Press: Homegrown Illinois

It’s incredible how many blogs are out there – scouring the internet for people and small businesses to feature. Each and every time Pierogi Picnic is scooped up for one, I am amazed that in the vast webiverse, I was somehow found.

And Homegrown Illinois is no different! Featuring artisans and people from our grand little state (is it little?) they recently highlighted me and my biz. I am grateful that from all the stories they could have run, they chose me. Check out the article here.

 

Designs: Dress or Tunic?

Someone at a recent event grabbed hold of my new Point of Light design and asked, “Is it a dress or a tunic?”And it wasn’t the first time I’d had the question.

“Both” I exclaimed!

Known as either super-short dresses or extra-long tops, dress tunics are great for their versatility. The edgy length means they can be worn layered with a slip and leggings for a flirty look or jeans for something more casual.

So next time you’re shopping for something that can change along with the season’s, consider this unique category of clothing. You’ll find yourself smitten in no time!

DIY: Creative Mending

One of my pet peeves is throwing on a pair of super soft, worn-in, cotton leggings only to find a tiny hole near my knee. The culprit: over-exuberant Boston Terrorizers who love to do nothing more than bounce all over my thighs when I come home from work each day.

But never fear “not-pants” attire! There’s help yet!

I found this adorable tutorial on Karen Barbe’s blog. This uber talented textile designer put together an easy how-to for patching up holes and tears in style. Using little more than a cereal box (and you know how much I love to use those!), a needle and colored thread, she shows us how to create folk inspired patches with which to stitch up our most beloved garments.

So next time you find a critter has torn a hole in your favorite pair of leggings – don’t toss ’em –  bust out some serious stitching and you’ll be glad about your now happy accident.

Events: Chicago’s 10th Annual Renegade Craft Fair

This is it! The 10th annual Renegade Craft Fair kicks off tomorrow – and if you haven’t set aside time to go – you better clear your schedule now!

Hundreds of handmade artisans will be flooding Division Street to hawk their wares. It’s the biggest and best juried craft fair in the the region. So pack a snack, bring a friend, and get ready for a beautifully cool and inspiring weekend. Be sure to visit us in booth #48 if you make it out.

Item of the Week: Hello Doily

I am absolutely loving on this new design! It combines many of my favorite elements in one simple and chic skirt. The soft upcycled cotton makes a perfect base for a flirty shape and hand-stenciled prints.

And for the gal who is obsessed with the peplum trend – but can’t find the confidence to sport the skin-tight pencil skirts they come on – this is the perfect solution! The a-line cut is flattering for many shapes, be it curvy or straight, and gives the wearer space to move.

Currently available made-to-order – this skirt will be debuting in a variety of shades as ready-to-wear in late September. So keep your eyes peeled to my Etsy shop.

An Indie Biz: Exciting News

It’s been an incredible week! I’ve got lots of positive things happening at my day job at the humane society, a potential trip to Eastern Europe in the works, a vocal audition next Friday and a family filled weekend just ahead. Pierogi Picnic has also been bustling with custom orders waiting to be made, shipments to be mailed and new designs to be created. As you can imagine – I’m beaming with joy with all the great things that are going on.

But then there’s another piece of news that has me bursting at the seams. I wanted to blurt it out when I found out yesterday – but thought a blog post would be more appropriate. So without further ado, here it is: Continue reading