Etsy Fangirl | 221B Etsy Street

Since Sherlock Holmes arrived on the scene in 1887 with his keen intuition, his innovative deductive methods, his powers of observation, his creative disguises, and his fascinating personality, the mystery genre has never quite been the same. Indeed Doyle’s famous fictional detective — along with his more relatable, socially-adept companion, Dr. Watson — increased the genre’s popularity and have captivated readers and audiences alike for over a century. Beyond that, Sherlock Holmes has inspired generations of mystery writers to adapt, reimagine, retell his stories across a multitude of creative mediums; to pay homage to and spoof the deerstalker-wearing detective in their own works; and to create mysteries of their own that hope to rival the intelligence, cleverness, and creative minutiae of his cases. These stories of Doyle’s are so constant and so ingrained in our education, entertainment, and current pop culture — especially within the last five years with the wide popularity of several Sherlock-based films and TV shows– that it’s almost impossible to live within western culture and NOT be aware of Sherlock Holmes. I mean, if I asked you what the first thing that comes to mind if I said “magnifying glass” or “detective,” what would you say? Odds are good that a majority of answers would be something related to Sherlock Holm–

 

“Yes, yes, yes, he’s an enduring literary icon,” You say. “Enough talk!”

 

Noted. On to the reason you’re here: Holmesian-inspired Etsy goodness! Come along, Dear Reader!  The game is afoot!

(I know.  I had to.)

 

P.S. – If you’ve never read any of the original Sherlock stories, I encourage you to!  I didn’t pick up my first Holmes mystery until about 3 years ago because I was afraid that trudging through the antiquated language and phrasing would be difficult and boring.  Surprisingly, not so.  It’s very readable and engaging.  And guess what?  Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock stories are also in the public domain, which means they are more easily accessible for those whose book budgets may be a little tight. (FYI, a lot of classic literature is in the public domain!) Yay!  Also, a good resource?  Your public library.

You’ll want to start with A Study in Scarlet. Download the ebook for free at Project Gutenberg or the audiobook for free at Librivox. 

A study in Sherlocks… and Watsons.

I’m mourning the lack of wall space in my current house.

I deduce that these letterpress coasters are simply fabulous.

You can’t argue with pillow logic.

For the stylishly macabre.

For those looking to create an atmospheric reading experience.

Amy’s fandom art never fails to be anything other than excellent.

For those investigators who are only verbally communicative POST-coffee.

I see you’ve been going through Sherlock’s mail again…

Stumped by a difficult mystery? Try this.

Cozy, witty and adorable.

Because one must dress the part.

Because there must always be tea.

Because the illustrations are fantastic, and because Watson is clearly in cahoots with a tea-drinking bulldog.

Because there must always be nail polish.

Holmes-ify your favorite thinking chair with these fabulous throw pillows.

“Cute” is not typically a word I’d associate with Sherlock & John, but in this case it more than applies.

For a bold, literary fashion statement.

Useful for washing away all those clever disguises.

It’s always time for Sherlock.

Decorative and useful.  A must for any aspiring detective.

Because spats should make a comeback, ermiright?

A necessity for aspiring Watsons.  Useful for chronicling the odd activities of your deductively-inclined friends.

The best kind of pipe to have on hand for any “three pipe problem” you may encounter. Plus, I bet it’d look really cute paired with a scarf.

All clues point to this stamp being absolutely adorable.

For all your concealment needs.

The long-neck beaker does double nicely as a vase when not being used to determine the geographical origin of paper types.

Happy Reading,

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