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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.
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- and full-day workshops in hot-glass bead work are available—they're a wonderful way to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir. There's a two-person minimum.
