While exploring the Garfield Park area, I used Yelp to help find this cool and unique boutique filled with old books and re-purposed items turned into note/sketch pads.
Located just across the street from the Garfield Park entrance on Shelby, I was able to street park right in front of the store. The woman who owns/runs the shop was setting out her daily pink balloons to help customers find the shop.
Inside, the space is very small and has this nostalgic/vintage feeling to it. There are lots of books that are over 100 years old and quite a few with Indiana ties.
But what really caught my attention was the supply of crafted notepads. There were some spiral ringed pads that had old book covers. Others that were larger may be used as sketch pads with old album covers trimmed to fit the pages. Mini sized notepads were also available. Some are lined, while others are just blank sheets. Each had an elastic strap affixed to keep the pad closed. I found one of the mid-sized ones with a hard cover showing some vintage fashion. I have a pre-teen granddaughter that loves to design clothes and sew as well as draw/paint. I thought a fashion covered pad would be a unique gift for Christmas. Not too expensive, so it could be a stocking stuffer (although it might be just a bit too wide.)
The owner was very welcoming and personable and let me browse without making me feel watched over. But as soon as I was ready, she stopped her other duties and made sure I didn't have to wait.
Now, I will have to check in from time to time to see if I can find something for my other granddaughter.
The place is small and though they had a nice representation of each sized item, space limits them to being able to have something for everyone. So, you just have to know what your tastes are and keep an open mind. I found the place to be quite unique and an enjoyable place to browse.
Review #3306 read more