EDGEBROOK — A store designed to bring a bit of coolness to the Far Northwest Side is asking its friends and customers to help it redefine what it means to create — and sell — local art.
Local Goods Chicago, which opened nearly three years ago at 5354 W. Devon Ave. in the heart of downtown Edgebrook, launched a Kickstarter to raise $15,000 to transform part of the store into a maker lab with a three-dimensional printer and other high-tech equipment.
"People have been asking for it through the years," said Laura Guenther, the store's owner and one of the founders of Everyday Edgebrook, a business group designed to bring more foot traffic to Devon and Central avenues.
The equipment would be used during classes and demonstrations that take place at the store, Guenther said.
In addition, the equipment could provide a way for artists just starting out to make their visions a reality, while sharing ideas and knowledge with other artisans who sell their wares at the shop, Guenther said.
"We're going to redefine local to super local," Guenther said.
The Kickstarter expires Sept. 9, and offers Chicago flag-themed gifts as rewards, including coasters and T-shirts.
Last year, a maker lab at several Chicago Public Library branches drew crowds eager to test out the 3-D printers, vinyl cutting machine and a 3-D camera.
Everyday Edgebrook will host an art walk as part of Chicago Artists Month from 2-5 p.m. Oct. 17, Guenther said.
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