This shop is located in the Independence Visitor's Center. It is a perfect fit! The shop sells lots of unique souvenirs/gifts. I love the Philly themed stickers and pieces by local artists. Prices are comparable to other souvenirs but better quality. The shop is small with the merch displayed nicely. The staff person was friendly and knowledgeable about the products. She had the stamps for the art vending machine scavenger hunt/passport book. I believe change for the art vending machine outside the store is also available. The shop is tucked in the back of the visitors center. read more

Hoping I have right location. My son has lived in Philly for over two years now. While I visit him almost every month we have yet to do the tourist things associated with Philly. This time we decided with the 250th anniversary coming up we wanted to do some more touristy things related to the founding of our country. This little pop up was located in the visitor's center of Independence Hall. Went in looking for a christmas ornament to remind us of our visit. It did not disappoint and had so many cute items. Left with a nice ornament for our tree. while it was a bit on the pricey side. Liked the fact it was handmade. read more

Art Star - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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I love stopping by Art Star whenever I'm in the area. They carry a variety of products from local artists and I especially love their Philly themed items. I recently went during a sale and purchased an Art print of Chinatown at a really affordable price. read more

Art Star - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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This is a great spot with lots of local gift options. It is rather small, but they pack a lot of stuff in here from a lot of local makers. When traveling, these are the kinds of places I love to visit because I want locally made items. And this did not disappoint. I only wished my travel backpack wasn't already full, so I could bring more home. The space is inside of another building, but don't let that confuse you. I'm happy I stopped in while visiting Philadelphia. read more

Super cute store with lots of local Philly art prints. I went for the fall fair and there were additional booths set up outside. It's inside the visitor center, but follow signs towards the back of the building to locate. read more

If you don't love Art Star, you don't love cats. Or local artists. Or Philadelphia. Charming corner shop at the Bourse with an assortment of art and clothing from artists near and far. Worth a visit! And if you're too far away, they've got a website which you can place your orders on. Credit accepted. read more

Wait, I've never reviewed Art Star?! I'm not a frequent shopper here, but this is the store to score interesting and unique presents. You can find anything from quirky little $5-10 gifts, to beautiful silk screened shirts and fancier stuff like handmade jewelry, art and baby wares. I really appreciate the mission, the friendliness (no snobby boutique feel) and supporting artists. I also get to pretend I'm the cool mom when gifting teachers during the holidays! I always get compliments on my T-shirt's from here & generally walk out with something unexpected and ultimately cherished. read more

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My friend is from Philly and I wanted to give her and her soon to be husband something unique and that would remind them of Philly without being too bulky since they plan to move cross country. Art Star was definitely the right place! I found a rad sugar skull letter press card and some handmade placemats with a cool print of well known Philly spots! And they even gift wrapped it and made it look even more pretty! But what you really want to cone here for is CAT BUTT!! and MORE CAT BUTT! There's cat butt everywhere in this place! Cat butt magnets, cat butt enamel pins and even cat butt tote bags!! And there are even stickers with a cat licking it's butt!! This is your go to spot for all things cat butt! Oh! You can also find tons of artsy kid toys and onesies. Tons of cool cards, home decor items, jewelry, tote bags and regular t-shirts! Come here to find a unique souvenir or gift! They also have an art gallery in the back. And they do a large art market, "Art Star Craft Bazaar". Definitely the best place to support local artist and a local business! read more

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This is such a nice store in Northern Liberties. I stopped by recently for the shopping crawl and forgot how much I liked it. There are plenty of items for your liking- jewelry, cards, clothing, baby items, décor, etc. I find the prices to range from inexpensive to expensive. It's a larger boutique space than most and it's easy to browse without bumping into people. I picked up some really cute reusable food pouches that I will use for makeup/other odds and ends. Another reviewer posted a pic of the cat butt canvas bags which are so hilarious. Not something I'd buy for myself, but love the eclectic stuff this store carries. read more

Now this is indeed a fun Art Star. I didn't go into it too much when it was in Liberties Walk. But since it's moved a few blocks away I'm pretty sure that it has gotten even bigger and has bought in a whole lot more cool stuff. when I walked in I was instantly welcomed by a cool arts chick. I feel that every good establishment needs to have one (not saying that as an off putting thing, I'm just a fan) So I loved that they had one there. and when I walked around I saw all kinds of cool things. There was a lot more screen printed things than I would have liked to have seen. But The awesome Art Star Crafts Bazaar that they hosted awhile back had me prepared for it. and hot damn where were the original artworks smoking. Let's just say that when I'm rich I may just buy out the store. I definitely recommend going here when you're looking to kill some time, or when you're blooking to buy a unique gift for a friend. read more

Art Star is my ecclentic Etsy dreams coming to life in a hands on store setting. I am always browsing for cute gifts, neat knickknacks, and new wall art. This place has something for everyone. This shop is always my go to when I need a cutesy random gift because there is such a large selection of different decor and art items. Everytime I come to the store, I sort through thing everything because I don't want to miss anything. They are constantly rotating their supply which always makes it interesting to stop by. On my most recent trip I picked up some cards ($4.50 each) and a beer coozie ($5) which has a cheeky saying for my friends bachelorette party. As you can see, some of the items are slightly expensive but I think the pricing makes sense in order to support a local artist. The other great thing about Art Star is that they carry a lot of local artists and they support artists by hosting seasonal craft bazaars. The winter craft bazaar was help at the Sugarhouse casino and featured a larger selection of a lot of artists they carry in-store. read more

Terrific selection of art and crafty items for the hipster in your life. The prices aren't bad, either. Find a one-of-a-kind wallet, shirt, necklace, or set of dishes for a friend or for yourself. Interesting art on the wall for sale as well. read more

You know why I LOVE Art Star so much? Because my favorite artist, Kurt Halsey, does an expo there almost EVERY year. (His art is there until July 13th, so feel free to swing by and check it out). They are so friendly and inviting inside. Seriously. Love them. And their handmade goods are amazing. A bit pricey but amazing none the less. read more

I really liked the idea of this store more than the store itself. It had a nice collection of local wares, art and clothing. Most of it fell on the cutesy side of art. Some if it I could stand but it became almost overkill. I will be back when I need a wedding gift. Shop local! read more

I love Kurt Halsey's art, and Art Star always carries his work. The rest of their stuff is cute too. I've bought items here a few times, but most of the time, I just stop in to look and walk around to become inspired. Some of their things can be a bit pricey but they oftentimes have sales and deals (such as Groupon) so if you can wait, it won't be so much. The store is spacious yet cozy and the staff is nice and friendly. Sometimes they have first Friday art opens with food and drinks. Also they have a craft fair at least once per year on Penn's Landing. If you are looking for something unique and artsy - anything from clothes, jewelry, cards, or housewares - this is the place to go. read more

Art Star - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I am not lying when I say that Art Star is my favorite shopping destination in Philadelphia. I seriously can't go in there without walking out with at least one item...bad for my wallet, but good for Art Star (yesterday, it was a handmade mug imprinted with the words "I love you more than zombies love brains." It's an anniversary gift for my husband. Don't tell him, I want it to be a surprise!) For those not familiar with the store, it sells handmade indie goods made by artists from Philadelphia and all over the country -- necklaces, baby clothing, wallets, stationery, shadow puppets, keyrings, skirts, clutches, cufflinks, tea towels, rubber stamps, stuffed toys, embroidery kits, and much much more. If you have ever poked around on etsy.com and thought "I wish I could try that necklace on so I could see how it really looks on me," then Art Star is your place. The owners have great taste and they frequently add new artists to their roster. In addition, they have a gallery space with rotating exhibitions, so you can go and check out some art while you're debating about whether you really need that cute t-shirt with the octopus on it (psst...you should get it! you'll get lots of compliments!) Art Star used to be located on Liberties Walk, which was a good enough space but very cramped. A few months ago, they moved south on Second Street into a fantastic new space near Spring Garden. The new store is bright, high-ceilinged and airy, and allows for an expanded exhibition area. I love it and the owners do too. I should add that Art Star is the organizer of the fabled Art Star Craft Bazaar, which runs for one weekend each May. It's an open air craft extravaganza, not to be missed. I do my summer gift shopping at the craft bazaar and my christmas shopping at the store. read more

I was never a customer of Art Star. I want to let you know that before you read any further. I was doing research when I entered. I knew my ambition was in the artistic realm and I wanted to survey people who work in this space and bounce ideas off them to determine the practicality of my idea. This was the resource that I was seeking. The lovely girl at the counter listened to my haywire idea and was able to point me to the right place to get it accomplished. Any place with employees that take the time to listen and answer questions to someone with a design concept shows that they are there because they care, not for their bottom line. The space is a good size with all kinds of very quirky but stylish pieces. I'm not much of a decorator but I know that I will come back here. It might be the spot to find that one of a kind piece. At the very least, the are personable and will listen to you. That's enough for a visit in my book. read more

I immediately felt right at home when I walked into Art Star. Even though it was my first time there, I was greeted as if I was a member of a close-knit family. That's a wonderful feeling and such a rarity these days, even from independent boutiques, galleries, and the like. While I did not purchase anything, I was intrigued by the selection, and what a broad spectrum of goods were available. I walked away with quite a large shopping list in my head for the future (as in, this is a place worth my putting some money aside to come back and spend spend spend). On the top of that list would definitely have to be some prints. Talk about cute and funky! I always admire the prints my friend has in her house, and I found them all right there in Art Star. Next on the list would have to be some knitted items (an owl hat caught my eye). I know where I am going to purchase many gifts for friends and family now. Art Star has made my life so much easier. Kudos to Art Star for being unique but affordable, cute but not annoyingly so. Hip but not hipster. Love. read more

What a beautiful shop! Filled with highly crafted artisan work! A really adorable place to be! So much to look at! There's a huge variety of prints that range in style. Highly recommend looking through them! read more

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Cuuuuuute! Art Star is adorable! I wanted everything, but settled on a card I'm going to frame and pretend is a piece of art. It should be relatively easy to find a gift here for a young adult. Prints are reasonably priced, even the originals are not exorbitantly expensive. From the jewelry to the foodstuffs crafted from felt, everything looks lovingly handmade. Also, they have a wonderful selection of holiday cards and ornaments this time of year. read more

Wow. The hype is true - Art Star is fantastic! This boutique/gallery that's in the Northern Liberties is too cute for words, as are all the items inside! They have fun, funky, cool designs for all the items they offer, from jewelry to men's, women's and even baby's clothing, home goods, and of course ART! They have these adorable donut-plushies that I saw in Kid Robot in NYC and keep wanting to buy just so that I can look at them, smile, squeeze and giggle at their novelty. And I had to restrain myself from buying several of the baby t-shirts with awesome graphics - I don't have a child, and I don't want to freak my bf out. And the ART!!! The gallery they have in back features some great local artists' work, but they also have a ton of prints you can buy in small, more personal sizes. I fell in love with this one artist's series based off of fairy tales and would LOVE to purchase them all! Most of the prints are super affordable too, so you can deck out your home easily with original art! If only I didn't live so far away!!!! I need to go back SOON! read more

Art Star is one of the primary outfits responsible for re-invigorating the Philadelphia homemade artisan goods scene. They've brought up their annual Spring Bazaars to Penn's Landing bringing in all sorts of talents both local and nationwide and they are invested in this city and the neighborhood in which they started (first at Liberties Walk, and now on 2nd near Green in that lovely open white space that also functions as a gallery in the back). Art Star is very much Etsy come alive, a Philly-centric Etsy mortar and brick store. Perfect destination for unique and memorable gifts, and it's my number one destination for baby gifts. They carry the cutest knit wear and silk screened shirts and onesies, all of which I think are always more thoughtful and unique compared to what you could ever get at Babies R Us. That being said, the price tag here is a bit heftier than what you would find at your run of the mill big box stores, but I'm often willing to throw down a few extra dollars for something special than something generic. Lovely selection of handmade jewelry, stationery, clothing, pottery and adorable knick-knacks, you really can't go wrong with anything purchased from here, and you can be certain that the gift-ee won't have anything already like it. They also carry unique seasonal stuff for the holidays too which is always fun. Art Star also supports different local artists almost every month if not every other month, and features their art for purchase. I've gotten some great affordable pieces here that now hang on my walls at home and make me happy. The ladies at Art Star are also super nice, informed, and they even keep a frequent customer card on file for your purchases - talk about incentives! Worth the visit, even just to browse! Birthday and holiday unique gift options abound! read more

While searching on Yelp for a place to get a gift for my mom for Christmas, I ran across Art Star (although it wasn't hard to miss considering the stellar reviews). I ventured there last Friday morning and was taken aback by how adorable this place is. Their selection is eclectic and fun, yet still very simple, which is exactly what I look for when buying things for decorating. I was having a hard time remembering I was there for my mom, not for me. Eventually I ended up purchasing a vase by Robert Siegel and Stephanie Kao that had this amazing "lace" detailing at the top. Megan, one of the owners was so helpful and had a card for the piece to put with the gift. Considering I always get carried away with gift giving, I also purchased a bird ornament from Hoosier Magnolia, which is based in Boston for my boyfriend's mom. I was so pleased to find such wonderful gifts that just feel special. read more

I think the best thing about Art Star is the fact that they value their customers. It seems that every time I enter they are offering some sort of shopper's coupon, or neighborhood discount for a special event, or just serving up something amazing like mimosas or hot chocolate. Art Star feels like a good friend, one that I'd trust enough with my secrets and tears. Plus, they have awesome jewelry, art and other stuff. They carry Kurt Halsey stuff in many forms and it's possible I've bought it all. The cards here are top notch and unique. I always try to purchase gifts and cards here first before heading to big chain store. I am also pretty obsessed with the jewelry sold at Art Star. From rings, to necklaces, to brooches, they're all amazing. I usually end up buying myself a present whenever I'm gift shopping. Oops. They also gift wrap and over Christmas the wrapping came with these great little paper (homemade by the owner) bows. I mean, come on. read more

EDIT - June 2008: I just participated in the Art Star Craft Bazaar again, and it was even better this year! Yay! *************************************************************************** I love Art Star! I just participated in their ArtStar Craft Bazaar, and it was an amazing outdoor indie craft extravaganza Yeah! The store itself is great-- lots of adorable tees and altered clothing, beautiful ceramics, great prints, fun jewelry, and all kinds of other awesome handmade trinkets and things...it made me wish I was Christmas shopping because I found so much great stuff! If I lived in Philly I'd come here all the time-- the Liberties Walk area where it's located is so cute, and seems very up and coming...the owners definitely picked a great spot for their awesome shop! read more

If you're looking for a weird hand-made piece of art/ wallet/ stuffed animal, Art Star is your place. Admittedly, maybe I'm not "hip" enough, but I think these pieces are a little off the scale for even the trendiest/cutting edge yuppie who wants to support local artisans. edit: I've been back a couple more times and they've either toned down the weirdness into kitchy-cool, or I've become more hip. I suspect it's probably a little of both-oh yeah read more

I loved everything about this store/gallery!! I was reintroduced to Kurt Halsey! Haven't seen his stuff for a long time. Also, totally in love with "In which the lotus bloom captures everyone's attention" by Noferin. Look it up. Adorbs!!!! Cutesy, art, jewelry, and apparel! They recently revamped their online store and it isn't too shabby either. We came by because Toast's sister wanted to check it out. Prices aren't too bad for prints and they have a huge sale section. Some stuff is pricier.. The gallery/store is vibrant and spacious, and one of the jewelry makers was hanging out at the store eating lunch. Pretty awesome! Now to get me that Noferin print... i less than 3 it!!!!!!! read more

There's always something I'd like to buy at Art Star. It's a fun place to go with a friend, ooh and ahh, and get at least one thing- there's plenty of little doodads that don't cost much near the registers. Everything is unique and homemade by various artists. Jewelry, dishes, clothing, purses, wall art, postcards, etc. There's also an art gallery in the back. Too cute! You'll be proud to tell someone, "I got it at Art Star!" read more

Yay! This place has the cutest homemade trinkets, toys, and art. I was a little overwhelmed by the prices at first, but keeping in mind that I was supporting independent artists calmed that shock. There are a few sale bins, which are fun to rifle through and I managed to find two really cute French bakery prints for $15 each. The owner is really nice and we watched her making the cutest little adornments for Christmas wrapping. read more

This shop always delivers, whether it's for a last-minute birthday gift, cards that say you really care, Gritty merch, jawn-centric items and jewelry. What's extra great is that they will wrap gifts, making them even more special. read more

Love everything about this store! The people and the variety of unique products. The staff is always super nice!

Absolutely love this place! I always stop here when I find myself in Northern Liberties during the day. As a lover of witty greeting cards, I've found that it has the best selection in all of Philadelphia. I never leave the store without buying four or five of them. They also are a great place to shop for gifts made by local artists - jewelry, clothing, baby items, home décor, etc. Make sure to check out the craft bazaar they host at Penn's landing every May. It is phenomenal! Also, make sure to get a stamper card for them to keep on file for you. Every $20 you spend gets marked and gets you closer to receiving a credit! And lastly, the owner is always super nice! read more

I've been meaning to visit Art Star for some time. I have browsed their website so much that it just seemed strange that I hadn't yet been to the shop/gallery. I enjoyed looking at all of the items and definitely found at least 1400 little toyish plinks that I wanted to buy and leave laying around my house for people to grope and question when they come over. I decided instead that I would just browse on this visit, since I would just have to lug said items via bike sans messenger bag. At any rate, I am going back. I found several prints that are very reasonably priced that I really want for my house. All in all, I'm pretty impressed with the amount of work that is avaibable and (yay) reasonably priced! Thank you Art Star for your stuffed animal shrimp and your overzealous use of a Badge-A-Minit. read more

If I were writing a textbook about small DIY businesses, Art Star would be the basis for the chapter on retail. I've been coming to Art Star since they first opened up shop a few blocks away from their present location. Erin and Megan have always been passionate about putting great art in the hands of art lovers, whether it's a $10 pin or a $1,000 painting. It feels more like a studio rather than a staid gallery or packed-to-the-rafters craft shop. The shop itself is great for browsing, with lots of very well arranged arts, crafts and clothing leading up to a well lit gallery in back. Openings and events are always great fun and awesome people-watching. The staff are also super fun! They set out candy at halloween, hoping that kids would drop in! It's definitely worth a visit, you'll be hard pressed to leave without something quirky and cool. read more

If you know what's good for you, get off the computer and go immediately to Art Star for your upcoming holiday shopping. Seriously- I dare you to go and NOT buy anything (feel free to contact me if you had the resolve to resist; we're so on). They have something for everyone in your life (provided your grandma appreciated plush toast and donuts with eyes). Wondering what to buy work acquaintances and family members about whom you feel ambivalent? Graphic pins and fridge magnets all around! Have kids? Turn them into wee hipsters with locally crafted onesies and mobiles. Be sure to check out Kathleen Lolley's enchanting prints reminiscent of children's book illustrations (a la Where the Wild Things Are) as well as Fernworks intricate jewelry (paintings and/or natural substances encapsulated in resin). I pretty much redecorated my entire home with charming little prints by Lisa Hurwitz, and my husband love love loves Art Star's original sweatshirts. It may be pricey, but you can sleep easy know you're supporting local artists. read more

Art Star makes me happy. Located on Liberties Walk, it's a beautiful space filled with handmade things that are super unique and full of good energy. This is the perfect place to come if you want to get a gift for someone who appreciates the specialness of a handcrafted item. Lots of cool art, jewelry, clothes and home accessories that are super cool and showcase the work of some amazing local artists. We need more stores like Art Star!!! read more

i love that they are helping out the little guy, the handmaker, cool kid sitting at home dreaming up art. those are all wonderful things, right?? now, if only the folks who worked there had a bit less attitude, they'd be perfect. until that day, though, i'll be ordering directly from the artists themselves, or going to omoi. read more

This is one fine gallery owned and operated by two lovely ladies! Art Star is a fellow DIY-er's dream because it sells handmade goods by some fabulous artists. Some of the artists are local while others are not. Some are up-and-coming while others are already established. The variety is what makes Art Star a fun place to shop! Also, it's one of my favorite places to shop for jewelry. Check out a gallery opening, too, if you get the chance! They're always a good time --- full of live music, food, drinks, and good people. read more

I've been following Megan and Erin's business since they first opened on Liberties Walk. Their new space--though it's not so new anymore!--is wonderful. I love the work they bring in and the annual bazaar is always a super fun time. read more

I love this store. I used to go to their Liberties Walk location every single time I needed to buy someone a gift, and I always saw stuff that I made mental notes to come back and buy when I had some money to spend on myself. Moving to a bigger store on 2nd street was great for them, I think the exposure people passing by 2nd & Fairmount is invaluable. They've just got stuff I've never seen anywhere else. A really unique place, you have to check it out. read more