What is a Makerspace?

A Makerspace is a creative lab where people learn how to use technology, tools, and equipment to bring their own creations to life.
Some of our MMPL patrons’ projects are below.

Where is the MMPL Makerspace?

The Makerspace is located at Pakenham Branch. It is open to all residents with a valid library card.

What equipment is at the Makerspace?

MMPL Makerspace  has an xTool laser engraver/cutter, a heat press, a Cricut Maker 3 cutting machine, and a button maker.

How can I use the Makerspace?

Gat a MMPL library card and take the mandatory one-on-one training to use the Makerspace!
Once mandatory training is completed and a user agreement is signed, book a time to use the equipment. Projects must be completed within booked time. Taking a Makerspace workshop (info at the Programs page and in the library e-newsletter, as available) is another good way to learn and use the Makerspace. When you see one a workshop that interests you, register – space is limited!

Visit the Makerspace

Open time (when the space is available for individual use)
  • Alternating Tuesdays from 3-6pm and Fridays 1-5pm
  • Must book a training session before using the equipment individually, for the first time
  • Booking time – as available – is done online through the Programs page

Workshops 
  • Alternating Tuesdays 5pm and Fridays 3pm *beginning soon*
  • Registration required – again watch our website or sign up for the library email news.

Equipment

Laser Engraver/Cutter

  • Model: xTool S1 40W Diode Laser
  • What can it do? Laser cuts and engraves text and images
  • What kind of materials can it use? Wood, stainless steel, leatherette, slate, and more
Auto-Cutting Machine
  • Model: Cricut Maker 3
  • What can it do? Auto cutting – cuts a variety of materials with the blade attachments. Auto-drawing – can draw images and text with the pen attachments
  • What kind of materials can it use? Paper, vinyl (heat transfer or adhesive), sticker paper, fabric, and more

Heat Press

  • Model: Clamshell heat press with slide out bottom plate
  • What can it do? Adheres heat transfer vinyl or infusible ink to fabrics and other materials
  • What kind of materials can it use? T-shirts, tote bags, aprons, tea towels, wood, and more

Button Maker

  • What can it do? Creates custom pin-back buttons to attach to bags, coats, etc.
  • NOTE: this is drop-in, no need to book time or take a training session

Resources & Costs 

  • Cutting Machine – Cricut Maker 3 – MMPL User guide – downloadable PDF
  • Laser Cutter – xTool S1 Diode Laser – MMPL User guide – downloadable PDF
  • Suggested settings Quick Reference Guide (settings for Laser Cutter, Cricut & Heat Press) – downloadable PDF
  • Price list for materials used in independent projects: downloadable PDF

A few useful training videos – on Youtube:

Cricut Maker 3 – Auto Cutter
1. Getting Started
2. Weeding Tips
3. Print Then Cut – Printable Vinyl
4. Cutting, Weeding and Applying Heat Transfer Vinyl
5. Cricut Heat Guide – Finding Heat Press Settings for Cricut Materials

xTool S1 40W – Laser Cutter
1. Getting Started
2. Engraving a Photo
3. Engraving a Photo #2 (xTool course)
4. Engraving on Glass with a Diode Laser & Using AIMake Tool
5. Engraving a Powder Coated Tumbler

The MMPL Makerspace is made possible thanks to the generous financial support of Maureen and David Dern (local Blakeney residents) as well as the expertise and encouragement of Paddye Mann and many other dedicated members of the Pakenham community. Thank you!!!