by Emily B.

Searching for a cool and creative way to beat the heat this summer? Look no further than your local library, because summer fun at the library isn’t limited to kids and teens! At most of our branches, we offer art- and craft-related series classes. These classes are an opportunity to practice different crafty techniques and create something that you can take home, all in a supportive and welcoming environment. Each branch offers a unique spin.

At HCLS Miller Branch, Mindful Making emphasizes the meditative aspects of creativity. Adult Instructor Holly creates a relaxing and low-pressure class environment with cozy lighting and relaxing instrumental music. She purposefully selects activities that incorporate simple steps and repetition, to allow you to de-compress while engaging in creative practice.

At HCLS Glenwood Branch, Adult Instructor Kimberly makes use of the branch’s makerspace and its tools. Her classes offer a hands-on opportunity to learn about and use different DIY and crafting tools, like the laser cutter/engraver or the Cricut, and are a great introduction to the makerspace’s offerings. Kimberly remarks that attendees often return to the makerspace after her classes, ready to put their newfound knowledge to work.

At HCLS Central Branch, my colleagues, Roslyn and Mikki, and I offer Craft Works twice a month. Each month, we feature a different project. Our strive to create a welcoming environment for adults to express their creativity. One of my favorite features is how supportive and encouraging everyone is. Oftentimes, as the class winds down, our attendees take time to admire each other’s projects made during the class.

Visit howardcounty.librarycalendar.com for more details and to register for the classes on this page and the next, as well as many others.

RANDOM CRAFTS OF KINDNESS
For adults. Register at bit.ly/rcok
Learn to create something new, spend some relaxing time making art and crafting with your neighbors, and share your creations with other community members in random acts of kindness. All supplies provided.
Water Color Bookmarks: Create watercolor bookmarks for National Watercolor Month.
Sat, Jul 13 at 3 – 4 pm | Savage Branch
Cyanotypes: Take advantage of the harsh sun of August by making Cyanotype art and applying them to office supplies.
Sat, Aug 10 at 3 – 4 pm | Savage Branch

CRAFT WORKS
For adults. Register at bit.ly/craftworks_central
Let your creativity shine in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Each month, learn about different art media and explore new techniques.
July: Pressed Flower Sun-catcher
Tue, Jul 23 at 7 – 8:30 pm | Central Branch
Thu, Jul 25 at 2 – 3:30 pm | Central Branch
August: Resin Bookmarks
Tue, Aug 20 at 7 – 8:30 pm | Central Branch
Thu, Aug 22 at 2 – 3:30 pm | Central Branch

ART IN THE AFTERNOON & EVENING
Explore new artistic themes or media in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Create art inspired by the wildlife and scenery of the Chesapeake Bay. Choose from a variety of projects.
Chesapeake Bay Art Workshop
Tue, Aug 20 at 7 – 8:30 pm | Elkridge Branch

MINDFUL MAKING
Cyanotype Prints
Slow down with us at Mindful Making, where we focus on process over product and discover the meditative benefits of simple acts of creation. In August, we create cyanotype sun prints. All materials provided.
Thu, Aug 1 at 7 – 8 pm | Miller Branch

SEWING SKILLS
How to Repair Clothing
For adults. Register at bit.ly/diy_repair
Learn the basics of clothing repair to extend the lifetime of your clothing, including how to restitch a seam, repair hems, and patch tears. Some prior experience with using a sewing machine recommended.
Wed, Aug 14 at 7 – 8:30 pm | Elkridge Branch