About Us

Fatty Pancake brings new artwork on fun and fabulous products to those who find reptiles, amphibians, and other "creepy crawlies" positively endearing. By capturing that charm unique to each species, we wish to replicate the quirky, curious, and downright cute behaviors which have enamored us reptile lovers from the beginning.

Whether you are a current, former, or pining-to-be owner of a reptile, we support your love and desire to share this unique passion with the rest of the world. Each product is designed by artist and fellow reptile enthusiast Melissa Hitchcock in her quest to introduce new art into the community. Whether it’s humorous or serious, simple or intricate, the wide range of designs provide diversity for all types of owners looking for a variety of merchandise.

So slither, crawl, or sprint your way to our catalog! Don't see a design with your preferred beloved species? Don't fret! Sign up on our mailing list to see what new work is on the way!

Image of a rosy boa slithering between art supplies on a wooden table.

What inspired the name?

In short, it was a nickname given to one of the owners bearded dragons named Sienna.

Picture of Sienna, the bearded dragon that started Fatty Pancake.

Sienna's Story - The Original Fatty Pancake

Sienna, a motley little bearded dragon, was rescued from a Craigslist ad after enduring severe neglect. Her nails were overgrown, a massive cyst obscured her face, and her spirit seemed utterly broken. Despite her fragile condition, her rescuer, Mel, was determined to nurse her back to health. With weeks of intensive care, Sienna grew stronger and was ready for surgery to remove the facial cyst. However, during the procedure, the vet discovered a ruptured reproductive tract caused by egg-binding complications. Emergency surgery removed the eggs, and Sienna was spayed to prevent future issues. Thus began her long road to recovery.
And recover she did! Sienna quickly regained her strength, learned to hunt again, and her energy soared. Despite her progress, her stretched skin, a result of the egg-filled abdomen, never returned to normal. When she basked, her belly spread out like pancake batter, earning her the affectionate nickname "Fatty Pancake." While she thrived post-surgery, a biopsy of the removed cyst revealed melanoma. Unfazed, Sienna continued to live a joyous, full life for three years before the cancer metastasized. When her quality of life diminished, the tough decision was made to give her peace and "dragon wings." Sienna’s resilience and spirit inspired Mel to honor her by dedicating her store, Fatty Pancake, to her beloved dragon. Sienna's legacy lives on, spreading warmth, love, and a reminder of the strength found in second chances.

Where are you based out of?

Our small studio is located right at the feet of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs, Colorado. A true gem of a location when it comes to inspiration for the work we do!

About the Artist

Graduating from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design with a BFA in Illustration, Mel has worked primarily as a Technical Illustrator while pursuing other creative illustration both independently and with clients. She loves the natural world and all it's quirky, bizarre creatures whether they lurk beneath leafy undergrowth or soar through the skies; but her true passion was found with reptiles.

Some of her fondest memories were finding and drawing garter snakes that set up residence in a rock garden next to her childhood home in Colorado. Most of the snakes became accustomed to handling over the years and would often just sit quietly until placed back near where they were caught.

Outside painting, Mel also enjoys other crafts and has done woodworking, resin casting, needle felting, leatherworking, metal crafts, and jewelry making. While bouncing back and forth is normal, so is the presence of one of her beloved Bearded Dragons as they explore the art room.