Jack’s got it all sewn up

Outdoor enthusiast Jack Kerr has found a sustainable way to get the things he needs – by making them himself at the city’s central library Tūranga.

The 19-year-old ARA student, who moved to Christchurch last year to study outdoor

education and sustainability, is a regular user of the sewing machines on offer through the library’s Auahatanga Creative Spaces. People can construct their own projects from fabric using the free sewing machines and overlockers available.

“I make things when I need them. I’ve made a frame bag for my road bike to hold things when I’m in town, wet weather gear or throw bags,” Jack, a keen kayaker, says.

He also sews things for other people – like a tote bag for his brother to carry his surfboard.

Before moving to Christchurch from Taranaki, Jack had never sewed before or spent time at the library.

“I came to Tūranga with a friend who wanted to 3D print something. I saw the sewing machines and thought, ‘I should learn to do that’. I had ripped my pants and needed to sort it, so this was a great solution.”

Regular Tūranga patron Alexandra Grace was happy to help teach him what to do.

“I am usually here seven days a week, I love the Creative Spaces studio and being able to give something back. I’ve been sewing since I was a girl. I met Jack here, and he is extremely talented. He picks things up quickly, listens carefully and takes advice.”

Jack has made other good friends through using Creative Spaces.

“I met Ella, who I do some kayaking with now. And I have met many other people who are incredibly interested and supportive of my projects and sewing.”

He recommends people go in and see what is on offer – as there’s a lot more than books in libraries these days.

“The staff are incredibly friendly and approachable, and lots of lovely people use the services and are super interested and supportive in what others are doing. And it's great to be able to make your own gear and equipment or repair things.”

The sewing and overlocker machines are available during normal library hours, with a limit of two hours per customer a day. People can swap their library card or ID for a sewing kit that contains the essentials to use the machine.