Singer Heavy Duty 8832 sewing machines will be available to Alhambra residents and library members to participate in the Ready, Set, Sew program. This initiative aims to offer a hands-on series focused on upcycling and repurposing clothing, such as transforming garments into bags or children’s clothing, while emphasizing creativity, sustainability, and skill-building.
Policy:
1. Singer Sewing Machine
1.1 The Alhambra Library provides each student with a sewing class kit that includes: (1) Singer Heavy Duty 8832 Sewing Machine, (1) Arcoyard Sewing Machine Case, (1) EverSewn Ultimate Sewing Starter Kit, (1) 8” Burvagy all-purpose heavy duty scissors, (2) Sewing Thread Kit, and (1) pack of Sewing Clips.
1.2 Participants will receive limited amounts of fabric, thread, trimmings, and other sewing materials. Students are encouraged to bring and use their own materials. Extra fabric and materials are not guaranteed to be available at each class.
1.3 Participants are responsible for maintaining their assigned sewing class kit. Students are expected to return the machine and sewing tools at the end of program. Threads and other consumables are not required to be replaced by the student.
1.4 In the case that the sewing machine needs to be repaired, the student is responsible for informing library staff as soon as possible. Students are not required to or expected to repair the machine. All sewing machines will be repaired at the discretion of the Library.
1.5 Students will be assigned a specific Singer Heavy Duty 8832 machine and are expected to return the same machine and corresponding case, tools, and materials.
2. Sewing Class Eligibility
2.1 Priority is given to Alhambra residents with library cards in good standing, followed by library cardholders from neighboring cities and other areas.
2.2 Each participant will be assigned a Singer sewing machine and kit, which includes tools and is responsible for maintaining and proper use of the equipment.
2.3 A valid library card is required to check out sewing machine kit.
2.4 The student contract signer must be at least 14 years old. For students who are minors, a parent or guardian signature must be included with all corresponding documents.
2.5 Selected student applicants will be assigned to the sewing class at the discretion of library staff based on the level stated in the application.
2.6 Students are only allowed to attend their assigned class program and cannot be reassigned to or attend the other sewing class.
2.7 Students must complete all- required paperwork before or at the first-class meeting, which includes and not limited to: liability waiver, agreement, and more.
2.8 Only one sewing machine kit is available per person.
3. Mandatory Meetings
3.1 Participants must attend all six meetings during their assigned sewing class program.
3.2 Meeting 1: In the first week, we will discuss general rules, safety, basic machine usage, and best sewing practices. Students will complete all required paperwork and be assigned their sewing machine kit.
3.3 Meeting 2: In the second week, students will be able to develop or enhance foundational skills in preparation of completing their first project.
3.4 Meeting 3: In the third week participants will complete a mid-program survey about their experiences and provide feedback. Students will be able to create the assigned project based on the previous class’s foundational skills.
3.4 Meeting 4: In the fourth week, students will be able to design and prepare a personalized version of the assigned project.
3.4 Meeting 5: In the fifth week, students will be able to create the assigned project based on the previous classes’ foundational skills and design.
3.4 Meeting 6: In the final week, participants will complete a final survey about their experiences and provide feedback. Students will be given the opportunity to continue practicing previous learned skills, complete projects, or ask for guidance for upcoming projects. Students will submit their sewing machine kit with the required tools.
4. Sewer Responsibilities
4.1 Students will agree to attend their assigned six mandatory weekly meetings (June- July).
4.2 Students will complete any assigned homework provided by the instructor or library staff which includes and not limited to practice homework, surveys, agreement forms, and more.
4.3 Students must keep their machines and kits tidy and free from any damage, markings, graffiti, personalization, and more.
4.4 Completed projects are for personal use only and not for profit.
4.5 Students are expected to bring their kits and materials to each class. Students are encouraged to bring personal projects and materials to class. Extra fabric and materials are not guaranteed to be available at each class.
4.6 The Maker Lab is only available to students during the assigned class times. Students are only allowed to use the sewing machine at home outside of class time. Students are not allowed to use the sewing machine in the library outside of class time.
4.7 Students are responsible for adhering to the safety procedures and practices as stated by the instructor and library staff.
4.8 For inquiries, please contact: makerlab@alhambralibrary.org
5. Sewing Class Conduct
5.1 Respect among students is essential. Inappropriate language or behavior is not tolerated.
5.2 Loaning of machines or kit materials is prohibited unless given permission.
5.3 Children under 14 years of age are not allowed into the classroom even if child is only observing.
5.4 Alcohol, smoking, vaping, and illegal substances are not allowed.
5.5 Pets are not permitted in the Maker Lab room.
5.6 Guests are not allowed to attend for or be with the student during the program.
5.7 Student should practice safety while using the machine and handling tools carefully. The Library is not responsible for any injuries incurred.
5.8 Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the Maker Lab room.
6. Violating Sewing Class Policy
6.1 Violations of policy may result in removal from the Ready, Set, Sew program and loss of sewing machine kit access.
6.2 The Library reserves the right to terminate user agreements at any time.
6.3 Violations include, but are not limited to:
- Failure to follow Ready, Set, Sew program policy.
- Harassment of other students, instructors, patrons, or staff.
- Abandonment or negligent treatment of machine and provided tools.
- Verbal or physical altercations.
6.4 Students are responsible for the full replacement or repair cost if the machine or any parts of the kit are lost, stolen, or damaged, including theft.
Replacement cost:
$65, Arcoyard Sewing Machine Case: $180, Singer Heavy Duty 8832 Sewing Machine: $9, 12” x18” Sewing Mat: $14 Scissors: $10, Rotary cutter + blade: $5, 60” tape measure: $7, Seam ripper: $10, 6”x12” ruler: $8, Magnetic pin holder: $7, Sewing Guage: $7, Thread snips, peddle, plug: $30
6.5 First Infraction: A verbal or written warning will be issued.
Second Infraction: A written final notice will be given.
Third Infraction: Removal from the Sewing Class will occur after another incident, and all machines, tools, and materials will be returned to the Library. Verbal or physical altercations may result in immediate removal without notice. The City reserves the right to remove a participant from the Ready, Set, Sew program at the first or second infraction level, depending upon the severity of the violation, judged in the sole discretion of the City Librarian.
7. The Alhambra Library reserves the right to make all final decisions regarding the Ready, Set, Sew program. This includes, but is not limited to, the right to interpret, modify, amend, suspend, or terminate any part of this policy or the program itself at any time, with or without prior notice. All participants agree to abide by the most current version of the policy as determined by the library.
