Sears Kenmore = heaven

Meet my new best friend:

Yesterday, I struck gold at Catholic Social Services, a thrift store here in Augusta, Georgia. I think I am officially addicted to thrifting. I stop in all the stores about once a week. And since I've been moving into a new place, I need all kinds of things to decorate and fill my apartment (excuses for being a hoarder ha). I've been really hunting for a little breakfast table for two, and that was what I was looking for.

At CSS, I walked into the furniture area and saw this sewing machine. It is the exact same model my mother has, what I used to learn how to sew when I was a kid. It was an engagement present from my paternal grandmother to my mom in 1979! I broke the belt back in January when I was home sewing, normal wear and tear of course, but it is seriously the best sewing machine ever! Right up there with the industrial sewing machines I use at work. AND GET THIS: IT WAS ONLY $30!

I called my mom as soon as I saw it and we were both freaking out, especially when a sales person told me the price. I was expecting $100 or so, and then still getting it. The wood cabinet is so beautiful and in great condition. I tightened up the legs and cleaned it all. It is perfect! I just need to get it oiled and buy a presser foot. I can't wait to start sewing on it. My Janome, which cost me about $600, will inevitably become my backup sewing machine.  It's already at home in my craft room. 

This is a perfect example of the amazing things one can find with careful attention at a thrift store. I always find the most amazing things. I've almost completed my apartment odd and ends shopping for less than $100. What would have cost me so much more at Walmart or Target is full of so much more character and history, things you simply can't find anywhere else. I'll post pictures of all my other finds once I get a little more settled in. I'm moving the rest of my big things today with the help of my sister and my friend Sarah. Yay! 

Time to get some fabric together for our Craft Group's fabric swap downtown. I'm bringing some stretchy tissue tee cotton I've had for over a year and rarely use. Plus some beautiful vintage floral fabric. I don't have much fabric still on the bolt on which it was purchased, and people at swaps don't want old clothes haha. And I get to ride my bike since my apartment is in Olde Town, about a mile from downtown! So exciting. I love today.

AND later today, I'm lucky enough to get the Rachael touch in my craft room. My sister, the master of organizing, which I am not, is helping me unpack the entire room! Before and after pictures will be coming soon.

Here's a little picture to leave you all with. My little Clementine, who loves to lay on everything she shouldn't. This is my next tutorial after I finish the one for my sister's dress.

I'll be updating this dress and making it wearable. This dress was in my bedroom when I arrived in Georgia. My sister bought it for me to cut up. Although the sleeves are expertly made and so much fun, they are quite out of date and the neckline on this needs to come down. Also taking the length up about 10 inches.