Introducing Jamie from Brush Babies. Where every item is handmade!! From her studio in Melbourne, she paints customised portraits, celebrating the quirky charm and unconditional love our pets bring into our lives.
Find out why Jamie started creating and why she is so passionate about the value of handmade.
Tell us about your creations and your handmade process.
Brush Babies was born from love - the kind we share with our pets that never fades. As a graphic designer, I've always been drawn to colour and creativity, but it was a personal loss that led me to pick up the brush and start painting something more meaningful. What began as a tribute has grown into a way of helping others hold onto their most precious memories.
Each portrait is completely handmade, using your photo to capture not just how your pet looks, but who they are - their spirit, their personality, their little quirks. I thoughtfully layer colours and textures to bring every piece to life in a way that feels personal and unique.
These aren't just paintings-they're keepsakes.
A way to remember, to celebrate, and to keep your fur baby close, forever.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a handmade artist.
My journey into becoming a handmade artist began with my background as a graphic designer, where I developed a strong love for colour, creativity, and visual storytelling. But it wasn't until I experienced the loss of my own pet that everything shifted. I wanted to create something deeply personal, a way to remember and honour that bond-so I picked up a brush and painted my very first pet portrait.
What started as a tribute quickly became a passion. Since then, Brush Babies has grown into a way for me to combine my design skills with handmade art, creating meaningful, one-of-a-kind portraits for others. It's been a journey of growth, learning, and heart-and every piece I create continues to be just as special as the first.
What is your inspiration or where do you find inspiration?
My inspiration comes from the deep bond we share with our pets - they're family, each with their own unique personality and story. As a graphic designer, I'm also inspired by colour and creativity, which I bring into every piece. But most of all, it's the love behind each pet that inspires me to create something truly meaningful.
Where did you learn your craft?
I've loved painting since I was a child, but life got busy when I became a mum and I put it aside. It wasn't until we lost our beloved dog, Panzer, that I picked up the brush again -wanting to hold onto his memory. What began as something deeply personal became a way to create meaningful art for others.
Why is handmade artistry so important to you?
Handmade artistry is important to me because it carries heart and meaning in every brushstroke. Nothing is rushed or mass-produced-each piece is created slowly, with care and intention. Handmade art allows me to create something truly personal that can be cherished forever.
Jamie is a much loved member of the MadeIt Collective, posting regularly in our Facebook Group ~ MadeIt: Handmade not Massmade Australia ~ and sharing her new creations as they are released. If you haven't connected with Brush Babies make sure you join our FB Group and say hi !
