Attention all crafters, wanna be crafters and those who don't yet know they want to be crafters! There's a new venue in town with an entirely refreshing concept for entertainment and socializing - a place built around the idea of making things and meeting people. Recently opened in Downtown Santa Barbara, The Crafter's Library is the ultimate place to nurture your creative spirit, learn something new and leave with a one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted project. This beautiful and unique gathering space hits the sweet spot for those seeking a departure from the traditional food and drink-centric mingling. Various classes and workshops, including basic sewing, glass etching, macrame and other modern craft projects, are offered. You can take a class or work on your own, bring your own supplies or purchase them on-site. And for those members who just want to relax, knit, crochet, or simply commune with fellow crafters, a cozy lounge area awaits.
A range of membership options, designed to meet the needs of both locals and visitors (more about that in the Q & A), allow guests access to some of the newest and most sophisticated craft machinery available. And of course, friendly, knowledgeable, and talented team members are on-hand to assist and instruct users on operating the cutting-edge technology. We recently caught up with owner and maker extraordinaire Andrew Rawls between workshops to learn more about his creative endeavor. By the end of our visit, all we could say is sign us up!
Tell us a bit about yourself and the origin story of The Crafter's Library.
As a native Californian, I am thrilled to open my first brick-and-mortar DIY craft and co-working space in Santa Barbara. I hope this space will inspire folks to get in touch with their creative side and allow them to make a few friends along the way.
Are beginners and children welcome at the library, or is it for seasoned crafters only?
Our motto at The Crafter's Library is "anyone can craft!" We truly believe that crafting ability transcends age, race, gender, perceived ability, and pretty much everything else with which we identify ourselves.
Of all the craft machinery members have access to, from simple sewing machines to incredibly high-tech digital carving and laser etching equipment, which are you most excited to have in the library?
As a sewist, I LOVE my sewing machines. But I will say, having some computerized die-cutting machines is awesome. They really elevate craft projects to the next level and give them a totally professional look.
The Crafter's Library offers a variety of affordable membership options, but can out-of-town crafters pop in just for the day?
We are happy to offer single day, week, month or annual membership options. No matter who you are or how much time you're spending in Santa Barbara, you can come in and take advantage of all that we offer here.
The library is a place to create - what other hopes and visions do you have for its future?
I'm excited to see what kinds of communities organically grow here. We are passionate about making sure all people feel welcome and safe with an opportunity to get out of their comfort zone and try something new.
What else would you like for potential members to know about The Crafter's Library?
We are so much more than just a craft store. We offer private event space for parties, corporate events, kids' birthdays, etc. We also have a retail section that features books, fabric, quilting supplies, gifts, and other craft-related goods, along with a selection of consignment items made by members. Folks love having the opportunity here to buy artisan goods from local makers.
9 East Figueroa Street
805.770.3566
thecrafterslibrary.com
