For the love of Parts & Labour

In 2004, two graduates from St. Edward's University took a chance on opening a store whose mission is to showcase and sell products designed exclusively by Texas based artists. Parts & Labour was born in a thousand square foot store front on S. Congress Ave. After a successful first five years, it was obvious a bigger space was needed to meet the demand of local makers and customers alike. The former No Delay dry cleaners and alterations building became available five blocks away and P&L expanded to their new 2400 sq. ft. home in 2009.  Although it was much larger, there were challenges adapting to the quirky space while striving to preserve it's history.  Parts & Labour continued to thrive into it's twelfth year of business, representing almost 800 local makers over that time. Out of the blue, the owners were informed the lease renewal they thought they had secured for five more years was no longer valid. Thousands of dollars of legal advice later, the two were faced with having to move out of their business' home of seven years or close. Thanks to a local family who's determined to maintain the character of old South Austin (and neighboring business owners putting in the good word for them),  Parts & Labour was invited to stay on S. Congress, six blocks away, in a store front large enough to accommodate the multitude of local artists they represent.  The  prime location and much bigger space comes at a price, but is worth every penny.

Your donation will help provide a viable space for local artists and crafters to continue to sell their work and make a living.

To view other ways to contribute visit us here  and for updates on the status of the move visit here . 

Thank you for supporting small independent business,
Lizelle Villapando
Co-Owner, Parts & Labour