News: Custom Order Crunch

October 31, 2013July 7, 2014Leave a comment

With the holidays quickly approaching I am drafting up a strategy for custom orders and gift-savvy turn-around times. In an effort to ensure that all made-to-order pieces are received by late December, Pierogi Picnic will be closing down this side of the site come December 1st.

So if there’s a dress or sweater you know will make the perfect gift for that special sustainably-minded someone – be sure to place your order between now and November 30th. After that custom orders won’t be activated again until January 1st.

If you miss the custom order deadline – fear not! We’ll be offering gift certificates all season long!

Here’s to an amazing holiday season for all!

DIY: Upcycled Infinity Scarf

October 3, 2013October 1, 2013Leave a comment

If you’ve been looking for an easy 10 minute scarf tutorial – your search ends here!

Boggled by the over-the-top prices of currently trendy infinity scarves, I decided to give a DIY version a go. And won’t you know – the end result is cute, stylish, eco-friendly and el cheapo! So if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make your own cotton wrap around scarf, grab a t-shirt and scissors and give this a try!

1) Choose a pre-loved t-shirt that’s nice and soft.

2) Cut off the bottom hem of the t-shirt.

3) Make another horizontal cut, about 4 inches above the first. Try to keep the cut clean and straight.

4) Make a third cut, same size, just above the last.

5) Grab each thick fabric strip and pull taught, rolling the edges. This is your no-sew hem.

6) Double loop the top strip.

7) Lay the double loop over the larger loop.

8) Using a small piece of your cut hem, tie a single knot on one side of the gathered loops.

9) Tie a second knot.

10) Pull the knot as taught as possible.

11) Trim the excess fabric.

12) Tuck the knot under and flip. All done!

DIY: No-Sew Cut-Out Tie Top

July 30, 2013August 7, 2013Leave a comment

I’ve been seeing these adorable tie tops all over the city, Whether paired with cut-offs or a long maxi skirt, the look has definitely caught my eye. So how could I not concoct a tutorial on how to make your very own?!

Using a pre-loved t-shirt and pair of scissors, you can easily create an airy cotton cut-out top to tie just as you see fit. And with the no-sew instructions below, making one of these cute pieces has never been easier! Continue reading →

Item of the Week: Season’s Greetings

December 19, 2012December 19, 2012Leave a comment

A month or so ago I was thinking to myself, “Hmmmm – the holidays are at hand and I want to make a fun festive dress that’s practical and affordable.” Like all of you, I knew my budget would be stretched with holiday shopping, tree dressing and other expenses. So my goal was to create a simple design that would result in a lower price tag and the “Season’s Greetings” dress is just that!

Making it’s debut at the Renegade Holiday Craft Fair – this fun and flattering frock is made using vintage linens and pre-loved women’s shirts and carries a reasonable price tag of only $36. The long-sleeved tops keep the wearer nice and toasty without compromising on style. Plus – the elastic high waist gives each dress a fancy shmancy finish that creates a beautiful bell-like shape when worn. I only have a handful of these cute pieces left, ranging from green and black to gold and grey. Great for wearing to your upcoming holiday parties, check out the remaining pieces here.

Item of the Week: No Sweat

October 17, 2012October 17, 2012Leave a comment

I love love love fall! The leaves are shifting hues, the air is crisp and cool and it’s the perfect time of year for layering up in cozy clothes! So when thinking of which design to feature this week, the choice seemed easy: My handmade No Sweat cowl tops! These uber comfy sweaters are upcycled from oversized sweatshirts – giving each piece a green spin and soft feel.

Mixing an edgy shape with the casual feel of cotton fleece makes each piece utilitarian yet comfy. And with the oversized turtleneck and lacy touch – it has just enough class to make it wearable to work! Great with skinny jeans and boots or a pencil skirt and leggings – this is one of my favorite designs for the season!

Events: Pierogi Picnic at RCF

September 12, 2012September 10, 2012Leave a comment

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who made it out to this past weekend’s 10th annual Renegade Craft Fair!

We saw tons of friendly faces, from family and friends to visits from online fans and regular Renegaders. Your support and encouragement mean the world to me! Thank you for your smiles and for inspiring me in my work.

For a peek at more photos from the event, visit my Flickr set here.

Events: Renegade Sneak Peek – All About Ombre

August 24, 2012August 14, 2012Leave a comment

This ombre trend is contagious! I have been wanting to experiment with fabric dye for a long time and the melted color look has given me the perfect excuse to do just that!

Using a technique that calls for a slow dip and release process, I created the new “All About Ombre” dress that gives each frock a deep gradient toward the lower hem. An elegant way to revive pre-loved cotton fabric, this design forced me to keep the remainder of the piece simple so as to not distract from the color flow. Continue reading →