In the last few months, I've managed to get a sewing machine, a stack of fat quarters and full dollars (or well, yards of free fabric), and a proper job. With the economy as it is, it's REALLY hard to figure out back-to-school things. One of the things I've been worrying about, since my dad lost his job in April, was what I'm going to do about clothing.

After getting a feel for the sewing machine (Kenmore 385, first project was two pillow cases for the couch), I googled projects/DIY stuff and came upon this awesome little website called ThreadBanger. An alternative, sort of against the grain DIY website dedicated to refurbishing, thrifting, and overall just do-it-yourself funness. Since discovering this website, I've finally broken out of my clothing shell and given my taste in clothing a total overhaul.

Projects I've finished include a halter coverup for summer, some pretty bows, and my current projects are a pinup style halter with a lace trim, and a "Gothic Lolita" styled skirt refurbed from two hideous dresses.

I got an email back from what I thought to be a dead-end posting on Craigslist - and lo' & behold, I ended up getting the job a few weeks later and today is my first official day on the job. The money is going towards not only a serger sometime in the future (those are just incredible, aren't they?), a body form and my first paycheck I'm taking my family out to dinner.

Anything else? Oh yeah! Check out North Mountain - it's my favorite pictures from my gallery. So professional, huh? :)