Last night I hosted the first of four “Make It & Take It” crafting programs we’re offering at the library this holiday season.  The program series invites patrons of all ages to create thrifty crafts – or gifts – for free and take them home.  I borrowed the idea from my days at the Lawrence Public Library and their “Thrifty Gifter” series, which was very popular. One of my crafty library assistants and I collaborated and came up with four crafts to offer: wine glass snow globes, cards, yarn wrapped wreaths, and felt ornaments.

Tuesday’s craft was the wine glass snow globes. I picked up some cheap wine glasses from the local Goodwill store and gathered small ornaments, ribbons, garland, glitter, white confetti for filling and other holiday themed crafting materials that were crammed in the many boxes the library has accumulated over the years. Using foam core for the bases, patrons selected their materials, designed their snow globe scenes and used hot glue to put it all together.

Planning and going in to the program, I didn’t know what kind of turn out to expect, and I was definitely surprised and delighted when 15 people showed up! I only managed to get 11 wine glasses, but fortunately, parents were agreeable to helping their kids make theirs.  I gave a few instructions at the beginning, and then gave them free reign over the materials. Everyone had a great time helping each other, and they were so thankful for the program!