I can’t help but find myself drawn to these incredible and upcycled animal figurines by The Good Machinery. Strange how you can fixate on something so random. We’ll have to see where this current inspiration takes my Spring designs. Zoo printed skirts anyone?
Category: LIVING
DIY: Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap
As we are all busy running about trying to find the perfect handmade gifts for the season – many of us forget an essential – gift wrapping!
To keep you from procrastinating, and purchasing that gaudy roll of wrap that’s strategically placed at the register end cap, create your action plan now with these great easy-to-make alternatives.
Newspaper – If you’re looking for something cheap and chic, newspaper is the best way to go. The high contrast black and white will give your gifts an elegant look with a rustic edge. For some great suggestions on how to best use this upcycled material check out Design Apothecary’s article here.
Paper Bags – If you ever take a spontaneous trip to the grocer and are (gasp!) caught without your reusable shopping bags – never fear! Those old-fashioned paper bags can be put to use! The stock of paper that’s used for your average grocery sack lends itself perfectly for wrapping gifts. Check out this awesome post from My Home Ideas for some great tips on using this everyday item. Continue reading
DIY: Bibliophile Wreath
Tis the season for cozying up your place for the holidays – and what better way to do it then with a little elbow grease and upcycled materials?!
One of my recent favorite DIY projects is making ultra modern wreaths using the pages of tattered books. These easy to make decor items add some cheer to your pad but are super easy to make! You can experiment with different colors and textures of book paper as well as shapes and designs for the wreath pattern. To see how I made my set of three take a peek at the Eco Etsy tutorial I created here.
Once you’ve tried your hand at them snap a pic and send me the link! I’d love to see how yours turn out.
Inspiration: Colorful Crate Storage
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.
Tutorial: Homemade Caramel Apples
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.
The Great Mushroom Escape
Last Monday my family and I took a day trip to Michigan to do what Polish people do best – forage for mushrooms. An autumn tradition, I hadn’t gone with my parents in over a decade, so the time had finally come. Continue reading
Trends: Mullet Hems
By far the funniest name for a fashion trend – “mullet hems” are one of my favorite designs to be popping up this season. What is a mullet hem? A top or tunic that is business up front and a party in the back. Or to put it plainly, short on one side and long in the rear. This style lends itself wonderfully for layering with long tanks and leggins in the fall or even a mini and heels in the spring. So keep your eyes peeled as you’ll be seeing this shape for many months to come! 
1. Chic Moss 2. Trop Rouge 3. Mikkat Market 4. Pierogi Picnic 5. Urban Outfitters 6. Fade to Grey
Shiny Happy*People 