Paper Source

Profile

Initially inspired by the ornate paper-crafting industry on a trip to Japan, founder Sue Lindstrom opened her now national chain in Chicago in 1983. Her first New York branch launched in November 2010 and, since then, the boutique has become a headquarters for crafty Brooklynites and scrap-booking parents. Papers from India, Italy, and Japan drape the walls, fronted by apronned specialists who will demonstrate folding and crafting techniques upon request. Calligraphy and custom printing (invitations, labels, save-the-dates, etc.) orders are filled at the main Chicago store and shipped, but the in-store staff can handle any gift-wrapping job for a price that makes Kate’s Paperie blush—a mere $4 covers all sizes and shapes of package. Quirky coffee table books (“Porn For Women of a Certain Age,” for example), gag gifts (like a handlebar moustache shaped cork screw), and portable games (a desktop foosball table) give the boutique a little more to subsist on than paper products alone. Paperistas in training can sign up for weekly workshops on everything from framing to card-making to rubber stamp carving, all of which top out around $30. — Emma Barker

Related Stories

Best of New York Awards

• Best Paperie (2011)