The Canvas
Welcome to The Canvas! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced maker, The Canvas provides access to tools, technology, and resources to bring your creative projects to life.
You must be a Des Plaines Library cardholder to reserve Canvas equipment.
Hours
Monday and Friday, from 11AM-7PM
Wednesdays from 2PM-8:30PM
The 1st Saturday of the Month from 12:30PM-4:30PM
Getting Started
Before using The Canvas, all visitors must complete a one-time orientation and sign a waiver form.
In-person Canvas orientations meet once a month, on the last Wednesday of the month, from 5:00-6:30pm. Register for an Orientation or contact The Canvas Desk at canvasdesk@dppl.org or 847-376-2936 to make an individual orientation appointment
Using Equipment
View Equipment & Software List
The Canvas offers a variety of machines and workstations for creative projects. Reservations and a Des Plaines Library Card are required to use equipment.
Patrons who want to work independently with a sewing machine, laminator, heat presses, button makers, mat cutter, laptops, and iPads do not need to make a reservation to use the machines. If you need staff guidance to work on a machine, please make a reservation.
Reserve equipment below or contact the Canvas Desk at canvasdesk@dppl.org or 847-376-2936
3D Printing
3D printers do not require a reservation. To submit 3D a 3D print, complete the submission form. 3D prints may take up to a week to complete depending on the print queue.
SUBMIT A 3D PRINT
Materials & Costs
You can purchase select materials through the library or bring your own, as long as they are on our approved materials list.
★ Approved Materials & Where to Buy Them
Need Help?
Our staff is available to assist with equipment and projects. Feel free to ask us for guidance or check out our manuals and resources.
For questions, contact us at canvasdesk@dppl.org or 847-376-2936.