iFind: Steampunk!

The steampunk trend has been a big hit with me as of late, and I've been falling in love with steampunk jewelry. Because of the trend, it's been becoming more complicated to find well made, thoughtfully crafted steampunk items -- but they do exist! For those of you going, "What the heck is this newfangled 'steampunk' you speak of?" do not worry. Steampunk is a rising trend that combines english-Victorian elements with science fiction and mechanics. Read on to see for yourself.

Pick #1:

This awesome cuff bracelet is silver plated, and has a ladies' watch movement nestled in a cute filligree setting. In searching for steampunk jewelry, you'll notice that a lot of it involves using old watch movements -- and you'll also notice that a lot of it looks cheap. This pretty bracelet is well made, and is sure to grab attention for its uniqueness. At $36 plus shipping, this bracelet is worth the price for a great staple in your accessory wardrobe.
Find it here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21935780

Pick Number Two:

Its taking all of my monetary restraint not to buy this cute pendant. It features a genuinely vintage watch movement, and a tiny little silver propeller. It's all silver design makes it totally versatile, and it's got the perk of being an interesting piece that doesn't draw too much attention. A great way to show off your personality and accessory-savvy self at places where you might be expected to blend in and be boring, like work. If the look of this piece doesn't sell itself, the price will -- $34 plus shipping. Again, totally worth it for something that will remain a staple.
Find it here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29108870

Pick Number 3:

This seller on Etsy makes some of the most gorgeous Steampunk rings -- by far my favorites I've come across. If red and bronze aren't exactly your colors, this seller features several other rings with other beads and stones, and other wire colors. This ring surely makes a fashion statement, but not a tacky one. Rings are the one type of jewelry I personally tend to splurge on, so $35+shipping is more than reasonable for me. Especially because this ring (size 7.5) isn't adjustable -- you'll find in your steampunk searching ventures that many are cheaply made on adjustable ring bases. I don't know about you, but if I wanted an adjustable ring, I'd put a quarter in the machine at Taco Bell. At the time I'm posting this, the seller is running a Buy 2 Get 1 Free special, as long as the free item is $35 or under.
Find this item here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27998791

So there's what I have for you today. Happy steampunking! Next blog: handmade cosmetics.

Is there a topic you'd like to see featured here on iFind Handmade? Email me at RachelMorganDesigns@Live.com and let me know. You could see your idea, or designs, here!

Welcome to iFind Handmade! First picks: Soaps.

Hey there, and welcome to iFind Handmade! This is a brand spankin' new blog, and I will be updating every few days with fantastic finds from handmade shops all over the 'net. Featured items will not only be stunning and high quality, but also priced affordably!

So, on with the show. First pick of this blog: Handmade soaps! I'm a huge believer in handmade soaps, especially instead of store bought liquids. They're so much more customizable for scent and skin type, and are eco-friendly.

First pick:

This soap is titled "Lemon Bar Soap" and is vegan. The lemony-yellow part of this soap has a tart lemon scent, and the tan part has a sweet pastry scent, making for a bar of soap you'll almost want to eat. And yes, that's real sugar on top! This ~4.2 ounce bar of soap will run you $5.75 plus shipping, and the seller offers a multi-bar discount. View this item in all it's Etsy glory here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17458235

Pick Numero Dos:

This soap, titled "Garden Mint Gardener's Shea Butter Soap" is both pretty to look at, and will make you prettier to look at too. (Psh, like you need it. ;) ) This soap is also vegan, and contains fine ground pumice, poppy seeds, and apricot kernel meal, good for scrubbing off caked on dirt, paints, or whatever other goo you get yourself into, as well as exfoliating away old skin! It smells like mint, rain, and greens. Mmm. This ~4-4.5oz bar will run you $5.00 plus shipping, and can be found on Artfire here: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=267164

Pick #3:

"Pick number 3! Pick number 3, mah lord!" If you're into Shrek and taking advice, maybe this is the soap for you. Or, if you're looking for a nice calming bar of soap, this is for you too. This soap, called "Chamomile Goat Milk Soap" has chamomile and lavendar essential oils; good for both the skin and the mind. It's made with natural oils and farm fresh goats milk, sure to treat the skin right. At $4.00 +shipping for ~5.5oz, this soap is a steal! Purchase it on Etsy here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27442046

Enjoy! The next blog will feature some awesome handcrafted jewelry with a neat theme; stay tuned.