What is a Makerspace?

The Mississippi Mills Public Library Makerspace is a welcoming, creative environment where community members can learn new skills, explore technology, and bring their ideas to life.

The Makerspace is located at Pakenham Branch. A Mississippi Mills Public Library card is needed to sign up for any of the classes in the Makerspace.

Visit the MMPL programs & events page for info about booking FREE training or work time at the Makerspace.

What equipment is at the Makerspace?

MMPL Makerspace has an xTool laser engraver/cutter, a heat press, Cricut Maker 3 and Cricut Explore Air 2 cutting machines, Elna 450 Sewing machines, and Elna 264 four-thread Serger.

How can I use the Makerspace?

There are three ways to access the space: Beginner Trainings, Makerspace Club Sessions, and Workshops. Each option is designed to support different levels of experience and project needs. Makerspace sessions are currently offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and select Saturdays. All Beginner Training, Makerspace Clubs, and Workshops are free.

Beginner Trainings are the first step for anyone new to the Makerspace. These small group sessions are offered once a month for the xTool laser cutter, Cricut cutting machines, and sewing machines.

During these sessions, staff introduce you to the machine, demonstrate how to operate it safely, and guide you through using the machine’s required software. After completing a Beginner Training for a specific machine, you are eligible to book time in our Makerspace Club Sessions to work independently on your own projects.

Makerspace Club Sessions give you dedicated time (1.5 hours per booking) to work on a project of your choice using the machine(s) for which you have already completed Beginner Training.

You may bring your own materials or purchase materials from the Library for independent projects. Materials at the library are sold at cost and are available in limited quantities, depending on current inventory. If you bring your own, staff will quickly review them to ensure they are safe and compatible with the equipment. All projects must be completed within your booked time. Staff are always present and happy to assist with questions or troubleshooting.

For more advanced or time-intensive projects, many patrons choose to download the free design software at home (xTool Studio or Cricut Design Space) so they can prepare their files ahead of time, though this is entirely optional.

Workshops are open to everyone – no experience required. Each workshop features a guided project that highlights one of the Makerspace machines. Staff provide all materials and walk participants step-by-step through the process. These sessions are fun, welcoming, and a great way to try something new.

What are the age guidelines?

Adults (18+) may use the Makerspace independently after receiving training.
Teens (13–17) may participate with a parent/caregiver.
Children under 13 may only use the Makerspace during Library-run programs.

Booking Information

All Beginner Training, Makerspace Clubs, and Workshops are free. The sessions fill up quickly so make sure to subscribe to the Library’s newsletter to find out when sessions open up. You can register for available sessions through the MMPL Programs page. Sessions are currently offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and select Saturdays.

                     

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
  • Models: Cricut Maker 3 and Cricut Explore Air 2
  • 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

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)

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!!!