When The Crafter’s Library opened its doors in downtown La Arcada in 2021, owner Andrew Rawls had a vision. He envisioned a co-working space that would welcome both experienced makers and those with a craft-curious spirit. With a special emphasis on fiber and textile arts, along with the necessary retail supplies, equipment, and materials, Rawls saw the potential for people of all skill levels to learn from experts and collaborate with fellow makers.

Becoming the Soul of the Space: Novice Crafters

As the business enters its fourth year, Rawls realizes that it is the novice crafters, including adults, kids, and teens, who have truly given life to the space. Sewing 101 stands out as the most popular class, taught by Rawls himself each week. His retail area is now stocked with beginner kits for embroidery, needle felting, crochet, and more. By purchasing a kit, crafters can stay and utilize the shop, seek assistance from staff, and leave with a completed project and a new skill.Rawls firmly believes that anyone can engage in crafting. However, he understands that getting started can be daunting. For those who are hesitant to invest in a $300 sewing machine but still want to try a sewing project, they can purchase a $20 day pass, use the shop's equipment, and receive help as they explore something new.“This is a safe environment where it’s okay to make mistakes,” he emphasizes. “You won’t be judged if it takes you 15 minutes to learn how to tie a slipknot. I admire when people of all ages have the courage to try something new, even if they aren’t immediately proficient.”

Screen-Free Space for Teen Creativity

Rawls didn't develop an interest in crafting until adulthood. However, he has witnessed firsthand how a communal maker space can support young people. During his time as a contractor for the U.S. military on the Marshall Islands, he ran an after-school teen center for the children of deployed service members and contractors.“When I started sewing myself, I began teaching the kids,” he recalls. “We received fabric donations from thousands of miles away and saw the impact it had on these teens. They could come to the center, use our materials, and let their creativity flow. They didn't need a setup at home.”Rawls has noticed that kids and teens possess a resourcefulness in their creativity that adult makers sometimes lack. Since welcoming Santa Barbara youth to his classes, summer camps, and birthday parties, he has seen how they come up with their own solutions and achieve results, sometimes inspired by their lack of formal training.He also recognizes the rarity of kids and teens being engaged in handiwork instead of being glued to a screen. “Last summer, we had groups of middle schoolers in our summer camps, and there were no issues with phones or technology. Their hands were occupied with making, sketching, and creating.”

Social Connection for Parents of Young Kids

While The Crafter’s Library has established a successful routine with weekly classes, private events, drop-in and membership-based co-working, and a thriving retail business, Rawls has identified another community need: social connection and a sense of community for parents of younger children.Although his classes and kits are mainly designed for ages 10 and up, parents of kids 0-7 can bring up to two children when they purchase a day pass. The children have access to age-appropriate art supplies, while parents can use the co-working space to meet their own needs for the day.“I've had moms come in here and work on their laptops while their kids engage in art,” Rawls explains. “I've seen friends use the space to catch up socially. We allow outside food and drink, so parents can grab a meal or a treat from Hook & Press next door and make The Crafter’s Library their gathering place for a few hours or even the whole day.”Rawls has noticed that parents of young children especially benefit from rediscovering their own creativity through crafting. He hopes to see more parents sign up for a class or use the space for a grown-up night out. “It's important to remember who you are beyond being a caregiver. I love seeing parents tap into that creativity.”The Crafter’s Library offers a wide range of services including classes, memberships, summer camps, birthday parties, corporate events, private lessons, event space rental, and custom collaborations. Visit thecrafterslibrary.com or call (805) 770-3566.