Tag: upcycled

New Designs: Upcycled Aprons

3 Comments

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.

New Designs: Pretty in Pleats

Leave a comment

With autumn’s arrival there’s nothing better than a soft cotton cardigan to warm up your summer frocks. I designed this piece with exactly this in mind! Sculpted from an over-sized men’s t-shirt, this new design has tons of layering potential while remaining comfortable against the skin. The soft cotton belt is included for cinching, but it’s really the pleats in the back that give it a unique edge.

Meet the Models: Mumu

Leave a comment

I just couldn’t resist sharing this adorable photo!

Fellow crafter and artist extroadinaire Angel D’Amico of Ad Love purchased one of my sweater bow ties at the Renegade Craft Fair. After bringing the piece home she made a wonderful discovery – her cat Mumu could rock the bow too!

This handsome gent looked so dapper in his new accessory that it inspired me to design some duds for our furry friends. So keep your eyes peeled for some Pierogi Picnic Pet items soon!

New Designs: Cosby Chic

Leave a comment

I’ve been watching a lot of The Cosby Show on Netflix lately and couldn’t help but feel inspired by the wacky fashion that was donned during the series. In ode to the classic “Cosby” sweater I’ve come up with this fun pencil skirt that I’ve handcrafted from vintage sweaters. Look for the design at this weekend’s Renegade Craft Fair and in my Etsy shop in the weeks to come.

New Designs: Clara Bow

Leave a comment

Here is one of my favorite new designs for the fall! The new Clara Bow takes soft thrifted turtle necks and transforms them into chic yet simple tops. I love the fabric composite of cotton and jersey – which is what made the original shirts perfect for reconstruction. The fact that they’re so pliable also means that I can layer them with high waisted skirts or with some simple skinny jeans. My favorite detail by far though is the deep scooped back that I embellished with a bow created from vintage lace curtains. Love this final touch.

Planning Ahead: Fall Fashion 2011

Leave a comment

I was reading through the Etsy Blog and came across an article about uber entrepreneur Melissa Helmbrecht and was instantly floored.

The post chronicles Melissa’s diverse array of achievements and shares her 3 piece of advice for small indie businesses. Her very first tip has haunted me since I read the article: 1. Do what you don’t feel like doing.

When I read this I had to stop, go back, and read it again. At first I had thought it said “do what you feel like doing” and thought to myself, “yeah!” Boy was I bummed when I processed it again. “What do you mean do what you don’t want to? That’s not what I want to hear!”

The article continues by reviewing the need for a business plan and forward thinking – none of which I’m against – but to be reminded of this on a warm lazy summer day hit a nerve.

I was suddenly overwhelmed – the fall season was just a mere 3 months away and I hadn’t even stopped one moment to dream up my cool weather designs. The business plan is intact – but what about the core of my brand – the clothing!?

So after ordering up some steaming sweet and sour tofu takeout I sat down to plot, draw, and dream my Fall 2011 collection. And if you think I’m stalling (don’t fashion designers figure this out year’s in advance!?) then remember that I’m not your typical clothing designer and that at times spontaneity and procrastination can lead to high pressure thinking and fabulous results!

And in case you’re just itching to see some of my thoughts I’ve included a page from my business journal above. Which leads me to wonder – have you planned out your ideas for the coming season? When did you get started? Share your insights below!