An Indie Biz: The Coming Spring

the coming spring

Today is the first of March – which means we’re just a couple of weeks and a few days from spring!

Winter’s always a difficult time for me to be productive, which seems counter-intuitive, right? With record breaking cold and snow, you’d think that all that time indoors would lead to bursts of creativity and hours upon hours of sewing. But that simply isn’t so. Despite my efforts to remain optimistic, I find that winter brings a malaise and lack of drive, at least when it comes to my creative ventures. Instead of focusing on business plans, product designs and photography, I give in to the temptations of snuggling with my pets, movie marathons and cooking fatty, delicious foods. Eating them too of course!

But in these next few days the clouds will start to part and tiny sprigs of life will begin to burst from the ground. It’s a time when both nature and my creativity begin to bloom. Which is why I’m excited that today marks the nearing of winter’s end and the beginning of a season of artistic bounty.

Happy March!

Designs: A Bow On It

pierogi picnic: turban headband earwarmer

Just when we thought we had a taste of spring another winter storm has whipped through the Chicago area. For that reason, it only seems natural to continue showcasing pieces that will keep you nice and warm through the end of the season. And my “A Bow On It” designs will do just that!

Handmade using vintage knit sweaters – these adorable turbans are headbands and ear-warmers in one. Keeping your noggin toasty, without giving you a case of dreaded hat-head, these practical and cutesy accessories are just what you need to get you through this final stretch of winter. In a variety of colors and prints, they’re a great way to add a pop of style to your cold weather ensembles.

Inspiration: Grey & Gold – Navy & Brass

Pierogi Picnic: Spring/Summer Collection

Nothing feels better to me than getting lost in piles of fabric, color and texture on an early Saturday morning. With my goblins at my feet and a steamy earl grey on my desk, I spent hours upon hours this past weekend sewing up a storm. The result?! Awesomeness of course!

Focusing in on a unique color palette for spring, the new Pierogi Picnic collection is relying heavily on neutrals unexpectedly combined with bright metallics. Curious to see how things are turning out? Then stay tuned! I’m hosting a photo session to show off the new pieces later this month!

In the meantime – be sure you like us on Facebook for sneak peeks and check out my Pinterest board dedicated to the inspirations behind the new collection.

Enjoy!

Featured Designs: Love & Lace

Pierogi Picnic:  Love & Lace

I am so incredibly excited for the coming spring. I know it’s still several months away, but my mind can’t help but dream of longer days, budding trees and blooming crocuses. Perhaps it’s this longing for the season of awakening that drew my mind to the “Love & Lace” design.

Handmade using a salvaged t-shirt, this incredibly simple, yet romantic piece combines the softness of cotton and the allure of vintage white lace, to create a garment that’s both casual and eye-catching. With the versatility to be worn as either a short dress or tunic top, the “Love & Lace” design can be layered to your heart’s content.

But what about this design made me think of spring? The lightness of the fabric, coupled with the femininity of the lace makes me think of flirty frocks and less chunky knits – which is what spring fashion is all about! This specific creation also speaks to me as it’s the inspiration behind my new upcoming collection: Grey & Gold. Keep your eyes peeled for its debut this coming February! Until then – consider making this favorite a part of your personal collection.

The Little Things

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Sigh. Spring feels so good. Good for the skin, spirit and everything in between!

This season of awakening senses reminds me how incredibly important it is to stop and appreciate all the little things in life. The smell of the air just before a rain. The satisfying smoky taste of freshly made espresso. The feel of the lake-side breeze. The slow blink of a kitty cat. The warm fuzzy feeling we get when we think about someone we love.

Sure, I’m being totally sappy here but isn’t life too short to let these moment drift by without notice? I don’t want to take any feeling, internal or external, for granted. That’s why I decided to keep things simple with today’s post and just focus on some of the everyday moments that fill my heart with joy.

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IMG_20130429_093042Pierogi Picnic: The Little Things

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Featured Design: Layers Away

Pierogi Picnic: Layers Away peter pan collar printed tank top

Tis the season for wearing lots of layers as each hour of the day brings a new temperature. That’s where the new “Layers Away” design comes to the rescue!

Created using a home-made silkscreen and pre-loved tees, these uber soft, comfy and chic tanks are great for wearing on their own or under cardigans, chunky sweaters or dresses. With the cutesy peter pan collar print and neutral colors – they’re a great basic to add to your wardrobe!