Tag: mindful making

Posted on by

Why My Workshops Support the NSPCC

NSPCC certificate for donations from Angel and Pearl

I find the rhythm of bead weaving incredibly mindful.  The  process of creating intentionally, bead by bead, stitch by stitch, calms a busy mind.  When I started running workshops, this was something I wanted to share.  As well as teaching a new creative skill, I hoped my classes would carry a sense of care and kindness too.  So I looked into donating a percentage of my workshop fees to charity.

Sadly, my lovely Mum had a very difficult childhood, one that lacked the safety and support every child deserves.  I can’t go back in time to change her story or take away the pain she went through, but I can choose to play a small part in helping other children feel safe, valued and cared for.

Children need love and protection in order to thrive, grow with confidence, and reach their full potential.  That’s why a percentage of every workshop fee goes to the NSPCC.  When you join one of my workshops, you’re not just learning a new skill and making something beautiful for yourself, you’re also helping the lives of the children that need it most.  And that, to me, makes each piece even more meaningful.

Tassia x

Posted on by — Leave a comment

5 Things I’ve Learnt From Teaching Creative Workshops

Three women sit together at a craft venue enjoying a bead weaving workshop

When I first began teaching bead weaving workshops, I expected it to be mostly about sharing a skill that I love.  But they’re so much more than that….they’re about slowing down and connecting with others.

Learning a new skill can be challenging at times, and some people arrive a little unsure about what they’ll manage to achieve during the workshop – Will they master it enough to be able to take something home with them? Will they enjoy the making process? Will the other people attending the workshop have more experience than they have?

So … what have I learnt??

1. Many people don’t see themselves as ‘creative’, but they are.  Creativity isn’t about perfection.  It’s about the joy of making something with your own hands.

2. My workshops offer rare time to slow down.  No screens, no rush, just quiet concentration.  It’s not just about the jewellery making.  The repetitive rhythm of bead weaving calms a busy mind – a reminder that slowing down and doing something for ourselves isn’t indulgent, it’s essential for our wellbeing.

3. I love watching people create something personal, choosing colours that remind them of something, or designs that hold meaning.  Every handmade piece made in my workshops carries a story, and it’s great to hear it!

4. There’s a special kind of ease that comes with creating side by side.  Even the groups may that seem quieter to begin with, end up chatting, laughing and encouraging each other.  Connection and community are so important, and what better way to meet and make new friends 🙂

5. I wanted to give back, so I chose to donate a percentage of proceeds from every workshop to the NSPCC, supporting the amazing work that they do in supporting vulnerable children and their families, a charity close to my heart.

If you’re in, or close to East Sussex, and think you’d like to try bead weaving, I’d love to hear from you – no experience necessary, just bring a pair of glasses if you need them (the beads are tiny!) and refreshments will be provided!

Tassia x