Shopping Spree

FASHION > FORWARD: Second Saturday at Nice Things Handmade, Stitch 'N Bitch Circle at Square Peg Artery

by Julia West

Unless you've been living under a rock, you're already privy to the ever-evolving Ave that is East Passyunk. Splashed with boutique grocers, coveted vintage boutiques and edgy hair salons, this enclave has become hipster paradise. Part of the crew, gift boutique Nice Things Handmade, is a floodgate of goodies plucked from artists all over the city.

On Second Saturday, owner Elisa Kara kicks off the store's first anniversary celebration with a cuter-than-cute selection of upcycled bottle-cap jewelry and cuff links from Rotorcaps; Philly-repping necklaces from Masters of None mama Sharif Pendleton; and surprise pieces from Eddie's Tattoo.

What does Kara say about surviving her first 365 days? "It's amazing. I don't even know what word can encompass the amount of joy I feel seeing something I am so proud of and love so much be open for a year." Aw. Happy Valentine's Day to you, too, boo. Opening reception Sat., Feb. 12, 7-10 p.m., free, through March 12, Nice Things Handmade, 1731 E. Passyunk Ave., nicethingshandmade.com.

Stitch 'N Bitch Circle at Square Peg Artery

If all this handcrafted business makes your fingers twinge with excitement, you'll be pleased to learn that Square Peg Artery has begun its very own monthly Stitch 'N Bitch circle. Inspired by the series of knitting books by Debbie Stoller, this free gathering is meant to teach and inspire knitters of all skill levels. So whether you're a needle-wielding pro or a fumbling newbie, drop in and gab with like-minded crafters while getting a firm handle on the handmade. Third Thursdays, 6-8 p.m., free, Square Peg Artery, 108 S. 20th St., 215-360-5548, squarepegartery.com.

(julia.west@citypaper.net)