The following article was written by Lynn Christiansen, a Youth Services Associate at the Manitowoc Public Library.
You enter a strange and unusual, yet welcoming place. There are many present—some faces you recognize, but many are unfamiliar. The crowd is restless with anticipation. You can feel the heat and pressure. The smell of magic and polyethylene permeate the air. Out of nothing, a new creation is forged. Is this an event of mythical proportions? No, it’s the Melt a Masterpiece program at Manitowoc Public Library!
As the program name implies, participants can create an original work of art through the melting process. We’re going to use Perler beads, also known as Hama beads or melty beads. These small, colorful beads are arranged on a plastic pegboard to create a design. You can follow a specific pattern, or just make something up as you go! When heat is applied through use of an iron (which will be yielded exclusively by MPL staff), the beads melt and stick together to form a solid shape. These fun new artworks can then be turned into magnets, key chains, or even jewelry.
This drop-in program will take place on Monday, July 29, from 1-3 PM (while supplies last) and is open to Kids and Teens. Please note that all children under the age of eight must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Some artwork is worth melting for, so let’s see what you can create!
Information on this or any of our upcoming programs can be found on our website’s Event Calendar, located at https://www.manitowoclibrary.org/events/month.