Learning a craft is sew sweet at the Abilene Public Library

Abilene Public Library staff
·3 min read

Sewing may seem like something your grandmother did but it’s making a comeback in the form of homemade gifts, costumes, one-of-a-kind clothing and more.

The library may not seem like the place to go if you are learning to sew, but you’d be surprised. Educational books, databases and sewing equipment are available at the Abilene Public Library.

The downtown library houses the Creation Station Makerspace. Inside, patrons can use several different sewing machines for practice before deciding to buy one for themselves. Additionally, the Creation Station has a serger for finishing seams nice and neat. Call 325-676-6025 to learn more about using the Creation Station.

All branches of the library have sewing books that you can check out and take home. Those who have never attempted sewing before may find great use in “Jump into Sewing” by Lee Chappell Monroe. This handy book covers a few basic sewing projects and goes into the anatomy of a sewing machine and all the tools of the trade.

If you are looking to make your clothes last longer with mending, check out “Mending with Love: Creative Repairs For Your Favorite Things” by Noriko Misumi. Best for those with a basic understanding of sewing who are looking for inspiration.

The gift giver on a budget will enjoy “Half Yard Gifts: Easy Sewing Projects Using Left-Over Pieces of Fabric” by Debbie Shore. This book features 22 projects on a beginner level for anyone. If you are pretty confident in your skills, and looking to kick it up a notch, learn to make or alter clothing using “Debbie Shore's Sewing Room Secrets: Essential Skills For Dressmakers: Top Tips And Techniques For Successful Sewing” by Debbie Shore. From picking patterns, to alterations, this book covers it all.

Making a costume? This book available at the Abilene Public Library could help.
Making a costume? This book available at the Abilene Public Library could help.

If you are the type of person who loves making costumes, especially from pop culture, then “Creative Cosplay: Selecting & Sewing Costumes Way Beyond Basic” by Amanda Dawn Haas is the book for you. As the title suggests this book goes beyond the basics of sewing and into the more challenging projects, but rewards you with some very cool skills.

Even kids can get in on the sewing action with “Superhero Sewing: Easy Sewing Projects for Nurturing Little Imaginations” by Lane Huerta. The easy projects in this book are perfect for kids and will create items that can be used in play for years to come.

If you prefer watching videos to learn then you are in luck. Abilene Public Library card holders can access our free hoopla streaming service which features Craftsy videos. From basic stitches to making slopers, this handy resource addresses many popular sewing topics. You can also use your library card to check out the Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center filled with over 6000 magazine articles and projects all about sewing.

No matter your sewing skill level, the Abilene Public Library has something to help you out whether your goal is to learn to sew or expand your current skills.

It is never too early, or late, to learn this useful skill that can create both the practical, such as a work outfit, and a cherished gift, like a quilt. Just visit one of our locations and let our friendly staff point you towards the right materials and resources.

This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Learning a craft is sew sweet at the Abilene Public Library