When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Paper Source
Why Paper Source is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Paper Source stands out as a premier destination for anyone looking to gather with friends in a vibrant, creative environment. Founded in 1983 in Chicago, it has evolved into a specialty retailer offering a curated selection of fine and artisanal papers, custom invitations and announcements, personalized stationery, gifts, party supplies, and unique paper craft kits. The stores are designed to inspire creativity and celebration, featuring bright, welcoming spaces filled with beautiful, high-quality materials that spark imagination. Whether you're planning a party, creating personalized cards, or simply searching for a special gift, Paper Source offers diverse products that appeal to creative minds of all ages. Additionally, many locations provide in-store workshops that foster hands-on group experiences, making it an excellent spot to meet friends for creative projects. The brand's aesthetic embraces craftsmanship and artistry, making each visit both enjoyable and inspiring. The Chicago-based headquarters fuels its national presence by driving brand consistency and product innovation, ensuring customers have access to fresh, unique offerings throughout the country.
Here's what people think of Paper Source
As of recent, Paper Source holds a 4.5-star rating based on 143 reviews.
Customer reviews for Paper Source reflect a strong appreciation for its wide assortment of quality stationary and gift products as well as its inspiring creative environment. Many reviewers praised the helpful and knowledgeable staff who enhance the shopping experience through personalized recommendations and outstanding customer service. Positive feedback often highlights the unique and elegant designs available, alongside the fun and engaging workshops that encourage creativity and community. On the downside, some customers mention occasional issues such as limited stock on popular items, pricing that can be on the higher side, and some inconsistencies in service depending on location. A few point out challenges experienced during the company's restructuring period, but overall most reviews affirm that Paper Source remains a beloved destination for those looking to embrace creativity and meaningful connections through paper crafts and gifts. In conclusion, the majority of feedback underscores Paper Source's success in cultivating a welcoming, artistic environment that makes it a great place to meet friends and celebrate life's special moments.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Skyler Vasquez
Soooo many cool things here, so make sure you have time to browse! They also have gifts and fun little items for presents. My favorite was the handmade paper, which was actually fairly priced! Between $7-9 for very large sheets! They also had tons of stickers, washi tape, blank cards and envelopes, wrapping paper, etc. Great place for art journaling materials!
Steven Oates
Nice shop with lots of souvenirs relative to Texas and Austin. I wanted to get some stickers to take home, found some really nice ones but they were $5-6 each! Quite a pricey shop but really nice inventory. Friendly staff
Margaret Denena
They were so helpful & had exactly the right refill for my pen. They’re the only place in Austin to have it
G Garrett
What an amazing little shop. We were greeted upon entry. Everything was laid out neatly, allowing for easy shopping. This store has crafting items that I have never seen before. I enjoyed browsing the selections. The lady who checked us out was very friendly and communicative. I would definitely visit this store again if I am in the area.
Vanessa Zavala
I love paper source, the store is amazing! However, my experience there on Sunday March 3rd was so unnecessary? My boyfriend and I are looking around and we have a bag from Whole Foods since we had just shopped there and my tote bag which is small. If there was a bag policy, I’m sure one of the ladies would’ve told me but none did. We check out and are about to leave, an older lady with short black hair and a blue button up asks if we put away an item that we were going to get (we didn’t after all and my boyfriend placed it back where it was) and I was just left dumbfounded because what was she trying to insinuate??? Not to mention she was hostile the whole time, didn’t seem like she wanted to be there, and was following my bf and I around the store. 0/10 experience.
How to reach Paper Source
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Website: None
Why Paper Source may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Paper Source with your friends? Paper Source is an ideal destination for gathering friends or family who appreciate creativity, personal expression, and thoughtful celebration. More than just a stationery store, it offers a vibrant, hands-on experience where you can explore exquisite papers and craft supplies, personalize invitations, or even join in workshops that inspire making something unique together. The ambiance of Paper Source encourages connection and creativity, making it perfect for groups who want to share in the joy of crafting personalized greetings, gifts, or event decor. Whether you’re planning a party, a wedding, or just want to create memorable handmade cards or scrapbooks with friends, this store provides all the materials and expert guidance needed. The combination of beautiful merchandise, creative potential, and welcoming, helpful staff turns a simple outing into an engaging and memorable social experience.
What activities can you enjoy at Paper Source? At Paper Source, groups can dive into a variety of creative activities that suit all skill levels and occasions. You can browse their extensive collection of fine paper in unique textures, patterns, and colors, perfect for making custom cards, invitations, or gift wrap. For those interested in crafting, Paper Source offers kits for scrapbooking, paper crafts, and DIY projects that allow everyone to participate regardless of experience. The store regularly hosts in-person workshops where you and your friends can learn new techniques for card making, calligraphy, and paper crafting under the guidance of expert instructors, making it a perfect group activity. Additionally, you can personalize notecards, stamps, and stationery items, which can be great for commemorating special events or just crafting personal keepsakes. The wide variety of supplies and projects means there is something to inspire everyone in the group.
Why is Paper Source a perfect place for group meetups? The environment at Paper Source is designed to foster creativity and collaboration, making it an excellent venue for meetups. The spacious and thoughtfully curated retail space allows groups to browse and create without feeling cramped, encouraging mingling and sharing of ideas. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, often ready to help groups navigate any craft project or event planning challenge, which creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for social gatherings focused on creativity. Being able to handle beautiful papers and unique craft materials in person adds a tactile and sensory dimension that can't be matched by online shopping, enhancing the overall experience for a group. Moreover, Paper Source’s hours, usually extending into the evening, provide flexible timing for meetups after work or on weekends, accommodating diverse schedules.
How does Paper Source support events and celebrations? Paper Source specializes in providing décor and paper goods that help make events truly special, which naturally appeals to groups planning weddings, birthdays, showers, or holiday gatherings. Their exclusive invitation designs and custom printing services allow you to create personalized announcements and save-the-dates that impress guests. For parties, they offer vibrant gift wraps, colorful tissue papers, ribbons, and party supplies that transform any event into a celebration. Groups can collaborate on creating unique party favors or custom stationery to add a personal touch to their celebrations. Moreover, the attention to detail that Paper Source encourages in its products elevates even simple gatherings into memorable experiences. The staff will help you select or design coordinating materials to fit your theme or style, making event preparation a fun group activity.
What makes the Paper Source shopping experience unique? Unlike typical retail stores, Paper Source offers a multisensory shopping experience that emphasizes inspiration and hands-on creativity. The walls are lined with beautiful fine papers sourced worldwide, allowing customers to see and feel their options firsthand. This tactile experience stimulates ideas and helps groups envision how paper goods can enhance their own creative projects or celebrations. The availability of exclusive designs and a broad color palette means your group can find something truly distinctive to work with. Paper Source’s commitment to craftsmanship appeals to those who value artistry and personalized expression, setting it apart from generic office supply or gift stores. This unique offering fosters a strong sense of community among shoppers who share a love of creativity and quality.
How accessible and convenient is Paper Source for group visits? Paper Source stores are commonly located in popular shopping centers with convenient parking options, making it easy for groups to meet up without hassle. Their stores generally have extended hours, including weekends and some evenings, providing flexibility for scheduling meetups around work or school commitments. The layout of the stores encourages easy navigation for groups, featuring organized sections that highlight paper, crafting supplies, gift items, and personalized services. Additionally, Paper Source has multiple locations nationwide, so whether your group is local or traveling, you can find a store relatively close by. If you want to plan a meetup with minimal logistical stress, Paper Source’s accessibility and customer-focused service make it a dependable choice.
Why are Paper Source’s workshops a great group activity? The workshops offered at Paper Source cater perfectly to groups looking for a creative outing with a purpose. These sessions provide hands-on instruction in crafting techniques such as card making, envelope art, calligraphy, and scrapbooking, which appeal to both beginners and seasoned crafters. Participating in these workshops with friends fosters collaboration, conversation, and shared accomplishment, turning crafting into a social event rather than a solo task. Additionally, the workshops often coincide with seasonal themes or holidays, giving groups timely inspiration to make gifts or décor. These educational experiences increase confidence and skill, meaning your group leaves not only with beautiful handmade items but also with new knowledge and bonding memories.
What kind of products can groups explore together at Paper Source? Paper Source offers a diverse product range that caters perfectly to groups with varied interests. You can explore fine papers in numerous styles and finishes, including textured, metallic, and patterned sheets that are perfect for crafting or event design. Their greeting card section offers an exclusive selection of artistic and stylish cards suitable for many occasions. The store also features a range of gift wrap, ribbons, gift bags, and tags to complement any present beautifully. Craft kits and scrapbooking supplies encourage group creativity with easy-to-follow projects. Plus, personalized stationery items such as address labels, custom stamps, and embossers allow groups to create truly unique keepsakes or gifts. This variety ensures every member of your group finds something to enjoy and inspires collective creativity.
How does Paper Source’s customer service enhance the group experience? The knowledgeable and approachable staff at Paper Source play a crucial role in making group visits memorable and effective. They offer expert guidance on projects, helping you choose the right paper, tools, or customization options suited to your needs. For event planners or large group projects, staff members assist in coordinating orders and selecting complementary items for a cohesive look. Their enthusiasm for creativity encourages groups to try new ideas and helps troubleshoot any crafting challenges on the spot. This level of personalized service ensures your group can focus on enjoying the experience and making meaningful creations without frustration or confusion.
Why is Paper Source a smart choice for hosting family meetups? Beyond friends, Paper Source is also excellent for family gatherings, especially those looking to bond over a shared creative activity. Kids and adults alike can enjoy selecting materials for personalized cards or scrapbooks, making it a fun, educational outing that strengthens family ties. The store’s focus on creativity and hands-on projects makes it easy to engage multiple generations, from grandparents to young children. Hosting a family meetup here can also inspire collaboration on creating custom gifts or decorations for upcoming family celebrations. The relaxed pace and welcoming environment provide a pleasant setting for quality family time centered around artistic expression.
What creative possibilities await groups at Paper Source? The creative potential at Paper Source is virtually limitless, encouraging groups to explore new artistic paths together. You can design custom invitations or event decor that reflect your group’s unique style. Scrapbooking kits and supplies make it easy to preserve shared memories with beautiful artistry. DIY projects such as making your own greeting cards, gift boxes, or party favors open new avenues for hands-on fun. Access to specialty papers and crafting tools unlocks new textures and techniques, helping your group produce sophisticated and personalized creations. This breadth of creative possibilities makes every visit unique and inspires repeated gatherings to discover fresh ideas and projects.
In summary, Paper Source is a highly rated, versatile destination that offers much more than stationery. Its broad assortment of fine papers, customizable invitations, artful gifts, and crafting supplies paired with engaging workshops and supportive staff make it an irresistible choice for group meetups. Whether you gather with friends or family, Paper Source provides a stimulating and welcoming environment that transforms ordinary social visits into memorable creative experiences. The combination of personalized service, abundant materials, and inspiring activities ensures every visit is fulfilling and enjoyable for all skill levels and interests. Hosting your next meetup at Paper Source means rallying around shared creativity and making lasting memories together.