Strange Cargo Tees, Chicago's Custom T-shirt Store — Local services in Lake View Township

I generally try to buy local whenever possible, but URLs with phrases like "RushOrder" had given me the false impression that I had no other choice for a last-minute job. But before I agreed to shipping rates that were more than an actual tshirt, I decided to check out Strange Cargo. I am so glad I did!

As a graphic designer, I can tell pretty quickly when I'm working with quality printers (they're organized, efficient, communicative, etc.). When I came by the store to look at/feel the shirts and discuss artwork placement, I felt reassured through the entire process. Nikki, the associate who helped me, was great. First, she came up to let me in even though the sign on the door said they were closed to the public that day (I called just in case someone might be there). Then she was super patient and helpful when I had questions about the different brands and SC's printing capabilities. She also brought out several samples relating to my questions so I could see for myself and make choices I would be happy with (for obvious reasons, this isn't possible with online retailers, and it can be the most nerve-racking part of the ordering process because sizes and colors vary a lot between brands). She kept busy and didn't rush me while I tweaked the design file a bit in-store. Later while reviewing the proofs, she was happy to swap out the file and promptly provided a new proof when I wanted to tweak something else. When I picked up my printed shirts, I realized there was a glitch with one of the designs (I could tell it was a fluke), but they were apologetic and had a reprinted shirt ready for me quickly.

In the end, the whole process took less time (even with the minor issue at the end), and delivered better results than with big-name online printers I've had to use in the past. It was also less expensive than the impersonal online retailers (and that's without any shipping fees I would have had to pay). I'm already getting another file ready for my next custom printing job because this one went so well, and I'm excited to have such a great resource for personalized gifts within walking distance.

Note, you don't have to be a graphic designer to appreciate SC's approach to customer service and quality results. Clearly they have the expertise needed to guide any customer through the custom...

Came in for some specific Smiski items and because my partner couldn’t make it, I wanted to share all of the cool items they had in store to of course see if they were interested in anything for me to pick up for them. Naturally, I had to take many pictures because the store had so much to offer but who I presume to be the owner suddenly asked me (in what we can only assume to be an accusatory tone) “Are you doing okay over there?” If you have ever worked in retail, you know this is the initial question that you ask when you suspect someone of doing the wrong thing in a store, lol. I brushed it off and continued shopping around, taking my time and showing my partner through text what else I thought they might find interesting minutes later, and the owner approaches me AGAIN from behind and even startles me, with the same accusing tone what I’m taking photos for, to which I answer honestly that I’m shopping for my partner as well. At this point, I can’t even laugh it off and I’m so uncomfortable, I even consider just putting everything down and leaving. He then goes on to play it off, saying “oh you can do so much with a phone nowadays, I don’t know if you were recording or researching. Do whatever you want.” Then I continue to see him watch me as I’m perusing for the next few minutes and decide against showing anything more to my partner that I wanted to do something nice for but after the third time of being scrutinized for literally just shopping, I decided to get the hell out of there because I was stricken with anxiety at this point. What was supposed to be a fun outing was completely ruined and I don’t think I’ll be...

Nice little hidden on the Northside.

Went in here looking for a St. Patty's day shirt last minute and they had over 20-25 shirts to select from. Whats even better is if the shirt isn't on the rack, they'll make it for you right there (or you can check out their website and order ahead of time). In addition to St. Patrick's Day tees, they have over 100 other designs that all can be printed while you wait. And if you are like me and appreciate a funny, raunchy and sometimes inappropriate t-shirt, this is the place for you.

Place is small and maybe due to the last minute rush to get a shirt, it was crowded. So there was a little bit of a wait and cluster. But overall its one of the better local thrift shops I've seen in Chicago. Staff was real friendly and the prices were very reasonable. Most definitely coming again.

Check out their website for all the designs they...