Since I got into journaling back in December 2024, my daily walks—no matter where I go or why—have never been the same. I now find myself scanning every corner for stickers, washi tapes, and stationery that could add charm to my 2025 Hobonichi and brain-dumping journals. Whether it’s to set the mood, match the visuals with my words, or simply sprinkle in some cuteness, I’m always on the lookout. That includes keeping an eye out for events that showcase them.

How I Found Out About Fun Design Market Spring 2025

It all started at the Christmas Market in Vanhan Joulutori, where I stumbled upon Tomatowen. Her art immediately caught my eye, and I followed her on Instagram (@tomatowen) that same day. Keeping up with their updates led me to discover that there would be Fun Design Market for the spring season on March 8, 2025. The moment I found out, excitement took over. I couldn’t wait!

From that point on, I became a woman on a mission. I followed the Fun Design Market’s Instagram account and checked it every single day leading up to the event. I scrolled through every participating artist’s profile, explored their online shops, and made a wish list of all the items I wanted to buy. I refused to let myself miss out on anything!

Knowing myself, I anticipated that this kind of event would be packed with people. And as someone who tends to skim through crowds rather than linger, I worried I might feel uncomfortable checking out every stand up close (it always feels like I’m invading another customer’s space!). With a high chance of missing out on something amazing, I made sure to come prepared.

The Big Day: Fun Design Market Spring 2025

Finally, the day arrived! I could hardly sleep the night before. My excitement was through the roof, and my dopamine levels were off the charts. The anticipation was almost unbearable. I had been holding back from decorating my 2025 Hobonichi because I wanted to make sure I saved space for the stickers I’d buy at the event. That’s how much I had been looking forward to it!

The event started at 11 a.m., and there I was, standing outside the venue 10 minutes early, surrounded by a crowd of equally eager art lovers. I wasn’t alone in my anticipation! I knew I had made the right choice to arrive right at the opening. After all that time researching the artists and their work, there was no way I’d let myself be late and risk missing out on the best finds.

As soon as the doors swung open, the crowd flowed in, and I stepped into a haven of creativity. Every stand was filled with unique, eye-catching art, and I made sure to carefully explore each one, making sure I didn’t overlook a single artist.

My First Purchase: Sini Kopra’s Stickers

The first stand that pulled me in was Sini Kopra’s (instagram: @sinisartsy). Her sticker designs were adorable, one of a kind, and perfect for journaling. I picked up ten stickers, and because I followed her on Instagram, I got a bonus sticker for free! Without a second thought, I peeled it off later at night when I did my daily journaling and stick it directly onto my Hobonichi to commemorate the day.

Chouvaille’s Penguins with Witty Words

As I wandered through the hall, I found myself stopping in my tracks at Chouvaille’s stand (instagram: @chouvaillee). Her penguin illustrations, paired with witty, relatable quotes, were impossible to resist. There was absolutely no way I could walk past without grabbing a few!

I ended up purchasing three stickers: “Low social battery,” “Born to snack, forced to track,” “I’m not short, you’re just tall.” Every single one felt so me. Of course, they had to come home with me!

The Finnish Touch: Pinklazercat’s Stickers

Next on my list was Pinklazercat, whose stickers feature witty Finnish phrases. I thought they’d be perfect as a memory of my time in Finland. However, when I arrived at her stand, a massive crowd had already gathered.

I squeezed my way in and scanned the collection, but unfortunately, the stickers I originally planned to buy weren’t available. (Good thing I had checked her online shop beforehand and knew exactly what I was looking for!) I picked out three that caught my eye.

Final Stop: Bong Art’s Sticker Sheets

As I continued walking through the market, I made sure to stop by Bong Art’s stand, where I knew I’d find sticker sheets that fit seamlessly into my daily journaling routine. I chose two themes:

• Coffee-themed stickers (because caffeine fuels my days)
• “Note-to-self” stickers (for those little reminders we all need)

And just like that, my sticker haul was complete!

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The Fun Design Market was everything I hoped for (even more!). The energy of the crowd, the passion in every artist’s work, and the joy of finding unique pieces made it an unforgettable experience.

Now that I follow even more artists who share their schedules online, I have a feeling my future weekends will be filled with more art markets. Maybe next time, I’ll expand beyond journaling supplies and pick up a ceramic piece or even a poster. Who knows?

One thing’s for sure: I’m already counting down to the next Fun Design Market!