Making isn't always about technology

There has been interest in some of the non-tech aspects of our Maker Lab.  We originally started providing felt and fabric just to go along with our LilyPads, but many students expressed an interest in just having access to materials for sewing, knitting, and crocheting.  We started to think about how we could incorporate more crafting materials up in the space.  One of our team members brought in yarn one day and taught us to crochet.

A teacher showing off his first attempt at crocheting

We found this pattern to crochet a guinea pig.  This was a first attempt:

Chocolate-colored guinea pig with button eyes

We then made one and sewed on the LED lights for eyes with the conductive thread.  Some of students and faculty say it is creepy-looking, blue LEDs seemed like a better choice than red ones.

Multi-colored gpig with blue LED light eyes

All of this was so we could have samples for students to see the various crafting opportunities we will now be offering.  Students will be able to checkout crochet hooks, knitting needles and other supplies, as well as yarn which they will be able to keep.  We are also planning on 3D printing some of these supplies from patterns on Thingiverse.

Happy Making!