diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 444b76b..d64d720 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -4,6 +4,10 @@ my slightly overcomplicated awesomewm config
 
 more content coming soon 
 
+# the awmtk2 branch
+
+This is a development branch for testing out various new ideas for a rewrite of the original awmtk theme system. This branch is primarily just a way for me to work on things without breaking the original desktop.
+
 # wow look at these screenshots
 (may or may not represent the real thing)
 
@@ -36,4 +40,4 @@ distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS,
 WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied.
 See the License for the specific language governing permissions and
 limitations under the License.
-```
\ No newline at end of file
+```