09/08/2026
Handmade With Heart: Meet Diana of Diana’s Blankets and Things
By Linda Arnold, Community Writer I We Are Local Montana
One of the first things you’ll notice at Town Square Market Vendors is a display of colorful handprints—the cheerful logo for Diana’s Blankets and Things.
The business began with Diana’s love of crafting, which developed while she was working as an activities assistant at a nursing home.
“I drove residents to and from activities and assisted the activities director,” Diana explained. “While doing that, I learned how to crochet blankets for nursing homes.”
After being injured on the job, Diana suddenly had more time to pursue her growing passion. She began making larger blankets and selling them at craft shows. At first, blankets were all she offered—but that soon changed.
“One day, my aunt invited me to join the sewing group at the building where she lived,” Diana recalled. “It was so much fun. I learned a lot from the ladies. They were all older than me, which made the experience even more enjoyable.”
Then, while attending a craft show, a customer asked Diana if she could make a receiving blanket for her granddaughter.
“That’s where it all started,” she said.
Today, Diana’s selection has grown far beyond blankets. She creates crocheted items, children’s aprons, water bottle carriers, oven-door dresses, handbags, and much more. She has even recently started making jewelry.
“Oh boy, you really need patience to make jewelry!” she joked.
As Diana’s product selection expanded, she continued participating in craft fairs. However, traveling to shows—and setting up and taking down her display—eventually became difficult. When the opportunity came to secure a permanent space inside Townsquare Market, she jumped at the chance.
“I can no longer travel because I need an army to help me set up and take everything down,” she said. “That’s why I love this idea. I don’t have to set up and tear down each time. My products stay in one place and are available all the time.”
Although Townsquare Market is still new and growing, Diana has high hopes for its future. She wants it to become more than a place to shop. She envisions a welcoming community where local makers support one another and customers can build lasting relationships with the people behind the products.
“I want to meet new people and make new relationships—and I’ve already done that,” Diana said. “I have a repeat customer who buys my crocheted blankets for every grandchild and great-grandchild. As soon as she finds out another baby is on the way, she calls and tells me whether she needs one for a boy or a girl.”
Diana especially appreciates being surrounded by other craftspeople who understand the time, work, and challenges involved in creating something by hand.
“We are all crafters, and we make things from scratch,” she explained. “If one of us has an issue, we can go to another vendor who understands the struggles we face.”
Her dream is to see the entire building filled with vendors and customers.
“I hope this becomes a community where people can have a cup of coffee, visit with friends, and shop,” Diana said. “I believe it will work if we can bring in more vendors.”
Townsquare Market also features an indoor walking track, giving community members another reason to stop by—especially during Montana’s rainy or snowy days. Visitors are welcome to walk the track, although Diana offers one friendly reminder: walking only, please—no running!
Come explore one of Great Falls’ newest indoor craft markets. Rain, snow, or sunshine, Diana and the other local vendors will be waiting to welcome you with friendly conversation and an impressive selection of handmade treasures.
