How to Create a Beautiful & Budget-Friendly Stall for Art and Makers Markets
By Lauren Marina
There’s a gentle joy to setting up a market stall—laying out your work with care, creating an inviting little world of your own on a folding table. Over time, I’ve discovered a few key elements that help turn a simple space into an eye-catching and soulful display—without spending a fortune.
Whether you’re a fellow illustrator, ceramicist, printmaker or creator of beautiful things, here are some of my favourite tips for designing a stall that’s both budget-friendly and a true extension of your artistic voice.
🌿 Keep It Low-Cost & DIY
Most of my stall display is made from upcycled or homemade pieces. A plain wooden drying rack becomes a print stand, fabric scraps cover boxes to add texture and levels, and second-hand trays or crates make perfect display risers. Embrace imperfection—it adds charm and soul. You don’t need anything fancy; just thoughtful curation and a little creativity.
📏 Vary Your Heights
Creating different levels adds movement and rhythm to your stall, guiding the viewer’s eye around your work. I use small wooden stands, crates, or even books hidden under fabric to add height. Taller items at the back, medium in the middle, and smaller pieces up front create a natural flow that feels organic and balanced.
🎨 Consistency is Key
Your stall should feel like an extension of your artwork. I use a consistent colour palette—mainly soft neutrals and natural textures—to let my black and white illustrations take centre stage. Repetition of motifs, like the swirling lines and woodland creatures you’ll find in my prints and cards, creates a sense of harmony across the whole stall.
🧺 Use What You Have
Old linens become tablecloths. Fabric offcuts become wraps for tea towels. Wooden boxes serve as both transport and display. If you approach it like making art—layering, adjusting, listening to what feels right—your setup will come together beautifully, and on a shoestring.
🌸 Infuse It With You
Most importantly, let your stall reflect your spirit. I include a hand-lettered sign with my name, a little photo and intro, and often a small poem or sentiment to create a quiet connection. These details make a difference. They invite people in, offer them a breath, a smile.
If you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your stall setup, I hope these tips help spark some ideas. You don’t need big budgets or flashy props—just heart, consistency, and a thoughtful touch.
✨ You can see a few snapshots of my stall in the photos above—proof that with a few crates, a little fabric, and a whole lot of soul, you can create something truly special.
With warmth,
Lauren x