Review of Threadbanger

Got a needle? Stick it to the man! ThreadBanger, the first network dedicated to those who create their own clothing and styles, teaches people to break free from the limits of mainstream apparel. Launched in February 2007 by Next New Networks, a media company that produces internet micro-networks for targeted audiences, the site features “Thread Heads,” a weekly do-it-yourself show hosted by Corinne Leigh (an environmental activist) and Rob Czar (a writer and “music nerd”). Together, the pair travels across the country bringing new ideas on how to make what you wear truly your own.

There’s no doubt that “Thread Heads” will get creative juices running, but to call it a purely “D.I.Y.” show wouldn’t be fair. Yes, each 3-5 minute episode typically features some instructional component, such as tips on how to get the most out of a thrift shop or step-by-step lessons on how to screen print T-shirts and dye jeans in coffee grounds. But there’s a whole lot more. Leigh and Czar frequently spotlight interesting individuals who make their own fashion, from up-and-coming designers with special causes

to street vendors mastering their crafts to even viewers at home (who can submit their own feedback and videos that can make it onto the show). The hosts also take us to cities with “revolutionary” fashion scenes, such as San Francisco and its “Weavings of War” exhibit. And they bring us eccentric trends, news, and tidbits from around the fashion world, like light-emitting T-shirts. All is presented in “devastatingly entertaining” ways. No stranger to sketch comedy and parodies, Czar and Leigh manage to educate and inspire in super creative and unconventional styles – just like the fashions they celebrate.

Need a good laugh? Check out “The World Wide Web’s Top 10 Wild and Wacky Wears” (starting from around 2:00). How some couture makes it onto the runway I’ll never know. Don’t forget to also catch the “epic drama” parody, “The Big Stitch” (at about 2:55), starring puppets with inventive names like Frankie No-Eyes, Nicky the Stitch, Johnny Starch and Pinky. You’ll never look at your socks the same way again.