Everyone has a passion for something outside of his or her job, and it’s often something completely unrelated. For many, especially among the staff here at the Carnegie Library, their passion lies somewhere on the creative spectrum. The Annual CLP Staff Art Show here at Main is a living testament to this. The hallway across from the Large Print Room currently features magnificent pieces of artwork, all made by the staff in the Carnegie Library system. The display will run throughout the month of April, partially in honor of National Library Week.
Do you have a creative outlet, or some other passion that you love to indulge in outside of your normal routine? Is there any craft or medium that you’ve wanted to dabble in but never dared to try? Allow me to recommend a few useful resources to get you on your way:
Stitch n’ Bitch: The Knitter’s Handbook is by far my favorite book when it comes to learning how to knit. It has some of the best illustrations and descriptions, which really come in handy. It is also filled with a variety of patterns to try after you get the basics down.
The Happy Hooker: Stitch n’ Bitch Crochet is in the same series as the one listed above, and is likewise just as useful for the crochet newbie.
If you have tried books to learn how to knit and/or crochet, but still find yourself at a loss, you can always come to Carnegie Knits and Reads at Main. It’s on the first and third Wednesday of every month and is chock-full of yarn masters who can aid you in your crafty quest.
A Short Course in Photography is a great book for people who want to take their photography to the next level. This book will give you plenty to think about when it comes to perspective and personal style. Definitely a must for anyone who wants to progress beyond taking merely a “nice photo.”
Glass Blowing: A Technical Manual is an excellent source for explaining the overall process of glass blowing by using an array of completed pieces as examples. It provides a stellar overview of the basic techniques as well as gives the reader plenty to ponder when it comes to color and personal style.
Art Class: A Complete Guide to Painting is a marvelous book for anyone who wants to learn how to paint. The author, with the help and advice of several artists, provides the reader with insight on everything from choosing a medium to deciding on a subject. An absolute must for those who yearn to add some extra brush strokes to their days.
The New Artist’s Manual is essentially four years of art school without the hassle of expensive loans and college applications. A hands-on art text, it is a great resource for beginners and advanced artists alike. One of my favorite books.
The Big-Ass Book of Crafts is one of the most fun books you can have on your creative shelf. Ever wonder what to do with all that extra silverware you obtained from your dorm room days? Or how about all those clothes pins or subscription cards that fall out of your magazines? This book offers fun-filled, imaginative and creative solutions to such problems. A great book for anyone who wants to dabble in the creative world, but has no preference when it comes to medium.
Happy creating!!
MA
Eleventh Stack 