What does the cryptic crossword clue "Artwork upset tot – is it a tacky item? (7,3)" mean?

The wordplay uses a reversal. DRAWING (synonym="”Artwork” plus reversal/”upset” of NIP=small amount=”tot”") + NIP (reversal="small amount=”tot”") = DRAWINGPIN The answer is DRAWINGPIN.

Artwork upset tot – is it a tacky item? (7,3)

Guardian Cryptic #29510 | 5 Down | 2024-10-10 flower

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