Keeping it Local: We Print Our Art at Home

One of the things I’ve come to value most as an artist and small business owner is keeping things as local as possible. While I still need to source my blank products and art supplies from various suppliers, the printing process happens right here in my own home studio.

With the help of my sublimation printer and heat press, I’m able to transfer my original artwork onto a variety of items. Everything from mugs and coasters to keychains, ornaments, bags and shirts. Doing the printing myself not only keeps my costs down (which helps keep my prices fair!) but also ensures that more of my earnings stay right here in Canada, supporting our local economy. One of the biggest advantages of sublimation printing is the quality: the ink actually bonds with the material itself, rather than sitting on top. That means no peeling, cracking, or fading over time... just vibrant, long-lasting color that really holds up.

It’s a hands-on, personal approach to production that I take a lot of pride in. Each item that goes through my studio is something I’ve touched. Whether it’s a painting I created myself or a design that my daughter Alex and I dreamed up together, every piece is one of a kind.

Alex and I work on a special project called Alex + Mom Creations. It’s a collaboration where we draw adorable custom pet portraits together to raise money for the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba. 50% of the profits from that series go directly to the hospital, and thanks to the support of our amazing community, we’ve already raised hundreds of dollars. It’s one of the most meaningful parts of what we do.

At the end of the day, this little business is about more than just art, It’s about connection, community, and giving back. Thank you for being a part of that.