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The history of Saba lace, one of the island's most popular goods, goes back to the late 19th century. Gertrude Johnson learned lace making at a Caracas convent school. She returned to Saba in the 1870s and taught the art that has endured ever since. Saban ladies display and sell their creations at the community center in Zion's Hill and from their houses; just follow the signs. Collars, tea towels, napkins, bookmarks, and other small articles are relatively inexpensive; larger ones, such as tablecloths, can be pricey. The fabric requires some care—it's not drip-dry. Saba Spice is another island buy. Although it sounds as delicate as lace, and the aroma is as sweet as can be, the base for this liqueur is 151-proof rum.
As the name suggests, you can get just about everything here. The shelves overflow with fabulous and eclectic regional crafts, local postcards, handmade jewelry, knickknacks, and souvenirs of every ilk. It's also connected to a small art gallery highlighting local artists.
From watercolors of traditional houses to ocean-inspired sculpture, this gallery has the island's best selection of Saban and Caribbean art. You'll see lots of work here by internationally renowned local artist Heleen Cornet—ask about her pottery and painting workshops at her Troy Hill studio.
Amiable artist-owner Jo Bean makes and sells delicate glass-bead jewelry, charming glass sea-creatures, wedding cake decorations, and sterling silver and gold pieces from her gallery/workshop. Half-day workshops in hot-glass bead work are available—they're a wonderful way to spend a morning out of the sun and sea and create a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
This modern shop showcases works (often made using locally sourced materials) by talented crafters and artists who are part of an island collective. Look for dishes with fishes and other functional art for your home, candles, soaps, lotions, potions, and more—all artfully displayed and packaged with the environment in mind. Visit on Thursday afternoon, and you might see the Saba lace ladies at work.
Saba's one and only mini-mall contains the Bizzy Bee Bakery, Eye Care Optical, and The Hideaway—an indoor and outdoor café. It's a central point for outdoor markets and celebrations and is home to the "I Love Saba" sign.
Come to this charming cottage to buy hand-screened fabrics by the yard or crafted into clothes, bags, and home linens. The foundation also serves as a central location for buying the famous Saba lace as well as T-shirts and the infused rums known as Saba Spice. It's open weekdays only.
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