The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Crafternoon delight
Creative camaraderie draws patrons to library event
Programs at the Lorain Public Library System are back in full swing.
The popular Crafternoon series allows patrons to receive instruction on a fun crafting project.
It takes place from 1-2:30 p.m. once a month at the North Ridgeville Branch, 35700 Bainbridge Road.
“We do a different project every month,” said Julie Marchand, instructor and public services professional. “Our group grew so much, that we now have two separate sessions, so that’s really nice.”
This month’s project was quilling, an art form that involves the use of strips of paper that are rolled, shaped and glued together to create decorative designs.
“I try to find something a little different every month,” Marchand said. “We do a lot of paper crafts because you truly can do so much with just paper.”
Marchand said she began teaching the programs right before the start of the novel coronavirus pandemic.
“I had started sometime right before the pandemic, and we had to shut down,” she said. “I was very happy to pick up the helm again when we reopened.”
She said she has been a crafter for as long as she can remember.
“I’ve been doing crafts my whole life,” Marchand
said. “I don’t consider myself a master artist or crafter, but the best thing about leading this group is, I get to learn right alongside them.”
Marchand said patrons also can make crafts online using the library’s resources.
“Our e-Library gives access to CreativeBug and the Hobby and Craft Reference Center,” she said. “People can receive the complete guide to crafts with videos as well as ideas for children’s crafts.”
Marchand said she encourages people to check out the variety of programs available.
“We’re truly a community center,” she explained. “I’m excited to get the vibe back. It’s been a couple of rough past years due to the shutdown.”