I have rediscovered my love of handmade things, and Etsy has become my gateway drug.

I first heard about Etsy a few years ago and fell in love with the idea of a place online where artists and crafters could come together to share & sell their designs. It’s the perfect solution to the artist who wants to sell their work to an international audience. And for me, who is creative but lacking supplies, time or talent to do some of these things – it gives me the opportunity to still own a piece of work (and glean ideas for possible future projects).

A few weeks ago, while waiting for the three little girls at the bus stop, I made the fateful decision to check out what was new on Etsy and this is when it went downhill. While clicking through pages and pages of listings of photographs and jewelry, and everything in between, I discovered the Etsy Treasuries. In the treasuries, I found collection upon collection of the 16 newest, hippest, coolest listings created by other Etsy users. There were collections based on color themes, seasonal weather, locations, sports teams, and since our proximity to the holiday, many, many red-inspired Valentine’s Day gift items.

I was soon lost in the world of Etsy treasuries and quickly filling up my favorites lists.

The next day, again while waiting for the three little girls, I made the mistake of opening my Etsy tab and checking out the newest treasury listings. Before I realized it, I had three little girls chattering in the back seat of my car, reading the listings on my computer screen, and pointing to their favorite things. I had brought three new converts over to the wonderful world of Etsy. That afternoon, we tackled the homework, learned the spelling words and rewarded ourselves with new treasuries and creative ideas. The oldest and youngest quickly lost interest, but the middle stayed right on my lap, intently scanning each new page for her favorites.

Here are a few things that both Stella and I liked, from my very full favorites lists:

I definitely could do this – supplies: computer, design software, & a great printer or local print shop.

I didn’t even know you could sandblast text into stones or think a little bird could be so cute…

Silver earrings & ring, with a common heart theme for Valentine’s Day.

Handmade & hand printed journals & a print dripping with Michigan pride.

Want to see the listings for these items, and many more? Find them on my Etsy favorites.