New homeowner in Rogers Park — how do you handle DIY without a garage/workshop?
Hey all, first time homebuyer here!
I just bought a condo in Rogers Park and I’m super excited to start tackling some DIY projects (refinishing a couple pieces of furniture, thrifting and upcycling pieces, building some simple storage, etc.). The challenge is… I don’t have a garage, basement, or any real workspace. Just a typical condo with a shared deck in a walk-up building.
I’m trying to figure out how people in Chicago (especially on the north side) handle DIY when you don’t have space to make a mess, sand, stain, use power tools, etc.
A few things I’d love advice on:
- Where do you actually do projects like sanding/staining furniture?
- Are there good maker spaces, workshops, or community shops nearby?
- Any classes for beginners (woodworking, refinishing, general DIY skills)?
- Do people ever rent workspace short-term, or is it mostly membership-based?
- Any tips for doing smaller projects in a condo without being a terrible neighbor?
Also, I’d love to plug into my new neighborhood more — so if you have favorite local resources for homeowners in general (tool libraries, hardware stores, classes, community orgs, etc.) especially around Rogers Park / Edgewater / Andersonville / Ravenswood, I’m all ears.
Thanks in advance!