One of the things I always loved about the era of William Morris is his belief that useful things should also be beautiful. As an artist, I embellish where I can, but in my adult life one of my goals is to replace ugly plastic tools, and kitchen implements with beautiful ones. It took me years to find an affordable antler carving set like the one my grandmother had. Sewing with my Victorian chatelaine tools doesn't feel like drudgery (they also do double duty as crafting tools). My kitchen broom is a handmade, gorgeous multi-colored masterpiece that hangs on the wall where it can be admired. Beautiful tools make the work more enjoyable, and usually work so much better than cheap plastic knock-offs from China. So I have to agree that there is always plenty of time to be productive if we stop web surfing or TV watching long enough to get into a handmade project. My treasures are all handmade things, and I like it even better if I know the person who made them. That simplicity of life, using simple, beautiful things in daily work, and knowing the people who crafted those beautiful things is how our ancestors lived--it was rich in a way many don't understand now. I have my morning coffee in a mug made by a friend. It's being connected to a much bigger world, to people I love and admire...it's PERSONAL. Anyhow, Doug is so right about time.

If you didn't show the entire process, I wouldn't believe it was made of wood. You did such a fantastic job, and I agree that you are an inspiration for SteamPunk creators. I just love the arcade idea, and mixed with horror movies? Genius.

This is totally amazing!!! I'm just getting started designing Steampunk accessories, and your work is inspirational. Thank you! -- Lauri Jon

Would have liked to see a Van de Graaff/huge sparker going up to the top!