ArtWare: A Charleston Gift Shop for Handmade Crafts and Local Art

What ArtWare is and where to find it

ArtWare is a gift shop in Charleston that specializes in handmade crafts, local artwork, and one-of-a-kind pieces created by South Carolina artists. The shop carries jewelry, ceramics, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and functional art objects—items you won't find in chain stores. It's located in downtown Charleston, making it an easy stop if you're already exploring the historic district or looking for a gift that reflects the region's creative community.

The shop's inventory changes regularly because much of what's sold comes directly from local makers. This means each visit offers something different, and the pieces tend to reflect current trends in the Charleston art scene rather than mass-produced inventory sitting in warehouses elsewhere.

Key Takeaways

• ArtWare stocks handmade items and original art from South Carolina artists, not mass-produced goods.
• The inventory includes jewelry, ceramics, paintings, textiles, and functional art that changes with new artist consignments.
• The shop is located in downtown Charleston, within walking distance of other galleries and historic sites.
• Prices vary widely depending on the artist and medium, but you're paying for original work rather than factory production.
• Staff can often tell you about the artists behind pieces and may take custom orders or commissions through participating makers.

Types of items you'll find

ArtWare carries work across multiple mediums. Jewelry ranges from delicate silver pieces to bold statement necklaces and earrings, often incorporating local materials or designs inspired by the Lowcountry. Ceramic work includes both functional pieces like bowls and mugs and sculptural objects meant for display. Paintings and prints span styles from abstract to representational, with many featuring Charleston landmarks or coastal themes.

Textiles—scarves, wall hangings, and woven pieces—represent another strong category. You'll also find smaller sculptural works in wood, metal, and mixed media. Because artists rotate their work in and out of the shop, what's available shifts seasonally and throughout the year. This makes ArtWare a destination worth revisiting if you're a regular visitor to Charleston.

Why artists choose to sell through ArtWare

Local makers use shops like ArtWare as a way to reach customers without the overhead of running their own storefront. The shop handles retail operations—display, staffing, payment processing—while the artist focuses on creating. For buyers, this means you're supporting individual makers directly rather than a corporation, and the artist typically receives a larger share of the sale than they would through a gallery that takes a steep commission.

Many of the artists represented at ArtWare also maintain studios or social media accounts where you can follow their work. Staff at the shop can often connect you with an artist's other platforms if you fall in love with a particular piece and want to see what else they make.

Pricing and what to expect

Prices at ArtWare vary significantly depending on the artist, materials, and time involved in creating each piece. A small ceramic dish might cost less than $30, while a larger painting or commissioned textile work could run several hundred dollars. Because these are original or handmade items rather than reproductions, there's no "standard" price point—each piece is priced individually by the artist.

If you're shopping for a specific budget, staff can help you navigate options. They can also discuss what makes a particular piece valuable—whether it's the artist's reputation, the rarity of materials, or the hours of labor involved. This context often makes a higher price feel justified when you understand the work behind it.

Custom orders and artist commissions

If you see an artist's work at ArtWare and want something tailored to your needs, the shop can often facilitate a commission. Not every artist accepts custom work, but many do—particularly jewelers, ceramicists, and textile makers. The process typically involves discussing your vision with the artist through the shop, agreeing on a timeline and price, and then waiting for the piece to be created.

Commission timelines vary. A custom piece might take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the artist's schedule and the complexity of what you're requesting. The shop can explain the typical timeline for a specific artist and help you understand what happens if you need the piece by a certain date.

Visiting ArtWare as part of a Charleston art tour

ArtWare sits within Charleston's larger gallery and arts district. A visit to the shop pairs well with stops at nearby galleries, artist studios, and museums. The downtown location means you can easily walk to other cultural venues, restaurants, and historic sites. If you're planning a day around art and culture in Charleston, ArtWare works as both a destination and a waypoint.

The shop is particularly worth visiting during Charleston's First Friday Art Walk, when galleries and shops stay open late and often feature special events or artist appearances. This monthly event (held the first Friday of each month) draws art lovers throughout the city and creates a social atmosphere around browsing and buying local work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return or exchange something I bought at ArtWare?

Return and exchange policies vary by artist and piece. Since items are handmade and often one-of-a-kind, most artists don't accept returns on finished work. However, it's worth asking the shop about their specific policy at the time of purchase, especially if you're buying a gift and want to know your options.

Do you need to make an appointment to visit, or can I just walk in?

ArtWare operates as a regular retail shop with posted hours, so you can walk in during business hours without an appointment. Hours may vary seasonally or by day of the week, so checking ahead online or calling is a good idea if you're traveling from out of town.

Can I buy work directly from artists instead of through the shop?

Many artists do sell directly through their own studios or websites. The shop staff can often point you toward an artist's independent channels if you want to explore that option. However, buying through ArtWare supports the shop's role in the community and ensures the artist receives their agreed-upon share.

Are pieces at ArtWare suitable for corporate gifts?

Yes. Many businesses buy from ArtWare for client gifts or office decor because the items are distinctive and reflect local culture. The shop can help you select pieces within a budget and may be able to arrange bulk orders or gift wrapping for business purposes.

What's the best time of year to shop at ArtWare?

The holiday season (November through December) brings fresh inventory and special items, but the shop is worth visiting year-round. Spring and early summer often feature new work from artists who've been creating over the winter. Visiting during First Friday Art Walk offers a lively atmosphere and sometimes artist appearances.