Reuse. Create. Reconnect
SPARE is a nonprofit creative reuse shop located in San Anselmo, California that makes quality art, craft, sewing and creative supplies affordable and accessible. We keep materials out of the landfill and back in circulation—especially for teachers, students, and artists. Additionally, our mission includes bridging generational gaps between seniors and children.
Want to make SPARE a reality? We need donated materials to stock the shop and monetary support to open our doors. Help us make SPARE a reality by becoming a founding supporter.
Notes from SPARE
Not just updates. Thoughts, stories, and small wins (and messes) behind the scenes at SPARE. Written by Founder and Executive Director, Mena Lazar.
A Spare Moment to Write About SPARE
From finding a space to adding thank-you perks for donors, things are moving fast. We’ve also launched this blog to share more of the process—and keep you in the loop every step of the way.
On a Different Type of Generational Wealth
My grandfather made butterflies from tin cans. He turned scraps into beauty—and that impulse stuck with me. SPARE is built on that same belief: that what we leave behind still matters.
A Slower, More Human Kind of Store
I wrote a letter to a donor — a widower, who shared his wife supplies with SPARE — to let him know the impact his wife’s materials meant to me. Also, the need for us to tune out the world sometimes and slow down.
From the Founder: Mena Lazar
I co-founded Six Apart. Now I’m building SPARE—a nonprofit reuse shop for creative supplies. It’s not tech, not for scale—just hands-on creativity, community impact, and a return to what really matters.
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Learn about our mission to keep creative materials in circulation and support our community.
Take a look at what we’re currently accepting, then fill out a intake form to get the process started.
Tell us a bit about yourself and how you’d like to help—whether it’s time, energy, or unique skills.
Your donation helps cover rent, utilities, and the essentials we need to open our doors.
We take art, craft, sewing, and creative materials—plus vintage and useful odds and ends. Check the list to see what we’re currently accepting.
Select rare merchandise is available online now.
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