Best Shops For Crafting In Chicago
While you can find the same big-box arts and craft stores found in every major city in Chicago as well, there are also many smaller neighborhood craft shops that offer a fresh new take on the crafting business. What's special about these independent craft shops? Not only do they carry unique merchandise, but they offer superior personalized service, which draws Chicago crafters back to them time and time again.
Fishman's Fabrics
1101 S. Desplaines St.
Chicago, IL 60607
312-922-7250
http://www.fishmansfabrics.com
Do you lust after decorator fabrics not found in regular fabric stores? Are you looking for linen from Belgium, Scottish cashmeres, or luxurious leather for home décor or clothing crafting projects (all at very reasonable prices)? This fabulous fabric store, tucked away in a southside industrial park is a gem of a place for those who love textiles. It boasts a huge selection of fabric and trims. Even the downstairs remnant room is a treasure chest of goods. Staff here can answer any question about the fabric they sell, along with sage advice about your crafting projects.
Genesis Art Supply
2714 N. Western Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
773-292-2990
http://www.artsupply.com
Staffed by artists who know their paints and brushes, Genesis is not just one of the best shops for crafting in Chicago, but is a haven for great deals on crafting supplies. With a focus on fine art supplies, drafting equipment and a selection of discount art materials, this neighborhood store is very hands-on. Genesis also offers professional framing in-house.
Paper Source
232 W. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60610
312-337-0798
www.paper-source.com
This magical store is a warehouse of inspiration for those who love to work with paper or anyone who appreciates fine cards, stationery and wrapping paper. The store's specialty, of course, is paper for crafting projects. The wide variety of paper (sold by the sheet) comes in a range of colors, inks, patterns, finishes and weights. Best of all, Paper Source is a great place to take crafting classes to figure out what to do with all that paper you purchase. You can also find crafting items such as stamps, embellishments and books to provide plenty of inspiration once you leave the store.
Windy City Scrapbooking
22655 N. Clybourn Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
773-935-0585
http://www.windycityscrapbooking.com
The scrapbooking craze has taken over the crafting world, and this is a great store to feed that hunger. With every type of paper, ribbon and embellishment imaginable, Windy City's stock is always changing, and seems new each time you visit. One real benefit for the working crafter is the store's late-night Friday hours (they stay open till 11 p.m.). Windy City Scrapbooking also offers a wide range of workshops and classes on the art of scrapbooking, and the staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic!
