Where are some of the best places to find things for steampunk creations?

Question

I don't have a dump anywhere near me (and i can't drive) and there is nothing industrial near me, really. I could check thrift stores but most around here just have plain clothes and not much else. I could try pawn shops but none are in my area - most are across town.

Answer 1

The hardware store is a great place for brass screws, bolts, hinges and copper pipe.  You can also use electrical conduit and paint it copper or brass.  From what I have seen there are 2 types of steampunk mods.  One is the kind you would see as if a person with limited means  put something together for function not looks.  So there will be more screws and lots of external pipes ect.  The other is a well to do steampunk.  Picture this person can use mahogany, fine brass inlay, leather and filigree brass or copper.  Think HG Wells time machine.  where he had nice brass fittings and a crystal k**b on the lever.

    I cant decide which I like better.  The poormans or junky steampunk seems easier to do but is less ritzy in looks.

Example of the well to do steampunk

http://blog.nola.com/bicycleyarn/steampu...

Example of a poorman's or Junkypunk as I call it

http://www.2dayblog.com/images/2007/apri...