County libraries offering opportunities to get crafty

February is the perfect time to stay inside and try a new hobby (or rediscover an old one). Research has shown that crafting can have huge benefits on mental health. Participating in crafts can lower stress, boost self esteem, process emotions, and help form a sense of community with others sharing similar interests.  

Wellington County Library branches offer many opportunities to get crafty this winter, from programming to creative tools. Every branch is equipped with a Cricut smart cutting machine, available for individual use. We supply the machine and accessories, and you supply the materials and inspiration. 

Contact your local branch if you’d like to learn more about the Cricut or book an appointment to use one. 

Searching for crafting inspiration? Wellington County Library offers free access to Creativebug, an online resource that provides access to thousands of projects. You can also get started at one of our many programs with options for all ages and abilities.

To register for a program, please visit our website at wellington.ca.

ARTHUR BRANCH 

519-848-3999

Craft and Create: 

Macrame (Adults)

Join us to learn the basics of macrame and to use provided supplies to create a cute plant hanger. Please register.

Saturday, Feb. 17, 1:00 to 2:00pm

Cricut Creations: 

Vinyl (Adults)

Learn how to use vinyl in your Cricut to create cute projects you will want to display. Please register.

Monday, Feb. 26, 3:30 to 4:30pm

CLIFFORD BRANCH 

519-327-8328 

Make and Take: Paper 

Airplane Cards (All Ages)

Deliver a heartfelt message to someone you care about when you drop by Clifford Branch to make a heart-shaped paper airplane card.

Feb. 6 to 14, during branch hours

Creative Kids: Fabric Lion Craft (All Ages)

Join us for a safari-themed craft night as we make a majestic lion’s head out of recyclable materials and fabrics, as well as other animal crafts. Please register.

Wednesday, Feb. 21, 6:00 to 7:00pm

DRAYTON BRANCH 

519-638-3788

Cricut Creations: Learn to Cricut (Adults and Teens)

Are you new to the Cricut or need a refresher? Join us to learn how you can use the Cricut for a variety of projects. Please register.

Tuesday, Feb. 6, 6:30 to 7:30pm

Hooks and Needles (Adults)

Bring along your own hand-craft project, and join other local “Hook and Needle” enthusiasts for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Drop in.

Thursday, Feb. 1, 2:00 to 3:00pm

HARRISTON BRANCH 

519-338-2396

Cricut Creations: Decorative Book Stack (Adults)

Join us to make a decorative stack of books for your home, office or as a gift. All materials provided but you are welcome to bring your own ribbon and embellishments. Please register.

Friday, Feb. 2, 2:00 to 3:00pm

Dungeons and Dragons Club
(Tween/Teen)

Join fellow fantasy fans to build characters and explore new worlds. Please register.

Saturday, Feb. 10, 12:45 to 2:45pm

MOUNT FOREST BRANCH

519-323-4541

After School Adventures: Valentine’s Day Crafting (Kids)

This month, join us as we create Valentine’s Day crafts to give to that special someone in your life! Registration is preferred.

Friday, Feb. 2, 4:00 to 4:45pm

Craft and Create: 

Paint Night (Adults)

Join us for a fun-filled painting evening creating a beautiful winter landscape. Beginners welcome and all supplies provided. Please register.

Tuesday, Feb. 6, 5:30 to 7:30pm

PALMERSTON BRANCH

519-343-2142

Carnegie Cafe (Adults)

This month we will be discussing comfort food, our favourite tools to use in the kitchen and explore some of the library’s resources for recipes and inspiration. Please register.

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 10:30 to 11:30am 

Cricut Creations (Adults)

Join us to make a decorative plaid heart for your own Valentine decor or to give to that special someone. Please register. 

Wednesday, February 14, 1:00 to 2:30pm 

Article by Valerie Denton