Creative Tools

Get creative at the library! FVRLibraries offers crafting and maker programs as well as tools you can use at the library for your own personal projects.

We currently offer these tools:

3D Printers

Community members can be certified to use the 3D printer outside of regularly scheduled events.

Libraries with 3D printing equipment

3D printer specifications

  • Printer: Lulzbot Mini
  • Print Area: 6”x6”x6” (no larger than 5.75" designs)
  • Printing Filament: PLA 2.85 mm (provided by the library)
  • 3D Printing Software (slicer): Cura Lulzbot Edition

3D certification

  1. Complete training. At home or in a library, watch the library's on-demand training series. This training provides an overview of our 3D printing guidelines, an introduction to our printers and software, and the basic skills needed to complete certification.
  2. Get certified. After completing the online training, make an appointment at a library with a 3D printer to demonstrate your basic printing skills and knowledge of our guidelines. (Use the Request a Meeting with Staff form and select "Library 3D Printer certification" from the menu under "What is the topic for this appointment?") Certified users should feel comfortable using 3D printing tools independently, with minimal staff help.
    • Minors (age 17 and younger) must certify with an adult. The adult certified in 3D printing must be present during 3D printing sessions with the minor.
    • 3D Printing Skill Sign-off for certification generally takes around 20 minutes.
  3. Drop in to use the 3D printer. After you're certified, you can drop in at a library hosting a 3D printer to work on projects independently.
    • Please call the library before you visit to make sure the equipment is available.
    • Please note that certified use of a 3D printer is on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Certified users must monitor the printing equipment during the entire printing process.

Sewing machines

FVRL has sewing machines available at select libraries. You are welcome to attend an introductory class on sewing machines at the Vancouver Community Library to gain confidence. Please see specific guidelines for use for each location. 

Cascade Park

  • We offer a Janome MyStyle100 for independent use. (Owner's manual available for reference.)
  • You must be certified by staff to use the machine independently by demonstrating a set of skills.
  • We have limited supplies: black and white thread, seam ripper, and snips. You must provide anything else you may need.
  • Use is first come, first served. Please inquire at the staff desk.

Ridgefield

  • We offer a Kenmore Model 90/92 for independent use. (Owner's manual available for reference.)
  • You must be skilled enough to work independently. Staff are unable to assist.
  • You must provide all of your own supplies and thread.
  • Please call the library at 360-906-4770 to schedule time to use the machine.

Vancouver

  • We offer an IKEA sewing machine for independent use. (Owner's manual available for reference.)
  • You must be skilled enough to work independently. Staff are unable to assist.
  • You must provide all of your own supplies and thread.
  • Use is first come, first served. Please inquire at the staff desk on Level 4.