Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Pet Portrait Artist

Ever wondered what it’s really like to trade at a makers market?

Last weekend, I packed up my prints, cards, and pastel pencils and headed to the beautiful Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh for a day at Craft & Flea. If you’ve never experienced a market from the maker’s side of the stall, let me take you behind the scenes…

6:00am – Rise and (reluctantly) shine
The alarm went off far too early for me! Markets start early, and there’s a lot to do before the first customer even walks through the door.

7:10am – On the road
Car loaded, coffee in hand, I set off from Glasgow to Edinburgh. The car is always full to the brim with displays, signs, and of course, all the art!

8:30am – Set-up begins
I’m arranging prints, laying out greeting cards, hanging signage, and chatting to fellow makers as everyone brings their vision to life. It’s busy, sometimes frantic, but full of shared energy.

9:50am – A lovely surprise
Before the doors even opened, another maker purchased a print from me - the first of the day! That’s never happened to me before, and I was so grateful, it really put me at ease.

10:00am–4:00pm – The market buzz
The hours flew by in a blur of kind conversations, curious browsers, and heartfelt chats with new customers. Meeting people who connect with my work is genuinely one of my favourite parts of doing markets. There’s something special about those real-life connections.

In between, I worked on a new drawing (keep an eye out, it involves a very fluffy cat). I’ve found that sketching helps ease the intensity of being “on” all day – plus, it sparks interest and keeps me in a creative flow. Still, I’d love feedback on that! If you visited and saw me sketching, let me know what you thought.

4:00pm – Pack down and head home
After a full day on my feet, it’s time to load up and head back to Glasgow. I’m always exhausted by the end, but it’s a kind of good tired. Markets are physically demanding, but they also fill me up creatively and emotionally in ways I never expected when I started this journey.

Thank you
To everyone who stopped by, had a chat, bought something, or simply smiled – thank you. It truly means the world.

Can’t make it to Edinburgh?
No worries, here’s where you can find me next with more details here:

🛍 SWG3 Park Lane Market – 1st June
🎨 The Social Hub, Glasgow – 28th June

If you’re planning ahead for Father’s Day or need a thoughtful wedding gift, now’s the perfect time to get in touch. Commissions are open, and I’d love to create something special just for you.

Just get in touch here!