COEUR d’ALENE — The rich red, white and blues of Leah Loffer’s handmade wooden American flags were easy to spot Saturday, even through the hundreds of people crowding the walkways as they explored Panhandle Kiwanis Taste of Coeur d’Alene.

Loffer, a lifetime Hayden resident, has made these unique flags and other wall hangings — many in the shape of Idaho — for 10 years. What started as a homemade Christmas gift for her brother quickly became known as Rustic Glory Flags after he posted her work to social media.

“It all spiraled from there,” Loffer said.

Rustic Glory Flags is a regular vendor at the Hayden farmer’s market. To keep up with demand, Loffer recently began using a laser to cut shapes and letters more efficiently. Before, each detail was carved entirely by hand.

Loffer has also been able to expand her creativity to layered pieces, nightlights and suncatchers, though she said her flags and Idaho art remain the most popular.

She had sold three flags so far during the weekend festivities.

“I’ve had a lot of women come by to buy as gifts for their husbands,” Loffer said.

Loffer’s artistry is a tribute to her love of country and calling North Idaho home.  

“I’m proud to be an American,” she added. “I’m proud of our country.”  

Loffer is one of 140 craft vendors featured in Taste of Coeur d’Alene at City Park this year, which coincides with Art on the Green at North Idaho College. The downtown street fair features an additional 250 vendors along seven blocks of Sherman Avenue.

All three events conclude today.