The Handcraft Store — Local services in San Juan

We had the pleasure of stumbling into The Handcraft Store right before our cruise left port. Most of the gift shops that we had seen at that point felt cheap and dirty. We were pleasantly surprised when we walked into The Handcraft Store. The walls were adorned with paintings by local artists and assorted items with local meaning and significance. It didn’t feel commercialized or cheap. The staff were informative and knew the story behind every painting and every sculpture.

We ended up speaking with the owner, I believe his name was Pat Kelly, he told us the history of the store, the island and the reason he chose to move to Puerto Rico and stay there for last couple decades. It was a real cool experience and made us feel like more like friends than tourists/shoppers.

We ended up buying a few items and were happy to support such a nice small business. I would recommend to anyone heading to Puerto Rico that they first check out this store before they go into any of the other cookie...

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this shop! Now that I've visited the store, this will be the ONLY shop I will purchase any item for art work. The Handcraft Store is awesome! So many items to look at, full of colorful, fun, elegant designs. The owner, Paul, is a sweetheart. He took the time to explain a lot of items to our kids; what they were made from, how the objects were created and he even gave us the "Biolumi Tour" (LOL!) Beautifully crafted items that glow in the dark! There were several items I'd wanted to purchase, I mean...really wanted to purchase :-) however, the husband and I picked an item and signed up to have it shipped for us. Yes, they will ship items anywhere for you. Please, please, please visit The Handcraft Store, located in Old San Juan. You will not be disappointed. I'd just wished they had a website - I'm ready to shop and...

This store is worth it! My friend and I came here on 6/10 while we were waiting to be seated at Barrachina. I bought a beautiful tile artwork with Calle Cristo Sur on it made by a local artist! For artist work the prices are reasonable and the work is so unique and eye-catching! There is something for everyone here. Beautiful hand-made magnets, signs, artwork, etc! The store associates were so helpful and would take you to anything you were looking for and described how it was made and where and by whom. It was a delightful experience and unique aside the other souvenir stores! 10/10...