Why Handmade Matters: The Value of Supporting Local Pet Artists

In a world full of mass-produced products, choosing something handmade can feel so much more personal. When it comes to pet portraits, that decision becomes even more meaningful. It is not just a piece of art, it is a memory drawn with care.

I am a Glasgow-based pet portrait artist working in pastel pencil. Each piece is created by hand with close attention to detail. No digital tools, just hours of layering and blending to capture the individual features that make every pet special. From the curve of a tail to the look in their eyes, these are the things that matter most to the people who love them.

When you support a small business like mine, you are not just buying a product. You are supporting time, skill and a love for creating something unique. You are choosing something personal. And in return, you receive a one-of-a-kind, unique artwork that holds meaning.

You can find me at local markets across Glasgow, where I sell prints, coasters and bookmarks alongside custom portraits. Meeting people face to face is always a highlight. Whether someone commissions a drawing or simply stops to chat about their pet, it is a lovely way to share stories and make real connections.

That is why handmade art is important. It is thoughtful, considered and rooted in real experiences. Each portrait carries a story and becomes part of someone’s life in a way that mass-produced work never could.

If you are looking to support small business in the UK or buy from artists in Glasgow, I would love to hear from you. Thank you for supporting handmade and helping independent makers thrive.

I have more information on how to commission a pet portrait here.

Thanks so much,

Hannah