Tag: green

We’re Moving!

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I am almost twitching with excitement – but it’s official – we’re moving!

What started as a casual apartment hunt, “should we happen to find the ‘perfect’ place” kind of search, has turned into a sudden reality. We’ve found a place that’s bigger, sunnier, cheaper, closer to work and in a more vibrant neighborhood. On top of it, our finances are aligning in a way that we’ll have all our costs covered without having to dip into our normal budget. Coincidence? I think not! An answer to my quiet prayers – this new place looks like it’s just what the divine doctor ordered.

So we have exactly 17 days to pack, pick paint colors, and devise a decorating plan for our new digs. Continue reading →

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 →

An Indie Biz: Taking Count

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In preparation for this fall’s festivals and shopper spike I spent part of the day doing inventory. This seemingly arduous task not only helps me prepare for fairs like Renegade, it also forces me to look back and see how my designs have evolved over the months. Sharp geometric cuts and draping fabrics have given way to more feminine shapes and lots of lace and print. My designs have also become more practical by showing less skin and embellishing  more on the details.  Continue reading →

DIY Natural Deodorant

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fun deododorant

Over the years I’ve tried every natural deodorant imaginable….Tom’s, Jason, LUSH, Dr. Hauschka, Burt’s Bees, Lush, crystals, lotions, and good ole’ soap. All left me either stinky and slimy, or red and rashy.

Determined to win the battle, I began to scour the internet to find an effective DIY Deodorant recipe. After two failed attempts using Essential Day Spa’s recipe, I ditched the clay, coconut oil, and lavender, and created the recipe below.

I recruited several guinea pigs, including my husband David, to put my homemade concotion to the test. Through wind and rain, heat and cold, lazy days and vigorous bike riding, my subjects’ pits smelled as fresh as ever! Try it for yourself! Continue reading →

Signature Packaging: DIY Envelopes Tutorial

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One of my ongoing goals with Pierogi Picnic is to make every part of my business  “beyond green.” Much like “beyond organic,” I want to go farther than expectations, beyond green washing and marketing ploys to really reduce waste, reuse materials, and do it in style.

One of my all-time favorite ways to do this is hand craft mailers out of used cereal boxes. This was one of my first Pierogi Picnic innovations when I got started in 2008. The tutorial below will show you how you too can make these fun packaging pieces using leftover cereal containers you may have stashed in your cupboard. Continue reading →