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The Old-Fashioned Way

They don’t make ’em like they used to. Except when they do. These shops and their hands-on craftspeople take us back to the beauty of reclaimed wood and metal, paper and ink. The Back Porch Locals remember when you could go down to the old recycling center in Arcata and get a door, or an […]

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A Little Something

Keep an eye out for whimsical pieces with a sense of history and place as mementos of time spent here in Humboldt. 1. Land of Lovely 514 Henderson St., Eureka “California Love” Pillow $38 2. Humboldt Flea Market Redwood Acres Fairgrounds, Eureka (First Sunday of every month) Vintage drill with drill bits $7.50 Vintage weed […]

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Local Flavor

Humboldt’s spice rack is stocked with rubs, salts and seasonings for everything from barbecue to Bloody Marys (just add tomato juice and vodka). You need only decide whether you’re going to share the wealth or make them your new secret ingredients. Find them at Eureka Natural Foods, North Coast Co-op, Wildberries and other local markets. […]

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Bright Idea

As newly minted Humboldt State University graduates, Paul “Yashi” Lubitz and Holly Hosterman didn’t waste time figuring out the rest of their lives. While Lubitz, who had earned a degree in music and industrial technology, mulled over the idea of launching a frozen health foods business, Hosterman, who’d studied jewelry design, told him, “If you […]

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Art to Go

Humboldt is packed with artists —splash some paint and you’ll hit one, in fact. And you don’t have to be a hardcore collector to take a little piece of our art scene home with you to enjoy. Arcata Artisans A broad sampling of work by Humboldt artists fills this fine art and craft cooperative gallery […]

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In the Loop

For ladies or gents who fancy a good old-fashioned stitch n’ bitch, our local knitting shops are amply stocked to keep your hands busy. Whether you’re new to handicrafts or looking for guidance, Humboldt’s yarn shops are ready to help you get started. Yarn A good first stop on your knitting shop scavenger hunt is […]

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The Humidor

For the past 17 years, Humboldt has enjoyed unexpected access to the finer pleasures in life thanks to the friendly staff at Myrtlewood Liquors and John’s Fine Cigars. The folks behind the counter can switch hit between talking shop about vintage Port to where the biggest fish have been biting. The selection surpasses expectations of […]

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Hit the Books

The 50-year-old independent institution of Northtown Books (957 H St., Arcata, 822-2834), with its flier-filled window, is the oldest bookstore in the county. Along with a curated selection of fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, guides and magazines, the shop has a section dedicated to Humboldt history and culture. Peek at those fliers and you just might […]

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Authentic Originals

When you’re done craning your neck and snapping shots of the beautifully restored Carson Block Building, step inside and peruse the North Coast Indian Development Council Art and Gift Shop. Every piece here is handmade and bought directly from a native artist or a native-owned company. You’ll see work from the North Coast, all over […]

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Garden Gear

Inspired by our local greenery? Take home a little something to spiff up your yard or garden spot. Miller Farms Nursery – McKinleyville Lite goat gloves $11 Terrarium tool kit $10 Garden hat $20 Bee ceramic container $17 Garden tools $7 each The Garden Gate – Arcata Packable sun hat $30 Brass handled scissors $22 Rose […]

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Hurly Burly

Welcome to redwood burl country, where artisans and craftspeople are turning knotty local wood to create wild and wonderful things. Korbly Wood Products Since the early ’70s, Bernie Korbly’s been turning out gorgeous wooden bowls on a vintage lathe. You’ll recognize him — he’s the guy in the San Francisco Giants ball cap sprinkled with […]

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Hands Down

There’s something about clothing and objects designed by a singular imagination and made by an actual person’s hands. This pair of Humboldt shops rounds up quirky and beautiful things with personality and soul, like the people who made them. The Bodega H.A. Pearson, the vivacious owner of The Bodega, is known for her super soft, […]

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