Art show season is a whirlwind of creativity, travel, and last-minute problem-solving. Every show is a little different — the weather, the crowd, the booth setup — but one thing is always the same: I never leave home without my art show toolbox.
Over the years, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) that a well-packed toolbox can save your day when something unexpected happens. From little fixes to major emergencies, these essentials have kept my booth running smoothly and my stress levels in check.
Here’s a peek inside my trusty art show toolbox — the items that make life on the road as a glass artist a whole lot easier.
1. The “Fix-It Fast” Kit
If you’ve ever done outdoor shows, you know things don’t always go as planned. Displays loosen, wind picks up, and suddenly you’re improvising. I always carry:
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Zip ties (for just about everything!)
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Duct tape, painter’s tape and scotch tape
- Removable Mounting Putty (amazing for when you need to tack things down in the wind)
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Scissors and a utility knife
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Extra hooks, rope, assorted clamps and bungees
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A small screwdriver, level, pliers, hammer and wire cutters
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Tall step ladder
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Surge protector and power station
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Shims
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Extra display specific parts (leveling feet, specialty screws, and specialty tool)
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Dolly (I don't go to any of my shows without it!)
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Extra weights and ratchet straps for those extra windy days
These humble tools have saved more displays than I can count. If something breaks mid-show, I want to be able to fix it quickly and keep smiling.
2. The “Glass Artist Emergency” Supplies
Working with fused glass means occasionally a piece will chip, loosen from its display, or need a quick polish. I keep:
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A bottle of glass cleaner and paper towels
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Strong adhesive for those just in case moments
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Jewelry findings and jump rings
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Extra earring backs
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Polishing cloth and eraser for cleaning up earring hooks
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Alcohol swabs for cleaning off any earrings that have been tried on
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A few extra display stands and dishes
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Magnetized Displays (great for those windy days!)
Having these on hand means I can do simple fixes without losing precious show time — or a sale.
3. The “Stay Comfortable” Essentials
Art shows can be long days on your feet, so comfort is non-negotiable. My must-haves include:
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Refillable water bottle
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Refillable water bottle for my electrolyte mix
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Cushion mat to stand on all day
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Cordless electric lunch box (one of the newest additions to my kit and a game changer! I finally get to enjoy warm food at my shows!)
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Pre-made food and snacks (I try to choose foods that are easy to eat between customers - smoothies are a perfect way to get nutrition in easily!)
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Hand sanitizer and wipes
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Sunscreen and lip balm
Little comforts go a long way when you’re out there for 8–10 hours talking, smiling, and setting up or breaking down.
4. The “Show Ready” Extras
These are the finishing touches that make my booth look professional and polished:
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Business cards, postcards and future show promo materials
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Gift bags, boxes, stretch loops and merchandise bags
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A mirror for jewelry shoppers
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Swiffer dusters and paper towels to keep my table tops clean
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Extra lights and extension cords
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A backup phone charger and assorted cords (because photos, payments, and posts all need power!)
Presentation matters — and being prepared means I can focus on connecting with customers instead of scrambling for supplies.
5. The “Just in Case” Bag
This is my little emergency kit. It includes:
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A rain poncho
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Safety pins
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Extra socks
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Deodorant wipes
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Toilet seat covers (you'll understand if you have to use porta potties on the regular!)
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First Aid Supplies: Liquid Bandage, Bandaids, Neosporin, Tylenol and Pepto Bismol
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Cooling neck wrap (for those hot summer days)
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Show paperwork
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Pens, Sharpies, and a notebook
No matter how much you plan, something unexpected always comes up — but being ready for it makes all the difference.
Why My Toolbox Matters
My art show toolbox isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the most important parts of my setup. It gives me peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens — a wobbly display, a loose earring back, or a sudden gust of wind — I’m ready.
Art shows are full of moving parts, but being prepared lets me focus on what really matters: sharing my glass art, connecting with people, and soaking in the energy that fuels my creativity all season long.
Your Turn:
If you’re an artist or craft vendor, what’s one thing you never hit the road without? I’d love to hear what’s in your toolbox!