Gently used stuff gets a bad rap. But if you’re starting a new hobby, like painting or sewing, you’ll quickly discover that supplies can get expensive…fast. So skip the big box stores and check out places that offer recycled items. You might just discover amazing novels, brand-new art materials, beautiful jewelry at an antique outlet, or quirky goods at these places for recycled supplies in Chicago.
The WasteShed
2842 W Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL
Can one person’s trash be another person’s inspiration? Indeed. This magical reuse center in Lakeview provides Chicago with repurposed art, craft, and school supplies. Their goal is to keep reusable materials out of landfills while stocking the community with affordable resources for creative exploration.
Ravenswood Used Books
2005 W Montrose Ave. Chicago, IL 60618
Why pay full price for novels you’ll only read once? Head to this one of the best bookshops for a massive selection of slightly used fiction and non-fiction titles in a homey setting. Once you’re done reading, return your books to share the knowledge and keep the cycle going!
Toy DeJour
2532 W Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL 60647
This Logan Square gem offers “vintage toys, arts, and farts” (they’re obviously fun). From funky Teenage Mutan Ninja Turtle enamel pins to an Official Voltron Art Show poster, there are all sorts of gently used wacky items that’ll make you feel like a kid again.
The Lazy Dog Antique Store
1903 W Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL 60657
Looking for unique oddities, antiques or collectibles? Pop into this Roscoe Village location for the ultimate treasure hunt! You could come across a recycled Coca Cola sign or a Vintage Regency Bridgerton style necklace and earrings set. At the Lazy Dog, you’re buying a piece of history and adding to its story.
Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange
2124 W. 82nd Place. Chicago, IL 60620
CCRX lives by the motto, “trash is just a failure of imagination.” This nonprofit collects and redistributes surplus materials, supplies, and equipment to keep good items out of landfills and into the hands of people who can use them. Stop by their warehouse to shop for items like science equipment, specialty hardware, and tools, office supplies, fabrics, and more!
Chicago Tool Library
1048 W 37th St Ste #102. Chicago, IL 60609
Have you ever started a home project only to realize you don’t have the right tool? Instead of hitting up Home Depot and shelling out big bucks, check the Chicago Tool Library to see if you could borrow it instead. Think of this biz as a public library. But rather than books they have shelves full of recycled tools for you to borrow. Genius, right?
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Working Bikes
2434 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60608
If you’re in the market for a perfectly good (but used) bike, consider this shop. They offer bicycles of all styles for adults and kids, along with new and used accessories. Or if you need specific bike parts, they also stock a big selection of vintage, used, and hard-to-find items.
Featured Image Credit: Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange
