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The Makery opens in Chilhowie

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Centerpiece Top Story

The Makery opens in Chilhowie

SPorter
Dec 8, 2025
Dec 8, 2025
0

1 of 7

Smyth County Administrator Shawn Utt and Rose Likins, Smyth County Public Library director, and other visitors watch a 3D printer at work in The Makery.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

Representatives of local governments and the Smyth County Public Library gathered to cut the ribbon celebrating the opening of the new makerspace at Chilhowie's library.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

While not made at Chilhowie's makerspace, the violin in this photo was created with a 3D printer.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

Smyth County Public Library Director Rose Likins, left, and Chilhowie Branch Manager Heather Carter show some aspects of the 3D printer to Courtney Stringer of the Wellspring Foundation.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

Younger visitors examine some of the times made with the 3D printers.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

Some of the items created by the 3D printers.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

Bernina sewing and embroidery machines are part of The Makery.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols/Smyth County News & Messenger

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SPorter

While the library has always been a place of learning and discovery, Heather Carter said Monday that it’s going in a different direction now. That new path allows creativity and technology to merge.

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