The winter season seems the perfect time to start a new hobby or return to an old one.  If you are interested in learning more about carving, crafting, or other hobbies, the library is here to help!

The James Kennedy Library is pleased once again to host a wood carving display and demonstration by the members of the Bear Creek Woodcarving Club.  This special annual event will take place on Saturday, January 26 from 10:00am to 2:00pm.  Club members will have some of their carvings on display and will be demonstrating their carving techniques. Everyone is invited to stop in during this open house event to view the carvers and their works and ask questions.

In March, members of the Bear Creek Carving Club will also offer a two-part beginning woodcarving class at the library.  Participants will learn how to safely use carving tools, proper use of safety equipment, different types of tools used, types of wood used, and the various cuts used to make a project.  The instructors will assist the students in making a beginner’s project.  There will be a materials fee to cover the cost of a knife, safety equipment and wood for the project, but participants with their own equipment will only be charged a small fee for the wood.  No experience is needed; however students must be at least 12 years old and a parent or adult must be present in the class for anyone under the age of 16.  This class is scheduled for Sundays, March 3 and March 10 and registration will be required.

Another crafting opportunity at the JKPL is the craft classes taught by Diana and Sara.  On Saturday, February 16 at 11:00 am, participants will paint wine glasses with a paint that will cure so the glasses become dishwasher safe. The second craft will be a cute origami bunny. On Sunday, February 17 at 2:00 pm participants will decoupage a flower pot using old magazines and make a tissue paper flower. Materials for all crafts will be provided. All ages are welcome, but anyone under the age of 10 needs to be accompanied by an adult. Class size is limited to 15 so registration is requested. Participants can sign up for one or both classes.

If you want to join a crafting group, the “Sit and Stitch” group continues to meet every Wednesday at 1:00 pm.  Crafters of all ages, interests, and abilities are welcome to attend either regularly or when their schedule allows.  If you enjoy crafting and sharing, this is a fun group to join.  The members of this group are always willing to help with a crafting project or question.

Cooking can be a craft and sharing recipes is a lot of fun so I am including mention of another special event we are trying this winter.  On Saturday, February 9 the library will be hosting its first Pot Luck Recipe Swap from 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm. Participants will make a favorite dish, savory or sweet, and bring it to the library along with a copy of the recipe to share. You will be able to sample the other dishes and take home the recipes for the ones you like. This is a great way to share your favorite dish with others and discover some new recipes to inspire you! Drinks, plates, and flatware will be provided by the library. Registration is required.

In addition to these classes and gatherings, the library offers books, magazines, and DVDs that can help you with your crafting and creativity.  Stop in and browse the collection or ask a librarian for help.