I have a love-hate (mostly hate) relationship with my email in-box, but every once in a great while, I get something that reminds me of the medium’s value. That occured in early January, when a paper nerd by the name of Debra Skinner reached out. Debra wrote that she’s been a stationery lover for 10+ years — but I suspect it’s far longer, as she’s a lifelong writer of articles, blogs, speeches, and more.
This native Illinoisian — and member of the Chicago Stationery Club! — is an ardent believer in the importance of third spaces and enjoys visiting stationery stores all over the world. On her most recent stationery trek, she fell in love with Papírna Stationery and Papír Plojhar in Prague, Czech Republic, and Bomo Art in Budapest, Hungary. When she’s not touring exotic stationery locales, Debra works in health marketing analytics and enjoys journaling (to the surprise of no one), often with her beloved boxer Korra by her side.
Debra had so many fabulous ideas for posts and podcast guests, I proposed she submit a guest post. That quickly evolved into a series, Stationery Stories: The Chicago Stationery Scene — and I’m so excited to share the first today! In the series, Debra will examine the vibrant stationery community in Chicago, the role of physical stationery stores as third spaces — and the people making it all happen.
The timing couldn’t be better, as Chicago Stationery Fest is three weekends away, and I barely know what to do with myself while I’m there. Debra, take it away!
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Welcome to my very first post. In collaboration with The Paper Nerd, I’ll be bringing you deep dives into Chicago’s stationery community, insider interviews, and guides to some of the best stationery and journaling experiences the city has to offer. And what better way to start than with the ultimate paper lover’s guide to Chicago?
If you’ve been following The Paper Nerd, you probably already know of the inaugural Chicago Stationery Fest coming up in March 2025, set to be the paper-lover’s event of the year in Chicago. And if you’re anything like myself (or Sarah!), you’ve probably already snagged your tickets. But beyond Chicago Stationery Fest’s vendor booths and workshops, Chicago itself is a treasure trove of stationery gems ready to welcome all paper lovers.
So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Chicago native looking to make the most of the festival weekend, this guide has you covered. From some of the city’s best stationery stores to cozy journaling spots, here’s everything you need to know to turn Chicago Stationery Fest into an unforgettable stationery-filled getaway!
What You Need to Know
This year’s Chicago Stationery Fest takes place at Artifact Events, 4325 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60613, on March 22-23, 2025. Expect a lineup of 60+ vendors and artists, hands-on workshops, and plenty of opportunities to geek out over paper, pens, and all things analog.
Some highlights include:
- A bustling marketplace featuring brands like Paper & Pencil, King Jim, and Marigold Press.
- Limited-edition fest exclusives from independent creators.
Workshops on calligraphy, creative journaling, and letterpress printing. - Community meetups — the perfect way to connect with fellow stationery lovers.
- Access to the Stamp Rally, where attendees can collect stamps.
- The Great Chicago Stationery Swap where attendees can swap stationery items. Any leftover items will be donated to The WasteShed who will provide the materials to teachers, artists, and others who need them.
- A cozy Creative Lounge to connect with other stationery lovers and spend some time journaling or testing your new supplies.
For more information, visit the official Chicago Stationery Fest website. But as a veteran stationery fest attendee, here are some extra tips to help you make the most of the event!
- Take Advantage of Early Check-In: Many fests require you to check in for a physical ticket or lanyard, and Chicago Stationery Fest is no exception. To maximize your time, you can check in early at Paper & Pencil from 11am-6pm on March 17-21, allowing you to avoid the lines the day of the fest and head right in! See the fest Details page for more information on early check-in.
- Arrive Early if You Have a Shopping List: If you’ve been eyeing a particular product or vendor, make sure to arrive early! Popular booths and limited-edition products sell out quickly, so if you have your eye on something special, get there when doors open.
- Bring Something to Carry Your Haul: And yes, you will want to bring a tote bag — your future self will thank you when you’re not juggling washi tape and notebooks in your arms.
- Workshop Registration Required: Chicago Stationery Fest workshops are not included in the ticket price, and only Two-Day or VIP holders are eligible to attend. You must register and pay for the workshops separately, but you can view the list on the Workshops page of the fest website.
- Keep an Eye on the Meet-Up Schedule: Meet-ups at festival events are often popular and have limited space. While Chicago Stationery Fest hasn’t released the meet-up schedule yet, make sure to arrive to meet-ups early to ensure you get a spot!
- Check Store Hours Before Visiting: Finally, stores located in Chicago that are attending the Chicago Stationery Fest may not be open during the fest or may have different hours than usual; plus, they likely won’t be able to have their full inventory on display. Make sure to check their websites or social media if you really have your heart set on visiting their physical location to browse their full inventory during your time in Chicago.
Must-Visit Stationery Stores Around Chicago
While Chicago Stationery Fest will have an incredible lineup of vendors, no stationery pilgrimage is complete without visiting some of the city’s vibrant and diverse stationery, journaling, and paper shops. Although this isn’t an exhaustive list of stores, I’ve highlighted many small, independent, or family-owned businesses inspiring papyrophiliacs throughout the Chicago area. Whether you’re looking for Japanese stationery, vintage-inspired notebooks, or high-end fountain pens, these stores are all worth a visit!
Paper & Pencil (Andersonville)
Owned by husbands Tyler McCall and Eric Campbell, Paper & Pencil is not just a stationery shop — it’s the official founder of Chicago Stationery Fest and a hub for the city’s paper-loving community. This queer-owned boutique showcases a charming, colorful storefront in Andersonville, with every inch of the 400-square-foot shop packed with paper goods.
Specializing in greeting cards, journals, and an exquisite selection of pens beautifully arranged at its Pen Bar, this shop has something for every stationery aficionado. Beyond the shelves of tempting notebooks, you can also find accessories and journaling supplies such as stickers, patches, and magazines, making Paper & Pencil a can’t-miss on your visit to Chicago!
Address: 1480 W Berwyn Ave., Chicago, IL 60640
a. favorite design (Albany Park)
If you love letterpress stationery with a personality, a. favorite design in Albany Park is a treasure trove of witty, whimsical, and beautifully made greeting cards. Owner Amber Favorite operates her vintage letterpress machines in-house, creating a mix of Chicago-themed designs, nostalgic illustrations, and cheeky sayings. Their collection also includes journals, planners, gifts, and vintage finds. For those who love sending snail mail with style, this is an essential stop.
Address: 4432 N Kedzie Ave No. 101, Chicago, IL 60625
Atlas Stationers (Chicago Loop)
A true Chicago stationery institution, Atlas Stationers was established in 1939 and is still family-owned, likely serving as Chicago’s oldest, continuously-operating stationery store. Atlas has earned a reputation as one of the Midwest’s top destinations for writing supplies, offering an awe-inspiring selection of fountain pens from Sailor, Pilot, Lamy, and more, plus an array of high-quality notebooks. Atlas also has a dizzying inventory of journaling accessories, bags, specialized writing tools, washi tapes, and pretty much any other stationery you might be looking for!
One of the best things about Atlas is the test station, where you can try out different inks and paper types to find your perfect match. If you’ve ever wanted to dabble in calligraphy or brush lettering, the friendly and knowledgeable staff will happily help you choose the best tools to get started.
Address: 227 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60606
Bari Zaki Studio (North Center)
Walking into Bari Zaki Studio feels like stepping into a paper lover’s dream. This intimate bookbinding studio in the North Center neighborhood specializes in handmade journals, stationery from Japan, Germany, and England, and one-of-a-kind paper goods. Many of these high-quality stationery items can’t be found at most other stationery shops, and you’re sure to be dazzled by the unique, colorful selection. Owner Bari Zaki, a bookbinding expert, curates every item with an eye for texture, color, and craftsmanship, making this a must-visit for those who appreciate the tactile joy of well-made paper products.
Even more enticing? The workshops, where you can learn a few tricks of the trade and often bring home (or even create at home) an item handmade by you. If you have time, consider signing up for a bookbinding or envelope-making class while you’re in town, though you can also take some of the classes via Zoom.
Address: 3858 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Field Notes Headquarters (West Loop)
Although we are focusing on small businesses for this stationery lover’s visitor’s guide, we must mention that Field Notes is headquartered in Chicago!
Address: 401 N Racine Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Foursided (Multiple Locations)
With three locations in downtown Chicago, you’ll surely find an opportunity to visit Foursided, a store that celebrates paper, art, vintage finds, and gifts. Not only do they offer an excellent selection of stationery, ephemera, and artwork, many of their items are sourced from independent artists and BIPOC, female, or LGBTQIA+ creators. You’ll surely find a beautiful piece of artwork or the perfect gift (even if it’s for yourself — we won’t tell)!
Lakeview – Clark: 2958 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
Lakeview – Broadway: 2939 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657
Andersonville: 5061 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Inkling (Lake View)
A mix of home goods, paper products, vintage treasures, and independent artist prints, Inkling is an eclectic gift shop that focuses on local and indie designers. Think hand-illustrated notebooks, scentworthy candles, colorful greeting cards, and small-batch stickers that are impossible to resist. With a constantly rotating selection of products, you’ll always find something unique to add to your stationery collection.
Address: 2917 1/2 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657
Martha Mae: Art Supplies & Beautiful Things (West Town)
Primarily an art supplies store, Martha Mae’s curated collection also includes home and office stationery, writing and drawing tools, and ceramics. Their products are thoughtfully sourced from brands and artisans around the world, with a focus on environmentally friendly goods that emphasize blending high-quality performance with beautiful designs. You can find bags and card cases, writing and painting supplies, stationery, home goods, bath products, and more, not to mention creative events and watercolor workshops.
Address: 1727 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Midwest Nice (Lincoln Square)
A Chicago-based gift and retail store, Midwest Nice specializes in playful, Midwest-inspired items and offers local art and handmade goods from over 100+ Chicago area artists. Their mission includes celebrating the culture of the cities and people of the Midwest United States, acknowledging the unique stories behind each artist and piece of art. If you want to bring home a little piece of Chicago’s personality, check out their Chicago location for Midwest-themed clothing as well as stickers, stationery, jewelry, artwork, and a huge variety of other goods.
Address: 4619 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Moth (Bucktown)
Moth is a housewares, stationery, and clothing store, featuring items designed by artists from Scandinavia, Finland, and Japan. As a boutique lifestyle store, Moth’s stationery collection is second-to-none in Chicago in terms of uniqueness, and most of their stationery and other items aren’t sold anywhere else in the United States. With a focus on emerging artists, their stationery collection includes cards, stationery sets, envelopes, notebooks, washi tapes, and writing pads. If you’re looking for cute, one-of-a-kind stationery, Moth is the store for you.
Address: 2008 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Papel Arcano (Elmhurst)
New to the Chicago stationery scene but already making waves, Papel Arcano is a queer- and Latine-owned stationery store that offers more than just beautiful paper goods — it’s a creative third space. Stocking a mix of traditional journaling supplies such as planners and notebooks, Papel Arcano specializes in stationery from independent artists, LGBTQIA+ designers, and BIPOC creators, making it the perfect place to both support marginalized communities and find unique stickers, specialty planners, and hand-illustrated washi tape.
Papel Arcano’s mission includes creating a welcoming third space for creatives, complete with hand-painted murals and cozy chairs. But perhaps the biggest draw is the community journaling table, where visitors can sit, sketch, and write using free shop supplies or take part in the stationery swap station, an offering that reflects the shop’s commitment to accessibility and creativity for all.
Address: 569 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Paperish Mess (Ukrainian Village)
Part art gallery, part handmade goods, and part stationery shop, Paperish Mess showcases a stunning mix of hand-bound journals, creative sketchbooks, and small-press zines from over 200+ creators. Not only that, they also offer many products handmade by the owners of Paperish Mess, including small-batch candles, jewelry, skincare and apothecary products, and more. Located in West Town, this store is perfect for artists, journalers, and those who love unconventional or handmade goods.
Address: 1945 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Rare Form (The Twentieth) (Andersonville)
Just down the street from Paper & Pencil, Rare Form is an art deco and art nouveau concept store that combines stationery, vintage finds, and unique art, jewelry, decor, and more. Rare Form is a haven for all lovers of avant garde and maximalism, with eclectic, one-of-a-kind items on every shelf.
Not only that, but owner Emma Lewis also showcases her personally-designed in-house stationery brand The Twentieth, inspired by twentieth century imagery and art deco designs, but with a 21st century twist, often incorporating witty, empowering, feminist, or maximalist messages. At Rare Form, you’ll find beautiful, conversation-starting pieces and stationery – and probably a few chuckles at Emma’s humorous designs!
Address: 5438 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Steel Petal Press (Logan Square)
If letterpress stationery with a touch of sass is your thing, you need to visit Steel Petal Press. This Logan Square shop produces bold, funny, and sometimes NSFW greeting cards, all printed in-house using vintage presses. They also have a large selection of gifts and cards from independent designers around the country. And, for those of you who are visiting Chicago and want a unique souvenir, or even for native Chicagoans who love the city they call home, many designs and gifts are inspired by or feature the city of Chicago, including vintage style postcards or Chicago-themed coasters and glasses.
Address: 2321 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Topdrawer (Multiple Locations)
If you love stylish and practical stationery, Topdrawer is the place for you. While Topdrawer is technically a leather goods store, they also have a stationery selection, including fine pens, art supplies, notebooks, and leather or canvas bags, making this shop perfect for creatives on the go. Their collection of Japanese and European stationery is curated with an eye for both form and function, so you may just find some gorgeous stationery AND the perfect way to store it.
Lincoln Park: 810 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Wicker Park: 1463 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Greer Chicago (Online Only)
Another Chicago stationery institution, Greer is a boutique stationery store offering high-end international and artisan stationery, including Japanese notebooks and Belgian paper goods. While their physical store is no longer located in Chicago, you can still browse their colorful selection online.
Though Greer Chicago no longer operates a physical storefront, it remains one of the most beloved online stationery shops in the U.S.. Founded by Chandra Greer, this boutique specializes in letterpress stationery, elegant writing tools, and globally sourced paper goods that feel both timeless and deeply personal.
From luxurious correspondence sets to minimal yet beautiful planners, Greer curates with an eye for quality and craftsmanship. If you don’t get the chance to visit a Chicago stationery shop in person, shopping Greer online is the next best thing.
Marigold Press (Pop-Up & Online Only)
Marigold Press is a modern letterpress studio creating elegant yet minimal stationery, including greeting cards, notepads and sticky notes, stickers, and art prints. You can usually find them at local pop-ups, including Chicago Stationery Fest.
Cafés & Journaling Spots in Chicago
Between browsing booths at Chicago Stationery Fest and making your way through the city’s stationery stores, you’ll need a cozy spot to sit down, sip a drink, and break in your new notebook. Thankfully, Chicago has no shortage of cozy cafés and public spaces where you can settle in with your new stationery finds. Here are a few great spots where you can journal, sketch, and soak in the city’s creative energy. While we’ve tried to limit our guide to places near the Chicago Stationery Fest for convenience, we’ve included some other can’t miss spots for our Chicago natives (or for when you visit Chicago Stationery Fest 2026)!
Cafés & Bookstores
A warm, cozy cafe near the fest with great espresso and a relaxed vibe, plus delicious donuts and sandwiches.
Address: 1812 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
The Book Cellar (Lincoln Square)
An independent and woman-owned bookstore-café hybrid perfect for literary journaling sessions. This charming bookstore offers cozy couches where you can order a glass of wine or coffee to relax after a day of stationery shopping.
Address: 4736 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Famous for Mediterranean-inspired drinks like the Pistachio Rose Latte – a must-try for any journaling session. Oromo Café is a stylish and modern coffee shop offering an artisanal, global range of drinks and pastries with a focus on high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is vibrant yet cozy, making it a great space to settle in with a journal while enjoying a creative, delicious beverage.
Address: 1912 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Kibbitznest Books, Brews & Blarney (Lincoln Park)
A unique mix of a bookstore, café, and bar, Kibbitznest is a screen-free space dedicated to conversation, reading, and writing. With no wifi and a strict ban on laptops, it’s the perfect location to connect with fellow stationery fans, test out some of your new journaling supplies, and completely unplug after a long day at the fest. Kibbitznest has a full range of drinks, from coffee to wine to beer and more, so pick your favorite and dive into your journal. Or, you can make memories with new stationery friends by using one of their boardgames, card games, foosball tables, and more.
Address: 2212 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Come by Ipsento 606 for a coffee shop and donuts in the morning or a craft cocktail in the evening. With a large, airy interior and gorgeous views of the nearby park, this spot is perfect for peaceful journaling.
Address: 1813 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Beans & Bagels (Lincoln Square)
If you love journaling with a side of fresh bagels and top-notch coffee, Beans & Bagels is a fantastic choice. They also have a delicious selection of pastries, croissants, and breakfast items. But, they are very popular, so aim to get there before 10am to make sure they don’t run out of your favorites! Beans & Bagels does not have indoor seating, but they do have a few outdoor tables available, so you can enjoy the spring weather and relaxed vibe to reflect on your stationery haul.
Address: 2601 W Leland Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
The Allis at Soho House (West Loop)
A beautifully designed space with a relaxed café setting perfect for writing, reading, or sketching. With tons of cozy seating and the option for a high tea during the day, this is definitely a top-notch journaling spot (though you might want to get reservations if you’ve got your heart set on visiting)!
Address: 113-125 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
BrewPoint — York Boulevard (Elmhurst)
If you venture out to the Chicago suburbs to visit Papel Arcano, make sure to stop by BrewPoint for incredible coffees, teas, and even cocktails and charcuterie boards. (Spoiler: my favorite is an iced matcha latte with oat milk). Although BrewPoint has several locations in Elmhurst, the York location is situated in the same plaza as Papel Arcano, and with a warehouse-like event space, you can almost always find a table to spread out and admire your stationery finds.
Address: 617 N York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Unique Spaces
Poetry Foundation Library (River North)
A peaceful retreat for journaling and creative writing and a haven for writers and literature lovers, the Poetry Foundation Library is an inspiring place to journal. With its quiet, contemplative atmosphere and vast poetry collection, it’s an ideal spot for creative writing and journaling sessions. While it is free to enter and use a table, be sure to respect the quiet zones so everyone can focus on their passions!
Address: 61 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654
A cat café and rescue lounge where you can book some time to journal with feline friends. The Catcade offers an arcade-themed cat lounge, where you can write while being surrounded by rescue cats. With vintage video games, cozy seating, and a mission to help high-risk shelter cats find homes, this spot is as heartwarming as it is quirky. It’s a purr-fect (pun intended) setting for creative reflection.
Address: 624 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Outdoor Spots (Weather Permitting)
Welles Park (Lincoln Square)
A serene neighborhood park adjacent to Ravenswood with shaded benches perfect for sketching or note-taking.
Address: 2333 W Sunnyside Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Horner Park (Horner Park)
Another neighborhood park near Ravenswood where you can spend peaceful outdoor hours journaling. With a branch of the Chicago River running through it, you may just forget you’re even in Chicago!
Address: 2741 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Millennium Park / Lakefront Trail
Rent a bike and stop at one of the elevated park spaces for an urban journaling session. If the weather is warm enough in March, you may want to find a spot along the Chicago lakefront for a picnic and stationery session. There’s the iconic Millennium Park, which has no shortage of space but may be a bit crowded with tourists. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, rent a Divvy bike and ride it north on the Lakefront Trail starting near Navy Pier – there are numerous parks, green spaces, and even beaches along this trail’s 18 miles of lakefront. You’re sure to find a spot that fits your vibe!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong paper enthusiast or just getting into the world of notebooks and pens, Chicago Stationery Fest is the perfect place to indulge in your love of analog tools. Beyond the festival itself, the city is packed with stationery shops, inspiring cafés, and a thriving creative community that makes every visit special.
So grab your favorite journal, explore Chicago’s paper scene, and most importantly — have fun! Happy writing, and we’ll see you at the fest!
