Custom-Made Gifts & Goods in Long Beach

Known for a singular arts and crafts scene, it comes as no surprise that Long Beach has a wide selection of shops where you can have one-of-a-kind items custom crafted just for you. Some of them even offer you the opportunity to create your own masterpieces through fun, hands-on workshops and private sessions. From cutting-edge jewelry to bespoke home decor, these stores are great places to find your own personalized treasures.

PIGEON’S ROLLER SKATE SHOP

Pretty much the hub of Long Beach’s vibrant roller skating scene, Pigeon’s Roller Skate Shop (148 E. 4th St), is known for its exceptional stock of all styles and designs of rollerskates. But for those looking for something singular, Pigeon's builds custom roller skates, using its own proprietary mounting method to make you a unique, high-performing and durable skate out of your own shoes. Customers need only bring the footwear that speaks to them–whether it be Doc Martens, Vans, Jordans, etc–and Pigeon’s will soon get you rolling.

ENGRAVING AT BETTER HALF BOUTIQUE

Better Half Boutique (3803 Atlantic Ave) is a Bixby Knolls gift shop that carries unique items, from Bourbon Whiskey Brew Candles to handcrafted bags made with repurposed materials. But they also provide custom engraving on the spot, meaning that you can customize and personalize anything you select in the shop, from picture frames to cutting boards, drinkware to wall art.

CREDIT: Better Half Boutique

HELLBENT SILVERSMITH

Known for creating extraordinary handcrafted jewelry, Hellbent Silversmith (433 E First St) devotes a good deal of its business to custom orders like sterling silver rings and necklaces as well as custom add-ons to existing pieces. It also offers a four-week course for customers to create their own custom pieces. The course, which runs on consecutive Tuesdays from 6 to 9PM, includes all silver materials and tools. Sign up early, as courses tend to sell out.

BOWMAN CERAMICS

Bowman Ceramics is the creation of artist Beth Bowman, whose gracefully functional clayware reflects a minimal aesthetic. Hand thrown on the wheel in her home studio, each piece is unique. She not only creates one-of-a-kind pieces, but also offers the opportunity for others to work on the potter’s wheel. In a two-hour session Beth offers instruction and assistance as needed. Most students make anywhere from three to five pieces during the two hours. To reserve studio time, click here.

CREDIT: Bowman Ceramics

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.