Discover a new hobby or skill with State Library's collections

The collection at State Library of Queensland covers more than just history and research. Did you know that you can even use the collection to explore a new hobby or brush up on your skills? We can help you explore your creative side, both onsite and online.  

Here are just a few highlights from our collection to get you inspired: 

Sewing/crafting: 

• 101 ways to stitch, craft, create for all occasions
• Thrifty style : clever ways to revamp your wardrobe
• 24-hour sewing projects
• Fashion, disability, and co-design : a human-centered design approach
• Fashion palettes : color inspiration, meaning, & mood
• Laser cutting for fashion and textiles 

Woodworking: 

• Woodworking : the complete step-by-step manual
• Woodworking : traditional craft for modern living
• The urban woodsman : a modern guide to carving spoons, bowls & boards 

Pottery: 

• Ceramics : a potter's handbook
• Mastering the potter's wheel : techniques, tips, and tricks for potters
• New wave clay : ceramic design, art and architecture 

Painting: 

• Painting masterclass : creative techniques of 100 great artists
• Painting murals step by step
• Creative approaches to painting : an inspirational resource for artists
• How to understand art 

Music 

Did you know you can borrow music scores from State Library? You can even play them in the Piano room on Level 3.  Browse the music scores collection online via One Search or onsite on Level 3. Check it out here! 

And so many more! 

e-resources and magazines

Don’t forget to browse our magazines and e-resources for your creative hobby needs as well.  

The library provides free access for members to PressReader which covers over 6000 newspapers and magazines from around the world. With several creative, DIY and design options, like The Knitter, Popular Woodworking and Artist's Drawing and Inspiration to name a few that will spark your own creative ideas!  

These are just a few examples of crafty hobbies to get you started. Why not try searching for your hobby or one you have always been interested in learning about. Use our collection via OneSearch to see what you can find. Or explore the Asia Pacific Design Library which covers all things innovation, creativity and design. Take your hobby to the next level with this specialist research collection. Find books on international and Australia design and designers, popular magazines, zines and graphic novels all accessible in the ADPL section on Level 2 of State Library.  

 If you are more interested in digital creativity like 3D modelling, animation, photography or music, check out LinkedIn Learning for thousands of courses in creative software by industry professionals. LinkedIn Learning is free with your State Library membership, and if you are interested in exploring hobbies like sewing, 3D printing, laser cutting or hanging out with like-minded individuals, visit The Edge’s Open Lab, the library’s very own creative space.