Hi, I'm Melanie B!

Actually, it's Melanie B. Gilstrap, but that's a lot to say, so I go by my first name and middle initial.

I’m a designer, educator, creator, and lifelong believer that creativity should be fun—not frustrating.

For more than 30 years, I’ve been teaching, designing, and finding ways to make complicated things feel simple. Whether I’m creating custom tools, designing products, testing art supplies, or sharing tutorials, my goal has always been the same: help everyday people create something they’re proud of.

My creative journey has taken me through degrees in graphic design & web design, which led me to product development, content creation, and years of teaching thousands of makers online. Along the way, I’ve learned that beautiful projects don’t require extraordinary talent—they just require the right guidance, the right tools, and the confidence to begin.

Here at Melanie B, you’ll find more than just products. You’ll discover honest reviews, practical tips, creative inspiration, educational resources, and carefully selected supplies that I’ve personally researched, tested, or designed myself. If I recommend something, it’s because I genuinely believe it’s worth your time and money.

I especially love introducing people to hobbies they never thought they could do. Whether it’s paint-by-number, crafting, DIY home décor, mixed media, or discovering a new creative outlet, I believe everyone deserves the joy that comes from making something with their own hands.

When I’m not designing new products or creating tutorials, you’ll usually find me experimenting with new art supplies, organizing my studio, dreaming up my next invention, or enjoying life on our South Carolina farm with my family.

Thank you for being here. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned maker, I’m so glad you’ve stopped by. I hope this becomes a place where you feel inspired, encouraged, and excited to create.

Welcome to the studio—let’s make something amazing together.