a.ware studio & store

Closed April 1012. Thanks for a great run, we await your return in another venue!
What., a. ware is one year old already and still no Unilocal review? Let’s fix THAT! Here is a lovely little indie boutique right next door to Lola Coffee and Hulu Modern tiki. Lots of little treasures such as a huge selection of letterpress greeting cards, Imported euro merch (hard to find Vespa messenger bags, for example) and a great inventory of local artist made wares that changes constantly. I am in love with the Ukrainian pottery with intricate marbled patterning, made locally and I know I have not seen them anywhere else! Handcrafted one of a kind jewelry at affordable price points. Soaps, silkscreened baby onesies, handmade notebooks, some intriguing DIY books, cookbooks and children’s books I have not seen anywhere else. Locally made handbags and even some quality art supplies and pretty Gingher sewing scissors. It is like the fine handcraft version of a tapas bar filled with delightful little gift items that are constantly being updated, so it’s fun to see what’s new. What I appreciate most about Julie Hampton’s vision for a. ware is that she offers it as a community gathering place, the tables are often pushed back and chairs rearranged to create a communal space for happy hours, meetings, socializing or workshops led by Julie or other local artists on soldering, knitting and a variety of topics. It feels so enjoyable to hang out there, it is the kind of place you look forward to stopping by frequently, just to say hi and just see what is new. It is a nice option for unique holiday gifts. Not sure if there is a website however I think there is a sign up sheet in the store for an email list to keep updated on workshops and events.