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Made In Chicago: Brew Camp

CHICAGO (CBS) -- To some, there's nothing like a cold beer, but what if you could brew your own?

Inside the new Brew Camp, 2039 W. Belle Plaine Ave. in the North Center neighborhood, you can.

"We didn't realize what a big deal beer is right now," said Camp Director and co-owner Jared Saunders.

"It's much more affordable to brew your own than go out and buy a six pack of good craft beer," he said.

Saunders says he's always been an amateur brewer..now, he wants to share his knowledge with others.

"I lived in Utah so we had to either go out of state to get good beer, or we had to figure out to make our own. In college I learned how to brew from friends and I've been doing it every since," said Saunders.

Inside the small store, you can find over 30 types of bulk grains and plenty of flavors to wet your pallet.

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"We have Black Lager, Dunkelweizen, German Oktoberfest Imperial, Blonde Ale. The most popular is the India Pale Ale," Saunders said.

There are four steps to brewing. "Boil, ferment, bottle and enjoy," added Saunders.

A little malt, hops, yeast and water, and you've got your own brew. From pot to bottle, 5 gallons takes about a month to create.

Saunders says the practice is becoming more and more popular and there's just something about making it yourself.

"Something even better about handing someone a beer that you made. It's so cool. It's something people want to share," said Saunders.

Brew Camp has only been open for a month but it's already creating quite a buzz.

"We've been welcomed with open arms to the neighborhood. It's been amazing. We hope to be doing this for a long time," Saunders said.

Free classes on Saturdays give you hands on experience on how to be your own brewmaster.

For more information you can call (888) 898-BREW or find them on the web at brewcamp.com or email at cheers@brewcamp.com.

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