does Hickmandesign.co.uk offer art pricing calculators?
Yes, the website features practical tools like an “Art Pricing Calculator,” “Photography Pricing Calculator,” “T-Shirt Pricing Calculator,” and “Wallpaper Calculator” to assist artists.
Can I find reviews for specific products on the website?
While the homepage highlights a high Trustpilot rating for the company overall, specific product reviews would typically be found on individual product pages within the shop section.
How does Hickmandesign.co.uk compare to Cass Art?
Hickmandesign.co.uk is highly specialized in printmaking with extensive educational content, while Cass Art is a larger, general art supply retailer offering a broader range of products and physical stores across the UK.
Is there a blog on Hickmandesign.co.uk?
Yes, Hickmandesign.co.uk features a blog with the latest news, articles on art history, equipment reviews, tips for artists, and art news from around the world.
Does Hickmandesign.co.uk sell art kits?
Yes, they offer art boxes and art kits, which are suitable for beginners or as gifts.
What payment methods are accepted on Hickmandesign.co.uk?
Specific payment methods are not detailed on the homepage, but typical e-commerce platforms accept major credit/debit cards and often digital payment services. You would find this information at checkout.
How can I contact Hickmandesign.co.uk for support?
Contact information such as an office address, phone number not explicitly listed on homepage but typical for e-commerce, and social media links are provided on the website, usually in the footer or contact page.
Does Hickmandesign.co.uk offer discounts for schools or bulk purchases?
The homepage mentions “Art Supplies for Schools” as a shop link, suggesting they cater to educational institutions, which may imply special pricing or accounts for bulk orders, though details are not explicit.
Is there a dark mode option on the website?
Yes, Hickmandesign.co.uk features a toggle for dark mode, allowing users to switch between light and dark themes for improved viewing comfort.
Does Hickmandesign.co.uk have social media presence?
Yes, the website links to various social media platforms including Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Behance, and Artstation, indicating an active online presence.
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