Summer Illustration Markets - what I learnt in 2025

This summer I traded at two London artist's markets - the London Illustration Fair guest market at Spitalfields on Saturday 12 July, and the SoLo Craft Fair at Leadenhall on Saturday 9 August. I'm really proud of myself for applying for these opportunities and for working hard to be a positive representation of my illustration business in some very challenging conditions!

London Illustration Fair guest market at Spitalfields - July 2025

At one of the markets, footfall was slow, partly due to the signage and promo that was provided by the organisers. At the other market, it was busy with a lot of interest in my illustrations but my conversion rate was disappointing. I learnt that a busy market doesn't necessarily mean you will get lots of sales, and also that it's hard to stay approachable and positive for hours on end! In total I sold 1 framed digital peonies print, 3 "seconds" (imperfect or blemished cards), 3 pizza treats birthday cards, and 1 pack of 5 party invites.

SoLo Craft Fair at Leadenhall Market - August 2025

Here's the positives:

• My work was seen, in person, by hundreds of people! This is way more than it reaches online, where most folks are scrolling quickly through their phones.

• I now have some lovely photos of me with my work, and I took some great product photos and videos to add to my Etsy listings.

• Seeing lots of other creatives lay out their stalls gave me ideas to improve my own setup.

• I used the time at my stall to sketch out ideas for all my Christmas card designs this year.

• Met other friendly creatives and single parents.

• I gained lots of experience!

London Illustration Fair at Old Spitalfields - July 2025

And a few tips for future markets:

• Bring lots of snacks and drinks

• Bring blank colouring sheets of my own illustrations, so I have something to do when the stand is quiet - and I can give blank ones away too as a way of marketing my work

• Definitely research the market thoroughly beforehand - contact artists who have traded there before to see how their experience was. If possible, visit the market before committing, and talk to the traders there to see how it's going - especially people who have similar products to you

I have applied for stalls at London Queer Mart, London Makers Mile End Park, and Illustrators Fair Kings Cross in November and December this year - can you recommend any of them? Let me know if you have any tips!