I really love this place, and I always stop by when I go play video games like an addict next door at Emporium Arcade. They have the cutest greeting cards. Usually, I just look around and bank things in my memory as inspiration to create, but sometimes I splurge on gifts for my loves. The prices are decent and the quality is great. The employees are awesome. Good luck finding parking, though. read more

Rare Device - Cards & Stationery Near Me - San Francisco, California

Really great card selection! And a bunch of cute other nicknacks to browse when you're exploring NoPa!

Adorable shop full of beautiful, whimsical things. A person working there helped me pick out the perfect gift for my design-minded friend--this gorgeous reversible glass vase-- who loved it! Also my favorite place to get cards for birthdays/holidays and such. Every time I walk by it, I feel lucky to have such a special shop in my neighborhood :-) read more

I want to buy everything in this store! Beautifully curated one stop shop where you can easily find something for a friend's housewarming, baby shower, and/or birthday party, as well as a little something to treat yourself all at once. I personally enjoy looking at the unique selection of greeting cards, the prints, the chic planters, as well as the local art and jewelry. As I said everything in this store is top notch. They also recently invited a local artist Windy Chien to have a book signing and I got to speak with her in person while they showcased some of her art. The store served up some wine and cheese and fruit for the special occasion. It was lovely! I consider this a must stop place when in the area. It's always nice to pop in and see what new things they have. Good luck trying not to spend too much here however. That's definitely the hardest part of coming into this store. Happy shopping! read more

See all

This is a cute little stationary and aesthetic home decor shop. It seemed like there was a lot of stuff from local artisans. Very fun to browse but also hard to not to buy something you don't need. read more

Rare Device is my go-to spot for gifts for all occasions. They sell unique cards, prints, ceramics, jewelry, pins, candles and more. Perfect for a small but thoughtful gift for loved ones. The cards here really are so great (and too expensive) that you're not going to want to go back to buying them at chain stores. They also sell lots of SF-themed stuff that is perfect for high quality, unique souvenirs. Everything they sell at Rare Device is made by artists (local and further). Most (if not all?) of the workers there are artists themselves and Rare Device periodically showcases their employees' work. Rare Device is a great little shop to pop into when you're in the neighborhood. I find myself in there a few times a week and would recommend it if have an occasion coming up or are just in the mood to browse. read more

Rare Device - Outside - Cards & Stationery Near Me - San Francisco, California

I'm disappointed because I love all the products at this store - they had Insta favorite brands like Slow Down Studio, as well as items from artists I really like (Amber Vittoria temporary tats? C'mon!) However, I was very clearly being followed around the store. It's a tiny store, yes, but everyone else that was shopping didn't have *multiple* clerks coming near them to "tidy" things up in the specific spot they were shopping. I'm a young brown woman and I didn't appreciate this at all (mind you, I was dressed nicely so I was pretty offended by this). No one offered me any help or spoke to me, just kept coming near me to shift a ceramic mug or move an item over... I still bought some things because like I said, I really like the products and I like supporting artists (although this store is on the pricier side I thought it was for the artists' sake). I won't be back here or in the area again - too many microaggressions transpiring. read more

Lots of cool stuff at this store, was impressed with their card section and party supplies in particular. read more

See all

I really love buying incense here because it's the best you can find. Buy yourself an Ojai lavender candle and you won't be sorry. :)

Super cute shop with super cute things. I made the mistake of not coming here before gifting my sister-in-law with something not as cool as anything I could have gotten from here. My little dude loved the kid section in the back. So did I. Cool pens, stationary, art stuff, pins, and other stuff that will make you seem like a hella cool gift giver. If you need gifts, they have them. Cards too. read more

NOPA gave you 30mins to wait for your table? Stop by at this craft store next door and get lost in the most fantastic kitsch this city has seen. Artsy post cards? Fancy back packs? Soy candles? Unique books? Rare Device has it. The best thing is you don't know you really need it before you walk in there. And who places a "Congrats on your newborn" next to the "Children will ruin your life" card? Classy. read more

Rare Device - #word - Cards & Stationery Near Me - San Francisco, California

Oh, I'm in trouble. Well, more accurately, my wallet is in trouble. Or my husband's wallet. Or someone's. Yours? Just when I thought I'd had my fill of great boutique shops in San Francisco selling locally-made products, along comes Rare Device, the new store in the old "National Product" space. We went to the opening party. Jewelry was ogled. Paintings were admired. Handbags were coveted. Belts were tried on. Yeah, I am definitely going to spend some money here. There is a plethora of not-to-be missed items (if you love owls, this is your store), and there is a wide range of prices so that you can either splurge or just gently indulge your fancy. I love the blend of the modern with the whimsical - the assortment is pretty near perfect for my tastes. Just enough serious, cute and playful to appeal to me and those on my gift list. And the space is big, making it easy to shop. And the people are nice. Because I strive to be useful, please be assured that if you feel the need to buy me a fabulous gift, you can find it at Rare Device. read more

See all

I seriously love my HOOD! Can't believe I haven't reviewed Rare Device until now! I can spend hours at this store, which has everything that I love, from unique cards to art to books to local and handmade gifts. This place has SF screaming all over it! Be sure to look in the back section for the baby and kids stuff, from children's books to onesies and sweaters. The other night, I popped into "just look" and nearly $90 later, I walked away with birthday cards and gifts (holiday, too). Need to find a unique and fun, Rare Device is your store. Quality stuff is sold here, and nothing less. The items are neatly and perfectly arranged, and prices vary. BTW most items are regular price, but there are a few items on sale, so be sure to look carefully. Please support the Mom and Pop businesses in my NOPA hood! Go to Rare Device now! Happy HOHOHOHolidays y'all! read more

I am SO happy I found this store by accident after dining at NOPA on Saturday for brunch. What a CUTE adorable store! I know this kind of store ... probably sells loads of stuff you don't really need, but everything is so quaint, cute, or novel in a #firstworld way that I feel like I want it all. They have a lot of art, a lot of household goodies, and definitely gives you that ... never give a generic housewarming gift ever again sort of thing. You can find all kinds of goodies here that will surprise and delight your friends at a party. I particularly liked their fashion jewelry. They were affordable, good quality, and very cute for what they were. I am sure you can find it for cheaper, but hey ... support your local businesses right? Ha ... Recommended even if its just for browsing! read more

This is one of those hipster shops that you have to go into. They carry truly unique items that are fun to browse and figure out what they're for. Most made locally, or at least hand and U.S. made. They always have new things so I love stopping in to see what interesting finds they've come up with. If you're from out of town and hate touristy crap, you might just find that perfect gift here. read more

This place is small, but it carries a variety of unique gift items. In a nutshell: cool books, t-shirts, jewelry, housewares, letterpress cards, journals, candles, baby clothes, toys, art prints and posters. I'd buy the entire store if I could, but instead I walked out with some baby flashcards (gift) ($16) and a postcard ($3) I intend to frame. The cashier (owner?) was very helpful and courteous. I stopped in with hopes of finding unique stationery. They didn't carry what I was looking for, but he pointed me in the direction of some places to try. read more

This little shop has some really cute stuff. Merchandise is somewhere between the Moma store and etsy. They have art openings where the originals and prints are typically available for the length of the show. They have paper goods, kitchen things, art for your wall, jewelry and a small baby/kids section in the back. The selection is limited but well chosen. The prices are up there, but there are still some affordable things to be bought. Check the internet before you buy because quite a few items have a high mark up. read more

Adorable neighborhood gift shop. I'm a picky greeting card buyer - but I can usually find the perfect card at Rare Device. Be it cute, well designed, funny, touching, or even wacky - they are sure to have a great card for any occasion. They also have the most adorable gifts from jewelry, stationary, bags, vases, frames, candles, prints, mugs, pens, etc etc. The inventory changes frequently so I tend to stop in almost weekly just to see what new goodies they have. read more

Rare Device - Wall art! - Cards & Stationery Near Me - San Francisco, California

One of the all-time cutest little gift shops in sf. Come here on the reg after lolling around at bi rite or other divis hang out / hi spots. They've got a nice selection of cards, cute little Japanese housewares, and some in-house cologne that makes you smell like a sexy baby come from the forest. There are occasional art shows / a rotating exhibition of local artists. Pretty cool I'd say! read more

Love this neighborhood shop, great place for unique cards and wonderfully scented candles. I get all my greeting cards here!

A very cool boutique that hosts art events, Rare Device is a rare delight. The space is extremely charming with its old original windows, high ceilings, wood floors, and personality galore. They host small art exhibits, such as the Beholder's (www.beholder-art.com) that I went to last night. The beverages served were white wine and sake....that was nice. I haven't had sake in far too long. I will definitely have to go back when it's not a packed house. I need to explore this place a little more. And please, to call it a store seems a little vulgar...."boutique" or "shop" are much more appropriate terms. :) read more

Best shop for gifts and cards! They also have a nice selection of jewelry and cosmetics for gifting yourself. I buy my favorite shade of lipstick, Divisidero, here. read more

Kind of cute stuff, really really expensive, very limited selection. I would shop here if I was spending someone else's money on someone who dislikes practical things, but likes to pretend otherwise. read more

What a cute store, bummed they are moving away from Market street! Tons of neat items -housewares, calendars/stationary, baby gifts, posters, etc. All very cute, and all rather pricey. It's a girly minimalist's dream shop. It would be mine too if it wasn't a $$$ place. Fun to walk around and look and great for gifts. read more

After reading Rare Device changed owners, I decided to stop in and check it out again. The last owner/manager had a "snoobier than thou" attitude. We walked out after 2 minutes. The new owners (a married couple) are a breath of fresh air, greeting everyone who comes through the door with a smile. The shop is stock with original art, limited edition art prints, art books, jewelry, fine ceramics, fine paper products and unique accessories from independent artists. Not to forget your little ones because the owners have a little one themselves. There is a quaint children's section. Great gift ideas because everyone knows someone with a child/ren. read more

I love the new rare device location! I visited here recently to pick up some cards. Most importantly the new location is even more convenient and a great addition to the Divisadero corridor. Beyond that, the new spot is larger than the old one. This means more space for goodies and it is easier to walk around, especially when they have a lot of patrons. The new location offers even more of what I already loved ranging from awesome stationary (plus a Little Otsu mini store!), beautiful jewelry, perfume and lotion and hand crafted items for the home. The back space didn't seem to be set up but I hope they continue with the gallery there. read more

Adorable yet edgy boutique with great jewelry, home goods, decor, and paper goods. Among my favorite items I found today: an eclipse bottle opener, chunky tribal earrings, wine decanters with wooden ball tops, geometric wood hangers, bright Japanese table top containers... all amazing. I will be back! read more

I remember when this adorable little shop opened up a few years ago. They carry a collection of art, jewelry, ceramics, home goods, cards, and many other fun handmade goodies. It's reminds me of one big Etsy shop, and I'm a lover of Etsy. Everything is great quality and made with lots of love! This is a the perfect shop to purchase a personal gift for someone. The employees are always friendly and knowledgable about the different purveyors and artists. Many of them are based in San Francisco, which is pretty cool. I would definitely pop into Rare Device next time your in the neighborhood! read more

A very cool store with great gifts! I love perusing their greeting cards, rubber stamps, lotions, soaps, stationery and home decor. Their inventory changes and updates from time to time so I would stop by from time to time to see what is new. I will come here for gifts or if I want to just buy a little something to cheer me up. It's in a great location in growing NOPA and it is easy to get to by Muni 21 and 24. read more

The. Best. Rare Device is like a candy store for grown ups. I have popped in here on various occasions just to check out all the pretty things. Over time, I've been here to pick up a letterpressed calendar, a dimpled flowerpot, a lovely walnut Ipod player. Always a good time. Also, fewer calories than an actual candy store. read more

You should definitely come here if you suck at coming up with ideas for birthday presents. There is an unlimited array of innovative and inspiring items in this shop, all affordably priced. Wonderful cards too. Actually, come here when you want ideas for anything! I accidentally stumbled in here on opening night and was beyond impressed with the variety of cool art, handmade items, books and trinkets. I fear that this kind of independent shop won't be able to survive the commercial rent in San Francisco, but even if it's a fleeting enterprise, I appreciate and support it. read more

What a cute place! I am a big fan of unique stationary and knock knacks, which this place has in spades. We went for a gallery showing they had at the back of the store. It's a nice little space, and it's filled with unique artisan items, from bottle openers to pots, aprons and bike bells, and beautiful poster prints. They had some jewelry too, pretty fancy. It was a cool place, only really knocking it cause it was kind of pricey all around. read more

Rare Device - Stopped in for the Celebrate gallery showing. - Cards & Stationery Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great place. I was a huge fan of Rena Tom's jewelry when she had her own website and never made it to the Rare Device store in NY. When I heard about her opening a place here I couldn't wait. Really interesting assortment of gifts and art in a funky little storefront. Lots of stuff but not crowded, I browsed for a long time and will make it back at least once to shop for the holidays. Or myself. So far I just got a cool screenprinted shirt for the husband. I couldn't make up my mind about jewelry and I had been in there so long I needed to get something! So he wins for now. I didn't see an obvious "sign" from across the street - look for a multi colored geometric mural with birds above the door. read more

Really neat items ranging from delicate jewelry to baby toys. I was intrigued to drop some money there, but the attendant's sour face sent me right back out. Never a smile nor a 'hello' from her despite it being the middle of the day and I was one of two visiting. I won't judge a store by one lousy employee, so I'll eventually stop in the store again with the hope that a friendlier face will welcome me in then. read more

THERES A DOGGIE AT THE WINDOW!! *sings tune* I repeat, a super cute chihuahua at the window! Definitely caught my eye, but little guy is not for sale. However, all the cool gadgets and all the lovely smelling soy candles are! Array of goodies from pretty stationary and cards to nail polish to unique cooking utensils. The worker was nice and greeted us as we walked in. Prices vary depending on the goodies but its seems a little pricey - I was looking at the adorable, bright printed baby clothes and they were hitting around $60 a pop. Fun store, things are nicely placed. I'd love to come browse again! read more

So fun to browse! It ignites all my desires to create things. I'm glad it's on Divis, and they carry a great selection of magazines like Cereal and The Great Discontent. I could easily (and have) spent stupid amounts of money on pretty published periodicals (alliteration, yo) here. Next up, prints. Grab an air plant or two and find a nice card for the next occasion on your list! read more

Rare Device is my new favorite store to pick up gifts for friends...and myself! They have an amazing supply of designer housewares (beautiful glass Japanese carafes, hand made plates and bowls), as well as office supplies, unique stationary, art books, and cute jewelry. Tucked among the merchandise is original artwork- paintings on the wall, prints leaning on shelves, boxes filled with affordable multiples, and a rotating gallery in the annex. This is one of those rare places where there is something for everyone, and in every price range. I bought an original artist painting for $40, a set of two Circus Violet artist prints for $24, and a little wooden bowl that looks like a tree trunk (on sale). read more

Cool place to pick-up some unique stationary and greeting cards for assorted occasions.

Popped into Rare Device while on vacation, most likely because something sparkly cough my eye in the window. Lots of fun little stationary, cards, knickknacks, pens... etc. This is a GREAT place to buy gifts. If you're a stationary or office supply geek this is a must visit! read more

A special little gem of the city. I don't blame them for being a little expensive, one would have to do so on an independent level. If you're not looking to spend much, at least check out their little gallery section. It makes me happy that they gave up floor space for it. read more