LOS ANGELES

Tap into the crafty offerings of the City of Angels.

Los Angeles is well known for its strip malls and freeways, but there are also great independent shops where you can find all things crafty — both supplies and handmade goods. Because the city is so vast, we’ve divided it up into specific areas to help you maneuver through those famous freeways.

KIT KRAFT 12109 Ventura Place, Studio City kitkraft.biz

Kit Kraft is truly the last of its breed, in its current location since 1954. Owner Mike Sitkin and his daughter run this craft and hobby shop that his parents opened in 1946. They carry a wonderful selection of fabric paints, glitter, enameling supplies, adhesives, shrink art, beads, and more, and much of it’s vintage. It’s also a great place to get supplies for your children’s art and craft projects.

HANDMADE GALLERIES L.A. 14556 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks handmadegalleriesla.com

Based on an antique mall concept, Handmade Galleries rents out spaces to independent crafters, artists, and designers. The selection is constantly evolving, so you never know what you might find. On my last visit, I spotted a sock monkey made from argyles and a tote bag made from a tapestry depicting John F. Kennedy.

Cathy Callahan is a crafter and window dresser who draws inspiration from vintage crafts. She blogs about 60s and 70s crafts at cathyofcalifornia.typepad.com.

Photography by Amy Crilly

Plan on going off your diet at Leda’s Bake Shop, located in Sherman Oaks at 13722 Ventura Blvd. The mini cupcakes — each with a dab of filling — are worth the plunge. They even offer vegan treats! ledasbakeshop.com