Tag: eco-friendly

DIY: Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap

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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 →

Events: Holiday Renegade Craft Fair 12/3 + 12/4

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The Holiday rendition of the Renegade Craft Fair is almost here! And I am poised to rock things out in what has become a yearly tradition of crafting, shopping, and crowd control!

The event will be taking place at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, just North of Division on Blackhawk from 11am-6pm both days. I will be there in full force sharing my cozy booth (#56!) with the lovely Caitlin Peters of Wanderlustings.

If you plan on swinging by to get some holiday shopping done, click on the coupon below for a special discount that’s valid this weekend only!

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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.

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.

New Designs: Pumpkin Spice

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You know those cool autumn nights where all you want to do is cuddle up in a warm knit sweater and read your favorite novel? That’s exactly what I was channeling when creating this new design! Reshaped from a vintage men’s sweater, this top boasts a cozy over-sized fit, 3/4 bell sleeves, a vivid pumpkin hue and an embellished lace collar. Perfect for wearing with leggings and slippers – I can’t wait to curl up in one of my own!