Journal & Topics Media Group

Park Ridge Library Opens The Studio, A New Makerspace


The Park Ridge Public Library as seen on April 17, 2019. (Shawn Clisham/Journal photo)

The Park Ridge Library officially opened the new makerspace “The Studio” this week with its first crafting class. Six library patrons already have utilized the space and class.

Participants made a holiday garland using a computer program to create the design; a Cricut to cut vinyl designs and letters; a heat press and their own creativity to finish the project. The one-hour class was the first of six classes that are scheduled until mid-February in The Studio.

“We are so excited to have The Studio officially open to our patrons,” Adult Services Manager Laura Scott said. “We can now offer patrons use of a variety of equipment, from the latest model of sewing machine to a heat press for applying designs to tote bags, clothing and other items. We’re eager to see what projects people are working on and are excited to offer this collaborative space for people with a shared interest.”

The Studio is a collaborative place designed to encourage creative exploration, design and building through using a variety of technology and equipment available to patrons. Orientations and drop-in sessions for The Studio will give library patrons the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the equipment with the support of library staff.

Smaller scale equipment such as a yarn winder is also available, along with more advanced tools such as an Epilog laser cutter which is used for engraving wood, paper, plastic, fabric and more with high precision and speed.

The orientations and drop-in sessions will be available on Thursday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Upcoming classes include topics such as finger knitting, design a tote bag and hand-stitched cards. Details on the classes and information about the orientation session can be found at www.parkridgelibrary.org/the-studio.

The Studio is made possible from a donation from the Bruce A. Michel Trust.

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