Unconscious-Me Is a Big Spender

As a very part-time artist myself, my Instagram recommendations mostly consist of other artist accounts showcasing their work: handmade pottery, embroidery, painting, paper collages, glass blowing, woodworking….you name it. I will also admit that there are a handful of choreographed dances and pictures of Harry Styles mixed in there. But the art is my favorite, and I spend hours scrolling through it, discovering Etsy pages that offer the most creative and unique items.

Now, I don’t know if it’s the screen time before bed or just wanting things I don’t have, but lately I’ve been literally dreaming of Etsy items. And buying them. In my sleep. If I’m conjuring them back up when I’m unconscious, they must be cool items, right?

Here are six handmade items you should splurge on next (asleep or awake, I'll leave that up to you):

1. WHO'S SHE? Game

This first one is the definition of a splurge, costing a little over $100 for the wooden board game and around $60 for the cardboard version. It's very similar to the original Guess Who game, but infinitely better.

Instead of guessing characters based on their appearance, you're guessing based on their life's adventures and accomplishments. Plus, they're all women. And did I mention it's made entirely of wood instead of plastic? You're learning about women who changed the world, you're having fun, you're helping the environment....It's a no-brainer.

Find their Poland-based Etsy shop here.

2. Disco Ball Planters

love of plants + love of glittery things = disco ball planter

There are several different Etsy makers (like DadoDadoDesigns or OriginalDiscoPlanter) who design disco ball planters, and they come in a range of sizes and prices. You can hang them, set them down on a table, carry them around with you all day to boost your mood.....endless options, here. (Though I recommend placing it in a sunny spot to take advantage of those sunlight sparkles.)

But maybe you're not into sparkles. I won't judge. Check out these planters instead:

3. Custom Earrings with Your Dog on Them

I don't normally wake up and say, "I think I need some clay earrings that are custom-made to have my dogs on them," but evidently I do say that while I'm still sleeping. EverlyAnora creates beautiful and unique earrings featuring your lovable pet - all you have to do is send in a picture (and pay, of course). Wear those new earrings loudly and proudly! All your other pet-parent friends will be barking with jealousy.

Don't want pup earrings? Check out these instead:

4. Dessert Candles

They look like cupcakes, right? Right?!? Except they're not. They're candles.

CandlelitDesserts offers candles that look like donuts, banana pudding, breads, cereal, coffee, pies, banana splits, Oreos....I could go on. The perfect gift for your best friend, or someone you know literally nothing about. Really, you can't go wrong.

They also offer soap in the shape of a hot dog. This is not a joke. (I'll wait here while you click "Add to Cart.")

5. Vinyl Record Table

Maybe you're looking for a new piece of furniture, but you want it to stand out. You're probably also a music lover who is always adding to their collection. This Etsy seller has you covered. At $250, they're a little pricier than your average side table, but they're expertly crafted and worth every penny.

Check out their Etsy page here. Don't need a side table but still want some vinyl art? These roses are the perfect alternative:

6. Ceramic Dishes

I've been kind of obsessed with ceramics recently, especially ones featuring unique patterns and bright colors. The ones offered by LydiaKardosStudio satisfy these needs perfectly, and you can purchase everything from mugs, to bowls, plates to small cups. Each piece has that "I was handmade just for you!" feel. Just be careful not to drop them.

Need more? Check out these little bowls that are the absolute cutest: