President of West Side Graphics, David Bluestein took over the company at its current location in 1995. It was formerly in Brockton for 60 years. Since his tenure began, David said the store has evolved from selling mostly artist supplies to also offering a variety of gift products. West Side Graphics has also since concentrated most of all on custom framing. Behind one counter there are dozens and dozens of sample frames for customers to choose from or they can design their own. Gift items include sports memorabilia, gift cards, horse statues, glass figurines and more.
If you're looking for a unique gift or just something fresh for your living-room walls, Fire Opal specializes in American handmade crafts. The store's two locations (Jamaica Plain and Brookline) feature jewelry, clothing, art, housewares and glass pieces by artists across the United States. You can even stop by and meet the artists during in-store events like trunk shows and monthly First Thursday showcases.
A.C. Moore is a national chain of arts and crafts stores with a location in Dedham. In addition to offering a wide selection of scrapbooking, sewing, quilting, painting, knitting, crocheting and craft supplies, A.C. Moore hosts a number of regularly scheduled crafting classes. Visit the A.C. Moore Web site for class, product and promotion information.
