Apr. 24—If anyone knows how hard it can be for local makers and artisans to sell their wares, it’s Braxton Utsler and John Flaherty.
That’s why the two decided to open a new store inside Markland Mall called Makers Mart, selling products made exclusively by people in Kokomo and the surrounding area.
The store opened Thursday, and marks the launch of a new business that aims to help local makers make a buck by taking their wares from their homes or workshops to one of the most high-traffic shopping areas in the city.
And that includes Flaherty and Utsler.
The two met in 2019 at SHAK Makerspace, a membership-based community of makers, tinkerers and artisans who have access to a host of specialized tools and programs at the nonprofit’s downtown location.
Soon, they were crafting and making all kinds of products such as laser-engraved coasters, wooden tables and soaps. It was going so well,…
