A random Gumtree deep-dive led her to an ad for the program, and she's been an enthusiastic participant since then.

"Best 3am decision I ever made," she said.

Mish Makers matches young people (aged 12 - 24) with artists and craftspeople to learn new skills, have fun, meet new people, and - eventually - have the opportunity to sell their products.

Held in a cozy and colourful room upstairs at Hunta Gatha - complete with comfy couches and plenty of inviting art - Mish Makers, six months in, has been a quiet triumph.

McCutcheon has always been a fan of crochet, but it's only since coming to the program twice a week that she has been able to dedicate regular time to the pursuit.

She's expanded her repertoire into pop culture cross-stitch, and has started making her own embroidered crochet bags.

It helps that the facilitators have no problem with her 19-month-old daughter, Rosemary, tagging along.

"She's an absolute whirlwind of energy," McCutcheon laughed.

"So it's actually really amazing that there's somewhere I can come where I can bring her, because for most places that's obviously not OK.

"But I can bring her in and do my own thing, and [the staff members] really love to play with her."

And Rosemary has been giving the crafty activities at the group a go as well; copying mum and the other participants.

"She loves it," McCutcheon said.

"I have so many photos where she's grabbed my current project, and the [crochet] hook, and has just started stabbing it.

"She'll grab a ball of yarn and start dragging it around. She's definitely picked up my love of it."

IN OTHER NEWS:

Skills taught through the program include lino cutting, watercolour, origami, and sewing.

But it's also about the social side, said City Mission creative programs leader Emily Parsons.

"We've found it's a really good way for people who struggle with social anxiety to interact with people," she said.

"Because you don't have to actually look anybody in the eye, you can look at the artwork or the craft that you're doing.

"It's a low-key, easier way to learn those social skills."

The first Mish Makers market is planned for the July school holidays.

The program is free, thanks to support from the Tasmanian Community Fund and corporate philanthropy, including $61,748 from the Cape Hope Foundation.

Potential participants, including volunteer mentors with knowledge in a field of art and craft, are encouraged to get in touch through City Mission.