Our Makers

A.Dawn Studios, Atlanta Dawn | artist

Atlanta is a Quad Cities–based muralist known for her vibrant, whimsical, and community-focused public art. Named the 2024 Visual Artist of the Year by Quad City Arts, she has created standout projects including the Arts Alley mural in Rock Island, a rooftop mural for the YWCA, and regional works for The Palace Tavern and Hey Bryans. A Moline High School graduate who studied at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, Atlanta often explores themes of transformation—seen in pieces like her “Luminary Voyage” mural featuring moths and owls—and uses a signature doodle-grid technique to map her detailed, large-scale designs.

Allen McCaulley | author

Allen has worn many vocational hats, including serving as mayor of Moline, and he draws inspiration for his children’s books from Max, the clever and mischievous dog he and his wife loved for 17 years. Writing about Max became his way of sharing the pup’s spirit and encouraging young readers to laugh, smile, and grow as readers. Allen and his wife, Linnea, enjoy traveling throughout the Midwest, especially their annual trips to Spring Green for American Players Theatre, visits to Chicago and St. Louis, and a cherished Door County adventure with Max.

As You Wish, Janelle Kerns | glassworks

Janelle is a retired oncology nurse from Bettendorf, Iowa, who discovered her passion for stained glass in 2008 after taking a class. What began as a creative hobby quickly grew into a lifelong artistic pursuit. In 2012, she expanded her craft to include kiln-formed glass art and jewelry. She continued teaching herself new techniques, refining her skills, and developing a distinctive style. Today, her work reflects a deep love for color, craftsmanship, and the expressive possibilities of glass.

Boyle Farms, Catherine Meier | upcycled bags

Catherine transforms everyday feed bags into durable, eye‑catching totes—a craft that began as a way to stay grounded while her husband underwent cancer treatments. Today, she and her husband run Boyle Farm in Long Grove, where crops, chickens, cats, and a beloved rescue dog keep life full and joyful. Her upcycled bags reflect the same spirit that guides their farm: resilience, resourcefulness, and finding beauty in what others overlook. Each tote carries a piece of their story and a whole lot of heart.

Bright Bat Designs, Kylie Morency | illustrator

Kylie is the creator behind Bright Bat Designs, a small design studio built on a love for creativity, color, and thoughtful details. With over 10 years of experience behind the brand, she specializes in crafting designs that feel personal, inviting, and full of character—helping ideas come to life in a way that’s both polished and fun. Inspired by a mix of playful charm and clean design, Kylie believes great visuals should tell a story and make people feel something. Through Bright Bat Designs, she’s passionate about creating work that connects, stands out, and brings a little extra brightness wherever it lands.

Broad Bloom, Barb Thompson | artist

Barb Thompson is a watercolor artist who finds endless inspiration in nature. She paints from photographs of her own garden, curated floral bouquets, and botanical scenes that spark emotional memory. Through her still-life compositions, she aims to capture the way plants accompany life’s big and small moments. Growing up in the Midwest taught her to appreciate each season and the botanicals that bloom and change with the weather. Barb lives in Cedar Rapids with her husband and two children and also has a background in graphic design for print.

Cathy’s Embroidery, Cathy Lambrecht | machine embroidery

Cathy is a lifelong crafter who has always loved working with her hands, from crocheting and Hardanger embroidery to counted cross-stitch and scrap booking. After retiring, she discovered a passion for quilting and soon began exploring machine embroidery to create beautiful labels for her quilts. That discovery opened the door to a whole new world of creative possibilities. She began sharing her embroidered pieces at vendor shows before finding a perfect home at CraftedQC.

Chamra Woodwork & Design, Bill Chamra | laser cutting

Bill Chamra is most at home in his workshop, where he channels his creativity into laser-engraved records, glasses, magnets, ornaments, and custom specialty pieces. When he’s not crafting, he’s usually chasing his chickens or doting on his pups. Bill welcomes custom orders and loves a good challenge, always ready to bring a new idea to life.

Crafted Finds & Designs, Emily & Rhonda Upmeyer | Resin, Press florals, sewing, jewelry, etc.

Crafted Finds & Designs is a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law duo creating a variety of handmade items together. It began with Emily’s love of crafting, something she has enjoyed since she was young. As that hobby grew into a small business, she invited her mother-in-law, Rhonda, to join her. Since they were already spending time together through craft nights, girls’ nights, and creative projects, working together felt like a natural fit. Today, they create flower preservation pieces, animal bandanas, jewelry, resin art, and other handmade items from Eldridge and Blue Grass, Iowa. They also offer custom flower preservation pieces for weddings, special events, and other meaningful keepsakes.

Crafty Giraffe Creative, Danielle Schertz | fine art, crafts, graphic design

Danielle grew up in small-town Iowa, where a creative childhood sparked a lifelong love of making art. Based in Bettendorf, she works as a Realtor, graphic designer, and owner of CraftedQC. Along with being a wife and mom, She’s an enthusiastic animal lover with five cats and a rescue dog. A constant creator, she’s usually crafting something new—or remodeling her home yet again. Danielle thrives on building beautiful things and sharing her creativity with her friends and the community.

Cute n Cozy Co., Lexi Knapp | crochet plants, etc

Lexi launched her business in 2018 during her senior year of college while studying entrepreneurial management. What began as a dream to build something of her own has grown into a journey of creativity and growth, leading to a full rebrand in 2022. Through Cute n Cozy Co., Lexi aims to make life a little cuter and cozier by offering products that help people create spaces they love. She believes everyone deserves a happy, inspiring home, and she pours that philosophy into every piece she designs.

Cyn Elizabeth Studios, Carolyn Hawes | metalsmith & stainedglass

Cyn Elizabeth Studios began in Kodiak, Alaska in 2016 and relocated to Galesburg, Illinois in 2022. Rooted in traditional art forms such as stained glass, silversmithing, and handcrafted design, the studio blends classic techniques with a spirit of curiosity and play. Each piece is inspired by nature, nostalgia, and the beauty found in imperfect things. Cyn creates every item by hand with intention, joy, and a love for experimentation. Her work invites viewers to look closer and appreciate art that is both timeless and fun.

David Kegebein | 3D prints (KID MAKER)

David is a fourth-grade creator who loves bringing ideas to life with his 3D printer. After receiving his first printer for Christmas, he immediately began learning how it worked and how to design his own creations. He enjoys figuring out how things are made, improving his designs, and turning his ideas into real objects. When he’s not printing, he loves baseball most of all, along with football, basketball, and solving math problems.

Deb’s Designs, Deb Holladay | quilter/tatting

Deb Holladay is a lifelong crafter whose creative heart has always been rooted in quilting. With an eye for color, pattern, and the comforting artistry of stitched work, she brings care and intention to every quilt she creates. Family is at the center of Deb’s world, and her grandchildren are her greatest joy—often inspiring the pieces she makes. Whether she’s piecing together a new quilt for Project Linus or sharing her love of handmade goods with those she loves, Deb’s creativity is stitched deeply into every part of her life.

Down Homestead Lane, Jonee Wolfbrandt | Wood florist

After retiring from the corporate world, Jonee finally embraced her lifelong love of crafting. Years in floral and gift shops—and discovering sola wood flowers in 2018—sparked her passion for creating unique arrangements and wreaths. The curiosity and joy she sees on people’s faces at craft shows continue to inspire her. Jonee hopes her wood floral designs bring that same warmth and happiness into your home.

Drea’s Vinyl Creations, Andrea Fischer | sublimation printing

Drea’s Vinyl Creations is a First Responder-owned and operated business founded by an EMS Dispatcher seeking a creative outlet and stress reliever. Her expertise includes heat-transfer and adhesive vinyl designs, logo and graphic creation, and dye sublimation. She creates a wide variety of products, including tea towels, car coasters, ornaments, clothing, bookmarks, and more. As a go-to source for hero gear, gifts, and home decor, her work blends creativity with purpose. She is grateful for every customer who chooses to support small businesses.

Gary Metivier | author

Gary Metivier is an award‑winning journalist and beloved former KWQC TV6 anchor, known for more than two decades of trusted storytelling in the Quad Cities. Now retired from television, he has become a successful author creating inspiring works for both children and adults. His latest book, If I Could Fly, invites young readers on an imaginative journey through the skies, while My Mask. My War. shares a powerful World War II story of hope and resilience. Metivier also continues his storytelling through his YouTube series, The Heart of the Story and That’s Wild.

Gobsmacked, Angie Gustafson | chocolate confections

Angela is the chocolatier behind Gobsmacked Chocolates, where she believes chocolate should surprise and delight. With more than 18 years of chocolate-making experience, she creates handcrafted, small-batch truffles and confections. Her work blends classic technique with playful, unexpected flavor combinations. Each piece is designed to deliver a bold burst of flavor and a memorable tasting experience.

Ground Pounder, Aaron Bailey | hot sauce

Aaron Bailey is the founder of Ground Pounder Hot Sauce, a small‑batch brand known for bold flavor and balanced heat. A U.S. Army veteran, his love for hot sauce began with the tiny Tabasco bottles in his MREs and grew into a passion for fermenting and crafting unique blends. During the pandemic, he turned that passion into a business. Aaron also manages at Bent River Brewing Company, where he creates their signature sauces and now produces their popular Habanero Ketchup, proudly supporting local flavor in the Quad Cities.

Handful of Made, Karlie Hunter | embroidery kits & art prints

Karlie Hunter is the maker and creative mind behind Handful of Made. She discovered embroidery in the summer of 2020 and quickly fell in love with the texture, rhythm, and artistry of the craft. What began as handmade gifts for friends and family gradually grew into a thoughtful creative business rooted in hand-stitched detail and a love for the handmade process. Karlie designs and assembles each embroidery kit herself from her home in Story City, Iowa. Her goal is to make embroidery feel approachable, modern, and joyful for makers of all skill levels.

Herb Jones Designs, Antonia | fiber arts

Antonia is the creative mind, artist and writer behind Herb Jones Designs. After learning to sew in college, she developed a passion for fiber arts. She now puts her creative energy into quilting and embroidery; transforming fabric and thread into quilts, bags and packs, jewelry, clothing, or whatever else she can dream up. After starting Herb Jones Designs in 2023, she has continued to learn new techniques, create custom pieces, develop patterns and more. Her works reflect an infatuation for traditional style that meets modern luxury.

High Strung by 3M, Mindy Mathews | string art

Mindy Mathews is a Quad Cities artist who has been creating string art for more than nine years. Through her business, High Strung by 3M, she has handcrafted over 15,000 pieces. Whether at events or in the shops that carry her work, she offers a wide range of designs year-round. Mindy hand-hammers and weaves each piece, assembles DIY kits, and teaches local classes. She aims to make more than 1,000 pieces annually, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

HollyBella Handmade, Kassie Kenney-McGurk | clay jewelry& accessories

What began as a calming creative outlet soon evolved into a small-batch jewelry line focused on comfort, creativity, and thoughtful design. Kassie handcrafts lightweight, hypoallergenic polymer clay earrings that are easy to wear and feel personal. Her styles range from playful to everyday, all made by hand in her home studio with her two dogs—Holly and Bella—often snoozing nearby. HollyBella reflects her love of crafting pieces that bring joy to the maker and the wearer.

Hot Glass, Joel & Logan Ryser | blown glass

Hot Glass is a hands-on, nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching, presenting, interpreting, collecting, documenting, and preserving contemporary glass art, with a special emphasis on team-building experiences for organizations. Our goal is to become the premier center for advancing glass art in the Greater Quad City Region. This one-of-a-kind facility will give people of all ages—especially youth and Veterans—opportunities to experience and enjoy the art of glass. At its core, Hot Glass aims to bring together individuals from all cultural and economic backgrounds and enrich lives through the trans-formative power of glass art.

Images of Creation, George Hesse | photography

Award-winning photographer George Hesse began capturing nature and wildlife in 1979 with a Mamiya 35mm camera. After a 40-year career in healthcare, he now devotes more time to his passions for photography and music. He has completed coursework with renowned photographers Thomas Mangelsen and Art Wolfe and recently attended a workshop with Todd and Brad Reed in Ludington, Michigan. George and his wife Joyce live in Pleasant Valley, Iowa, and travel extensively to photograph the natural world. Through his lens, he continues to share striking Images of Creation inspired by the beauty he encounters.

Ink.Paper.Scissors.Esc., Denise Murphy | watercolor & ink

Denise Murphy creates paper mosaics and pencil, ink, and watercolor sketches that celebrate the quiet wonder found in everyday life. Her work is inspired by small, often overlooked details—a single leaf clinging to a winter branch, or a vine winding around a rusted pipe. She believes these moments reveal the beauty and rhythm of the world around us. Denise hopes her pieces transport viewers into that same gentle, reflective rhythm, even if only for a moment.

Jennifer's Vintage FInds, Jennifer Dailing | antique collector & thrifter

Jennifer’s love of vintage treasure hunting—estate sales, auctions, thrifting, and all things well-loved—shapes her creative eye and the character she brings to CraftedQC. A mom of four daughters and “Mimi” to her grandkids, she balances family life with raising chickens, tending plants, and enjoying the quiet just outside LeClaire. As co-owner and the organized “back office” of CraftedQC, Jennifer blends her longtime office-management skills with her passion for unique finds, making her an essential part of the team.

Jeri Fite | crochet characters

Jeri has been crocheting since she was twelve years old and has carried that passion with her throughout her life. She is a mother of two and is now retired from the post office. In retirement, she keeps herself joyfully busy by creating handmade toys. She finds deep satisfaction in completing each project and watching her ideas come to life. Nothing makes her happier than seeing children light up when they connect with one of her creations.

John Peragine | author

John is the published author of 14 books, the ghostwriter of more than 100 others, and a freelance contributor to outlets such as the New York Times, Reuters, and Bloomberg News. He has written for Writer’s Digest, Wine Maker Magazine, and Wine Enthusiast, among many others. John began his professional writing career in 2007 after 13 years in social work and performing as a musician with the Western Piedmont Symphony. His expertise spans personal memoirs, real estate, small business, corporate topics, spirituality, and health and fitness. He lives in Davenport, Iowa, with his wife and two children, overlooking the Mississippi River.

JudiBell, Judi Berkley | crochet

Since retiring, Judi Berkley has rekindled her long-ago love of crocheting. She enjoys working with 100% cotton yarn to create market bags, water bottle holders, pot socks, and other practical handmade items. Judi loves experimenting with new ideas and designs as inspiration strikes. She happily offers custom colors and sizes for customers seeking something unique. Through JudiBell, she shares her joy of crafting and hopes others enjoy her creations as much as she enjoys making them.

Judith Costello | artist

Judith Costello, MA, OCDS, is an artist and writer. She is the founder of Unwind Studio: Where Art Relieves Stress. She shows her artwork under the name “Lady in the Sky Studio.” She has written over 65 Craft Columns for New Mexico Kids magazine complete with How To illustrations and photos. Judith has two books available on How to Pray Like the Saints and the second is on Mariology: To Mary, Our Morning Star. Her complete profile is on LinkedIn.

Kohav LLC, Tiffany Potts, Elizabeth & Giana Velazquez | christian novelties

Kohav LLC was founded by Tiffany Potts, Elizabeth Velazquez, and Elizabeth’s daughter, Giana—three creatives dedicated to shining light through purpose-driven products. The vision for Kohav began during a 2023 mission trip to Burkina Faso, West Africa, and officially launched in March 2025. More than a candle company, Kohav exists to bring hope and opportunity to communities in need through the future community center in Burkina Faso. Every candle purchased helps bring light, hope, and purpose to others.

Laura McCarragher | artist

Laura McCarragher is an Iowa‑based mixed‑media folk artist celebrated for her vibrant wooden plaques, uplifting word art, and joyful collages. Creating alongside her mother and sister in the artistic trio Things With Wings, she’s known for hand‑cut lettering, rich layers of paint and paper, and messages that radiate hope and encouragement. Working primarily on wood, Laura blends color, texture, and heartfelt positivity into every piece, crafting artwork meant to inspire and brighten everyday spaces.

Lee Bots, Nancy Solbrig | robot sculptures

Nancy’s robot sculptures are assembled from objects gathered on her travels, in antique stores, thrift shops, and from old electronics. Natural finds like rocks and driftwood often inspire the direction of new bots, which she blends with forgotten treasures such as lost Legos, outdated technology, yarns, fibers, and other castoff materials. Each Lee Bot has its own distinct personality, complete with a name and number, mixing earthy elements with vintage charm and playful creativity.

Levi the Artist, Levi Folker | watercolor (KID MAKER)

Art has been part of Levi’s life since he was 7. After finishing his home-school studies during the pandemic, he spent his afternoons learning acrylic landscapes with Bob Ross. Now 13, he’s found his voice in vibrant watercolor wildlife. His dedication has earned multiple awards, but he’s happiest exploring the outdoors or hanging out with his pet tortoise, Turnip.

Lillie & Pine, Katy Miller | natural Vegan beauty

I accidentally launched my beloved brand Lillie & Pine in 2017 after 3 years of becoming obsessed with chemistry and clean skin care. We are so proud to have our products at CraftedQC. Please sample, smell and enjoy our products. Especially our famous lotion. There is nothing quite like it, you’ll never go back to regular lotion. I’m a fun mom of two little girls and a Davenport native. I currently live and operate my business in LeClaire. Thanks for visiting our spot!

Little Buddy Creations, Rich Webster | photography and acrylics

Rich is a Bettendorf-based photographer, acrylic abstract painter, woodblock printer, and professional videographer/content creator. His lifelong love of visual storytelling began with a Super 8 camera and self-taught cartooning inspired by Sergio Aragonés. He built a career in video production while continuing to explore fine art. His artwork has been exhibited at Las Laguna Art Gallery in Laguna Beach, reflecting the humor, curiosity, and creative energy he brings to all his work.

Livie’s Yarden, Wendy Olinger | beaded jewelry, laser & engraving

Wendy has always loved art and appreciates the time, care, and creativity behind handmade gifts. Her passion is creating handcrafted jewelry and laser-engraved pieces, including magnets, ornaments, layered artwork, plaques, and custom designs. She also enjoys teaching others how to make jewelry and experience the joy of creating with their own hands. Livie’s Yarden is inspired by her mom, Olivia (“Livie”), and a sweet word her son coined for their backyard—his “Yarden.” Every piece she makes is rooted in family, legacy, love, and creativity.

Lori Miller | fiber artist

Lori Miller was born and raised in the Quad Cities and has worked in fiber art for more than 27 years. Her fine art is inspired by mosaic forms and has been exhibited throughout the Midwest. She embraces her lifelong love of crafting and repurposing by working with wool felt. Lori creates new pieces from upcycled materials, blending sustainability with artistry.

Love, Mom Designs, Berenice Boyer | jewelry

Bere is the artist and heart behind Love, Mom Designs, a homeschooling mother of three whose work is rooted in purpose and compassion. What began as a way to support her family’s fostering journey has grown into a mission-driven creative outlet dedicated to the foster care community. A portion of every purchase funds backpacks filled with essentials for children entering foster care, offering comfort and meeting immediate needs. Each piece she creates serves as a love letter to these kids, reflecting her family’s hope that every child feels seen, valued, and deeply loved.

Lucy Marie Studio, Dyan Raso | air clay

Dyan is the creator behind a charming small business inspired by her beloved pup and fueled by a desire to bring joy to others. She handcrafts whimsical plant frogs for flower vases, plant propagation, and garden displays—each piece designed to add a touch of personality and delight to any plant lover’s space. What began as a heartfelt tribute has grown into a creative outlet where Dyan channels love, intention, and artistry into every item she makes. Her work reflects her hope that even the smallest creations can spark a smile, brighten a day, and remind others of the simple beauty found in handmade things.

Lynsey Stevenson | diamond art

Lynsey Stevenson is a 20‑year‑old maker from LeClaire who loves creating diamond art, keychains, and other handmade crafts. A cancer survivor approaching her five‑year milestone, she first turned to crafting as a comforting distraction during treatment. What began as a way to stay busy has since grown into a passion—and now into her own Facebook page as she works to share her creations with a wider community. Lynsey adores her two dogs, Lola and Chevy, who are never far from her side while she works. Her creativity, strength, and determination shine through in everything she makes.

Mad Matti, Metaxia Gust (Matti) | watercolor artist

Metaxia has been creating art for as long as she can remember, exploring oils, acrylics, and most recently discovering a love for watercolor in 2024. A self‑taught artist, she began taking her work seriously after showing at a local market in 2022 and now offers prints made from her original pieces. She also runs Mad Matti’s, the business she launched in 2018 that grew from a hobby into a full‑time career. Every product is crafted from her own recipes and custom scent blends, researched and refined with care. When she’s not in her kitchen or art space, she’s outdoors with her dogs—hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, or biking—drawing inspiration from the world around her.

Mary Costello | artist/author

Born in 1925, Mary Charlotte Aubrey Costello is an author and bridge artist whose work reflects a lifelong devotion to place, memory, and the quiet beauty of the Mississippi River. She has drawn every bridge that crosses the river—255 in total—capturing each structure’s character, light, and symbolism. Living in the Quad Cities, Mary views bridges as metaphors for transition, resilience, and connection, themes that shape both her writing and visual art. Through her thoughtful, expressive practice, she invites viewers to reflect on the meaning held within everyday landscapes and the personal histories woven through them.

Mere Mud Pottery, Meredith Clinkinbeard | Pottery

Meredith discovered pottery in 2010 during a ceramics class in Boulder, Colorado—a moment that reshaped her path toward the arts. After years of learning, she became a pottery instructor and later joined the same nonprofit arts organization where she began. Her functional work draws inspiration from the joys of her life—coffee, cycling, running, her pets, and the landscapes of Colorado and the Mississippi River in Davenport, Iowa— blending beauty, utility, and meaningful everyday moments.

Millie’s Paws, Ryan O’Connor | pet creations (KID MAKER)

Ryan is one of CraftedQC’s talented kid makers, known for his big heart and even bigger love for animals. His brand, Millie’s Paws, celebrates pets as family through stylish handmade bandanas, healthy homemade treats, and fun stickers designed especially for dog lovers. What began as a simple passion project has grown into a small business built on creativity, care, and a genuine love for four‑legged friends. Ryan is excited to keep growing Millie’s Paws through local pop‑up markets, with dreams of expanding into custom pet products as he continues to learn, create, and connect with fellow animal enthusiasts.

Mountain Roots Candles, Marshall Doane & Sarah Barbee | upcycled candles

Marshall and Sarah have been crafting candles together since 2018. Their business, Mountain Roots Candles, centers on natural, renewable materials like 100% soy wax, clean-burning fragrance oils, and cotton braided wicks. They upcycle beer, wine, and liquor bottles—as well as cans and wooden bowls—into distinctive, handcrafted candles. As demand has grown, they’ve expanded into tins, jars, wax melts, and car diffusers. Inspired by Sarah’s path toward becoming a park ranger, their signature Mountain Range candles capture the scents and flora of the state parks she’s explored.

Nadderz, Nadalee Crouch | hand knitting & crafts

Nadalee is 24, married to her husband Jacob, and a mother to a daughter and a son. She began crafting during long days in the NICU, where her son JJ spent his early life after being born at 27 weeks with a heart condition. What started as a comforting hobby became a meaningful creative outlet, with chunky blankets quickly becoming her favorite and most relaxing pieces to make. Today, Nadalee continues her love of crafting in JJ’s memory. Each piece she creates carries the same heart, intention, and quiet strength that first inspired her work. She’s grateful for everyone who supports her craft and cherishes the items she makes.

Oak Valley Farms, Valerie Gerks | goats milk & organics

After years in the medical field, Valerie Gerks transitioned to owning Oak Valley Farms, where she combines her passion for wellness with a love of natural, farm-inspired living. Based in rural Princeton, Iowa, her faith-rooted hobby farm produces handcrafted goat milk soap, herbal remedies, and wild-foraged skincare made with simple, intentional ingredients. Valerie creates each small-batch product with care—tinctures, salves, balms, and more—reflecting her devotion to family, homesteading, and traditional remedies that nourish everyday life.

Obvious Front, Dewitt Young | robots

Dewitt Young is a folk-art and recycler artist best known for his Capacitor Robots, created under the name Obvious Front. Since 1982, he has been transforming salvaged electronic components from discarded TVs, computers, and other electronics into whimsical robot figures, soldered together using lead-free materials. Viewing old electronics as “robots in kit form,” Young’s work blends humor, sustainability, and craftsmanship, turning technological waste into collectible, character-driven art. More than four decades later, he continues to enjoy inventing new designs, contributing to what he describes as 21st-century folk art.

Maker Profiles