New Designs: Upcycled Aprons

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.

DIY Gifts: Peppermint Mocha Body Scrub

If you’ve run out of time to shop for that special someone this holiday season – and don’t dare go out in the blizzardy snow – then make this year’s gifts DIY. There’s tons of things you can put together last minute for someone who will appreciate time, effort, and creativity much more than a purchased good.

So to give you a little inspiration I am sharing one of my personal favorite concoctions – Peppermint Mocha Body Scrub! Unlike the fattening espresso drink of the same name at Starbucks – this luxurious scrub is actually good for you! Made with ingredients found in the kitchen, its exfoliating texture and delicious smell will transform your bathroom into a foodie spa extravaganza.  Follow this recipe to make a brew as a gift for the last person on your list – or simply to indulge yourself. Continue reading

Hat Obsession Incarnate: Go Ask Alice

I am, have been, and will always be obsessed with hats!

There’s something about snuggling your noggin in a soft, warm and cozy cover that makes the arrival of cold temps just a hint more bearable. I have a whole collection of soft fuzzy hats with ears, elegant hats with fanciful trim, impractical vintage pillbox hats with netting, and the classic ear flap hats for just keeping out the cold.

It’s also no secret that I have a slight obsession with bows. After designing a bow-laden slouch hat for myself last winter and receiving endless compliments, I’ve created a handful for my Etsy. Continue reading

The DIY Trunk Show Preview

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The one and only great and fantastic DIY Trunk Show is this upcoming weekend – on Saturday, November 20th from 10am to 5pm in Wicker Park’s Pulaski Field House. Pierogi Picnic will be there – in the same spot as last year – hawking our wears. Though I’m always excited about showcasing my work in person – this is the show where I shop till I drop. Everything from Christmas presents, to housewares, to clothes – the DIY Trunk Show is the whamy of craft fairs.

The secret to the Chicago Craft Mafia’s bazaar’s success lies in one of the underlying premises – all vendors must live within a 100 mile radius of the city. So not only are you buying handmade – you’re truly supporting local artisans! So be sure to pencil in this coming Saturday into your calendar as the day you shop till you drop. Until then – here’s a sneak peak at some of the new goodies I’ll be bringing.

Creative Day: New Designs!

So I’ve already broken my vow not to experiment with new designs pre-holidays. I’m supposed to be focusing on PP staples for both seasonal online shoppers, but also the upcoming DIY Trunk Show.

But alas – I woke up this morning with what feels like the beginnings of a nasty flu (David has had his for six days now!) and I just didn’t have the heart to sweatshop myself out. So I leisurely cut some classic silhouettes and then graciously distracted myself by making some fun new products! Continue reading