Austin Gift Company — Attraction in Austin

During a trip to Austin to visit a friend, we explored several thrift and consignment stores. Unfortunately, most of them were a letdown, with booth owners charging far more than the items were worth. However, my friend then took me to this delightful spot for a refreshing change of pace. I was told that a friend of theirs frequently buys gifts here, and apparently, they have quite the reputation for excellent gift-giving.

What immediately stood out to me was that many of the items here were handcrafted by local artisans, not just mass-produced or picked up elsewhere. Each booth had its own unique flair, adding a personal touch to the overall experience.

As I wandered through the shop, I stumbled upon a section labeled "Square Tire Art." The display featured what I can only describe as whimsical mounted jackalope heads, seemingly crafted from clay, wood, and other materials. The craftsmanship was charming and quirky, and I couldn’t resist picking one up. My experience was made even more special when, while walking around with the piece, I overheard a woman gasp. Concerned, I asked if she was alright, and to my surprise, she explained that she gasped because I was buying something she had made! She quickly disappeared with her friend before I could ask her more about it, but it was a delightful and serendipitous moment to briefly meet the artist behind...

Definitely like no gift shop we have ever been to. Instead of looking at good T-shirts, souvenirs and Texas paraphernalia, this place is filled with arts & crafts.

So, it's not a traditional gift shop at all. It's more of a consignment store for artists, and it's mostly lower quality arts & crafts.

It would be a good place to buy a gift for a Wingnut aunt and uncle with crosses & Jesus paraphernalia everywhere, signs like Don't California my Texas, wash your hands because Jesus & gems are everywhere. Aside from that you have animal heads throughout the store with a Longhorn Cow thrown in for good measure.

And aside from that, there are constant reminders that you are on video, with pictures of shoplifters who were caught in the store. So the place really gives you a feeling of the Creeps and you wonder why anyone would own a gift shop if they are this paranoid. Aside from that the prices are high. In short, this is not a good place to shop...

Honestly came in the store more than once and got weird vibes from the owner each time. But i love treating myself ocassionally and know local artist who are there. Came in recently and had the owner chase me down and accuse me of stealing. She kept looking at me weird. I stay stacked with rings and mine mean alot to me. I was checking out some of theirs and decided none of them were worth buying so put it back and left. She chases me down and I show her my rings and she accuses me of "removing tags" yeah no. Never. I also have several pics with all my rings so woulda been happy to disprove any wird idea she had. Hope she checks her tapes and concious. Def won't back or recommend to others. Felt like a case of shopping while black.

Edit;

I read a few more comments. And they have similar story. If you are a POc I would shop elsewhere this was definitely a case of...