Begin with Empty shelf

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Empty Shelf is a bookstore with a curation hub built around the concept of “playing with empty space,” and it opened in San Gabriel, Los Angeles County in August 2024. We feature books, visual and performance arts, crafts, and handmade works. It is a space where local creators can curate and perform in a physical setting, and it is also a bookstore and handcrafted gift shop that we build together with them. Empty Shelf will celebrate a grand re-opening in Old Town Pasadena in December 2025!

Curate a Shelf For Your Brand

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Empty Shelf is designed not only for selling books but also as a curation space where creativity flourishes.

Our empty shelf “Curration Space” may be small, but it is waiting to be filled with your unique vision and style. For those who dream of having their own shop, Empty Shelf offers a simple way to make that dream come true, even on a small scale. At the same time, it is a handmade gift market and a space where visitors can experience collective creative expression.

JOIN OUR WORKSHOP!

Workshop -SUNDAY, AUG 23

WATER COLOR BASICS

Ready to treat yourself to a little creative time and discover the joy of watercolors? 💦🎨

Join JJ 👩🏻‍🎨 for her Basics Watercolor Workshop where you’ll explore washes, color mixing, brush techniques, layering, and simple ways to create beautiful paintings—no experience required!

This will be a very relaxed and supportive learning environment! Be ready to let your inner child explore and play!

Reserve Your Spot!

Workshop Aug 30 & Sep 13

Perfume Making Workshop ( K1rmizu+ emptyshelf)

Schedule:

30th AUG (Sun): ✅ NOW BOOKING

13th SEP (Sun): ✅ NOW BOOKING

Our sessions tend to fill up fast, so make sure to grab your spot before they’re gone!

Reserve Your Spot!

SUNDAY, Sep 12

AKASSA × Empty Shelf: Special Silent Auction Event

We are delighted to host a special collaboration event at Empty Shelf, presented in partnership with creative collective AKASSA.

Join us for an early evening celebrating local craft and expression through a special silent auction. Guests will have the opportunity to view and bid on a curated selection of art and craft pieces created by talented artists from our local community.

A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated by AKASSA to support youth community initiatives with the Asian Youth Center (AYC). We invite you to drop by, take in the artwork, and spend a peaceful afternoon with us.

Date & Time: Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Empty Shelf
Admission: Free / All are welcome

More About

SUNDAY, Sep 20

Intro to Metalsmithing: Make Your Own Stacking Rings ✦ Vol. 3 ✦

Hosted by: @biancamoscatelli

Back by popular demand! After a highly successful first session, we are thrilled to host our second hands-on metalsmithing workshop at Empty Shelf.

In this group workshop, you will craft your own custom set of sterling silver and/or brass stacking rings to wear home. We’ll guide you through the professional tools and equipment of the trade, teaching you how to size, form, saw, solder, shape, hammer (texturize), and polish your unique pieces from scratch.

You'll get hands-on experience with professional tools including calipers, jewelers saws, files, multiple hammers, a butane torch, and a flex shaft.

Workshop Details
• Date: Sunday, September 20th
• Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
• Location: Empty Shelf, Pasadena
• Price: $150.00 per person
• Inclusions: All tools and high-quality materials are provided.
• Experience Level: No prior experience necessary—perfect for first-timers!

Sign Up!

SUNDAY, Sep 27

Korean Traditional Knot Workshop: Dongshimgyeol Maedup

In this workshop, we'll learn a Korean traditional knot called Dongshimgyeol Maedup that signifies two hearts becoming one. The Lover's Knot can add a touch of traditional Korean decoration to your bag, outfit, life. The workshop is designed for all skill levels, and materials are provided. You’ll take home your your handmade keychain(s) along with the skillset to keep practicing and creating! Time permitting, you may learn 1-2 additional maedup knots.

Sing Up