Library Lady’s K-12 Edition is a mostly weekly newsletter for K-12 school librarians.
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For many of you the school year is winding down. Check out this post for some year end ideas.
Today’s Library Lady’s tips focus on fostering a joy of learning. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic.
Tips from Library Lady
Braided Cord Items as a Maker Space Option
Key chains are versatile creations that combine durability with aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re crafting braided keychains, dog leashes, or sunglass cords, these projects offer both practicality and customization. They are perfect for personal use or thoughtful gifts for friends. Below are some tips and steps to start making custom braided keychains and accessories in your school’s maker space. Print out the instructions and post them in your maker area.
Supplies Needed:
- Cord: The amount and type of cord depend on your project. For a standard keychain, about twenty inches of medium-thickness cord is recommended. Options include durable nylon cord, supple leather (though it’s more expensive), or eco-friendly hemp or cotton cord.
- Key Ring (for keychains), Fasteners (such as a snap, for dog leashes), or Eye Glass Holders (for sunglass cords), available at craft or bead stores.
- Scissors.
Steps to Create:
Step 1: Decide on your project and select your cord and accessories based on your design preferences.
Step 2: Start with a basic braid. While a standard braid uses three cords, there are numerous knotting techniques to explore for varied designs. To secure your cords, begin by tying an overhand knot at one end.
Step 3: Braid the cords together systematically, crossing the outer cords over the middle one until you reach the desired length for your accessory. Maintain tension as you braid to ensure a neat finish.
- For Keychains: Integrate the key ring into the braid as you approach the end. This will securely embed it within the design. Once you reach about eight inches in length, untie the starting knot, tie the loose ends together to form a loop, trim the excess cord, and attach keys to the key ring.
- For Dog Leashes: Locate the midpoint of your cords and attach the fastener by folding the cords over it. Proceed to braid the cords together, incorporating the fastener into the pattern. For a handle, fold the braid to form a loop, securing it with duct tape or stitching for durability.
- For Sunglass Cords: Create a longer braid, incorporating the eyeglass holders at each end. Tie off the ends securely with knots to prevent unraveling.
Braiding is a versatile technique that allows for endless customization. Experiment with different materials and colors to unleash your creativity in the maker space. Enjoy the process of crafting unique accessories that are both functional and stylish!
Want more Maker Space ideas? Check out these posts.
| Need to do some fundraising for your library? Here are some posts on my blog which describe my fundraising camps. |
Recent Adult Book Reviews
Adult Review – This Little Nowhere, Nothing Town – contemporary fiction
Recent YA Book Reviews
YA Review – Illuminary – young adult fantasy
Recent MS Book Reviews
MS Review – Reunion Crossing – middle school dystopian
Recent Kid Book Reviews
Kid Review – A Wonderful Surprise – picture book
Author Interview
Linda Hornberg – middle school non fiction
Library Lady Blog Posts
Book List – Spring Picture Books
Items in my Shop
Cute animals with books – stickers, shirts and more in my Redbubble Shop
Need some spring bookmarks. Find printable ones here – buy once print as many as you need.
What I’m Checking Out
In 1908, there was a car race from New York to Paris.
How to Prepare Students for the Transition to Middle School
Products You May Find Useful
Spot the Difference
Spot the difference printables present a wonderful opportunity for school librarians to enrich their educational offerings with interactive and intellectually stimulating content. These puzzles not only captivate students’ attention but also foster essential observational and analytical skills. As school librarians, integrating spot the difference activities into your collection can enhance library resources with engaging materials that promote cognitive development in a playful and educational format.
What makes spot the difference printables particularly valuable in a school library setting is their adaptability across diverse themes and subjects. Whether featuring historical figures, literary scenes, or scientific illustrations, these puzzles can complement various curricula and learning objectives. They serve as versatile tools for encouraging critical thinking and visual acuity among students of all ages. By curating and offering these puzzles, school librarians can actively support educators in fostering active learning and reinforcing classroom concepts through engaging library resources.
My friend Carmen has a new training out that will help you create spot the difference printables that you can use in your library. You can check it out here Launch Price $27 (regular $47) Use coupon code SPOT27 to save. Offer ends on May 5th, 2025 at 11:59pm CST.
Authors and librarians, would you like to have a post on this blog?
I’d like to add a couple of features to my blog in the coming months and I’d like your help. I am looking for school librarians interested in being interviewed on the blog. I am also looking for librarians and children’s or young adult authors to do guest posts on the blog. Click on the links below to fill out a survey.
Is there a way I can help you? Drop a note in the comments or shoot me an email, I’d love to help.
See you next week.
Jane (Library Lady)
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