A Few Spots Remain Available for “Sewing Machine Badging with Betty” at Manitowoc Public Library

The following article was written by Betty Schwede, a Youth Services Librarian at the Manitowoc Public Library.

You may know that Manitowoc Public Library has a 3D printer and a Glowforge. If you’re quick with a computer mouse, you’ve managed to get into one of those badging sessions. Both of those pieces of equipment are super cool and make fabulous items. Yet, if getting up to speed on high-tech machinery isn’t a high priority on your to-do list, how about using the Idea Box’s sewing machines?

Manitowoc Public Library has four sewing machines in its makerspace, available for public use during open hours. They are Singer 9960 sewing machines. Multiple accessories are available to use for whatever your need—a rotary cutter and mat along with a walking foot, a free motion foot and quilting table extension to help with quilt projects, while buttonhole and zipper feet make zippers a breeze. There are a large variety of decorative stitches available, including one for letters. There are even irons and small ironing mats available.

As with all Idea Box equipment, we require training, or “badging,” to use the equipment on your own. Sewing machine badging will be taking place this Thursday August 24, at 2 PM. Registration is open on our website at www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/sewing-machine-badging-3, so head there now to secure your spot!

Badging will take approximately one hour and is only training on the equipment to prepare for safe, independent use of library equipment—it’s not a sewing tutorial. We will not be working on projects at the badging sessions. You do need to be badged to participate in future programs, though, as well as to use the sewing machines on your own.

Betty Schwede

Sewing is a creative outlet that lets you express yourself, from choosing fabric to the finishing touches. It gives you something to be proud of that is one-of-a-kind. Learning to sew can be therapeutic, giving you a productive way to deal with stress. Making something with your hands releases dopamine—the feel-good chemical—in your brain. Sewing keeps your mind active as you constantly learn with new projects. The hand/eye coordination actually gives your brain a mental boost. Sewing can be very cost effective. Repairs and fitting clothing can add up to a significant amount. Plus, you can update your wardrobe with simple details.

Whether you’ve just decided to learn to sew or are a seasoned pro, the Idea Box sewing machines at Manitowoc Public Library are here for you! You can have your own sewing camp with friends, use the space to work on a project on your own, or plan to come to future sewing programs at the Library. Additionally, I’ll have some of the items that I’ve made on-hand at the badging session, so you can see a few of the outcomes that can be achieved. Whatever you hope to accomplish, sign up for this Thursday’s badging session to get sewing on your own!