Sometimes, an unexpected spark in hidden corners ignites a dream. For Greg and Barb Plain, a devoted couple from Aamjiwnaang First Nation, that spark came at the Sarnia Library’s Makerspace. Their journey started with a simple but deeply meaningful project: creating a tribute to honour Greg’s best friend, who had recently passed.
Barb recalls, “Our journey started at the library! Greg’s best friend passed away, and he wanted to make something to mark his grave.”
They went to the library after his passing, where the staff guided them in using the laser cutter to engrave his friend’s photo and name onto a beautiful piece of hardwood. Having something meaningful to place at the gravesite brought Greg a sense of comfort and peace.
In that moment, their lives changed. Filled with inspiration, they realized how powerful the tool could be in helping others preserve and celebrate memories. A few weeks later, they found themselves on a road trip to Mississauga, where they purchased their very own laser cutter directly from Epilog Lasers.
Today, Greg and Barb run The Better Half, a small business rooted on Aamjiwnaang First Nation, creating unique home décor and personal keepsakes. With each piece, they carry forward the joy, care, and connection that began with their first library project.
Their journey has become a beautiful chapter in their lives, shared with the Aamjiwnaang community and beyond. After 32 years of marriage, they have discovered a venture they genuinely love doing together, saying it’s as much about creating beauty as it is about community.
The Sarnia Library’s laser cutter has continued to open doors for residents across Sarnia-Lambton, sparking new ideas, and creative opportunities for families, artists, and small business owners alike. For Greg and Barb, that spark turned into a thriving, heartfelt business that touches lives with every handcrafted piece.
Unlock your creativity with the laser cutter at the Sarnia Library
Getting started is easy. The Makerspace offers workshops to introduce new users to the laser cutter, providing training on both safety and design techniques. Once trained, users can book time to independently use the laser cutter and bring their projects to life. With a library card, most equipment can be used at no cost, although some raw materials may require a small fee.
A laser cutter uses a high-powered beam to cut through or engrave various materials like wood, acrylic, fabric, glass, ceramic, and even painted metals. The Makerspace’s laser cutter can handle both simple and complex designs, whether you're a hobbyist, artist, or entrepreneur.
This tool allows users to cut or engrave materials with incredible precision, making it ideal for a variety of projects—from crafting custom gifts to building intricate models.
The wide variety of materials the machine can handle makes this tool perfect for those who want to add a personal touch to their creations. Whether you’re exploring new hobbies or developing professional products, the laser cutter opens up a world of possibilities for Sarnia-Lambton residents.
For more information or to schedule a workshop, visit your nearest library branch.
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