Makerspace Your Holidays

Posted on November 22, 2016

by Heather H

Putting a unique touch on the holidays just got easier thanks to your Library! Now, all you need to DIY your way through Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Festivus, or any other celebration you might be preparing for is a few materials and a library card.

What might one create at the Library, you ask? Here are a few quick ideas to inspire you using some of our makerspace equipment and programs!

Cricut Machine: Cricut’s slogan is “make something amazing,” and the company truly makes it easy to do! If you’re not familiar with this mighty little gadget taking over the craft world, let us introduce you: Cricut is an electronic cutting machine designed to help you design and create personalized, professional looking projects. And it cuts almost anything!

Cricut machines are available for use at our King Road and Oregon Branches. Simply call the branch to reserve a machine in a 3 hour block of time. A librarian will walk you through how to use it – and in no time, you’ll be on your way to making something amazing. Why not try using Cricut to make:

  • Holiday greeting cards
  • Personalized gifts and/or gift tags
  • Dining décor such as napkin holders
  • Holiday ornaments

Visit Cricut’s Inspiration Center for more great ideas, and don’t forget to also check out our ongoing Cricut programs.

3D Printing: We have 3D printers available at Main Library and our King Road, Oregon, and West Toledo Branches. Attend one of our ongoing 3D printing programs and learn how to create your own custom design, or work with our staff to print something when it’s convenient for you.

Visit Thingiverse for an endless list of ideas! We recommend beginning with:

  • Book ends (we might be especially partial to this idea!)
  • Cookie cutters
  • Traditional Menorah
  • Customized picture frames
  • Toys and games
  • Jewelry

Check out our “3D Printing: A Primer” blog for more details about printing at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library.

Audio / Video Equipment: Did you know that we have GoPro cameras that can be borrowed? Why not go high tech this holiday by creating a video greeting to send your family & friends. You’ll save on postage too! Get them at our King Road and Oregon Branches. Have a beautiful voice? Stop into our West Toledo Branch to use the audio studio space and record a few songs to gift to loved ones. Surprise someone with a digitized album of memories – At West Toledo you can also digitize old photos, slide shows, negatives, and VHS tapes.

Craft Programs: If you’re at a loss for inspiration or prefer something already planned, consider joining us for one of our craft programs. Our library locations offer programs for every age and interest – so they’re equally well suited for the kids and teens who’d like to make gifts to give their friends and family.

Upcoming Holiday Programs

Browse Holiday Programs

Or visit our programs page for up-to-date information year-round.

Don’t stop here – Visit our “DIY Holiday Gifts” blog for a list of book recommendations!

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