What this is about . . .

This is about how you might make something from nothing. How can I take an old sweater and make it into something instead of throwing it away? How can I buy a $2 item at a thrift store and turn it into something that is the centerpiece in my mother's living room? How can I take a $15 ceramic class at the local city rec center and turn it into a money-making venture when I'm out of work?

Let me start by saying that I am not an artist. I am not calling myself a “crafter” only after years of art history and drawing lessons and failed attempts at being the next great American painter.

I am also not rich. It's just little 'ole me in this house and nobody else is funding a high-end craft habit for me. (On the other hand, if you'd like to make an offer, I would not be opposed to having a high-end craft habit funded by some kind and generous stranger . . . make that a kind, generous, and sexy stranger).

So now you know the down and dirty truth. I am a working class “jo” who has played around at making crafts most of my life just to keep myself busy. Many times the crafting springs out of necessity: I need a nice gift but can't afford to buy one; I need to wrap a gift but can't afford to buy wrapping paper; I need new window treatments but can't afford . . . you get the idea.

So, “Crazy” because it's always good to act a little crazy; it keeps friends and family guessing. “Thrifty” because I've never had a ton of money and had to learn to be a bargain hunter. “Crafts” because, after all, a girl needs a hobby. 

And don't worry, I'll tell you when I try something that turns out stupid or ugly or something that fails entirely.

Oh yeah, how do you like my new glasses?