Great Escape: Hand-Craft Your Own Jewelry

If you're like me, sometimes when you want a little escape, you go shopping. You get a few moments to yourself and pick up a little gift for yourself–maybe some earrings, a necklace or a bracelet. They're adorable, and make you happy and when someone says “I love that–where’d you get it?”, and you’ll respond with the name of one of Brookline’s many awesome boutiques and gift shops, or maybe TJMaxx.

But how cool would it be to answer “Thank you–I made it myself!”?

As soon as you set foot into in Brookline Village, your creative juices start flowing. Beads of practically every color, shape and type are neatly and artfully displayed throughout the store. Every type of clasp, wire, chain and tool necessary to bring your vision to life is also available here. Owner Lisa Trachtman and her staff at Abeille (pronounced “ah-bay”) are talented jewelry makers and patient instructors who can guide you to your goal with a smile.

Have some other friends who need a break too? Abeille offers private parties–perfect for a birthday, shower, or bachelorette party or for girls night out! The staff will guide your group through creation of a certain items, either selected by their team or customized by you. Their gift certificates are a great gift idea for any age (they also offer children’s parties).

For those that really have the crafting bug (or bee–Abeille means bee in French), the shop offers manyclasses in jewelry making, sewing and paper crafts. And if you would rather simply buy something pretty than make it yourself? Abeille also has a large selection of beautiful pieces by local artists, including many staff members.

Abeille is open Tuesday though Sunday starting at 11 a.m. Stop in next time you are craving some retail or craft therapy!