Edwina Tries… Monday Makers

Contributed

The Erie County Public Library is one of our area's greatest resources. Join Edwina as she tries out a free crafting program, part of their Maker Monday series where patrons can pop in at their leisure and get creative.

Maybe it's my undiagnosed adult ADHD, maybe it's that I'm typically over-caffeinated, or maybe I'm just busy – but I LOVE a quick craft. Something that is not too complicated, yields a cute result, and takes just a little time is very satisfying to me and easy to work into any schedule. If that's the kind of vibe you're looking for as a way to flex your creative muscles, then check out Monday Makers at Blasco Memorial Library.

The night I dropped in, Felt Cat Coasters were the craft of the evening. The Idea Lab (just behind the main checkout desk) was full of people but not overcrowded, all of the supplies were ready to go, and the event was staffed by two smiling librarians eager to help get things started. All of the crafts on the schedule seem equally basic and don't take the full 1.5 hours to complete, so you can drop in anytime, and people steadily come and go. I was a little concerned that the craft would not be appropriate for my age group, but as it turns out, it was multi-generational fun.

For me, probably the best part was that I didn't have to go to the craft store, buy a bunch of supplies, make a mess of my house, clean it up, and store the supplies. I was able to stop by after work, make something really cute to take with me, and still had time to make dinner when I got home.

The event is free with a craft allowance of one per person. I chose to make a felt version of our boy-cat Charli, complete with one little tooth that always sticks out. I left with an adorable handmade item and a smile on my face. I can't wait to go back for another session soon. See you there!

Erie County Public Library, Blasco Memorial Branch's Idea Lab // 160 E. Front St. // Mondays through May // 6 to 7:30 p.m. // Free, supplies included, and no registration required // Ages 8 and up, children must be supervised by a guardian // For more info: events.erielibrary.org

Edwina is Erie's (self-proclaimed) biggest fan who loves being a tourist in our own town. If you have an idea of something new, she should try it. You can email her at edwina.capozziello@gmail.com