Do It & Make it Yourself

Looking for ways to stay busy and save money this winter? Check out some of Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s craft and do-it-yourself collections listed below:

Auto Repair
Are you interested in changing your car's bodily fluids? Check out the library's car repair databases, books and links to web resources.

Beadwork
Add some pizzazz to your outfits with color-coordinated jewelry that you make yourself. The Library has plenty of books to give you ideas for necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

Brew Craft
How about brewing your own beer on these cold winter days? Then you'll have something refreshing to drink when the weather warms up...

Crocheting
All the benefits of knitting, but just one needle!

Cross-Stitch
Make a sampler for a wedding or birth, or just decorate your dish towels. A simple stitch that is great for the beginning embroiderer!

Kyuuto! Japanese Crafts: Woolly Embroidery

Embroidery & Needlepoint
Curl up in front of the fire, explore your creativity, and decorate your home and wardrobe.

Garden Crafts
Do you have a green thumb and crafty fingers? Here are some ideas for combining them.

Glass Work
If you are interested in glass blowing, lamp work or glass bead making, check out these resources!

Knitting
Knitting is hitting a peak of popularity these days and here are a few titles that can help you get started, plus some to try once you've mastered the basics!

The Ultimate A to Z Companion to 1,001 Needlecraft Terms

Needlecrafts (General)
Don't know which one you want to try? These titles will help you learn the basics of knitting, crocheting, and embroidery.

Pottery
Whether you are into handbuilding or wheelthrowing, sculpture or functional dishware, the library has books and videos to help you out.

Your first quilt book (or it should be!)

Quilting
From the basics to the individual patterns, how-to guides on quilting abound! Why not try one of these titles for instruction and inspiration?

Sewing
Sewing is one of those crafts that once you get started, you can change your world: you can make clothes that actually fit, pillows and curtains the exact color you want, beautiful gifts for friends and family.

Textiles
Look here for general resources covering anything having to do with textiles and fabrics.

Toymaking
It's never too early to start thinking about making toys for your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews for the next holiday season. And some of these toys you might just want to make for yourself!

Woodworking
Whether you are interested in woodcarving, cabinet making, or creating storage in your home, the library has many books to give you ideas!

Organizations
Do you want to connect with other crafty people? Check out these local groups! Do you want to help artisans in the developing world? Check here too.