I typically stay clear of vending machines, given that I am overly health-conscious. Pre-pandemic, when I was traveling (remember that?), I would buy an occasional snack. Aside from the food items not being attractive to me, what about those serving sizes. Five chips in a bag aren’t going to do much for a craving anyway.

Where can you find this cool invention?

Good Things Vending is in the welcome center at the Chicago Cultural Center. Use the Randolph Street entrance for easy access. Be sure to check out the rest of the welcome center while inside. There’s even a wall displaying information about one of my favorite street art walks – the B_Line.

How the vending machine works

The vending machine accepts bills (ones, fives, and tens) and credit cards. There’s a note in place telling you that your card will initially be charged $20 as a “hold” before you make your selections. Depending on your bank, you may not see any funds returned right away if you don’t spend the entire $20. I can assure you it’s legit, and the owner is readily available online or by phone for questions or concerns.

What I brought home

Looking through the glass to see all the possibilities is stimulating. There are so many great choices, but I had to start small like my budget. I settled on an adorable paper baby cut-out. When opened, it’s a handmade mini-comic entitled “Changelings.” This artwork is brought to you by Rachel Bard. Rachel also has an Etsy shop. 

The other item is a cone of heavy lavender incense tucked inside a glass test tube with a cap. The incense is handmade and dried with ethically sourced aromatics. Despite having no artistic skills, I’m determined to turn the inside of the test tube into something interesting. Wish me luck.

Calling all artists!

Are you an artist who would like your crafts displayed here? Great, because Good Things Vending would love to have you. Direct message them on Instagram. If you aren’t on Instagram, shoot me an email, and I will share your information with them.

I have one request — when can we get more of these? It’s such a fun and easy way to share local artists’ work. Hats off to Steph Krim for being so innovative.