About Graphics Direct
As a customer-focused UK Family Business, we’re here to make sure you get exactly what you need with a personal touch. When you contact us,
you can speak directly with knowledgeable team members who are ready to answer questions and offer honest, impartial advice. Our team is committed to helping you find the most suitable products, whether you’re looking for Pantone Guides, Foam Board, drawing boards, technical pens, airbrushes, or studio spray booths.
Founded in 1998, graphicsdirect.co.uk is a proud British, family-owned business dedicated to offering high-quality brand-name graphics supplies at affordable prices. Originally established to support students with essential tools, our reputation has grown, and we’re now a trusted supplier to renowned companies, Universities, and design institutions across the UK. Our clients include University of the Arts London, RSHP Architects, WPP, Hallmark Cards PLC, Unilever, Coca Cola, MCU Studios, Pinewood Studios, Aardman, Cambridge University, Northumbria University and Central St Martins College, among many others.
Our extensive online store provides a wide range of
products, from presentation portfolios and foam boards to drawing equipment and adhesives. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, founders Chris Booth and Paul Hawkridge have built Graphics Direct on the foundation of exceptional customer service, ensuring you receive quality products with great value for money.
Shop securely with us for all your Graphic Art and technical drawing supply needs — whether for professional projects, Education or personal. At
Graphics Direct, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
GraphicsDirect.co.uk is part of GDL Supplies Ltd.
Meet our team
Chris Booth
Director
Chris is one of the founders of Graphics Direct and brings over 35 years of experience in the Graphic Art industry. His career began at Simair Graphics before he launched Graphics Direct in 1998.
Chris is known for his dedication to customer satisfaction, always eager to connect with clients and help them find the perfect products for their needs. A firm believer in supporting small British businesses, Chris values a personal approach, ensuring customers can always speak to a knowledgeable team member.
Outside of work, Chris is a passionate sports enthusiast, with a particular love for golf and rugby (though he’s now a spectator of the latter). A proud family man, he has two grown children, one of whom, Grace, works alongside him in the marketing and social media department of the business.
Paul Hawkridge
Director
Paul Hawkridge joined Graphics Direct in 1999, when the business was in its infancy. As a former customer and seasoned professional in the exhibition industry with 12 years of experience, Paul saw an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing company—and he’s been a key player in its success ever since. With a sharp eye on logistics, Paul also oversees website management, email marketing, and keeps a close watch on industry trends and competitors, helping Graphics Direct stay a step ahead.
Outside of work, Paul embraces the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales with his young family. He spends his free time cycling, walking, and making the most of quality family moments in the great outdoors.
Paul Dawson
Product Manager
With over 20 years of experience at Graphics Direct, Paul Dawson is a cornerstone of our team. As the head of product buying, Paul has an impressive knowledge of our entire range, particularly airbrushes, spray booths, and other technical products. His expertise ensures we always have the best options available for our customers.
Paul’s dedication goes beyond his professional role—he’s a devoted family man, proud father, and grandfather to three, who loves spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren. Known for his great sense of humour, Paul is always keeping the office lively and his colleagues on their toes.
Grace Booth
Online Marketing Manager
Grace Booth joined Graphics Direct as a fresh-faced apprentice at just 16, diving straight into the world of online marketing and social media. Over her two-year apprenticeship, she honed her skills and quickly qualified in her field. Now, five years on, Grace manages the online marketing for Graphics Direct, driving our digital presence and connecting with customers through various platforms.
Outside the office, Grace has a passion for horses and is an accomplished show jumper. She finds joy in the countryside, where she spends her free time outdoors, fully embracing her love for nature and adventure.
Graphics Direct doing good for the Environment
Conscious of the ever-growing impact of climate change and our own carbon footprint on the environment we have made a commitment to offset our carbon emissions by planting a tree for every order over £100. There’s a real feel good factor to this scheme and we are excited to offer it to all our valued customers.
Together we can make a change - so far we've planted over 5000 trees!
What our customers are saying
Performed better than Amazon.
Easy to order and the delivery was fast. The goods that I ordered were much cheaper than on Amazon so from now on your have my custom.
Very speed dispatch and amazingly packaged items.
I can't recommend Graphics Direct enough. The most painless experience I've had when ordering online and will absolutely be ordering from them again!
Love my buying experience from this site.
Great range, fabulous packing, fast posting. Already looking at next purchase... thank you.
I have used Graphics Direct for many years.
They are very professional and I would highly recommend them to anyone who wants to purchase good quality products at realistic prices.