Columbus Avant-Garde Art & Craft Shows

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Columbus Spring Handmade Market – Meet the Makers (Part 2)!

🧵 “Everyone Needs Hugs” – Handmade Blankets with Heart

One of our makers Diana Hasenbein, comes from a truly inspiring background—after a 30+ year career in the life sciences industry, she shifted her focus to what matters most: family, helping others, and creating with purpose.

Her journey into crafting began with the birth of her grandson, when she set out to create soft, cozy blankets “filled with hugs.” That love quickly turned into a business centered around comfort, connection, and care.

Her inspiration is beautifully unique—puzzles. She describes the feeling of placing the final piece as a shared moment of accomplishment, much like gifting a handmade blanket that becomes part of someone’s memories.

Her message is simple but powerful:
“Everyone needs hugs.”

You can find her work at:
👉 www.Hemations.com

💍 Twisted Threads Creations – Emotion Through Art

Another talented artist Danielle Heilbrunn, brings a multidisciplinary approach to creativity, working with jewelry, resin, and crochet.

With a background rooted in lifelong artistic exploration (and even formal training at CCAD), her work is inspired by the small details in life—light, emotion, and the stories people carry.

Her process is deeply intuitive:

Observation → experimentation → creation → refinement

Her goal?
To build a sustainable creative career while making work that resonates on a deeper emotional level.

Explore her shop:
👉 https://www.etsy.com/shop/twistedthrdcreations

🧼 Yellow Pony Soapworks – From Hobby to Local Favorite

Based in Dayton, Yellow Pony Soapworks began as a personal hobby in 2023 and quickly grew into a thriving business now featured in local markets and retail locations.

Founder Lori LaMattina handcrafts each soap herself, blending creativity with care. The business is named after her Norwegian Fjord horse, Rudi—adding a personal and meaningful touch to the brand.

Beyond soap-making, Lori is also:

A longtime member of the Dayton Philharmonic
A music teacher
A homeschool mom

This is her first year with Avant-Garde, and we’re so excited to welcome her!

✨ Bennett’s Baubles & Beads – Creativity + Connection

Lorrie Bennett creates colorful, fun, and functional beaded accessories—from wristlets to pens and charms.

What makes her business extra special is that many designs are created alongside her daughter, turning creativity into meaningful shared moments.

Her goal is simple:
To bring joy, color, and personality into everyday life.

📸 Gifts of Nature – Capturing Beauty in the Everyday

Michelle Thomas has been capturing nature’s beauty for over 20 years, turning moments into stunning photography prints, cards, and gifts.

From sunsets to tiny details like raindrops and ladybug feet, her work reminds us to slow down and notice the world around us.

By day, she’s a nurse. By passion, she’s an artist who never goes anywhere without her camera.

Explore her work:
👉 www.giftsofnature.org

🎨 Science Meets Art – A Creative Balance

We’re also excited to welcome a first-time Avant-Garde vendor Genevieve Trewiler to our Columbus show!

Originally from Loveland, Ohio and now based in Columbus, this talented artist works at Nationwide Children’s Hospitalin the Institute of Genomic Medicine, where she performs genetic testing. Blending science and creativity, she brings a unique perspective to her artwork—balancing logic with artistic expression.

She has explored a wide range of artistic mediums throughout her life, but about six years ago discovered a passion for gouache painting, drawn to its distinct style and versatility.

This year marks her first time participating in Avant-Garde Art & Craft Shows, and she’ll be joining us in both Loveland and Hilliard—so be sure to keep an eye out for her work!

Her inspiration comes from the simple but powerful ability to create something meaningful. She also finds inspiration in an unexpected place—AI-generated imagery—using it as a reference point to show that artists can bring those imagined concepts to life in their own authentic way.

Her journey into landscape art developed gradually through tutorials and practice, eventually building the confidence to create her own unique style. Even now, she continues learning from other artists, proving that creativity is always evolving.

When she sits down to paint, her process is all about immersion—scrolling through saved reference images, putting on documentaries, and getting completely lost in the moment.

While she humbly says she doesn’t have a “real” business, her goal is to continue growing and participating in more art shows—and we’re so excited to have her start that journey with us 💛

🕯️ Whatsoever Is Lovely Candle Company – Beauty in the Everyday

Jan Stock, the creator behind this Central Ohio candle company, hand-pours each candle with the goal of bringing warmth, comfort, and peace into your home.

Inspired by the idea that scent can evoke powerful memories, her candles range from sweet and cozy to floral and seasonal favorites.

The name itself reflects her mission:
To focus on what is true, beautiful, and uplifting.

🧶 CaitMcKCreations – Handmade Joy

Cait Mckibben is a 25-year-old crochet artist creating adorable plushies that spark joy.

Inspired by the love and support from her customers, she focuses on making pieces that bring happiness and connection.

Her message:
Find joy in the little things.

🎨 Featured Artist: Thomas of TC Acrylics

Meet Thomas Carley, the creative force behind TC Acrylics and Wick-ed Palette Studio Collective based in Toledo, Ohio. A mixed media artist specializing in acrylic pour painting, Thomas brings a bold and dynamic approach to his work—creating pieces that are both visually striking and uniquely his own.

While he’s been creative his entire life, Thomas discovered his passion for fluid art about six years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Over the past three years, he’s also begun teaching classes, sharing his knowledge and love for the craft with others in his community and beyond.

This will be his first Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show, and he’s excited to connect with a new audience and showcase his work.

Thomas finds inspiration in the creative energy that surrounds him—especially through the community he’s built within his studio space. Being immersed in an environment where creativity is constantly flowing makes it nearly impossible notto feel inspired.

His journey into acrylic pour painting started simply—watching videos on social media and thinking, “That looks super cool and fun to do!” What began as a hobby quickly grew into a business he has now been running for four years.

Unlike traditional painters, Thomas doesn’t rely on paintbrushes. His process is anything but ordinary—using tools like hairdryers, toothpicks, strainers, and even paper towels to manipulate paint and create movement. He focuses on building cohesive pieces with recognizable themes, setting his work apart from typical fluid art styles.

Looking ahead, Thomas hopes to see his work displayed in public spaces where it can spark conversation, connection, and curiosity. He also envisions growing his studio into a thriving, sustainable creative hub for both himself and other makers.

At the heart of it all, his message is simple—he just loves creating. Whether a piece holds deeper meaning or simply brings joy, his goal is to make art that makes people feel something.

🌼 See You at the Show!

From heartfelt handmade blankets to sustainable fashion, from candles and soaps to fine art and storytelling—this show is filled with creativity, passion, and incredible people.

✨ Join us in Columbus and experience it all in person!

🛍️ Columbus Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
📍 Makoy Event Center
⏰ 10am–4pm
🎟️ $3 admission (kids under 12 free)

Come shop small, support local, and meet the makers behind the magic 💛

2025 Columbus Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show

Sunday, March 22, 2026

10:00am-4:00pm

Makoy Event Center

5462 Center St.

Hilliard, OH 43026

For more information, contact Becki Silverstein, Event Coordinator at becki@ag-shows.com

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Columbus Spring Show is Here!

Elizabeth Toigo from Fairytales and Tiny Tails Rescue...

Fairytales and Tiny Tails Rescue is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in Central Ohio, dedicated to rescuing vulnerable kittens and providing them with the love and care they deserve. Powered primarily by passionate volunteers, we offer safe foster homes, medical treatment, nourishing food, and essential supplies to ensure each kitten thrives. Our mission is to find forever families for every kitten, creating happy endings where they are cherished, loved, and part of a family for life. Through compassion, commitment, and community support, we turn their tiny tales into life-changing stories. Fairytales and Tiny Tails started in January 2025!

Our vision is a world where every kitten is safe, cherished, and given the fairytale ending they deserve- a loving forever home. Through our crafts, we raise money to support our mission. Our passionate volunteers developed the idea of creating kitten-inspired merchandise for cats and cat lovers alike, in order to help fund medical treatments and essential support for the kittens in our organization.

Our passionate volunteers have loved pushing themselves to the creative limit and trying to make crafts that truly cater to our audience. Crafting and creating merchandise was built on a lifelong passion for caring for animals and truly giving back to the vulnerable kitten population in as many ways as possible.

We hope that over the next 5 years, our organization continues to grow. We want to be able to reach and rescue as many kittens as possible. Every kitten deserves a happily ever after.

Meet Halie Hood from Rise & Roll Coffee and Bake Shop...

Hi! I’m Halie, the co-founder behind Rollhouse Coffee & Bake Shop. I’m a creative at heart with a background in brand building, product development, and a community-driven small business. What began as a simple love for baking and coffee grew into a way to gather people — over thoughtfully made rolls, great drinks, and a space that feels like home.

I’ve been baking and experimenting in the kitchen for years, but Rise & Roll officially came to life a little over a year ago. Since then, it’s grown from a passion project into a fully operating pop-up and market business — with big plans ahead. This will be our first Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show, and we’re genuinely excited to be part of such a creatively driven event.

People, stories, and shared moments. I’m inspired by the idea that food and drink can slow people down, spark conversation, and create memories. Whether it’s a family tradition, a weekend market ritual, or a “treat yourself” moment — that emotional connection fuels everything I make. It started in my own kitchen. Baking became a creative outlet — a way to experiment, unwind, and make something tangible with my hands. Over time, friends and family kept asking for more, and I realized this hobby had the potential to become something much bigger.

I discovered my talent through repetition and curiosity. I kept tweaking recipes, learning from mistakes, and paying attention to what made people light up when they took the first bite. That feedback loop — paired with a lot of trial and error — helped me find my rhythm.

My creative process is a mix of structured and playful. I usually start with a feeling or concept, then build flavor, texture, and presentation around it. I love experimenting, refining, and making small adjustments until it feels just right. Creativity for me is equal parts intuition and intention.

In five years, I see Rollhouse as a permanent, community-rooted space — a coffee and bake shop that’s known not just for its cinnamon rolls, but for its energy, creativity, and sense of belonging. I also hope to continue collaborating with local makers, artists, and events to keep that community connection strong.

Rollhouse is built on the rhythm of rising — again and again. It’s about honoring where you’ve been, embracing where you’re going, and creating spaces where people can pause, gather, and rise together.

Meet Carmen Babai from Chollipops...

I started making chocolates about 25+ years ago, always for friends and family, and later for my kids' birthday parties. I I love and enjoy doing all the decorations in my chocolates, so I decided to start doing little pop-up markets.

This was my hobby, now is my dream. I have been making chocolate for 25+ years and have had my business for two years!

Decorating my chocolates is my therapy as well, and I love it when customer some times follow me just to see my decorations, and they end up buying some. My Mom has a lot of craft talents I learned from her since I was so young when I started. When I was 16 years old, a friend asked me to help her to make some chocolates, and I learn and. I was working for her for over 3 years I had to quit because I was busy with school.

A couple of years later, I was making some chocolates and fruits and selling them to friends and family back in my native country.

In five years, I hope to have my own store!

The message behind my work is, do something with your heart to make customers happy!

Meet Karey Best from Krafted by Karey...

My name is Karey, and I’m the owner and designer behind Krafted by Karey. I create handmade paper goods, including greeting cards, gift tags, bookmarks, samplers, gift card holders, wine/bottle tags, and more. I love designing pieces that help people celebrate life’s moments — big and small. When I’m not crafting, I enjoy cooking, spending time with my husband, family, and friends. I have been crafting for 6 years, but Krafted by Karey began as a small creative outlet that quickly grew into a true passion and business. What started as making cards for friends and family turned into something I wanted to share with a larger community.

This will be my first Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show, and I am incredibly excited for the opportunity. I’m looking forward to connecting with fellow creatives and meeting shoppers who appreciate handmade goods.

I’m inspired by seasons, holidays, meaningful celebrations, and everyday moments that deserve a thoughtful touch. I love color palettes, textures, and layering beautiful papers together to create something unique. Most of all, I’m inspired by the joy that a handwritten card or small gift can bring to someone.

I have always loved working with my hands and being creative. I started making cards about six years ago after attending a card-making party at my cousin’s house. What began as a fun experience quickly turned into a passion, and I found myself wanting to learn more, experiment with designs, and continue creating on my own.

It truly started with encouragement from friends and family. After gifting handmade cards and projects, people began asking where they could buy them. That encouragement gave me the confidence to turn something I loved into a small business. My creative process usually begins with a theme or season. I start by selecting coordinating papers and color palettes, then build layers and dimensions to create depth and interest. I focus on clean construction, quality materials, and thoughtful details. Each piece is individually handcrafted, so no two are exactly alike.

In five years, I hope to continue growing Krafted by Karey through craft shows, online sales, and possibly offering workshops or card classes. I would love to expand into curated gift collections and seasonal releases while staying true to the handmade, personal feel that defines my brand.

The message behind my work is simple: thoughtful details matter. In a fast-paced digital world, a handwritten card or handcrafted gift is meaningful. My goal is to create pieces that help people slow down, celebrate intentionally, and make others feel seen and appreciated.

Meet Stacy Piper from Middle School Chaos...

My name is Stacy, and I have been a middle school math and science teacher for nearly 32 years. I am married to my high school sweetheart, and we have two grown children of whom I am incredibly proud.

I began scrapbooking when my first child was born. Over the past 26 years, my creative work has evolved from traditional scrapbook pages and bulletin board lettering to intricate, three-dimensional layered shadow boxes.

For several years, I have participated as a vendor in the Avant-Garde Art & Craft Shows in Hilliard. These events have allowed me to connect with many wonderful people, and I always look forward to meeting new customers and fellow creators.

Creating is both personal and restorative for me. Designing shadow boxes provides a meaningful way to decompress from the daily demands of teaching. Seeing others smile when they view my work is one of the most rewarding parts of the process.

I first discovered 3D layered shadow boxes on social media and immediately felt inspired to try. My first attempt was far from perfect, but perseverance and a commitment to learning helped me grow. Through research, practice, and determination, I have developed both my skills and my artistic voice. As I look toward retirement from teaching, I am excited to continue expanding and refining my craft.

Meet Amelia from Crochet Cuties...

Hi! My name is Amelia, I’m 13 years old, and I’ve been crocheting for almost 3 years. Outside of crocheting, I enjoy musical theatre, orchestra, watching medical dramas (my favorite being House MD), and I play field hockey in the fall. I love hanging out with my friends and having sleepovers with them. While I have been crocheting for a little over 3 years, I started my business 2 years ago. This Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show will be the first one I have participated in, and I am very excited for this new experience.

I got into crochet with a kit that my parents got me for Christmas of 2022. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. I often get inspired by pictures I see on Pinterest or by creators I watch online who also crochet. Many of my friends and family noticed how adorable my crochet plushies were and persuaded me to start a business. The rest is history.

I would describe my creative process as something that is quite simple. I look for inspiration on Pinterest, find a pattern similar to what I’m looking for, and use the materials I have to make the project I have in mind. I’d like to see myself doing craft shows seasonally while also having consistent sales on Etsy. My hopes are that I can use my profit towards college or a Volkswagen Beetle.

My message is that handmade plushies are much better than ones made by machines because each and every one of them requires love and attention from the creator. Not to mention that each one is completely unique, no two plushies will be the same.

Meet Megan Allardyce from The Crafty Canvas Room...

Hello, my name is Megan Allardyce, I am the owner of the craft business “The Crafty Canvas Room” where I specialize in seasonal vinyl canvas art. I have had this business for two and a half years now. I have a Etsy store for “The Crafty Canvas Room,” which is my craft website. The Avant-Garde Spring Craft Show will be the first craft festival that I am very excited about, presenting my amazing crafts to craft festival customers. Crafting inspires through the ability to transform raw materials into meaningful handmade creations, providing a profound sense of accomplishment and creative expression. It serves as a therapeutic, mindful, and relaxing escape that reduces stress, allowing for personal "me-time" while fostering skill-building and joy.

From a young age, my Aunt Betty introduced me to craft hobbies. She first introduced me to paper crafting, where we made greeting cards and other exciting paper crafts. I have always loved canvas art growing up, and I chose that to be my crafting niche for my store “The Crafty Canvas Room”. I discovered my talent through the amazing craft company “Makers Gonna Learn,” where I got to experience using my amazing Cricut Explore Air 2 cutting machine and the amazing software program Cricut Design Space. I would describe my craft process through the Cricut craft process that involves a three-step cycle: Designing in Design Space, cutting/manipulating materials with the machine, and finishing the project. It transforms digital designs into tangible items by cutting, writing, or scoring materials like vinyl and paper.

In 5 years, my goal is to have established a loyal, engaged customer base and a streamlined production process that balances artistic creativity with business profitability. In five years, I see my craft business transitioning from a passion-driven side hustle into a recognized, sustainable brand known for vinyl canvas crafts that show high-quality, eco-friendly, handmade home goods. My message for my craft business is that there is a focus on highlighting unique, handmade quality, emotional connection, and passion to build brand loyalty. A Effective message for my business, “The Crafty Canvas Room” is to emphasize that items are "crafted with love", tells the story behind the product, and underscores that each piece is a unique, thoughtful, and high-quality alternative to mass-produced items.

Meet Janet Thiede from Organic Garments...

An Ohio-based sneaker business, we are rooted in sustainability, craftsmanship, and respect for nature. The vision for the business is deeply personal - shaped by the legacy of Josh's grandfather, a man who cherished the art of growing and found purpose in nurturing plants, vegetables, and herbs. From him, Josh learned values that continue to guide Organic Garments today: and do things right. Founded in 2018 with a bold goal - to reimagine footwear through sustainable design. Within the past year, we have commissioned local artists to use our sneakers as canvas to create original art and/or pieces of art that are meaningful to our customers.

This will be Organic Garment's first year participating in the Avant Garde Art & Craft Shows. Nature inspires us to create. There is so much to learn from nature. Most of my family is involved in the creative arts in some way. When we were young, our mother realized we had an interest in the arts and gave us opportunities to participate in the arts. I have always been interested in sneakers and the fashion business. I'm fueled by the idea that business can be a force for good, that we can create products people love without compromising the health of the earth. I set out to learn more about sneaker construction, including taking a course by a Los Angelos shoemaker. Ultimately, it was designing, redesigning, and making several samples through work with factories to realize my dream of crafting a sneaker from innovative plant-based materials.

I use software to develop the specs for the idea and finalize the drawing. I usually have several ideas that I am playing around with until I have the moment when I believe I have the concept to the point of creation. Right now, I'm especially excited about the next evolution of our footwear line. In the future, we're introducing two new styles: a high-top sneaker and a blue denim low-top. Both build on everything we've learned so far - comfort and sustainability - while offering versatility for everyday wear.