Boston's Best Stationery Stores
The Dotted I
55 Main St.
Concord, MA 01742
(978) 369-6050
www.thedottedi.net
Shannon Gustafson just loves stationery. Her greatest dream was to make a unique store available with a revolving inventory of new gifts and a custom design studio for just the right wording on just the right stationery. With The Dotted I, her dream has been realized. Add a photo to that special card, personalize placemats, gift tags, a mobile tablet or phone case, and if you've got a unique idea, pass it on. Shop for exclusive designers, plan a wedding or party, and don't forget to check out The Dotted I's event schedule for more smashing gift ideas.
Mass Art Made
625 Huntington Ave.
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 879-7407
www.massartmade.com
Shop crafts and stationery that are all handmade by Mass College of Art students. At this unique boutique, you'll see some of the creativity that comes out of the minds of the recent graduates of art. Visitors can submit ideas and suggestions, or they can question the artists one-on-one. Take an image from your mind and commit it to paper on site for a tailored-to-fit gift idea. Each year, new artists are added to the roll call, so return any time or season and see what's new and unique in Boston gift giving.
Related: Pros and Cons of Gift Cards
Black Ink
101 Charles St.
Boston, MA 02114
(617) 723-3883
www.blackinkboston.squarespace.com
Started as a rubber stamp and paper shop, it should be no surprise where Black Ink got its name. It's a green store, usually compared to an old-time general store, but don't expect to meet Ma and Pa here. The inventory has expanded from floor to ceiling, so take your time peruse the shelves, round a corner and bump into just the right gift. All inventory is well within the budget. Black Ink is home to a true museum of useful things you won't find anywhere else.
An Elegant Affair
2A Mount Vernon St.
Winchester, MA 01890
(781) 721-5571
www.anelegantaffairshops.com
An Elegant Affair reeks of proper etiquette. Point your pinkies up, and enter into posh society. Stun your friends and family with what you'll find offered here. Never say where you got it; keep this place a secret for weddings, special events or anniversaries. An Elegant Affair does more than invitations and unique personalized stationery. It offers linens, a bridal registry, Mariposa serving pieces, candles, bath and body, ceramics for the kitchen or dining area, and a little something for the baby. Delicate or rugged, elegant or simple, this boutique has put it all together gorgeously.
Papyrus
800 Boylston St.
Boston, MA 02199
(617) 262-6520
www.papyrusonline.com
Beginning with a vast assortment of everything stationery, Papyrus doesn't stop there. Find gifts for him or her for less than $20. Festive gift wrap, holiday greetings and custom printing await. Papyrus is a chain retailer with a popular location in the Prudential Center Mall in Boston. Grab a quick box set of any card imaginable, pick up a matching set of wine glasses, toss it all in a gift box or bag, and personalize it with your favorite colors. Papyrus features rows, stacks and columns of cards waiting to tickle your funny bone.
Related: Best Shops for Last Minute Gifts
Freelance writer Corinne Costantino presents expert tips and tricks to everything Boston with over 30 yrs of shopping and fashion sense. Get your edge on everyday style with a Master Seamstress and Art enthusiast. Recently designing her own clothing line and sharing her unique wardrobe with friends and family, featuring many peices in textile shows across Massachusetts. She extends her knowledge base by offering fashion tips, beauty hints, and shopping advice that will balance your style between trends and make functional practicality versatile. Her work can be found on http://www.examiner.com/early-childhood-parenting-in-boston/corinne-costantino
