Punggol Regional Library offers sewing machine reservations through NLB’s MakeIT Yourself programme. If you are new to the equipment, complete the relevant Starter Session first. Then select Punggol Library and Sewing machines on the equipment booking page. NLB uses Singpass verification for bookings.

For a first session, bring a small project you can finish with straight seams. A fabric practice square or simple drawstring pouch gives you time to test the machine and adjust your stitches before working on the final piece.

• Complete the relevant Starter Session before booking independent machine time.
• Select the sewing machine at Punggol Library.
• Ask what supplies the lab provides and what you should bring.
• Test your stitch on a scrap of the same fabric before sewing the project.

Book training and machine time separately

NLB’s MakeIT equipment booking page links to Starter Sessions and to the sewing machine reservation for Punggol. Check that the session covers the equipment you plan to use. Save the reservation and check any age, arrival and supervision instructions.

If you are going with a child, check who will operate the machine and whether that person needs to complete the training. Confirm the arrangements before reserving a time.

Choose one project and prepare the fabric

A practice seam needs only two scraps that you can sew together. If you want to make a small pouch, decide on the finished size and allow extra fabric at the edges for seams and the drawstring channel. Mark your intended seam on a scrap before cutting your main pieces.

Ask about thread, needles, scissors and other equipment before assuming the lab supplies them. Bring a piece of matching scrap fabric for testing. If the fabric is unusually thick, stretchy or slippery, check with staff before using it on the machine.

Leave time for setup and cleanup

Start with the machine and safety instructions you learned in the Starter Session. Make a short test seam and check both sides of the fabric. If the fabric bunches or the machine jams, stop and ask staff how to proceed.

Leave time to remove your project and clean the workstation. If you run out of time, mark where you stopped so you can pick up the next seam on another visit.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reserve a machine before the Starter Session?

NLB asks new users to complete the relevant certification before booking equipment for independent use.

What else can I make at Punggol Library?

The Punggol MakeIT guide covers workshops and other equipment.