Meet Hannah: The creative behind our Crafting Connections packs

Hannah Crossley

For the past seven months, our Crafting Connections packs have been looking brighter, fresher and more fun than ever, all thanks to the creative magic of our volunteer designer, Hannah Crossley from HannahDidIt.

Hannah has brought her design expertise, playful illustrations and a huge amount of colour to every pack, making them a real delight to open and use. She’s also streamlined the design process for our team, so we have more time to collate the monthly stories and ideas from participants. Her commitment and creativity shine through in every edition, helping us share packs that feel truly special.

We sat down with Hannah to find out more about her work, her volunteering journey, and why she believes skills-based volunteering is a win-win for everyone involved.

About Hannah & her work

Hannah studied Graphic Design at Falmouth University before working in multiple London agencies. Seven years ago, she moved to Bristol, where she now freelances in the non-profit and charity sector and with small businesses on brand design.

“I was drawn to graphic design as a way of sending a message in a creative manner without necessarily using words (not my strongest thing)! I enjoy giving a voice to people who need it.”

You can explore more of her work on her website or via Instagram at @hannahdidit_design.

A sneaky peak into next month’s Crafting Connections pack!

Volunteering with The Together Project

Hannah first spotted The Together Project on a charity volunteering website. Having already worked with organisations that connect generations, she knew this would be a meaningful fit.

“The project is something special,” she says. “I’d seen the benefits of breaking the age gap between people in care homes and children in school – I knew I wanted to get involved.”

Her role?

“I do the design and illustration! I take the words given to me and bring them to life with as much colour and fun as I possibly can.”

She admits her approach is playful:

“There’s no fixed method – I get the words in, then see what image comes to mind, what characters might be fun, or what shapes. I like to play around with the illustrations.”

Favourite creation so far? A moonwalking dog. “He was quite a charmer,” she laughs.

The impact of creative volunteering

For Hannah, volunteering has been as rewarding personally as it has been professionally.

“I’ve learned new ways of working and gained confidence in my ideas. I’ve also connected with supportive new people. And seeing photos of children filling in the booklets – I hope the colourful designs help spur them on!”

Knowing that her work is sparking joy across the UK feels special:

“It feels cool. I like that my work instigates a connection between two very different people.”

And her verdict on volunteering?

“It’s worthwhile. You see good things happen, and for this project you help with loneliness and give people a sense of self. It’s a joyful experience, working with lovely people, working on a fun document and reaching a whole load of people who will enjoy it.”

Hannah’s style & inspiration

Her illustration style is inspired by quick cut-out shapes, a little like what the participants using the pack might do themselves. Coffee is an essential companion, with a Spanish playlist in the background while she works (“I’m trying to learn the language!”).

Looking ahead

Hannah is open to new freelance opportunities and is excited to hear about fresh projects:

“I have many skill sets and would love to hear from anyone who has a project in mind or wants to work with me.”

You can get in touch via www.hannahdidit.com or on Instagram @hannahdidit_design

Why skills-based volunteers matter

At The Together Project, we’re lucky to have brilliant volunteers like Hannah who share their professional skills to help us shine. Her contribution has transformed our packs, streamlined our process and elevated the experience for participants.

Skills-based volunteers bring incredible value and, in return, gain a rewarding case study, fresh connections, and the knowledge that their talents are making a difference.

Thank you, Hannah, for giving your time, energy and creativity so generously, your designs really do help spread joy, colour and connection.

Why not use your expertise to help us spread more joy?