What do you do when you're not blogging? What is your job?

Kirsten: I do a lot of things when I'm not working on Studs and Pearls. I'm taking online graduate classes for Nutrition - I also recently started a new job at About.com as an Accessories writer.

What is your nerdiest hobby?

Kirsten: I know a lot about web and graphic design, and HTML is like a second language to me. Very nerdy.

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?

Kirsten: Don't wear things on the basis of what brand or store it's from - just wear what you like, regardless of who it's by.

3 fun facts about you:

Kirsten: I love to bake, I've never dyed my hair before, and up until 2 years ago, I went by my middle name Gail. That's 21 years of my life that I was called something other than Kirsten.

How has your blog changed over the months/years?

Kirsten: I've changed the way I photograph things, to make everything more visually appealing. I'll also be adding a Q&A session every few months, and I plan on doing more clothing reconstructions and really fun giveaways. I’m also working on some collaborations with various websites and companies.

In your opinion, every woman should own:

Kirsten: A pair of black jeans that fit well. If not black, then a dark denim wash. They're a must-have and should really be a staple in anyone's closet (or at least I think so!)

4 things you can't live without:

Kirsten: My sketchbook, my Nikon camera, my amazing friends, and coffee.

Your most worn piece of jewelry:

Kirsten: A silver Medieval inspired ring that a high school friend gave me for my birthday a few years go. It's modeled after a poison ring, so it opens up - kind of like a small locket. It also has this gorgeous floral etching on it.

You're a genius! How do you find all the materials you use for your fabulous DIY projects?

Kirsten: Aside from the usual fabric/craft/art supply stores - thrift shops are my absolute favorite place to find supplies. You can find the most unique things to work with. Hardware stores are really useful, & then of course, there's every day items like eyeglass cases and recycled plastic.

What gives you inspiration for your DIY projects?

Kirsten: Everything and anything. My biggest inspirations are found in every day objects and wandering through boutiques and thrift stores. I also have a sketchbook full of inspirational fashion photos - sometimes a certain aspect of a picture jumps at me, and an idea evolves from there.

If you could have one wish granted, what would it be?

Kirsten: I wish humans needed less sleep. I always want to do so many things - but of course, my internal clock is more empowering than I think.

What words do you live by?

Kirsten: Lack of passion is fatal.