David Mies

David Mies

Mohomet, IL

My job in agriculture research led to working in China starting in 2005 for seven years and several more internationally. I saw people flying kites year-round in China and immediately found my way to a kite shop. I have purchased at least 30 kites in China and three Panying reels. I have met people from all over the world through my work and kiting. I totally got hooked on fighter kites four years ago, but still fly single string kites of all kinds.

I attended WSIKF and the Weifang international Kite festival in 2024, and did compete in fighter kite competition. I've flown kites on every other continent with the exception of New Zealand/Australia, and Antarctica. Wherever I travel, I usually have several kites including fighters with me. I have flown kites in every month of the year for the last 15 years, sometimes standing in snow.

For the last 4 years, I have been very active in Kites for Kids programs. In 2025, I distributed over 500 kites working with various organizations. A special experience has been flying with an autistic boy who was totally nonverbal, but fascinated with both his and my kites.

Mitch Cordover convinced me after several years to attend U-MAKE in 2023. I finally enrolled in two Sewing Projects in 2025. I love my global Fighter Kite community but find the skills, contacts, and mentoring through U-MAKE to be incredible.  I am very skilled at woodwork and carving, but find this aptitude transfers well into sewing and kite making. Check out my Facebook site: Custom Wood Creations by Dave

I love beautiful kites, but they must perform to stay in my collection. I am a member of both Gateway and Hoosier kite clubs and am working to reconnect kiters in Illinois.