Events & Classes

Craft, Learn & Gather

A look at past events and class topics Jessica has offered — from library workshops to public fairs, each one celebrating the intersection of handmade craft and bookish curiosity.

Where BiblioCraft Has Been

June 5, 2014

Knitty City — New York, NY

An evening gathering at Knitty City from 6–8pm, bringing BiblioCraft to the Upper West Side knitting community.

Hosted at Knitty City

June 8, 2014

Country Living Fair — Rhinebeck, NY

Jessica spoke at the Country Living Fair, sharing handmade inspiration with fairgoers in the Hudson Valley.

Presented by Stella Shows

June 12, 2014

Northeast Neighborhood Library — Washington, DC

An evening talk at the newly renovated Northeast Neighborhood Library, part of DC Public Library's creative events for adults.

7pm · Northeast Neighborhood Library

April 2014

BiblioCraft in San Francisco

Events in San Francisco celebrating the book's release, including connections with the San Francisco Public Library.

San Francisco, CA

March 2014

Colorado Tour

A Colorado-bound trip brought BiblioCraft programming to libraries and readers across the state.

Colorado

January 2014

ALA Midwinter

BiblioCraft was featured at the American Library Association's Midwinter conference.

ALA Midwinter

What Jessica Teaches

Classes are available for groups and the public, drawing on library collections and handmade traditions.

  • The Craft of the Book
  • Vintage Craft Resources
  • Print Design
  • Book History
  • Historic Knitting Publications
Free Class

Handmade Then & Now: The Stitchery Edition

This free class explores vintage patterns for knitting, crochet, sewing, and embroidery — connecting historical needlework resources with contemporary making. Jessica has taught this session at the New York Public Library.

Cream linen cloth with hand-stitched orange outline embroidery of basket shapes, laid on a table, crafting mood

Interested in a Class or Visit?

Jessica is open to discussing custom classes, group visits, and library-based DIY outreach. Reach out to start the conversation.

Get in Touch

The calendar of events at Handmade Librarian reflects a deep commitment to gathering creative people in shared spaces. Each workshop and gathering is designed to bring together those who love books, textiles, and the handmade arts. From intimate craft sessions in local shops to larger public fairs, these events center around the joy of making things by hand while celebrating the stories and histories woven into every stitch. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, encouraging participants to explore their own creativity in the company of fellow makers. Whether you are a seasoned crafter or someone just beginning to explore needle and thread, these gatherings offer a gentle invitation to learn, share, and connect.

The events featured here draw from a long tradition of library programming and community craft culture. Past gatherings have taken place in bookshops, museums, and public spaces, each one carefully planned to foster curiosity and hands-on exploration. Topics often blend literary themes with textile techniques, such as embroidery inspired by rare book illustrations or quilting patterns drawn from archival collections. These are not just classes but experiences—moments where the tactile pleasure of working with fabric and thread meets the intellectual joy of discovering something new. Each event leaves attendees with not only a finished project but also a deeper appreciation for the handmade life and the communities that sustain it.