New Designs: Revamped Vintage Petticoat

This time of year all I can think about is layers. Boots, chunky sweaters, socks and thermals are just a few of the things that come to mind. If you’re like me you quickly bust these items out from the back of your closet only to find that you are now overheated, crabby, and feeling quite fluffy.

Revamped Vintage Petticoats to the rescue! This new design allows you to transition between seasons by giving you extra length to your summer dresses and tunics without sacrificing your sense of style. Handmade using vintage slips and curtain lace – these unique petticoats give you a victorian look with a modern edge. Perfect for easing you and your wardrobe into autumn.

Living Green: Chicago Uniform Project

I had the joy and pleasure of dolling up Sarah Louise Braunstein and taking her photos for the Chicago Uniform Project yesterday. Much like the original that inspired her venture, Sarah has taken the challenge of wearing the same item of clothing daily to a new creative level.

Rather then dressing herself, as did Shenna Matheiken, Sarah has asked local designers, boutique owners and stylists to create her looks. Each day she uploads a new photo of herself in a curated outfit, with many of the designers donating the items for an online auction. All the proceeds from the project are being donated to  Connections for Abused Women and their Children, a Chicago-based foundation committed to ending domestic violence. Continue reading

Events: Shopping Mission Accomplished!

I’m still basking in the joy of this past weekend’s Renegade Craft Fair. Being among such driven and talented vendors is inspiring and encouraging. It gives one a sense of camaraderie and shows that the craft revolution is still going strong despite the failing economy.

The wares of the crafters were incredible this year. Each way I turned I found yet another unique handmade creation that I could barely contain myself from snatching up. The following is a peek at the damage I did do. I anticipate that more will follow once I start my holiday shopping two months forth. Continue reading

Events: Renegade Craft Fair Fun!

Thank you to everyone who came out this past weekend to our third stint at the Chicago Renegade Craft fair!

Not only was the weather perfect – we really lucked out with our spot! Our booth was across from Milk & Honey which made for easy snack and coffee access. We also enjoyed gourmet snow cones a plenty throughout the event care of Joe Snow. To the left of our space we had the very talented dynamic duo that is Cursive Design. While our back wall listened in on many a conversation with fellow Chicago crafter Angel D’Amico of Ad Love.

Sharing the booth with Caitlin Peters of Wanderlustings was a godsend. Having a creative partner in crime really eased some of the day’s pressure off my shoulders. Not only was the prep via craft party a romping good time – setting up, tearing down, and mid-day perk ups all felt easy breezy with her (and our significant others) help.

And on top of the great spot and wonderful company – I got to enjoy the best part about RCF – meeting all of you face to face! So thank you all again for venturing out through the heat and crowds to shop and visit – Renegade would never be complete without the shiny happy faces of all the Pierogi Picnic fans like you!

Events: Renegade Shopping List

I’ve spent two months prepping for the Renegade Craft Fair. Sewing, building, tagging – you name it! Now I’m taking a moment to compile a shopping list of what I’ll be splurging on at the fair. Here’s a peek:

1. Megan Lee Designs: Catterwheel screenprinted tank
2. Cursive DesignsMini Summit Necklace
3. Raquel Masri: Porcelain Coasters
4. 1canoe2: Recipe Cards
5. Yellowlion: Day at Camp Screenprint
6. Betulla: Birch Bark Earrings

New Designs: Cosby Chic

I’ve been watching a lot of The Cosby Show on Netflix lately and couldn’t help but feel inspired by the wacky fashion that was donned during the series. In ode to the classic “Cosby” sweater I’ve come up with this fun pencil skirt that I’ve handcrafted from vintage sweaters. Look for the design at this weekend’s Renegade Craft Fair and in my Etsy shop in the weeks to come.

Events: Pre-Renegade Giveaway

There’s nothing like celebrating before a big event – and this year the festivities just don’t end! To mark Pierogi Picnic’s third year at Renegade I am hosting the following giveaway.

The prize: A $20 digital Pierogi Picnic gift certificate that can be used toward a purchase at my booth at the Renegade Craft Fair OR in my Etsy shop.

To enter: Pop by the Pierogi Picnic Etsy store, find your favorite item and post a link to it in the comments below. Be sure to include your e-mail too so I can contact you if you win!

The winner will be chosen at random and will be announced on the eve of Renegade – Friday, September 9th at 10pm.

Receive brownie points if you Tweet about the giveaway or make a mention on your Facebook page. If you do – be sure to tag @pierogipicnic so your post can be tracked.

Good luck!