Which is cheaper buying in a department store like Wall... or buying school materials from specialized store?

Question

Title says it all

Answer 1

I found things usually cheaper in the big stores. They buy in bulk and pass the saving on.

Answer 2

Discount stores, like Wal-Mart, are usually cheaper.  But not always.  Because of the "perception" is that their prices are lower, they can charge more than the competitor on some items and get away with it.  

Watch for sales in your area.  Then if you have a Wal-Mart near a shopping center, you can check out several stores in one trip.