About; make, do & mind.
How Did Make, Do & Mind Come to Be?
Make Do & Mind grew from a simple idea: that creativity doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
After years of working in creative spaces and supporting people through therapy, I kept coming back to the same thing; how much lighter people feel when they’re making, sharing, and just having a go. Not polished, not pressured… just making.
What started as a few small ideas has grown into something a bit bigger (and much more colourful). Make Do & Mind is about creating welcoming spaces where you can try something new, reconnect with your creativity, and maybe surprise yourself along the way.
We run regular creative workshops across Northumberland and Tyneside, from repurposing clothes you already own, to making Christmas wreaths, to stitching together joyful celebration bunting. There’s always something to get stuck into, whether you’re a complete beginner or someone who’s been crafting for years.
Each month, there’s also a special workshop, something a little different, a bit unexpected, and always designed to be fun, creative, and just that bit memorable.
Alongside workshops, we host Makers Markets that bring together local creatives, small businesses, and the community; a chance to share work, discover new ideas, and celebrate handmade in all its forms.
At the heart of it all, Make Do & Mind is about making space for creativity, for connection, and for a little more ease in everyday life.
Hi, I’m Melanie; the hands (and heart) behind Make Do & Mind.
I’m a big believer in the power of creativity to lift our spirits and bring people together. I’m a fully qualified therapist and have spent years running and teaching art and craft workshops. There’s something really special about making something with your hands, how it can quiet the mind, ease stress, and spark a sense of joy.
Before this, I spent over a decade designing and creating bridal headwear and accessories (lots of sparkle and intricate detail!) I’ve also worked in substance dependency services, supporting people on their journey to recovery, various roles working with children and also in TV and Radio. Across all of these experiences, I observed that one thing has stayed constant: creativity has a unique way of helping people heal, grow, and reconnect with themselves and with others.
Make Do & Mind brings all of that together through creative workshops for wellbeing, held in welcoming community spaces.
When I’m not running workshops, I’m usually with my two boys, out walking my dogs or at the gym, all of which keep my mind well and my creativity flowing.
THE TEAM
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you.
Elsie
General Dogsbody
Melanie
Founder/Director
Chief maker
Elsie
Customer Relations