Events: RCF Holiday Photos

pierogi picnic rcf holiday 2012

As promised – here’s a peek at the abundant and delightful chaos that was the 2012 Renegade Holiday Craft Fair in Chicago!

The crowds were bigger than ever this season, which made for a busy day! Caitlin and I were on our toes the entire weekend, greeting shoppers, answering questions and selling lots!

It was a fruitful endeavor that always leaves me feeling inspired and invigorated. I loved seeing many repeat clients come shopping through – as well as the friendly faces of fellow vendors. Whether selling, shopping or mingling, I had an absolute blast! Am I exhausted after the fact? You bet! But every ounce of energy poured into preparing and executing this fair was well worth it!!!

Designs: Sir Cycle in Stock!

Sir Cycle: Eco Upcycled Men's Cowl Hoodie by Pierogi Picnic

Sir Cycle, definitely my most popular design of the season, is now in stock and ready to ship!

I have several of these super warm and chic men’s hoodies remaining from last weekend’s Renegade Craft Fair. Those of you who are doing your holiday shopping can now skip the wait for a custom order and buy one that has already been created!

Check out my Etsy shop here to scoop one up before they’re gone!

Press: Handmade Men

You know it’s truly autumn when all your cool weather items are the hit at every event and are being featured on blogs and treasuries. The latest (and I think greatest) of my designs is currently highlighted on the fantastic site “Handmade Men” which sets to bring the handmade lifestyle to online shoppers.

In a feature entitled “Hot Picks! Handmade Hoodies” they included my “Sir Cycle” upcycled cowl hoodie. This is a piece that I handcrafted for a customer’s boyfriend last winter, and it’s since become one of my all-time favorite designs. So I was thrilled that the creation made it into this style savvy site. Be sure to take some time to explore the entire site for more chic and casual handmade creations.

Item of the Week: Sir Cycle

Spring is in full swing in Chicago – which can only mean one thing – nutty weather! That’s why having lots of layer-ables is key in the windy city this time of year. The Sir Cycle design was created with this kind of versatility in mind.

I crafted this particular men’s cut after receiving a convo from a Pierogi Picnic fan, asking if I had any hooded sweatshirts for guys, which I didn’t. She specifically wanted something that her boyfriend could wear while biking – which meant it would have to be comfortable, convertible and warm – all at once.

And that’s how the “Sir Cycle” design was born! With her help, I crafted a soft yet stretchy men’s piece that can be used with a hood, cowl, or none of the above when unbuttoned. It’s now one of my favorite pieces to custom create, and my own biking hubby can attest to it’s style and function.

Press: Handmake My Life

Special thanks to Hillery, from the adorable blog Handmake My Life, for featuring my work on her site this week! Her posts vary in range from tips on healthy routines and simple living to design roundups and current inspirations, creating a perfect blend of whimsy and info for the reader. Check out her post on Pierogi Picnic here, but also take some time to explore her other great finds.