Zigzag Scrapstore
Read on to discover the basement full of treasure…
News
Happy New Year!
We’ve been open for a whole 12 months now, thank you to everyone who has joined as a member, visited, donated or worked with us!
We’ve recently received some very large donations of fabric, so now is a great time to visit if you’ve got a sewing project in mind.
About the Scrapstore
Zigzag Scrapstore CIC is a new scheme for Medway, launched in December 2024, with a big basement full of random treasure and creative activities using scrap materials. Low-cost fun and crafts for all.
Opening Hours
Regular hours: From January 5th 2026
11am – 3pm every Monday & Wednesday
Additional hours:
JANUARY
Saturdays: 10th & 31st 11am – 3pm
Visits outside these times by appointment.
See below for visiting info.
What’s a Scrapstore?
A network of around 120 not-for-profit Scrapstore schemes operate across the UK – collecting clean, non-hazardous waste materials and surplus creative materials for reuse in art, craft, play, theatre, education, hobbies, DIY etc.
Why are Scrapstores good?
They help to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill, provide access to an amazing variety of affordable scrap for creative projects and play, and offer sociable volunteering opportunities for people interested in arts and environmental issues. They are fantastic Aladdin’s caves full of inspiration and excitement.
How does it work?
Businesses donate offcuts / samples / items they need to clear, and individuals donate no longer needed art, craft or DIY supplies. We sort and store them at the Scrapstore, and members sign up for a small fee to access the scrap and take away what they need for their projects.
Who can join?
Everyone! Schools, children’s groups, community groups, families, artists, individuals…
The scheme is intended for people who need access to affordable and interesting materials for their own projects or play activities. Annual prices are based on the number of people the member collects scrap for, volume of materials and number of visits needed.
What are the rules?
Our scrap must not be simply resold once collected from the Scrapstore. You should take only what you need to use in projects, and in keeping with your membership level. Everyone signs in as they enter the Scrapstore.
Terms and conditions are published on the membership page.
Get involved
Become a member
Choose an annual membership: individual, artist, family, playgroup leader, school etc. and visit the Scrapstore as many times as you like to pick up what you need and attend workshops and events.
Visit us first if you’d like to see what the Scrapstore offers, and you can buy a one-off trial basket for £5. Following that you’ll need to join the scrapstore scheme. Members are welcome to bring guests.
Donate materials
Does your company need to dispose of surplus items that could still be useful in creative, DIY or play projects?
Are you clearing out a craft stash, or giving up a hobby?
To donate surplus creative scrap please check the donations guide to what we can and can’t accept.
Volunteer
Join our volunteer team to sort the donations, organise and display the scraps on the shelves, try out creative makes, collect donations or spread the word about the scheme locally.
Help to make a difference and enjoy the company of others.
Contact us for details, and please sign up to our newsletter, ticking the box for an interest in volunteering.
What’s in stock?
We’ll be uploading regular photos and videos of freshly donated treasure on Instagram – see what’s going out on the shelves.
Art Materials
Watercolour paint sets, charcoal, pencils, spray paints, paper pads, patterned papers…
Textiles
Patterned, glittery, plain, swatches, quilting fabrics, netting, wadding, leather pieces, yarn, threads…
Seasonal
Decorations, masks, wigs, materials to make costumes, card making supplies, a changing seasonal display…
Tools
Eyelet punches, die cutters, rubber stamps, rulers, palettes, cutting mats, brushes, knitting needles…
Subscribe
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to get updates on news, activities, opportunities and special event invites.
Location
Basement at Intra Arts
Entrance at rear of:
337-341 High Street
Rochester, Kent ME1 1DA
what3words: ///potato.safely.race
Collection of materials at the Scrapstore requires a membership, but you can visit and see the Scrapstore before joining – please contact us with any queries.
Zigzag Scrapstore CIC
Company no. 15858505
Directions
We are based on Rochester High Street just before it meets Chatham High Street.
Go down the lane marked ‘Cooks Wharf’ between Intra Arts and Siam Beauty & Spa, then turn left before Yards Autos, at the rear of the building.
Steps to the basement are next to A One Vinyl. When we are open, signs on Cooks Wharf lead the way.
If you are dropping off donations in a car, you may be able to park briefly next to the steps whilst unloading, but please move your vehicle as soon as possible to keep the entrance clear for others. Thank you!
Visiting with children
We regret that we are strictly unable to admit visitors under the age of 12 years, due to the nature of the materials in our Scrapstore environment. Children of 12 years and over must be supervised by an accompanying adult at all times at the scheme. We are not able to look after children on behalf of visitors or members browsing the Scrapstore.
Zigzag Scrapstore CIC 