Category: AN INDIE BIZ

An Indie Biz: Indoor Fairs

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Tonight is the eve of the DIY Trunk Show and I am surprised to find I have butterflies in my stomach! No matter now many times or places I sell my wares in person – I am always anxious the night prior. And this show is different as I’m not just showing off my handmade goodies, I’m also leading DIY craft demos for participants.

What also sets the DIY Trunk Show apart from others is that Pierogi Picnic was a last-minute add-on. So between this show – and Renegade on December 4th & 5th – my brain is in fair preparation overload!

Here are some of the ideas I have up my sleeve and some things to inspire other vendors prepping for the madness of the season. If you’re anything like me you have butterflies too and could benefit from some advice! Continue reading →

Events: DIY Trunk Show 11/19

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This just in! Pierogi Picnic will be participating in this year’s DIY Trunk Show as both a vendor and demo artist!

The show has moved cross-town from Wicker Park to my humble hood of Edgewater. Just a few blocks from my place – I am more than excited to be part of the Chicago Craft Mafia’s annual event – which showcases the best indie artisans within a 100 mile radius of Chicago. Swing by my space at the show to make your very own hair accessories using t-shirt fabric scraps.

Mention my secret password “goecochicago” when shopping and I’ll knock 20% off your Pierogi Picnic purchase at the event!

What: DIY Trunk Show

When: Saturday, November 19th 10am-5pm

Where: Broadway Armory 5917 N. Broadway Avenue in Chicago

Looking forward to seeing you there!

New Designs: Cute & Cozy Cowl Sweatshirt

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I love fall and winter – hot chocolate, holidays and fluffy blankets make this the most romantic season in my world. Add to that list warm cozy clothing – and I’m smitten beyond belief. This new Pierogi Picnic design looks to conjure up that warm fuzzy feeling and more! Handmade from a salvaged men’s sweatshirt, the cuddle-worthy fleecy interior gives the wearer comfort while the raw cut gives it an enviable edge. Shaped with a cropped waist, sleeves and high cowl, it still retains a modern feel. Also embellished with vintage lace and mismatched buttons, it will make the perfect gift for that fashion forward utilitarian loving gal on your gift list.

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!

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.

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.