Meet the Models: Chella

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Meet Chella! This Chi-town girl is not just a pretty face. Working as a technician and trainer for Apple (yes the super duper tech giant), Chella gets her geek on while still remaining real.

While playing with the latest Mac gadget has it’s quirks, Chella’s real passion is photography. Having graduated from Columbia with a BFA in photography, Chella loves the creative license found in setting lights and creating scenes. And just in case her photography career doesn’t launch the way she hopes? Chella’s okay. Her backup plan? Joining a roller derby team or becoming a burlesque dancer.

In addition to her inner artist and techie, Chella is also an avid crafter who finds release in making things by hand. Currently she has been busting out her knitting skills making scarves while also baking cookies for her soon to be sugar-comatose boyfriend Eric. Her love of baking must be in her genes – she reflects fondly of her grandma’s “kifli” – a croissant-like bread stuffed with fresh feta cheese. Her ethnic roots, combined with her tech-savvy and pretty tough girl persona, make Chella a welcome addition to the Pierogi Picnic model lineup.

Welcome again Chella!

Inspiration: Colorful Crate Storage

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I am just gushing over the form, function and style of this fun entryway made completely of wood storage crates!

I have already been collecting salvaged boxes like these with the help of friends. But seeing them in action at home (and not just for lugging merchandise to shows) I have had a mega dose of inspiration. Thanks to the photo above I will be converting my current studio storage to a crate system that will be customizable, eco-friendly and unique!

Hats off to Apartment Therapy for posting the pic that inspired my future super storage! Once my project’s complete I will be sure to share the photos here.

New Designs: Upcycled Aprons

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One of my signature looks for craft fairs includes my uber feminine, totally utilitarian, aprons. Perfect for stashing petty change, receipts, pens, and other essentials, my “fartuszki” as they’re called in Polish, make me an efficient salesperson in stylish disguise!

Something that I’ve resisted doing for some time now was making these chic smocks for sale. But after the most recent Renegade Craft Fair, where I was asked again and again about my apron, I broke down and finally made a prototype. Using two vintage pillowcases, I cut and ruched one into the apron’s base, and used the second’s unusual flower print as an applique and pocket.

The result is better than I imagined! So now every hostess, baker, layer lover and crafter can also revel in sweet and simple apron joy.

Tutorial: Homemade Caramel Apples

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There’s nothing that beckons the dawn of fall like crisp yet rich caramel apples.The moment I see them hit the grocery store end caps I know that autumn is in full swing.

If you’re an addict like me, try your hand at this simple recipe that will not only give you the freshest results – it allows you to use organic natural ingredients – so the only thing you’ll feel guilty about is hoarding them all for yourself!

To see the full recipe view my post on the EcoEtsy blog here. 

Press: Featured Member on EcoEtsy

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I was perusing some older press items when I fell upon this gem – my Featured Member interview for the EcoEtsy team.

It’s fascinating going back more than a year later and reading my responses. I was surprised to find that I would still answer the majority of the questions the same way today. Read the original interview which talks about my journey to owning an eco indie busy and ongoing inspirations.

How would you answer the questions if you were asked? Share your thoughts below.