Kate C.
Yelp
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.