Teen Programmers Get Crafty!

December 16, 2010

We had our semi-annual Teen Programmers workshop today, entitled "Creativity in Action". Let me tell you, we are a seriously crafty group. If you are one of the teens who looks forward to our regularly scheduled programs, you should start getting excited NOW! I had the pleasure to learn a variety of skills today from some really talented people. What did you learn?!, you may be asking. Well...

We learned some cool techinques for teaching Duct Tape Creations, and I made some awesome red and silver coasters. We also learned how to make Armpit Fudge (not as gross as it sounds, but just as fun) and how to make ice cream in a bag (delicious!) for our upcoming "Creative Cooking" classes.

We got some great Tie Dye tips from one of our pros, and I can't wait to try them out at my branch this summer. We heard some fantastic ideas about Creative Writing, how to help get the imaginative thoughts going, and some fun story starter ideas. We discussed how one of our branches holds an annual "Design Your Own Bookmark" contest, and talked about maybe expanding that to other branches. Would you be interested?

We got to try out some Henna Tattoos, and my hand is totally styling now. One of our programmers taught us some great Green Projects, like how to repurpose plastic grocery bags by ironing them together and stitching them into a little bag. She also showed us how to make cool magnets out of bottle caps and magazines and unique recycled bracelets using pop tops.

We learned about Cubees, a nifty paper folding project to create a mini version of your favorite characters. Here's the official website if you're curious. (I made a Batman Cubee, a Gameboy Cubee, and a Jack Skellington Cubee...I can't stop!) And last, but not least, I taught some cool Creative Jewelry projects, like how to make a really cool necklace out of old tights, or some crafty earrings made from old sweaters.

Our website will be updating soon to let you know when all these great programs may be coming to a branch near you, or be sure to pick up a "Beyond the Books" brochure with all our program information. We can't wait to see you!

Abbey L.