Today we’d like to introduce you to Annette Fiscelli.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I co-owned personal training studios where I taught and was a coach. I got into triathlons and fell in love with training. I have a friend who gave me a box of bike chain and I knew that someday I would make something out of it. So, I dove in.
I started by dissecting bike chain and making jewelry and quickly took over my parent’s garage. I get an idea and learn what I need to do to make it happen – be it welding, woodworking, crocheting – the learning curve has been tremendous.
Has it been a smooth road?
Leaving the gym was a tough experience for me because it was all that I knew. When I left I had no idea what I was going to do or what I was capable of.
The bike part ideas just kept coming to me and I loved playing around. It just naturally turned into a business. I find that most small businesses have the same foundation of passion and determination. I believe that if you have that and work hard it will be what you want it to be.
Learning how to do an art show has been quite a learning experience. The tents, the packaging for products and the weather is a constant variable. I would say the biggest lesson I have learned this year is how to roll with the punches. During set up we usually say (at least once) “oh no, we forgot… (tables, money, products)” haha FIGURE IT OUT becomes the motto.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I make all types of products out of retired bike parts. I have rims made into mirrors, clocks with 300 spokes, jewelry made from dissected bike chain, lazy Susan’s, bike chain frames…. the possibilities are endless
I believe that the quality of my products sets me apart. All my products are recycled materials with a high-end design and finish. I think that is an interesting combination. You have to look twice to see that it is made from bike parts.
I make crocheted inner tubes floor mats that look and feel amazing. You would never know that the entire mat is made from products that would have been in a landfill.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I love Chicago – top to bottom, side to side. Biking in this city (and burbs) is great. I ask everyone that comes in my booth if they ride and always enjoy hearing stories of commuting, mountain biking, cruising around and racing.
Start a business in Chicago…. absolutely. There is respect for art and open mindedness about Chicagoans that is so attractive.
Pricing:
- Keychain, tea lights, bracelets $15-30
- Lazy susan, spoke clocks, rim mirrors $75-350
- Custom floor mats, use your personal parts custom design $200-$3000
Contact Info:
- Website: www.linksbyannette.com
- Email: linksbyannette@gmail.com
- Instagram: linksbyannette
- Facebook: linksbyannette
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
