Meet the Makers

Lina Del Plato (she/her) is the owner, designer and maker behind Lina Del Plato Designs, a brand that specializes in customized graphic tees for all ages, as well as tumblers, totes, koozies, and paper products. Founded in July 2019, Lina’s business began with paper crafts for her daughter and has since expanded to include a variety of mediums.

Lina draws immense inspiration from her daughter, Sofia. “She always challenges me to make new designs and is also creatively driven,” Lina shares. This inspiration fuels her passion for designing and creating each product from start to finish, ensuring every item is unique at.

Currently, Lina’s favorite product to make is the customized beer koozie. “I love that customers have these funny and interesting ideas to have on their koozies, and I can design those ideas and make them a reality for them,” she says. The beer koozie has become one of her top-selling and most customized items.

As an LGBTQ+ business owner, Lina initially hesitated to express her personal beliefs but learned to embrace her identity proudly. “If people wanted to buy from me, it was because of the quality of my products. If they did not buy because of my LGBTQ+ status, then I don’t need them as a customer,” she says.

In addition to her entrepreneurial work, Lina is a full-time attorney for youth in foster care, providing a unique perspective and voice to LGBTQ+ youth. This dual role makes her work deeply impactful on multiple levels. Lina says, “My best advice is to find a community that supports your ideas, beliefs, and your craft or art.”