The Park Ridge Library officially opened its new makerspace, dubbed The Studio, this week with its first crafting class. Six library patrons participated in the class, making a holiday garland using a Silhouette Cameo to cut vinyl designs and letters, a computer program to create the design, a heat press and their own creativity to finish the project. The one-hour class is the first of six classes scheduled through mid-February in The Studio.

The Studio is a collaborative place that encourages creative exploration, design, and building, using a variety of technology and equipment. Orientations and drop-in sessions will allow patrons to familiarize themselves with the equipment with the support of Library staff. Orientations and drop-in sessions will be available on Thursday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Upcoming classes include topics like Finger Knitting, Design a Tote Bag and Hand-Stitched Cards. Details on the classes, as well as more information about the orientation session required to use The Studio independent of Library staff, can be found at www.parkridgelibrary.org/the-studio.

The Studio is made possible from a donation from the Bruce A. Michel Trust.

“We are so excited to have The Studio officially open to our patrons,” said Laura Scott, Adult Services manager. “We can now offer patrons use of a variety of equipment, from the latest model of sewing machine to a heat press for applying designs to tote bags, clothing and other items. We’re eager to see what projects people are working on and are excited to offer this collaborative space for people with a shared interest.” Smaller scale equipment like a yarn winder are also available, an example of a convenience for crafters who take their projects with them wherever they go. Also featured in The Studio is an Epilog laser cutter for engraving wood, paper, plastic, fabric, and more with high precision and speed.

For more information, call 847-720-7230 or email thestudio@prpl.org.