Drop into our studio for a fun, festive day of all things portraits in collaboration with Ruth Burrows Illustration. Expect screen printing, portrait booth, pawtraits, alternative family photography, and self‑led makes; perfect for taking home or gifting. Time slots bookable for some paid experiences on the day, see more details below. 

This event coincides with Sleaford Town Market and is the opening weekend of Christopher Dresser: The Pursuit of Beauty so you won’t be short of things to do if you need to wait for an activity. 

How do I book?

Most activities are drop-in on the day so require no booking. 

Portrait Booth & Pawtraits: Head to the Hub shop from 10am to book your place. To secure your space you will need to pay upfront. If there is availability at the time you turn up then you can do the activity straight away! 

Face Painting with Rebecca | £3
Duration: 5 minutes 

Drop in and let Rebecca transform you with a festive face‑painting design. 

This activity is drop-in on the day. There will be a wait during busy times. 

Portrait Booth with Ruth Burrows Illustration | £5
Duration: 15 minutes 

Illustrator Ruth Burrows will be poised behind her handmade booth, ready to draw you in this playful twist on a traditional photo booth. Your hand‑drawn portrait will be ready in about 10 minutes, complete with Ruth’s signature style and a festive flourish. Ruth will also be selling frames so you can gift your portrait in style! 

Bookable slots, turn up at 10am to secure your spot! Once they are gone they are gone.

Screen Printed Tote Bags with Dizzy Ink | £5
Duration: 5 - 10 minutes 

Craig from Dizzy Ink returns with inks, screens, and festive mischief. Make your own Face‑Mas tote by choosing a face and layering up a design that’s as bold or bizarre as you fancy. Everything you need is ready and waiting.

This activity is drop-in on the day. There will be a wait during busy times. 

Pawtraits with Roo | £5
Duration: 15 minutes 

Bring your pet to life in glorious pawtrait form. Bring a photo of your furry pal or book a slot and return with your well‑behaved dog or cat for the full VIP treatment. You’ll leave with an original drawing bursting with personality and festive charm. Perfect to gift… or keep forever because your pet is obviously the best.

Bookable slots, turn up at 10am to secure your spot! Once they are gone they are gone.

Alternative Family Photos with Faye | £5
Duration: 5 minutes 

Forget the perfect Christmas portrait; we’re going full awkward family photo energy. Expect silly poses, borrowed festive jumpers, and a backdrop ready for your most chaotic holiday moment. You’ll get one 6x4 photo sheet printed to take away with one or multiple photos! 

This activity is drop-in on the day. Queues may form when everyone decides they’re suddenly models.

Which activities are free?

A range of free led and self led crafty makes will be on offer for you to take part. 

Access Information - Studio

When you enter the Hub, head to the shop reception and a Visitor Experience Assistant will be able to show you to the room.

The studio is on the ground floor, you can see a picture of the room below.

The studio is temperature controlled and well lit.

You are close to all toilet facilities, also on the ground floor. You will have access to two disabled toilets.

If you would like to talk to a member of staff about access, please email info@hub-sleaford.org.uk or call 01529 308710.