Con season is rolling all year on, and prepping for a convention—especially if you’re tabling—can feel like juggling art, logistics, and caffeine. I wanted to share a quick behind-the-scenes of how I get everything in order before a con, from merch to travel bags. Whether it’s your first artist alley or your fiftieth, it always helps to have a solid system in place.
I start by reviewing my inventory: prints, stickers, keychains, and whatever new items I’ve added to my shop. I use a spreadsheet to track stock and check what’s running low so I can reorder or restock before the con. I. use Numbers on Mac as well the Shopify system but you can use what ever makes comfortable.
I also make sure to test my display setup a week in advance. This helps avoid last-minute surprises like missing tablecloths or broken stands. I also do 3D modelling in Sketup specially if I got new way to setup or corner or middle spot at the cons since I like to have few items to be self serve and other picked from me. I recently picked up a few useful tools and display items from Amazon, a couple of local art stores and Temu that really leveled up my booth—I’ll drop those links below.
Packing-wise, I divide everything into categories: merch, display, personal care, and tech. I have two to 3 suitcase dedicated to one thing. one for fully for display items, paper bags and backdrops other two will carry merch one for apparels if I make some other for all keychains, stickers, standees, and sticker books. I use storage bins and packing boxes from whenever I buy luxury items since they tend to be more sturdy. this way I keep things organized and accessible during setup.
Here’s my go-to con checklist:
✅ Artist Alley Prep Checklist:
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Merch (prints, stickers, keychains, buttons, etc.)
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Table display (wire racks, grids, clips, tablecloths)
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Business cards or promo flyers
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Signage (prices, banner, QR code for payments)
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Cash box or card reader
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Inventory sheet & order forms
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Tools (scissors, tape, zip ties, markers)
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Emergency kit (band-aids, meds, mini sewing kit)
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Portable charger
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Snacks, water, and hand sanitizer
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Personal items (clothes just in case it get colder or hotter, toiletries, ipad, personal note book or sketch book)
amazon list:
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/22IN8ABHYM3KX?ref_=wl_share
the same items can be found in Temo and your local stores
I’ll keep updating this list as I learn and tweak my setup from one con to the next. If you’re tabling soon, I’d love to know what your must-haves are, or if there’s anything you swear by that I should check out!