Used art supply store helps save money and the environment
Spare Parts, Center for Creative Reuse is an art store with a twist.
All of their inventory, from the beads to the paint brushes has had a previous owner.
"Everything is preloved, yes," said Spare Parts Founder Mary Elizabeth Cantu. "We take what people might not want anymore, want to throw away, and we bring them back into the creative world."
Here you can find just about anything from yarn to glue, markers and books.
"Almost anything you can think of that's arts and creative related, including office supplies," said Cantu.
Since everything at the store is donated, their inventory is constantly changing. That's why shopping there is kind of like a treasure hunt. You never know what you're going to find.
If you're a teacher or just want to make something pretty, they've got you covered.
"And also parents that have kids at home and don't know what to do on a weekend or after school, we're here for those folks as well," said Cantu.
The store aims to help people save some cash and to keep waste to a minimum.
"We've probably saved about a ton's worth of materials from going to the landfill since we opened last month," she said.
Because of the pandemic, the actual store front just off Wetmore near the airport is closed for now.
Until they open, Mary says you can shop online.
