About Us

Iron Range Specialties
We are a family of artisans living in the northern reaches of Minnesota. Weavers, Bakers, wood workers, musicians, writers, painters, artists, tailors, upholsterers, photographers and crafters spreading Joy from our family to yours.

Amy - Amy is a true “basket case”. She caught the weaving bug almost 15 years ago and doesn’t show signs of slowing down. You may catch her weaving in her Amy’s Baskets and Crafts booth at craft shows and farmers markets throughout Northern MN. Stop over and say hi, she’ll have a smile for you. In addition to her love of all things woven, she is the mother of 3 - you’ll find all of their work included in our catalog - a vocalist who has performed on many stages, a cellist, pianist, as well as bass guitarist and she plays a little flute too. In her spare time, she enjoys reading as well as teaching music and weaving classes.

Savannah - Savannah, also known as Nana (pronounced nah nah) has been in love with baking since she was old enough to hold a spoon. She is a student in HCC’s Culinary Arts program and the proprietor of “Nana’s Kitchen”. You’ll find her selling her fresh baked breads and treats at the Hibbing Farmers Market and at craft shows and festivals throughout the Iron Range. When she’s not baking or studying, she’s probably singing in a community choir, playing in a community orchestra or practicing one of her many instruments. She likes to list them off so here goes - piano, flute, violin, bass guitar, recorder, auxiliary percussion, nose flute and I’m sure there’s something I left off. But don’t be fooled by the sweet exterior, she’s working on her black belt and enjoys stick fighting and throwing kicks.

Lisa - Lisa is not your typical baker. She has a passion for bread and cooking and enjoys pushing the line of flavor, and maybe crossing it once in a while but always in a very good way. How else would we know peonies make delicious jelly, or cayenne pepper, chocolate and shortbread are a trio made in heaven. And when she’s not baking her next “Jam ‘n’ Bread” creation or trying out her latest recipe on the family, she loves her some kayaking and hiking. Lisa also enjoys playing piano, flute and singing. While she no longer kickboxes, it’s probably best to stay on her good side.

LeeAnn - What do you call someone who finds it nearly impossible to sit still, talks at 100 mph, laughs easily, and enjoys sanding intricate woodwork for hours at a time? We call her LeeAnn. LeeAnn is the youngest of our troop, but her skill far outreaches her years. Her creativity and attention to detail make every piece of furniture she works on a true piece of art. Whether she’s refinishing an early 1900’s dining set or bringing a modern flair to a 1920’s kitchen table, it’s guaranteed to be beautiful when she’s done with it. When she’s not working in Lee’s Woodshop she enjoys playing trumpet, baritone, trombone, piano, a little guitar, nose flute - it’s a thing - clarinet, saxophone and anything else musical she can get her hands on. And watch out, she’s a born fighter too.

Mike - Mike has been working alongside Thom at the upholstery shop since he was 14. He’s travelled the world (ok, more like the Midwest) upholstering everything from classic muscle cars to health club equipment. When he’s not turning a shabby old chair into an amazing centerpiece, he’s playing his guitar, or ukulele, or mandolin, or drums, or writing his latest musical masterpiece. You may see him around town taking his Staffordshire Terrier - Blue - for a walk. Feel free to say hi, he won’t bite and if he does, he’s had all of his shots, Blue has too.

Thom - That’s me. I’ve been an upholsterer for over 23 years and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. If you need upholstery, I’m your guy. I have 3 great kids, and an amazing family unlike any you’ve met. We truly believe in spreading Joy and that’s what we hope to do with Iron Range Specialties. If we can make you smile, then we’re doing something right. You may have seen me around - I’m often the set up and take down crew at craft shows and farmers markets, and I’ve played drums for community choirs and orchestras around the range. I pick a little guitar and sing in a delightful off key bass but I’m the drummer so nobody hears me singing anyway. There’s strength in Joy, so crack a smile, hum a happy tune and spread a little Joy of your own. God Bless