Sam Flax arrived in America from Eastern Europe in 1898 at the age of seven. Sam started working at a young age in order to contribute to the family’s funds and to bring additional family members over from Europe.
After an 11 year apprenticeship at an art supply shop in the metropolitan New York area, Sam went into business on his own in 1920 selling art supplies from a push cart. Over the years Sam helped relatives establish independently owned and operated Flax art stores throughout the country.
Sam Flax passed away in 1969 leaving his three sons with the business and to pass on his legacy. In 2003 the Flax legacy was passed on to a new management team, bringing fresh and additional creative ideas to the business.
Even today, we often hear how Sam Flax helped both suppliers and his customers get started in their careers and professions by selling them their first art set or by providing a vendor with his first order.
Sam Flax Stores has been recognized by many as innovators specializing in offering upscale, high design, quality products. Our inventory has expanded, grown, and defied categorization over the years in our efforts to bring you the best products and creative services available.
Our future plans include continuing to expand our furniture, framing and presentation lines into custom branding and unparalleled selection.

Flagship Store - Midtown
900 Third Avenue
(between 54th & 55th Streets)
New York, NY 10022
Telephone: (212) 813-6666 Ext. 108
Fax: (212) 813-6660

www.samflaxny.com