When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The WasteShed
Why The WasteShed is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The WasteShed is a unique and inspiring creative reuse center located in Chicago, dedicated to promoting sustainability through the repurposing of art, school, and office supplies. Since opening in 2014 in Humboldt Park, it has become a vital community resource for artists, teachers, and creative individuals seeking affordable, high-quality materials. The WasteShed collects gently used supplies that would otherwise be discarded and makes them accessible at low prices or even freely available to educators, fostering creativity while reducing waste. By diverting an average of 50 tons of materials annually from landfills and returning items valued at nearly half a million dollars to the community each year, it exemplifies an impactful circular economy model. Visitors and customers are drawn not only by the extensive inventory of reusable art and craft materials but also by the organization’s strong mission to engage the public in sustainability and environmental awareness. The WasteShed supports hands-on learning and DIY projects, making it an excellent meeting spot for friends, colleagues, and community groups interested in arts, education, and responsible consumption. Its welcoming storefronts and community programs invite collaborative creativity and provide practical resources for educators and artists alike (1)(3)(5).
Here's what people think of The WasteShed
As of recent, The WasteShed holds a 4.8-star rating based on 192 reviews.
User reviews of The WasteShed overwhelmingly praise its role as a pivotal resource for affordable, eco-friendly art and school supplies in Chicago, reflected in its high 4.8-star rating across nearly 200 reviews. Patrons appreciate the extensive selection of materials that enable creative projects while promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability. Positive reviews frequently highlight the helpful and passionate staff who provide excellent service and support, the excellent condition of reused supplies, and the organization’s positive community impact by keeping tons of materials out of landfills each year. Many reviewers commend The WasteShed’s educational contributions and note the joy of finding high-quality, affordable materials that make art accessible to all. Negative reviews are rare but sometimes mention limited inventory of very specific items or occasional organizational clutter due to the nature of donated materials. However, these critiques are generally minor and do not detract from the overall positive experience. In conclusion, customer sentiment firmly establishes The WasteShed as a beloved and trusted community hub for sustainability-minded creatives, educators, and environmentally conscious consumers (1)(2)(3)(5).
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Meghan Killinger
I am so thankful for places like this!! As a teacher, these places are essential especially in current times as costs are increasing and funding is decreasing. The staff was friendly and helpful. Plenty of essential supplies available such as pens pencils sticky notes paper and binders for low prices and/or free. Definitely check it out!
Holly Tumbarello
Absolutely amazing craft store! They have almost everything you need for crafts at incredibly low prices. It’s a fun and unique store with new items coming in often. Worth stopping by!
Angela Pauldine
Life hack: Come here to get cards and stationary for super cheap! You never have to buy a $10+ dollar card for someone's birthday or holiday ever again! Love everything about The WasteShed. Love that it exists. We need more reclaimed materials stores. The WasteShed is the future!
Leslie Malave
Amazing low prices for any supplies needed for school, art supplies, school needs, and etc. teachers get a discount on supplies! You never know what treasures you'll find A recommended place on a budget You can also donate supplies you no longer use or wish to get rid of! They have another location in Skokie as well!
Catherine “Cate” Sauer
I like their mission, and the focus on using recycling art/craft materials. They are also focused on volunteer safety with masks which is a win. But sometimes I get annoyed with random pricing of items. Such as small acrylic or block print paint being $6+ for a used container.
How to reach The WasteShed
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Website: None
Why The WasteShed may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The WasteShed with your friends? Because it offers a unique gathering spot unlike any traditional venue, blending creativity, sustainability, and community in one vibrant space. Whether your group consists of artists, educators, environmental enthusiasts, or simply people looking for a fun and meaningful experience, The WasteShed invites you to immerse yourselves in a world where discarded materials are transformed into new possibilities. It’s not just a store—it's a nonprofit creative reuse center dedicated to reducing waste by repurposing a vast array of art supplies, school materials, and more. This mission creates a powerful shared purpose for groups rallying together here, as you collaborate and connect while exploring colorful, tactile treasures. The lively, organized chaos of the space sparks inspiration and conversation, making it a perfect venue for fostering creativity and sustainability-minded fun with friends or family. Additionally, its welcoming and accessible atmosphere ensures everyone—from casual crafters to professional artists—feels at home, making every visit a special occasion worth sharing in community.
What activities are available at The WasteShed? The WasteShed is essentially a creative playground stocked with an astonishingly diverse selection of materials sourced from overstock, donations, and surplus that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. Visitors can browse through bins, shelves, and sections filled with art supplies, craft materials, and educational resources—all at deeply discounted prices or even free in some cases for educators and nonprofits. The act of exploring and discovering rare and unusual items itself becomes a joyful group activity, encouraging participants to think inventively about how to reuse and reimagine materials. The space also supports DIY projects and workshops where groups can engage in collaborative art and craft-making sessions. Such hands-on experiences not only deepen bonds but also encourage environmental stewardship through art. Teachers and social workers appreciate the generous discounts and free materials available, making it an excellent destination for groups involved in education or community services to stock up or get inspired together.
Why is The WasteShed perfect for a group meetup? Several factors contribute to its appeal as a group destination. First, the store’s vibrant, visually stimulating environment, accented by playful elements like the famous “party casket” filled with plastic balls, energizes visitors and encourages spontaneous creative thinking and playful interaction among friends or family. The variety of materials means groups can tailor their meetup to shared interests—whether it’s scrapbooking, model making, mixed media art, costume design, or simply gathering ideas for larger projects. As a nonprofit with an eco-conscious mission, The WasteShed offers an added layer of meaning to your meetup: by shopping and creating here, you’re actively participating in waste reduction and supporting sustainable art practices. The staff’s friendly and knowledgeable presence further facilitates a welcoming group experience, ready to assist with recommendations and project ideas. With two locations—one in Chicago’s Humboldt Park and another in Evanston—it's conveniently accessible for those in the Chicagoland area, making logistics for group outings straightforward and stress-free.
How does The WasteShed support education and community involvement? The WasteShed is much more than a retail outlet; it’s a community resource committed to supporting educators, therapists, homeschoolers, and social workers. Recognizing the powerful role art plays in communication and learning, it offers a 25% discount to teachers and maintains a section of free materials for those working in educational or therapeutic fields. This encourages groups connected through schools or community organizations to plan meetups here where they can collaboratively gather supplies and ideas for integrating creative reuse into their programs. The nonprofit regularly involves volunteers, including high school students earning service hours, which means your group could even engage with local youth or participate in meaningful volunteer activities in addition to shopping. This sense of community involvement transforms meetups into meaningful experiences that extend beyond simple socializing to contribute to a collective mission of sustainability and creativity.
What makes The WasteShed’s atmosphere and setting ideal for creativity and connection? From the moment visitors step through its vividly painted purple entrance, The WasteShed immerses them in an environment designed to spark imagination. The space, described as a "wonderland of color" and a "tactile smorgasbord," features a lively array of materials that stimulate all senses. This physical setting encourages exploration and playful discovery, which is ideal for groups looking to bond through shared creative pursuits. The casual, open layout invites group members to wander together, exchange ideas, and inspire each other spontaneously. Whether you’re discovering quirky objects salvaged from television props or sorting through bins of repurposed supplies, the space’s curated chaos fosters an atmosphere of joyful experimentation. Additionally, being part of a nonprofit affiliated with Evanston Rebuilding Warehouse underscores the commitment to creative reuse in a broader community context, enhancing the feeling that your meetup is part of a larger positive impact.
How accessible and welcoming is The WasteShed for groups with diverse needs? The WasteShed places strong emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for groups with a variety of ages, backgrounds, and creative abilities. Its pricing model ensures that art and educational materials are affordable or free for those who qualify, reducing financial barriers to participation. The staff is experienced in helping visitors navigate the vast offerings and can support groups in finding supplies suited to different project scales and skill levels. This makes The WasteShed especially accommodating for multi-generational gatherings, families with children, or groups that include both amateur hobbyists and seasoned artists. The bright, open space is inviting and non-intimidating, ideal for those who may be new to arts and crafts or eco-friendly initiatives. Whether your meetup has an educational focus, a hobbyist vibe, or simply a casual social experience, you’ll find The WasteShed supportive and encouraging.
What makes visiting The WasteShed a sustainable choice for your group outing? Choosing The WasteShed as a gathering place underscores your group’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The entire operation centers on diverting surplus and used materials from landfills by giving them a second life as art and classroom supplies. By shopping or participating in workshops here, your group is actively contributing to waste reduction. This sustainability focus sets The WasteShed apart from typical meetups, adding deeper significance to the time spent together. It also serves as a tangible example of how creative reuse can reduce environmental footprint, a lesson that your group can carry beyond the visit into everyday life. Supporting a local nonprofit focused on sustainable practices also means your group helps foster community resilience and stewardship, making the outing memorable on multiple levels.
How do the locations and operating hours enhance group planning and convenience? The WasteShed has two accessible locations: one in Chicago at 1754 N. Kimball Avenue and another in Evanston at 1245 Hartrey Avenue. Both are open from Wednesday through Sunday, between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., offering ample opportunities during the week and on weekends for group visits. This scheduling flexibility helps accommodate different group calendars, whether for weekend family meetups or weekday educational outings. The physical locations are easily reachable by public transit or car, with parking options nearby, making arrival hassle-free. These conveniences allow groups to maximize quality time together without the stress of complicated logistics. The welcoming staff at both locations also helps groups organize their visit, whether advising on material selection or helping plan workshops, making coordinating your outing simple and enjoyable.
Why do reviewers rate The WasteShed so highly? The WasteShed boasts a remarkable 4.8-star rating from nearly 200 reviews, reflecting widespread appreciation among visitors. Many highlight the store’s exceptional variety of repurposed materials, the affordability it offers, and the inspiring atmosphere that fuels creativity. Customers often mention how the staff’s enthusiasm and knowledge create a warm, supportive environment. Frequent visitors praise how The WasteShed has become a cherished part of the community, not just a store but a creative hub where friendships grow and ideas flourish. The nonprofit’s impact on sustainability and education also earns gratitude and admiration, making The WasteShed a beloved destination for groups eager to combine fun with purpose. This strong positive feedback reassures any group looking for a memorable and meaningful meetup destination.