Craft Month

“A good way to rid one's self of a sense of discomfort is to do something. That uneasy, dissatisfied feeling is actual force vibrating out of order; it may be turned to practical account by giving proper expression to its creative character.”
― William Morris, 19th-century British textile artist, painter, and writer, leading figure of the Arts and Crafts movement

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” 
― Maya Angelou, American writer and activist

The month of March is National Craft Month, celebrating all things hand-crafted and the nonprofessional practitioners that undertake all kinds of crafts as hobbies—from fiber arts like knitting, crochet, and needlepoint to painting, scrapbooking, sculpting, woodworking, and more! While historically “craft” served to differentiate the fine, high-skill, and labor-intensive processes of creative production from “fast,” mass-produced goods, crafting as a hobby today has become a far more open-ended and personal practice. Not only do craft hobbies provide a healthy outlet for self-expression, they also challenge us as adults to continue flexing our creative muscles and to enrich our day-to-day lives with new opportunities for skill development. 

Whether you prefer to “make” things in the quiet solitude of your home or gather with friends and community members to share your projects and ideas, the library has bountiful resources to provide for “crafty” patrons in search of inspiration, instruction, and camaraderie. Our Nonfiction section on the Second Floor boasts a large selection of craft manuals and guides for everything from sewing and fiber arts to paper crafts and home décor, and beyond! Browse our catalog today to find your next pattern, project idea or to learn more about a new creative medium to experiment with to celebrate Craft Month!

And if you’re interested in opportunities to meet like-minded crafters, check out these popular re-occurring programs:

Art Journaling
3rd Thursday | 1PM | 2nd Floor
Create a journal to record your thoughts and feelings with words, art, and images! Supplies are furnished, or feel free to bring your own.

Crafts & Drafts 
4th Saturday | 2PM | Bold Republic Brewing
This meet-up welcomes all adults who are looking to build a community of artists, crafters, and friends in their area while enjoying a beverage at Temple’s own Bold Republic Brewing Company. (Bring your own project and supplies)
Bold Republic Brewing Company
7070 Stonehollow, Temple, TX 76502
Ages 18+

Sit ‘n’ Stitch
2nd Wednesday | 5PM | 2nd Floor
3rd Saturday | 11AM | 2nd Floor
Join our meet-up group for fiber enthusiasts. Whether you knit, crochet, needle point, felt, or sew, join us for an hour or two of good conversation and great crafting. Bring your own projects to work on alone or with others. No registration required. 
Ages 18+

Crafterpalooza
June 8 | 12PM | 2nd Floor
 Join us at the Temple Public Library on June 8, 2024, for an unforgettable experience at our inaugural Crafterpalooza event! Dive into a world of creativity as you explore an extensive array of craft supplies and unleash your imagination in any direction you desire. Whether you are a seasoned crafter or a newcomer seeking inspiration, we have you covered with a wealth of creative ideas and inspiration pieces to fuel your artistic journey. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unleash your inner artist and create something extraordinary! No registration required.
For ages 18+. 

2nd Saturday Crafternoons!
September 14th & December 14th | 2PM | 2nd Floor
For more information about these programs, please email adult@templetx.gov. And as always, please stop by the Reference Desk on the Second Floor with questions or for assistance finding resources or materials in the collection.  


- By Stephanie Scherer, Librarian