Bicycles hold a special place in my heart. I’ve spent thousands of hours on that seat riding, coaching and commuting and have always found beauty in the parts. I love being on my bike, but instead of just riding it, I wanted to use it to create something new. I asked a friend who owns a bike shop to save me some old parts. He handed me a box filled to the brim, I dove in and started to play. LINKS by Annette was born, just like that.

My goal is to transform everyday parts - change the mundane and dirty into something that’s elevated, show-stopping and doesn’t scream “I used to be on a bicycle!”. Since everything I create is made from parts that have been used, each piece is one of a kind; no two gears wear that same way, and I get to take advantage of whatever the bike shops can’t use. I let my imagination run wild to make things I’ve never seen before. I love being creative, I love using my hands, and my heart is happiest when someone loves my products.

I grew up working in the garage with my Dad, and watching him and my Mom haul home hidden gems from the flea market and transform them into refinished additions to our home. Now, all these years later, they help me unload my car full of retired bike parts collected from local shops, and assist in the garage as I create upcycled additions for your home.

Since starting LINKS in 2015, I’ve learned a lot - including welding, weaving, crocheting, sewing, soldering and woodworking - so that I can keep creating more. I care deeply about good design and great quality. I gain inspiration from everything around me and have a soft spot for construction that is smart, clean and cultivated. By playing every day in my studio, creating new things out of old, and using my creativity to keep things out of the landfill, I have found a new way to connect with people and the environment.

Upcycled, recycled, reused, repurposed - call it what you want. I create unique, high-quality, modern industrial home goods, décor and wearable products. Everything is handmade in Chicago with a passion for cycling and functional design, a meticulous eye for detail, and a dedication to making the world a better place, one bike part at a time.