Historic Shell Holiday Shop underway

Local artists, crafters sell handmade gifts in downtown Issaquah.

Downtown Issaquah Association’s (DIA) fifth annual Historic Shell Holiday Shop is running now until Dec. 29, Fridays-Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. at the downtown Historic Shell Station.

“If anyone wanted to come here, they could seriously get all of their gifts in one spot for all of their family members, which is amazing, and it’s also supporting local,” said Katie Brookshire, DIA executive director.

Brookshire said with even just a quick glance of the goods she could spot holiday hats, T-shirts, candles, bath bombs, decor and cards.

“Anything gift related, you can find it here,” she added. “I’m excited.”

More than 40 vendors are participating this year, and the shop offers a wide variety of goods made by local artists and makers.

“It’s just amazing how community oriented this shop is. There are so many cute things,” Brookshire said.

Alison Lang, who curates the Holiday Shop, is the owner of So, There — an art studio where she makes handmade products including letterpress cards, custom journals, stationary, etched wine glasses and even library card lamps. Their tagline is, “Happily handmade in Issaquah.”

Lang said the Holiday Shop is full of options for everyone.

“This year we have a great collection of printed goods, from cards to journals, to printed canvas items. The price range is perfect to grab a handful of wonderful gifts for stockings, teachers, and friends,” she said. “We also have a bunch of great choices in artist-made jewelry, aromatherapy candles, knitted goods and home decor.”

Lang said about 700 people attended last year and they expect an increase this year.

Brookshire said there will also be family singalong events on Dec. 14 and Dec. 21 at the Shell Station.

To learn more, go online to http://andsothere.com/shellholidayshop/ or https://downtownissaquah.com/.

Handmade goods for sale from local artists and makers at the Historic Shell Holiday shop in downtown Issaquah. Courtesy photos.

Handmade goods for sale from local artists and makers at the Historic Shell Holiday shop in downtown Issaquah. Courtesy photos.