Thursday

He's Pulled One Cracker Too Many...

My cartoon titled “This Christmas He’s Pulled One Cracker Too Many” shows a couple in a counselling session at RELATE, the well-known UK relationship support charity. 

Cartoon: This Christmas He's Pulled One Cracker Too Many...

A Christmas tree stands in the background to set the seasonal scene, while the caption delivers the joke – a witty comment on the husband’s festive overindulgence. 

By turning a playful holiday tradition like pulling Christmas crackers into a metaphor for relationship strain, the cartoon captures the pressures and humour of family life at Christmas.

The humour works because it blends the light-hearted imagery of Christmas with the more serious context of relationship counselling. 

Readers immediately recognise the double meaning: “pulling one cracker too many” is both a literal festive mishap and a gentle nod to the way holiday excesses can sometimes cause tension at home. 

It’s this mix of festive cheer and domestic comedy that makes the cartoon relatable and funny, especially during the holiday season. This cartoon was printed in The Sun on 1st December 2001.

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Wednesday

On the Matter of Her Calling Me Boring...

This cartoon, which appeared in The Sun newspaper on 27th October 2000, captures a scene in a relationship counselling session, marked by the familiar RELATE sign – the well-known UK charity offering relationship support. 

A husband and wife sit across from the counsellor, setting the stage for a humorous look at how couples sometimes formalise their disagreements in the most unexpected ways. 

Husband bores the counsellor and his wife in the Marriage Guidance office.

A man and woman sit with the counsellor, and the caption refers to “Point twelve, subsection four – on the matter of her calling me boring…”. 

The joke comes from the deadpan, bureaucratic way the husband frames his grievance, turning an emotional issue into something that sounds like it belongs in a legal contract or rulebook.

The humour works because it exaggerates how couples sometimes formalise or over-complicate their arguments. 

By borrowing the dry, officious language of officialdom and placing it in the context of a personal relationship, the cartoon creates a sharp and funny contrast. 

It’s a playful reminder of how easily everyday disagreements can be blown out of proportion, and how ridiculous they can sound when stripped of warmth and spontaneity.


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The Hidden Bottle Opener

The main feature of this post is my cartoon titled “Bottle Opener”, which was originally published in The Sun newspaper on 17th April 2002. 

Marriage Guidance Cartoon. Wife has hidden her husband's bottle opener.

Set in the familiar backdrop of a Marriage Guidance office, the scene shows a couple in the midst of a counselling session. The wife makes a wry confession – she has been hiding her husband’s bottle opener. 

It’s a simple but clever gag that instantly connects with readers, especially as it plays on everyday domestic habits and marital frustrations.

The humour works because it captures the kind of petty but recognisable tension that can crop up in relationships. 

Instead of focusing on major issues, the cartoon draws its laugh from the trivial yet telling detail of a missing bottle opener – a symbol of the husband’s fondness for drink, and the wife’s way of making her point. 

Like many of my cartoons, it uses a familiar setting and a quick twist to deliver an instant smile, highlighting the ups and downs of everyday married life.

The Sun - April 17th 2002

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Tuesday

Simple Home Cooking

My cartoon titled “You Can’t Beat Simple Home Cooking” shows a domestic scene with a humorous twist. 

Cartoon of woman busy cooking while her husband is idle

A man is stretched out on the sofa, enjoying a moment of leisure, while his partner is in the kitchen preparing a meal. 

She’s surrounded by ingredients, pots, pans and utensils, clearly putting in a lot of effort. 

The contrast between the man’s relaxed comfort and the bustle in the kitchen sets up the gag – what’s presented as “simple” home cooking is anything but simple for the one doing all the work. 

The cartoon was printed in The Sun newspaper on 21st October, 2000.

View Best Selling Cookbooks on Amazon >>

The humour works because it plays on everyday situations many people recognise. 

We often talk about “simple cooking” as if it’s effortless, but anyone who’s spent time in the kitchen knows how much energy and organisation it takes. 

By exaggerating the imbalance between the man’s ease and the woman’s effort, the cartoon highlights domestic roles with a knowing wink. 

It’s funny because it’s true, and that shared recognition is what makes the joke land.

If this cartoon hit the spot, why not continue with “Simple Home Cooking” or “Bed Notch Gag”? Both capture life’s everyday funnies.

Wednesday

Missing Person Cartoon

Below is one of my cartoons that was originally printed in The Sun newspaper on 15th June, 2001. It is set in a police station, where a woman is speaking to an officer at a desk marked “MISSING PERSONS”. 

She explains: “It’s not that he’s missing which bothers me – it’s the fact he can’t see how happy it’s made me.”

Woman reports a missing person cartoon

The humour comes from the sudden twist in her words. Instead of expressing worry or concern, she reveals that her partner’s absence has actually brought her relief and happiness. 

That unexpected reversal is what gives the cartoon its comic punch.

The gag works because it takes a situation that’s usually treated very seriously and flips it upside down with an irreverent remark. 

It plays on the idea of strained relationships, where one person might secretly enjoy a break from the other, but exaggerates it in a way that’s sharp, cheeky and instantly funny. 

It’s this clash between official seriousness and private humour that makes the cartoon memorable.

Thanks for visiting my cartoon page! For another dose of humour, check out “Driving Lessons” or “Loose Chippings – Not Seen as a Warning”.

Saturday

The Weakest Link Cartoon – Taking Things a Bit Too Literally!

This cartoon of mine, published in The Sun on April 19th, 2001, takes a darkly funny look at the famous television quiz show The Weakest Link

It shows the aftermath of a chaotic moment in the studio, with host Anne Robinson and several contestants lying unconscious on the floor. 

The Weakest Link Goodbye cartoon

A detective and police officer stand over the scene, trying to make sense of what has happened. 

A member of the audience is giving an account of what has happened via the caption, "..and then this REALLY rude woman said "you are the weakest link - goodbye", and it all kicked off!"

The joke centres on one contestant who has clearly taken Anne’s catchphrase – “You are the weakest link… goodbye!” – rather too literally. Instead of simply leaving the game, it seems they decided to make a rather dramatic exit for everyone else as well! 

It’s a playful exaggeration of how seriously some people take losing on television, turning a familiar phrase from light entertainment into a crime scene gag.

This black and white cartoon captures that mix of satire and slapstick that often runs through my work, drawing humour from familiar TV moments and twisting them in unexpected ways. 

It’s one of those ideas that came from thinking, “What if someone actually did take that phrase literally?” – and the result is a visual punchline that fans of British television will instantly recognise.

For more light-hearted moments, take a look at “Dog Playing Computer Games” or the classic “Living Life to the Full – One of My Relate Gags”.


You can see more of my cartoons, covering everyday humour, at www.nigelsutherland.co.uk.

Thursday

Giving His Wife's Mouth a Rest

One of my cartoons, from 8th February 2001, published in The Sun, shows a domestic scene with a man and a woman. 

Man goes to the pub to give his wife's mouth a rest

The man is standing, holding a jacket, while the woman is seated in an armchair. 

He tells her he is going to the pub “to give your mouth a rest, my love,” implying she talks a lot. The humour comes from the playful exaggeration of everyday domestic life, turning a common stereotype into a witty one-line gag.

The cartoon works because it relies on timing and relatability. Many readers instantly recognise the dynamic of light-hearted bickering between couples, and the man’s cheeky excuse to escape creates an amusing contrast with the domestic setting. 

It’s a simple, single-panel joke that lands immediately and brings a smile by highlighting human nature in a humorous way.

Sunday

Dog at Computer Playing Computer Games

One of my cartoons that appeared in The Sun on 5th February 1999. 

Dog playing computer games - a cartoon gag

It shows a husband and wife watching their pet dog, who is sitting at a computer playing a game. The husband comments: “I can remember when he was quite happy chasing a stick.” 

Dog at a computer cartoon on a mug
This item is available from my Zazzle Store >>

The cartoon works by contrasting the timeless image of a dog enjoying a simple outdoor game with the modern, slightly absurd idea of the same pet absorbed in technology. 

It’s the kind of quick gag that captures both how times change and how we sometimes project human habits onto our pets.

The humour also lies in its relatability – many people look back fondly on simpler pastimes and feel amused or bemused by the march of new technology. 

Seeing a dog make the same leap from chasing sticks to playing computer games underlines just how far things have shifted, but in a playful, light-hearted way. 

It’s a visual joke that makes readers smile almost instantly, thanks to the clear set-up and clever punchline.

Saturday

Spider Displays a Notice to a Fly that Reads "Visit My Website"

One of my cartoons features a spider holding up a placard to a fly that reads: “Please visit my website”. 

Spider and fly cartoon

It was printed in the Daily Star (UK) on October 6th, 1998. The humour comes from the clever visual pun – spiders naturally catch flies in their webs, so turning that into a modern joke about a website makes it immediately funny. 

The juxtaposition of a spider’s predatory instinct with a human-like appeal to online visitors is a simple but effective gag that resonates with readers. 

This cartoon is ideal for print on cards or merchandise, offering a playful nod to both internet culture and classic visual humour.

Spider cartoon on a mug
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Thursday

Firework Display

Another cartoon shows a wife, dressed to go out, about to take her children to a firework display, while her husband lounges in an armchair. 

Husband not up for another firework display - cartoon

He explains that he’s just watched Prime Minister’s Questions and isn’t up for another “firework-display”. This cartoon was published in Eyebrow Magazine

The gag works by cleverly linking the literal fireworks with the figurative “fireworks” of politics, and the contrast between the husband’s indifference and the family’s excitement makes it relatable and humorous. 

It’s a type of domestic comedy that readers immediately understand and enjoy.

Wednesday

Does My Posterior...?

One of my cartoons is set in the office of a thesaurus compiler. 

A female staff member asks a male colleague, “Does my posterior appear oversized in this?”. 

Thesaurus Compiler Cartoon

It was printed in The Sun (UK) on April 16th 2001. The gag works because it cleverly replaces the familiar question “Does my bum look big in this?” with alternative, formal words, just as you might find in a thesaurus. 

The contrast between the everyday self-conscious concern and the office full of synonyms makes it instantly funny. 

It’s a witty play on language that appeals to anyone who enjoys clever wordplay and workplace humour.

Monday

"Bank!" – A Wedding Cartoon Inspired by The Weakest Link

I did a few Weakest Link cartoons, several of which got in The Sun over the years. 

I wonder if Ann Robinson ever saw them?

Wedding Cartoon Inspired by The Weakest Link

This black-and-white cartoon appeared in The Sun on May 5th, 2006 and takes a playful swipe at one of Britain’s most memorable television game shows – The Weakest Link

Set at a wedding ceremony, it shows a vicar addressing the groom, Mr. Smith, who has just said something rather unexpected at the altar. Instead of the traditional vows, the groom blurts out “Bank” – a word that fans of the show will instantly recognise. 

It’s a crossover between the tension of a quiz show and the solemnity of a marriage ceremony, all wrapped up in one comic moment.

For those who may not remember, The Weakest Link first aired on BBC Two in 2000, hosted by the sharp-tongued Anne Robinson. 

Contestants competed in rounds of general knowledge questions, where teamwork was crucial – but so was strategy. 

Saying “Bank” allowed them to secure the prize money they had built up so far, before risking it on the next question. 

The phrase became part of British pop culture, along with Anne Robinson’s trademark catchphrase, “You are the weakest link – goodbye.”

In this cartoon, the humour lies in the groom’s instinctive use of that famous game-show word at the most inappropriate moment. It’s as if he’s treating his wedding vows like a quiz round, hoping to “bank” his winnings before moving on. 

The vicar’s expression – perhaps one of mild disbelief or gentle correction – completes the joke perfectly. It’s a clever little mash-up of everyday British life, pop culture, and the rituals we all take so seriously.

Like many of the best single-panel cartoons, this one relies on a single, simple misunderstanding to spark laughter. 

Anyone familiar with The Weakest Link will instantly get the reference, and even those who aren’t will recognise the comic absurdity of bringing game-show lingo into a wedding ceremony. 

It’s a reminder of how television catchphrases often find their way into real life – sometimes at the most unexpected times.

This cartoon captures that quintessentially British sense of humour – dry, understated, and rooted in shared cultural moments. 

Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Weakest Link or just someone who enjoys a good visual pun, it’s an image that’s bound to raise a smile.

Thanks for stopping by! You might also enjoy “Hate Tattoos” or the mischievous “Helpline”. There’s plenty more where this came from!

Saturday

Postal Strike Cartoon

One of my monochrome single-panel cartoons is set at the Royal Mail head office, where the bosses are seated at a negotiating table opposite the Postal Workers Union representative. 

Postal Strike Cartoon

One of the managers says: “We’ll email the new offer just to make sure you get it.” 

This cartoon appeared in Eyebrow Magazine on 9th October 2007. The humour lies in the ironic twist – the Royal Mail, whose entire identity is built around delivering post, is here shown relying on email to guarantee something actually arrives. 

It’s a clever little jab at both modern communication habits and the frustrations people sometimes feel about postal delays.

The gag works because it plays on a contrast everyone recognises: the long-standing image of the post as reliable, versus the growing preference for email as the “safer bet”. 

By placing that observation in the high-stakes setting of a union negotiation, the cartoon exaggerates the joke in a way that’s sharp, memorable, and instantly clear to the reader.

Thanks for visiting! If you fancy another laugh, check out “Reading in the Library” or revisit an older gem, “Firework Display”. Both are part of my growing archive of everyday humour.

Friday

Marriage Guidance Cartoon – My Brother's a Proper Cook

This black-and-white cartoon of mine, published in The Sun on July 12th, 2001, takes a light-hearted look at the world of relationship counselling. 

Set in a Marriage Guidance office, it features a couple seated in front of the counsellor – but with an unexpected extra guest. 

Marriage guidance cartoon

The husband, hoping to strengthen his case, has brought along his brother, announcing, “My brother’s a proper cook – he’s come as a witness.”

The humour lies in the clever play on words and the husband’s misunderstanding of what a “witness” might be in this situation. 

Instead of bringing emotional or relational insight, his brother’s presence is intended to confirm that the wife’s cooking could do with some improvement!

Like many of my cartoons, this one combines gentle social observation with a touch of absurdity – taking a familiar scenario and adding a twist. It’s an ideal cartoon for anyone who enjoys humour about relationships and human nature.

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See more of my cartoons and artwork at www.nigelsutherland.co.uk

Many of my designs are also available on gifts and prints through my Zazzle stores – perfect for anyone who appreciates witty humour and everyday life captured in a few clever lines.

View Best Selling Cookbooks on Amazon >>

I hope this cartoon gave you a chuckle! Keep the fun going with “The Optician Didn’t Expect This Result” or “Make Sure Your Dating Request Is Legible”.

Sunday

Bumper Sticker Asks: How's My Wife's Driving?

This image is a cartoon I drew that depicts a woman in the driver's seat of a car, while a bumper sticker on the back of the car asks "HOW'S MY WIFE'S DRIVING?" with a phone number. 
The cartoon is a humorous take on the stereotype of women being poor drivers, together with the trend of, mainly commercial, vehicles having bumper stickers that usually say "How's MY Driving?". 
I remember I had a really nice comment about this one, years after it was published, by Rupert Besley (of seaside postcard fame). 
He'd remembered it, and I was flattered to have had praise from such an eminent fellow-cartoonist.

How's my Wife's Driving cartoon

From The Sun - 17th April 2001

Fancy another quick cartoon? Try “Diving Header” or the cheeky “God’s Gift to Women”.

Friday

Treat Her Like A Woman

One of my cartoons that was published in The Sun on 9 June 2001.

Marriage Guidance Cartoon

The scene is set in a marriage guidance office: the counsellor sits at his desk facing the husband, while the wife’s chair beside him is conspicuously empty. The counsellor says: “Actually, when I said treat her like a woman, I didn’t mean send her out to wash-up the cups!”

The humour works on a few levels. First, it plays on the well-known phrase “treat her like a woman,” which ordinarily implies respect, attention, and emotional care. In the cartoon it’s twisted to suggest the husband misheard - or misapplied - the advice, turning it into housework. 

The gap between intended meaning and literal action makes the joke land. 

Second, placing the line in a professional counselling setting sharpens the contrast: advice is supposed to be wise and considered, but here it’s applied naively and absurdly. 

It’s a funny, gentle poke at stereotypes and miscommunication in relationships.

If you liked this post, you might enjoy “Don’t Confuse Your Internet Search with Research” or “On the Face of It”.

Thursday

Burglars on Holiday

Another of my cartoons was printed in The Sun on 14th October 2003. It shows a car that has been stopped at the roadside by a police constable. 

Police traffic offense cartoon

While the officer is busy writing out a ticket for the driver, the man’s wife pointedly asks: “Are all the burglars on holiday?”. 

The gag works because it taps into a very familiar frustration – when the police seem more interested in minor offences like traffic stops than in tackling bigger crimes. 

The wife’s sarcastic remark turns that everyday complaint into a neat, witty punchline, suggesting that the officer must have plenty of free time if he’s out writing tickets instead of chasing burglars.

This cartoon is funny because it blends two worlds that readers recognise instantly: the inconvenience of being pulled over and the universal gripe about crime priorities. 

By putting the words into the mouth of the passenger, it also makes the exchange sharper and funnier – she’s cheeky enough to say what many people might only be thinking. 

With its clear set-up and quick payoff, the cartoon delivers the laugh in seconds, which is exactly what makes it work so well.

You could also take a look at my Thesaurus Compilers cartoon or the light-hearted “Simple Home Cooking”.

Tuesday

My Hate Tattoos Cartoon that was Printed in The Sun Newspaper in the UK.

Here's a cartoon I had published in the Sun Newspaper on a Beauty Parlour theme.

Cartoonists are always on the lookout for fun, fresh themes that spark creativity – and the Beauty Parlour theme is perfect for that. It’s a playful setting that offers endless opportunities for humour, from exaggerated hairstyles and dramatic makeovers to over-the-top spa treatments.

The Sun – 28th February, 2000

Using a Beauty Parlour backdrop allows cartoonists to explore relatable situations with a humorous twist – think of the frantic stylist, the chatty customer, or the inevitable beauty mishaps. 

It’s a setting that’s instantly recognisable, which helps your audience connect quickly with your joke or storyline. I have created a Mug on Zazzle which carries this cartoon as its design. The image appears on both sides of the mug.

Funny Tattoo Theme Coffee Mug
Buy this Coffee Mug >>

Why I’ve Never Been a Fan of Tattoos

Tattoos have been around for thousands of years – from Polynesian tribal art to sailors marking their journeys, right through to today’s intricate sleeve designs. For many people, a tattoo is a way of expressing individuality, honouring a loved one, or simply enjoying body art.

But here’s my confession: I’ve never liked them.

I don’t deny the skill of tattoo artists. Some designs are stunning works of art, carefully crafted and deeply meaningful. Yet for me, the idea of putting something permanent on my skin feels unappealing. Fashion changes, tastes evolve, and what seems cool at 25 might feel awkward at 55.

I’d rather stick to clothes, posters, or even a good cartoon for self-expression – things you can change when your mood changes. Of course, that’s just my view.

Many of my friends adore their tattoos and wouldn’t dream of going without them. They see them as part of their identity – like wearing a badge of honour. I see them as something I’d quickly regret.

Perhaps that makes me old-fashioned, or maybe just squeamish about needles!

At the end of the day, tattoos are personal. They divide opinion sharply – some people love them, others hate them, and plenty sit somewhere in the middle.

I’m firmly in the “not for me” camp, and I doubt I’ll ever change my mind.

What about you? Do you love tattoos, hate them, or feel indifferent? I’d be curious to hear your thoughts.

Whether you’re poking fun at beauty trends, creating witty illustrations for women’s magazines, or designing cheeky greeting cards, the Beauty Parlour theme gives cartoonists a playful canvas full of personality. 

It’s all about turning everyday scenarios into humorous, eye-catching art that your audience will love – and that’s exactly what every cartoonist wants.

If you’re in the mood for more, check out “Missing Person” or my classic “How’s My Wife’s Driving”.

Sunday

"God’s Gift to Women" – A Relationship Cartoon with a Twist

This cartoon from my collection was printed in The Sun newspaper on January 22nd, 2001 and takes a light-hearted look at relationships and the sometimes delicate balance between self-confidence and thoughtfulness. 

God's gift to women marriage guidance office cartoon

It shows a couple sitting together having a relationship counselling session at Relate. The counsellor, addressing the husband, Mr. Jackson, delivers the witty line: “I'm sure you ARE God's gift to women, Mr Jackson, but I think she'd have liked a proper birthday present too.”

The humour works on several levels – it gently pokes fun at male vanity while also highlighting a common theme in relationships: the mismatch between what one person thinks is romantic or sufficient, and what the other actually hopes for. 

It’s a perfect example of how a simple line can reveal so much about human nature, communication, and expectations.

Cartoons like this one connect with people because they’re rooted in everyday life. Most couples can recognise a moment like this – when good intentions meet a touch of misunderstanding. 

It’s that familiarity, combined with a wry smile, that makes this type of humour so enduring.

Amazon Best Seller >>

Why not continue with “Burglars on Holiday” or revisit an old favourite, “Postal Strike Cartoon”?


Saturday

Diving Headers Cartoon Printed in the Wolves v Spurs 1978-79 Season Match Day Programme

"A Literal 'Diving Header' – Football Cartoon

This cartoon depicts two football players staring at a third player who has executed a “diving header” in the most literal sense. The player has half-disappeared into the soft ground, leaving only his legs and body sticking out for all to see.

The caption reads: "Always was a brave one with the diving headers!"

The joke plays on the football term “diving header,” exaggerating it into a comically literal scenario. It’s a visual pun that would amuse anyone familiar with football terminology, especially those who enjoy seeing playful twists on familiar phrases.

This cartoon first appeared in the Wolves v Spurs match day programme, 1978-79 Season. Note the old Wolves logo on the shirts!

While you’re here, you could also read “Dog Playing Computer Games” or “Weakest Link Cartoon” – both guaranteed to raise a smile.


See more of my cartoons at www.nigelsutherland.co.uk


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I have all kinds of football-related items available in my Zazzle Store HERE...

Friday

"Dish of the Day" – Restaurant Cartoon

This cartoon, printed in The Sun newspaper on 9th April, 1999, is set in a busy restaurant, where a diner has the startled waitress sitting on his lap. 

Restaurant cartoon - dish of the day

Standing beside the table, the maître d’ looks on disapprovingly and says, “That’s our waitress, sir – the dish of the day is on the blackboard!”

The humour here comes from the play on words between the restaurant’s “dish of the day” and the situation at hand. 

The maître d’s dry response perfectly punctures the awkwardness of the moment, adding a touch of classic British understatement. It’s a cartoon that relies on timing, expression, and that delicate balance between suggestive humour and everyday farce.

Like many of my cartoons, it takes a familiar social setting and introduces an unexpected twist.

If you liked this cartoon, take a peek at “Hate Tattoos” or the relationship-themed “Treat Her Like a Woman”.

Thursday

Police Training School – The Early Version

Now we’re going back! This is an earlier version of my Police Training School cartoon, drawn many years before the version I reworked and posted on the blog in 2016. 

It’s always interesting to look back and see how ideas evolve – sometimes the humour is the same, but the drawing style, character design or pacing changes quite a bit over time.

Early version of Police Training School cartoon by Nigel Sutherland

This earlier drawing was published in Revue newspaper on 11th April 1981, back when much of my cartoon work was still produced in pen and ink. 

The humour revolves around police recruits and the slightly absurd world of training exercises – even then, I enjoyed playing with the idea of authority meeting everyday human fallibility.

When I revisited the cartoon in the 2016 version, I kept the same comic idea but refined the visual style – a reminder of how both the humour and the artwork can evolve over time while keeping the same core idea intact.

Cards and Gifts for Police Officers >>

It’s satisfying to compare the two versions side by side. The early one has a loose, spontaneous energy that often comes with deadline newspaper work, while the later version benefits from a more polished composition and digital finish. 

Between them, they tell their own story of how a cartoonist’s approach can change over the years.

You might also enjoy “Firework Display” or my digital-age favourite, “Spider’s Website”.


Law & Order cartoons by Nigel Sutherland

Wednesday

"On the Face of It" – A Beauty Salon Cartoon

This cartoon,published in The Sun newspaper on 20th October 2001, takes place in a beauty salon and captures one of those delightfully awkward moments of everyday humour. 

A man is standing beside his wife, who has just finished her beauty treatment. 

Man in a beauty salon says they've failed - cartoon

Looking at her, he turns to the beautician and remarks, “Well, on the face of it, I’d say you’ve failed.”

The humour lies in the man’s unfiltered honesty – or perhaps, his complete lack of tact. 

His remark, while clearly intended as a joke, lands somewhere between playful and disastrous, depending on how you imagine his wife might react next! It’s a classic example of observational humour, highlighting the sometimes fine line between wit and misjudgement in everyday conversation.

Cartoons like this often resonate because they reflect recognisable situations – in this case, the light-hearted tension between couples and the well-meaning but occasionally foot-in-mouth moments that can happen in relationships. 

It’s gentle, relatable comedy drawn from real life, with a cheeky twist at the end.

For another quick laugh, have a look at “My Brother’s a Proper Cook” or the tongue-in-cheek “God’s Gift to Women”.

"A Totally Useless Little Man" – Garden Gnome Humour

This cartoon from my archives printed in The Sun on January 18th 2000, captures a scene many people will recognise – a visit to the local garden centre. A woman is looking at a display of garden gnomes, while her friend stands beside her. 

woman at a garden centre looking at garden gnomes cartoon

With a touch of sarcasm and dry humour, she remarks, “Why would I want a totally useless little man hanging around the garden, when I’ve already married one!”

The joke works beautifully because it plays on the stereotype of the “lazy husband” – a light-hearted exaggeration that many couples can laugh about. 

By comparing a garden gnome to her husband, the woman delivers a punchline that’s both cheeky and instantly relatable. It’s that blend of truth and wit that makes cartoons like this so popular – taking an everyday situation and giving it a humorous twist.

Like much of my work, this cartoon combines gentle domestic humour with a touch of irony, reminding us that even the simplest moments – like shopping for garden ornaments – can reveal plenty about human relationships. 

A fun gift idea for gardeners or couples with a good sense of humour, it’s one of those cartoons that always raises a smile.

This cartoon is available on a mug from my Zazzle store >>

If you enjoyed this one, you might also like “Police Training School” – a cartoon taking a fun look at police training.

"Loads of Cartoons" - My imaginatively entitled book!




I thought I ought to start this journey of reminiscence by publishing an advertisement for my book. 
With two cartoons per page, there are well over 200 rib-ticklers in this great selection of single-panel gags


You can read a review of the book here...