Frequently asked questions
Many people reach out with questions around my toonie stamps project, especially around the vending machines and larger prints of my work. To help answer regular questions, I've tried to answer as many as I can below!
Where are your current machine locations?
All current machine locations are pinned to my Instagram page (@tooniestamps). There is also a link to a current map at the top of this page!
How do you get your machines in a location?
I work hard to build relationships with businesses that align with my ethos and vision for the project. I try to find varied locations across the city. Location-dependent, I check whether any permits, etc., are required. Each location is reviewed for its access and suitability. I can’t advise individuals further on finding a location for their own vending machines. My suggestion is to find places that align with your art/project.
Do you sell you prints in larger formats?
Running a large-scale shop year-round doesn't suit my business model. Managing inventory, orders, etc., puts pressure on me and affects my ability to enjoy and run the project. To help alleviate this pressure, but still provide people with lots of products, I run a larger shop twice a year, once in summer and once in winter (before Christmas). I advertise these on my socials, but to be the first to know, sign up for my email newsletter!
Do you do commissioned work?
Absolutely! Whether it's a personal project or a professional collaboration, I'm always interested in hearing from those who connect with the project. Please email me at tooniestamps@gmail.com and include 'commission' in the subject line.
Do you do wholesale?
Yes! I am open to working with people wanting to stock my designs. If you're interested in stocking products featuring art from the Toonie Stamps project, please contact me via this form
Where do you get your vending machines from?
On Facebook Marketplace, I buy all my machines second-hand and convert them myself. I have documented this process in a video on my YouTube (link via my linktree). It took some trial and error to get the incerts the right size, but it can be figured out.
What happens if the machine jams?
Host locations are trained to manage the machines and resolve user issues. Regular maintenance is performed on the machine to ensure it is in optimal working order. There are also clear links to my social media, so users can contact me directly if issues occur.
Would you stock other artists’ work in the machines?
At current no, this business model is only viable because I run, prep and manage the machines myself. Adding additional costs, such as paying an artist for their work (something I would want to do), would mean this project would run at a loss. This is largely down to the time it takes to pack and process machine incerts. If I am ever able to upgrade to a more efficient machine type, I may consider changing the position on this, but more now it's just not possible!
I’m intertested in hosting a machine!
Great! Please send an email to tooniestamps@gmail.com and with ‘machine hosting at ….’ in the subject line.