EAST BRUNSWICK–Complete with thread, scissors and steady hands, the East Brunswick Public Library’s Stitchery Circle provides a space for patrons to work on their sewing skills.
“The Stitchery Circle is a drop-in craft program at the East Brunswick Public Library for everyone who loves all things sewing. We have patrons who do cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery, and more who stop by to work on their projects, get help or start something new,” Young Adult Librarian Jessica Schneider said.
Schneider said that the group meets once a month at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of the month in the library’s EB Create Maker space.
Having created the program for library patrons, Schneider said, “I picked up a cross stitching hobby, creating patterns for friends and family, and as staff and patrons saw me working on these projects, I realized there was a real interest in the community for needlework craft programs. Many of the staff at the library have been doing cross stitch for years and was able to draw on them for inspiration and advice.”
Schneider said that the Stitchery Circle has not worked on any community projects yet but it might in the future.
“Every once in awhile we run specific intro classes in place of the monthly drop-in program. In January we ran an intro to cross stitch program that was very well attended where patrons made cross-stitched bookmarks,” Schneider said. “In March, for EBPL’s Maker Week, we will be introducing a special project to make a cross-stitched wooden pendant necklace.”
Schneider said that during the monthly drop-in sessions, she is on hand to show those new to the craft how to get started. She said that she also has a book full of patterns for patrons to choose from and is always around to give advice.
“Additionally, the library is now offering the new digital service Creativebug to East Brunswick Public Library cardholders,” Schneider said. “Creativebug has craft tutorials for all kinds of arts and crafts projects but it also has several great videos to help patrons get started in needlecrafts.”
Schneider said that supplies such as needles, thread, etc. are provided to the attendees, especially at the introduction events.
“We allow patrons to take a reasonable amount of thread and supplies when they are starting out on a project that they have asked for instructions on,” Schneider said. “Mostly though we hope patrons will bring their own project and supplies once they have immersed themselves in the hobby.”
Schneider said that anyone is welcome to attend, there is no set group size and attendees are welcome to come however much they want.
“Join our Stitchery Circle to learn more about needlework, get advice and ideas, commiserate with others on mistakes, and meet new friends who share your love of stitching,” Schneider said.
For more information about the Stitchery Circle, visit www.ebpl.org/main/index.cfm or call 732-390-6767.
Contact Vashti Harris at vharris@newspapermediagroup.com.
