I love a great local small business and these guys have such a great selection of cards that are unique and many are blank on the inside that you can customize. My wife loves the anniversary card i got because it stood out versus prior years of the standard looking cards read more

This establishment is a great place to pick up something unique for yourself or someone you need to impress with a thoughtful, witty, or intelligent gift. They have a great selection of unique greeting cards and Chicago related items for the home. They have inclusive branded merchandise for everyone. The store is smaller but, if you take the time to read and look at everything you may be there a while and totally enjoy it. read more

Fun shop to visit for any gift needs! They have art and cards designed by local artists as well as items like candles, mugs, jewelry, baby clothes, and more. It's great to have a store like this in the neighborhood. The folks there are always welcoming and helpful. The interior does look a little dark from the outside, so it may not be clear whether they're open or not, so they have a big sign in front when they are. read more

Paperish Mess - Lots of cards and baby goods! - Cards & Stationery Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Such a cute little shop with awesome gift opportunities made by local artists! Friendly and accommodating staff, who gave me a little background on the artist who made certain items I was interested in. Lots of fun perusing this store and a go-to anytime I need a quick gift. read more

Needed some last minute gifts and so happy I chose to check out paperish mess. I immediately wanted to buy the entire store as soon as I walked in. The store sells a bunch of items from local artists. There is such a wide variety of products and very reasonably priced. I was able to get all the gifts I needed and even picked up something for myself. Will definitely be back! read more

Great place for little gifts- candles, cards, baby clothes/toys, jewelry, beauty products. Some of it is slightly over priced, like the candles but the rest is relatively average compared to other stores. Workers are friendly and helpful. read more

This is an awesome little art boutique! Honestly, I am scared to spend all my money here. I've settled for getting all my presents for people here. Speaking of presents, they have an amazing card selection. Yes, they're $4-5 but they're from local artists and they're super cute cards. I love all the artwork they have. I'm pretty sure everything that's on display is for sale. I came last month and saw a particular kind of mug that I liked. It wasn't there today, but all I had to do was ask! They had one more left. Lucky me! read more

This is a great little shop for art! I am blown away by the quality of each and every item that they sell, as well as the beautiful artwork that they have on display. It is a wonderful local store that sells items that are made in the immediate area and has charming owners as well as accommodating and friendly staff members. This shop sells a wide variety of paper-based items, such as greeting cards and one-of-a-kind art prints. Many of the items in this shop focus on Chicago and feature eye-catching graphics that depict the city's various neighborhoods. The shop also carries a significant amount of jewelry, which is one of my favorite categories overall. Because I am so passionate about jewelry collecting, coming here is like visiting a piece of heaven for me. This store comes extremely highly recommended, and I am confident that you and your friends will enjoy shopping here. read more

I want to say hidden gem, but i'm not completely sure how 'hidden' this is. Paperish Mess is pretty much heaven in a store to me. The place features all sorts of hand made items from local Chicago artists - everything from cups to cards to journals to soap and decorations. The owners are also wood carvers and have an area in the back where they make their stuff which they also sell in the store. I live around the corner from the spot and visit frequently. It would be a crime if you didnt go at least once to see all the talent we have in this city and the works of beauty they produce. read more

I went to their opening night because I knew one of the artists that had some of his artwork showcased. I wasn't sure at first what to expect but this shop is filled with amazing stuff from local artists! Jewelry, t-shirts, bags and a ton of prints make up this shop. There is also a lot of Chicago inspired artwork and all fairly priced. 5 words best describe this place... "Put a bird on it!" And in a good way!!! read more

My initial assumption was that "Paperish Mess" was a stationery store, but the most paper-like object for sale in this shop are greeting cards and unique art prints, many of which are Chicago-centric with bold graphics depicting different neighborhoods. There is a lot of jewelry too, and if you love gold tone jewelry or items crafted from rough materials like druzy and stones, you will love Paperish Mess. I'm still thinking about a necklace I passed up in a gold geometric shape with a diamond-like stone stuck in the center. It was $32, a fair price for eclectic, hand-crafted jewelry. I got lost in a sea of solid perfumes with silly names, especially the men's scents like "Gentleman" and even one called "Douchebag," but they all smelled pretty good. One of my favorites was the female scent "Hipster" and "Socialite." This boutique is off the beaten path of many shopping meccas, but it's still worth a look for all small shop lovers. read more

This is a fantastic local store, featuring local-made items with charming owners as well -- so be sure to introduce yourself, as you'll immediately want to stop back again and again. Not only will you find the perfect gift that makes your friends say "wow, they're so thoughtful" but the wide range of cards and gift paper will add the perfect finishing touch. Every time I'm in, I also get incredibly inspired - I don't have the talent as the makers they carry, but I can dream, right? Check back often, as small-batch items will always ebb and flow and it's really exciting to see new items come in! read more

Looking for something unique? You've found your utopia. Paperish Mess is a creative person's heaven. The owners carefully curated this cornucopia of eclectic art/jewelry/candles/cards/etc on Chicago Ave that will knock your socks off with their affordability. If you love an adventure, take a trip to Paperish Mess and prepare to spend an afternoon perusing their lovely treasures. PS Keep an eye out for the ShopKitty! She's adorable! read more

Tonight is the one year anniversary of the winsome, delightful and eclectic shop: Paperish Mess. I recently discovered the store nestled snugly between some dreary buildings just east of Damen on Chicago Avenue. I walked right into my dream emporium replete with local artisans ,dreamy, handmade pieces, original art, super cool mini match boxes ( The cover is a tiny print of a book. Mine? " To Kill A Mockingbird"). What else do they sell? It's more like: What don't they sell?! I have purchased,one off, unusual, über cool cards, a super glam ring with intricate metal work and 3 stones, artwork and most recently a designer looking leather wrap bracelet with a unique gold Clasp. It was $58 and just looks super classy,elegant and rich bitch. Someone asked me if it was Hermès! I simply smiled and walked on. Oh, and you may care to know Paperish Mess is also an art gallery. I have seen ( and purchased) some very well done pieces, again, at reasonable prices. And , of course, I do not want to forget about the proprietors: Lisa & Sean. Double like. Very nice, down-to-earth, cool and genuine folks. If I could rate this store as a 10+ I definitely would do so. I highly recommend the experience. So, If you see this review before 10:00p.m. tonight ( Saturday November 9 2013) head on over to Paperish Mess to say: Happy Birthday/Anniversary. See you there! read more

Stumbled on this store when attending West Fest 2014, it was new since I had been there last. A fantastic find: local artists, creative art, affordable art! You just don't find many places with this trifecta. I had to tone myself down and only buy a few things which I promptly framed since they were perfect for the condo. Drawings, prints, canvas, repurposed art, textiles, and other wall hangings galore. Very friendly and helpful service, I need to get back soon! read more

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this store. It's a gift shop with independent crafts, prints, art, and the like--but it's a step above the rest, because the owners hand select every single item with an eye for that extra edge and unique flair. For each item I purchased, the owners could tell me exactly who the artist was or why they selected it for their store! As I was flipping through some of the prints, I saw a print that said, "What Would Barb Do?" ... and I knew I was home. I recently purchased a few prints, buttons, and a Drake magnet set (yes, Drake, like the singer...), and these gifts were the biggest hit of Christmas Eve. I'll definitely be getting my gifts from here often (and possibly also when I need my own retail R&R). read more

Three cheers to Paperish Mess for being my go-to stop to nab some really cute, locally crafted stuff (for friends but all too often for myself)! From individual or packs of cards (for a huge variety of occasions) to jewelry to artwork/prints to other Chicago-related goods, I can see why a lot of people come here for unique gifts. read more

I've never been much of an art fan. Like, if you're sad, just tell me you're sad. Don't go through all this rigmarole where you're splotching paint on canvas and forcing me to interpret your feelings (and pay for it no less). "The drops of paint represent my tears." Boo hoo! But I found my way into this place. I'm finding it hard to accurately describe the place. Their website says "art gallery / handmade wares" and I think that's about as good as it gets. They have some wonderful photos of Chicago and beyond, colorful paintings, unique jewelry, cards, "artisan" soaps, clocks made out of books, t-shirts, flasks, masks, and the list keeps going. The owners, Sean and Lisa, are just delightful. They are genuinely excited about the stuff they sell and the people who make them. Lisa also makes some of the jewelry herself and Sean does woodworking. He made a lot of the display shelves & tables, and he also makes these cool record crates in a variety of finishes. Collectors of vinyl would do well to grab one or more of those; your records will look that much cooler in them. All in all I can't say a bad thing about the place. There's something for everyone at Paperish Mess and the handmade nature of most of the products gives everything a unique and personal edge. No one else is going to have a clock made from an old Bambi book. Quite a novel-ty. Get it? I'm so funny. read more

The owners are some of the most legit people I've ever met. 5 stars for being stand up bros.

It is neat to have another little shop open on Chicago Avenue. They have a great location, in the old Rotofugi gallery space. I went last week when I was dropping off fliers for DIY Trunk Show and one of the owners, Lisa, and I talked while I was browsing. There are a lot of great Chicago artists stocked here. There were some great ceramics with birds as the handles and their beaks were painted gold. I feel pretty up on Chicago's art scene and those were new to me. Lisa said they would have art shows and film screenings in the back space. Very neat addition to Chicago Avenue! read more

This is THE spot if you need cards or gifts that are unique and not your typically store bought items. They have jewelry, candles, wall hangings, cards and other items curated from local artists all around the city and midwest. I truly go here for any gifts I need; I've bought candles and wall hanging art for housewarming gifts; I buy cards for weddings and birthdays; I buy the jewelry for birthdays or holiday gifts. They sometimes participate in local "walk events" where you can tour the nearby boutiques which serve beer or wine (you can learn about those by following them on Instagram). read more

Fantastic store. Lots of interesting artwork, stationary, jewelry, etc. Perfect place to go for a gift or unique card for whatever occasion. Artwork is generally from local artists and tends to be very affordable compared to other art galleries. What makes it special are the owners. From the very first time we walked in the store, it was apparent that they were extremely friendly, genuine people, who are truly passionate about what they're doing and the art and the crafts they carry. During that first visit, we spoke for a while about all sorts of things, including our hobbies and projects we were working on during our first visit. I was surprised when I stopped by for a second time several months later, and the owner instantly recognized us and asked about how those projects had gone. I don't even get that in restaurants I visit several times a week. We live in the neighborhood and try to stop by fairly regularly to check out what's new or simply to chat. Every time, we feel just as welcome, regardless of whether we've bought something recently. read more

Cool everything and awesome owners! My go to spot for the holidays and neat gifts. And they have performances in the back from what I understand. read more

My go to place for unique cards and gifts. Such a friendly, welcoming environment. Pet friendly-they have dog treats for the pooches!

Finally made it here last night for an opening and I have to say that Paperish Mess is just what the neighborhood needs! What you'll find inside is a wide variety of art, t-shirts, jewelry -- lots of it from Chicago artists. It's definitely worth a regular browse. read more

Really wonderfully curated shop. They sell some unique and truly beautiful items (jewelry, candles, cards, art etc) great vibe and great service. They owner was knowledgeable and friendly.. wish I could take this shop home with me! read more

This shop is so awesome. I popped in on my birthday with my boyfriend who is definitely NOT the artsy type. He tends to find a lot of galleries highly pretentious, but we both ADORED this shop, we probably spent an hour or so in the space just touching and looking at everything even though the store isn't that big. It's an awesome mix of local, curated products from candles to t-shirts to jewelry and screen-printed artwork in between. So lovely, the guy working the counter said that the store does candle-making workshops which I DEFINITELY have to check out. Wander around this place!!! read more

A great little shop. They hold art showcases and events to support local artists and bring in prints and work from smaller names in other cities. I never feel like I've wasted time when I spend 20-30 minutes perusing this tiny shop. Fun jewelry and gifts. Some great artwork and prints and a handful size selection of cards -but a good selection. My favorite little gift shop in the city for sure. read more

While visiting a friend in Chicago, I stumbled upon Paperish Mess which turned out to be the best shop during my first visit to the city. It was Monday, so the store was closed, but luckily the owner was working inside and let us shop! I found amazing art prints by local designers, one of a kind letter press cards and even a gift for my boyfriend. What a great shop! Unfortunately I left Chicago the same day, but the owner let us know that they put on art shows. I will be back! read more

Cute local place to pick up great presents for loved ones. Most things are local and or hand made. The lady that works at the front desk is always pleasent and helpful. read more

NEW FAVORITE MISC ITEMS STORE! This place was amazing and really friendly! I found a ton of things I wanted to buy and the staff was amazing! If you're looking for a truly unique and interesting gift or new item for your home or new jewelry or heck, almost anything, come and check this place out. But be forewarned: be prepare to spend money because I feel like I can almost guarantee that you will find something you want! read more

This place was amazing. I am one of those lame people that didn't actually buy anything during my first trip there. But it's on my radar as a spot that I must purchase things from. I worked at Sprout Home right around the corner for years, and well.. I'm very happy to see something else really great, retail wise, come into the neighborhood. Why not 5 stars... who gives 5 stars? This place is full of really rad Chicago based creations. Do yourself a favor, and leave your dumb trixie shops in the past, and give these upstarts some love. read more

I rarely give ratings but when I do, it's exclusively for 5 star establishments, which this is. This is a beautiful shop full of beautiful things run by beautiful people. If you're in Chicago and want to find some great local art or just a gift for a friend, go here. read more

Awesome, friendly gift and card shop and gallery. Staff is friendly, and they allow dogs. I try to buy all my cards here to support local business (the shop itself and their locally designed cards) and also to browse the jewelry reminiscent of street festivals, darling housewares, Chicago-themed goodies and local artwork. I recently purchased a fantastic 24x24 print of Darth Vader popping a pink bubblegum for a wedding gift -- although it did stink that they had no bags its size to protect it, because I immediately put a small crease in it when I stepped outside into the wind. Regardless, people went bananas when I went to get it framed. It's a great find. I also got my Hulk-obsessed buddy a Hulk flask. There is truly something for everyone here (and too much I love... it's hard not to buy everything!). read more

this store is super super awesome! i love that it displays a hoard of Chicago artists. i think i can relate this store to Two Sided in Lakeview, but i like this store a little better. it has more of a home made feel to it. and the artwork is VERY reasonable, so much so that some pieces are only 5$ also a LOT of gift ideas here too. 5 words to describe this place ... "super cool fun STOP BY!" read more

Yeah, I'm a fan!!! This place is so unique. I wish I could take everything home with me.

Wonderful place. I've been 5+ times for last minute gifts/cards and, without fail, I've found something awesome. They play some pretty great music too! read more

I love this place! The owners are just great people with a passion for local art and culture, and their selection is perfectly curated. This is the go-to spot for gift shopping for the hipster/artist/indie-lover in your life. read more