Crafty Maker Space
Let's get C R A F T Y !
As a crafty person, I am jazzed to share the joys of making stuff! I am also interested in the prospect of spending money on the particular supplies that I, myself, have coveted for a very long time. Think high quality stationary, satisfying writing utensils, stickers and stamps and seals...
I'm talking about a Card Making Creation Station.
Students who participate in this library Makerspace are invited to create an object of sentiment for someone they know. The cards don't have to be for any one occasion; The idea of cards for any reason is appealing to me. Students will create a sense of community by sharing their thoughts and artistic design on paper.
This station would include any number of craft supplies, few or many according to the budget:
-Colorful Cardstock & Envelopes -Alphabet Stamps -Artistic Stamps
-Donated Stationary -Assorted Stickers -Washi Tapes
-Pens & Pencils & Paint -Magazines -Decorative Papers
-Stamps -Embossing Ink -Glue / Hot Glue
-Stencils -Crayons / Colored Pencils -Calligraphy Tools
The creating of simple cards does indeed meet the basic criteria of Laura Fleming's definition of a maker space: "a unique learning environment that encourages tinkering, play, and open-ended exploration for all" (Moorefield-Lang, 2018). It also fits Lauren Britton's definition: "A Maker space refers to people coming together to create and share resources, knowledge, and 'stuff' (2012)." With an eye towards design, this simple project gives participants an invitation to think about layout and presentation of ideas. The addition of a Cricut vinyl-cutter adds a dimension of tech and creates even more opportunities for expression.
Card creating meets several domains within the ALA framework for School Librarians. The opportunities for being creative with paper and basic supplies are endless. Students have to consider for whom they could make a card and for what reason (Think). They obviously Create and Share throughout the process of designing and writing their card. And, ultimately, the experience helps them Grow empathetically as they actively contribute to someone else's happiness. Students could also collaborate with one another to create cards for a large group of people who need encouragement (community engagement).
All of the physical tools included in this station could be used to supplement art curriculum; This article from library supplier Demco's blog reminds us of how we should be collaborating with art teachers, especially within these maker spaces, to provide students with meaningful interactions with art. Another article from Demco provides great inspiration for craft storage as well as other ideas for maker spaces using inexpensive art supplies. Examples of cards can show all participants models that they can recreate or that might inspire their own designs. A simple Google search returns endless examples of the DIY possibilities (choose a specific theme!).
Ultimately, card sharing creates a sense of community for the creators and recipients.
References
American Association of School Librarians. (2018). AASL Standards Framework for Learners. Retrieved from https://standards.aasl.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/AASL-Standards-Framework-for-Learners-pamphlet.pdf
Britton, Lauren. The Makings of Maker Spaces, Part 1: Space for Creation, Not Just Consumption. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.thedigitalshift.com/2012/10/public-services/the-makings-of-maker-spaces-part-1-space-for-creation-not-just-consumption/
Lister, H. (2020, August 18). Create an Amazing Low-tech Library Makerspace. Retrieved from https://ideas.demco.com/blog/create-amazing-low-tech-library-makerspace-easy-ideas/?_ga=2.17607217.944732256.1604538668-386972079.1604538668
Moorefield-Lang, Heather. (2018, October 29). Makerspace 761. Youtube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBsEHD0XE6E&feature=youtu.be
Rendina, D. (2020, August 20). The Arts & Makerspaces: Creativity for the Win! Retrieved from https://ideas.demco.com/blog/arts-makerspaces-creativity-win/?_ga=2.52283041.944732256.1604538668-386972079.1604538668
This is a great idea! I haven't thought about card making. I am not a crafty person. I prefer to refinish furniture, fix things, or make things with wood. I would have never thought of this. Lauren Britton's article also resonated with me. I feel that learning through play or doing is what our children need. We are living in a high stress environment right now and they need a way to escape that is low tech. I'm in a high poverty elementary school and I feel they need to create. I'm hoping it will give them a sense of accomplishment. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteRobin Dawson
My school is also high poverty, so I was especially interested this week in finding maker space ideas for shoestring budget projects. I need to apply to a grant or two to get money for my library and I believe one of the blogs this week mentioned a Lowe's Toolbox for Education grant. How awesome would it be to make a wish list for your library for items from Lowe's and to have every item given to you?!
DeleteYou mention a sense of accomplishment and I agree that cards can give their giver a sense of satisfaction (and for so little input!). Also, writing by hand can lead to more writing. So much can be sparked by one successful venture!
-Tiffany Taylor Brewer