The concept behind Friends of Spare Parts dba Spare Parts was developed in 2011 by our founder Mary Elizabeth Cantú, as a response to the lack of art funds and resources in PreK-12 classrooms.

The Spare Parts Center for Creative Reuse is San Antonio’s first art supply thrift store. The purpose of the Center for Creative Reuse is to facilitate the intake of pre-owned creative materials and supplies that would otherwise be thrown away or underutilized and offers them back into the community through program offerings and storefront. The revenue earned ensures that Spare Parts can continue to expand and serve the community. Click here for the workshops and online store.

The Center is a community-driven operation and depends on material donors, volunteers, and patrons to continue to sustain a safe and welcoming place where teachers, parents, crafters, kids, and artists, can access affordable pre-loved supplies and materials.

Spare Parts Connect is an innovative educational program that connects businesses and organizations with the community to foster creativity, sustainability, and collaboration. Spare Parts Connect promotes the concept of creative reuse by offering a unique opportunity for businesses and organizations to engage with their audience through hands-on activities and demonstrations. 

With Spare Parts Connect, our facilitators come to your place of business, school, or special event, and you get captivating experiences that engage and inspire audiences of all ages. For more information, please click here.

For general questions, please click here for the contact form. We prefer email since we do not have regular staff dedicated to phone inquiries.

For information on volunteer opportunities, click here.

To schedule a material donation, click here.

To schedule a monetary donation, please click here.

Please note that we are a nonprofit organization and our services for Spare Parts Connect are available for a fee, which varies depending on the specific event and activity you have in mind. We’ll work closely with you to tailor a pricing package that aligns with your budget and objectives. Don’t hesitate to contact us for further details regarding our pricing structure.