The facts of steampunk life are few and simple:
1. There are no rules. Everything is open to interpretation, reinterpretation, renovation, stylization, tweaks, quirks, eccentricities, preferences, etc.
2. Inspiration can come from anywhere.
3. Materials can come from anywhere.
4. It doesn't have to be fancy or expensive.
5. Collaboration and the general sharing of ideas is key. It enhances the flow of inspiration and creativity. Sharing your ideas takes nothing away from your originality, and drawing inspiration from the ideas of others doesn't make you unoriginal.