Innovative Laser Works
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/
Innovative Laser WorksInnovative Laser WorksAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Manitoba Manufacturing Success Story!April 12, 2011, Winnipeg, Manitoba - At a time when many Manitoba Manufacturers are experiencing economic challenges, Innovative Laser Works, a Manitoba based manufacturing company, is celebrating success AND their 10 year Anniversary! Owned and operated by Manitoban born Alice and Mac Taylor, Innovative Laser Works was established in 2001 and provides clients with unique, long lasting corporate and consumer products that are intricately detailed through a precision laser engraving process. Alice Taylor, who is of aboriginal descent, a finalist in the 2009 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, and 60% owner of this husband/wife owned company commented, "We've invested heavily in technology since we started the business and we continue to do so. It's absolutely imperative for all manufacturers. We are also very strict on maintaining our own high standards of workmanship for our clients and new technologies certainly contribute here as well."
Innovative Laser Works is a local manufacturer who specializes in designing creative, durable products for clients who seek a unique, quality medium to impart a very important message. From precious memorials and headstones whose intent is to offer a lasting memory, to community and municipal plaques, signs and cairns providing value in their historical messages for future generations; from corporate logos and works of art offering culture and beauty, to community awards and recognitions that stand as icons of crowning achievements. The owners of Innovative Laser works have a relentless focus to provide quality craftsmanship in every laser engraving project they undertake and to build quality, long lasting relationships with their clients.
Innovative Laser Works is planning a number of "surprises" over the next few months to celebrate their 10 year achievement and their future success going forward.
For more information:
Alice Taylor
Innovative Laser Works
100 Paramount Road
Winnipeg, Manitoba R2X 2W3
Phone: (204) 633-0860
April 12, 2011, Winnipeg, Manitoba - At a time when many Manitoba Manufacturers are experiencing economic challenges, Innovative Laser Works, a Manitoba based manufacturing company, is celebrating success AND their 10 year Anniversary! Owned and operated by Manitoban born Alice and Mac Taylor, Innovative Laser Works was established in 2001 and provides clients with unique, long lasting corporate and consumer products that are intricately detailed through a precision laser engraving process. Alice Taylor, who is of aboriginal descent, a finalist in the 2009 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, and 60% owner of this husband/wife owned company commented, "We've invested heavily in technology since we started the business and we continue to do so. It's absolutely imperative for all manufacturers. We are also very strict on maintaining our own high standards of workmanship for our clients and new technologies certainly contribute here as well."
Innovative Laser Works is a local manufacturer who specializes in designing creative, durable products for clients who seek a unique, quality medium to impart a very important message. From precious memorials and headstones whose intent is to offer a lasting memory, to community and municipal plaques, signs and cairns providing value in their historical messages for future generations; from corporate logos and works of art offering culture and beauty, to community awards and recognitions that stand as icons of crowning achievements. The owners of Innovative Laser works have a relentless focus to provide quality craftsmanship in every laser engraving project they undertake and to build quality, long lasting relationships with their clients.
Innovative Laser Works is planning a number of "surprises" over the next few months to celebrate their 10 year achievement and their future success going forward.
For more information:
Alice Taylor
Innovative Laser Works
100 Paramount Road
Winnipeg, Manitoba R2X 2W3
Phone: (204) 633-0860
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=15
2011-04-20ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Board of Directors of the Women Business Owners of ManitobaAlice Taylor was named to the Board of Directors of the Women Business Owners of Manitoba. She was nominated and appointed to a two year term as Membership Chair of the Women Business Owners of Manitoba in June 2009.Alice Taylor was named to the Board of Directors of the Women Business Owners of Manitoba. She was nominated and appointed to a two year term as Membership Chair of the Women Business Owners of Manitoba in June 2009.
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=14
2011-02-04ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Finalist in the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year AwardsAlice Taylor was named one of 24 finalists out of over 100 entries in the 2009 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards hosted by the Women Business Owners of Manitoba. Alice Taylor was named one of 24 finalists out of over 100 entries in the 2009 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards hosted by the Women Business Owners of Manitoba.
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=13
2011-02-14ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Postitive Attitude Key to SuccessAlice Taylor owned a successful restaurant in rural Manitoba when her husband Mac suggested that laser engraving would be a creative and lucrative business. He discovered the idea at a trade show he attended for work.
Alice spent six months investigating if it would be a viable business. She started with research at the Women's Enterprise Centre (WEC), which led her to the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre and other resources that provided her with the information she needed. She decided that this was something she wanted to pursue.
It took eighteen months to sell the restaurant, so she ran the restaurant while simultaneously launching her laser engraving business. Because the Canadian government was guaranteeing major equipment loans, she was able to secure financing to purchase the $111,000 laser engraver. In 2001, Innovative Laser Works (ILW) was born. Since then, ILW has been offering laser engraving, vector cutting and related services.
Four years later, Alice decided it was time to move to Winnipeg and expand her business. Submitting her business plan to the Aboriginal Business Service Network's competition and winning a cash prize helped
Alice obtain shop space. However, securing funding for expansion was a challenge; because it was a "high-tec" business, it was not familiar to funders or the public. Alice found that she had to educate people about the business. Along with a chunk of their own money, Alice secured a loan from WEC. While she pursued funding from a variety of possible sources, she encountered doubt and negativity. "I was told we would not succeed," she says. "Because of the industry we're in, there's no track record so we're the only one. Today we are industry leaders."
Alice found that being a woman in a male-dominated field has its challenges. There have been times when her husband has had to step in and "close the deal" because clients were more comfortable dealing with a man. However, she Is committed to doing business her way and "breaking the glass ceiling" for women in her industry.
Nothing gets Alice down. No matter what challenges life throws her way - and she's had her share of curve balls with health and personal challenges - she is reaching new milestones she hadn't anticipated. Alice was recently nominated for the 2009 Manitoba Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
While most people discuss whether their cup is half full or half empty, Alice says, "My cup is always half full, but usually overflowing."
WINNIPEG SUN | MARCH 2009
Alice Taylor owned a successful restaurant in rural Manitoba when her husband Mac suggested that laser engraving would be a creative and lucrative business. He discovered the idea at a trade show he attended for work.
Alice spent six months investigating if it would be a viable business. She started with research at the Women's Enterprise Centre (WEC), which led her to the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre and other resources that provided her with the information she needed. She decided that this was something she wanted to pursue.
It took eighteen months to sell the restaurant, so she ran the restaurant while simultaneously launching her laser engraving business. Because the Canadian government was guaranteeing major equipment loans, she was able to secure financing to purchase the $111,000 laser engraver. In 2001, Innovative Laser Works (ILW) was born. Since then, ILW has been offering laser engraving, vector cutting and related services.
Four years later, Alice decided it was time to move to Winnipeg and expand her business. Submitting her business plan to the Aboriginal Business Service Network's competition and winning a cash prize helped
Alice obtain shop space. However, securing funding for expansion was a challenge; because it was a "high-tec" business, it was not familiar to funders or the public. Alice found that she had to educate people about the business. Along with a chunk of their own money, Alice secured a loan from WEC. While she pursued funding from a variety of possible sources, she encountered doubt and negativity. "I was told we would not succeed," she says. "Because of the industry we're in, there's no track record so we're the only one. Today we are industry leaders."
Alice found that being a woman in a male-dominated field has its challenges. There have been times when her husband has had to step in and "close the deal" because clients were more comfortable dealing with a man. However, she Is committed to doing business her way and "breaking the glass ceiling" for women in her industry.
Nothing gets Alice down. No matter what challenges life throws her way - and she's had her share of curve balls with health and personal challenges - she is reaching new milestones she hadn't anticipated. Alice was recently nominated for the 2009 Manitoba Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
While most people discuss whether their cup is half full or half empty, Alice says, "My cup is always half full, but usually overflowing."
WINNIPEG SUN | MARCH 2009
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=7
2010-12-21ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Let There be Light
The delicate daisies and butterfly in this pocket window are lit by an LED lighting system incorporated right into the frame of this 21 by 37 inch work of art. The light changes gradually through 600 subtle colour variations and can be stopped on any hue.
"Wherever we've engraved, that's what catches the light," says Alice Taylor, co-owner of Innovative Laser Works with her husband Malcolm (Mac) Taylor. She adds that this type of artwork is particularly beautiful at night.
Taylor created the motif by combining two images from a large collection of royalty free clip-art in the showroom's library. Also available for reproduction is a selection of works produced by local freelance artist Sandi Storen exclusively for Innovative Laser Works. Customers have brought in everything from photographs to handprints to poetry. "Just about anything you can give to me, I can reproduce," says Taylor.
The computerized laser can engrave single surfaces as large as four feet by eight feet, allowing for the creation of customized room dividers, panels, doors and windows for today's open concept homes. Besides glass and acrylic, the laser can etch on granite, wood, painted aluminum and stainless steel. Innovative Laser Works has engraved everything from tabletops and donor walls to small personal items.
Last year, the company acquired a second more powerful laser that can also engrave cylindrical surfaces. The possibilities for engraving are now almost limitless. "That's all we do," notes Taylor. "We are laser engraving specialists. We've really worked hard at perfecting the process."
STYLE MANITOBA | SPRING 2007
The delicate daisies and butterfly in this pocket window are lit by an LED lighting system incorporated right into the frame of this 21 by 37 inch work of art. The light changes gradually through 600 subtle colour variations and can be stopped on any hue.
"Wherever we've engraved, that's what catches the light," says Alice Taylor, co-owner of Innovative Laser Works with her husband Malcolm (Mac) Taylor. She adds that this type of artwork is particularly beautiful at night.
Taylor created the motif by combining two images from a large collection of royalty free clip-art in the showroom's library. Also available for reproduction is a selection of works produced by local freelance artist Sandi Storen exclusively for Innovative Laser Works. Customers have brought in everything from photographs to handprints to poetry. "Just about anything you can give to me, I can reproduce," says Taylor.
The computerized laser can engrave single surfaces as large as four feet by eight feet, allowing for the creation of customized room dividers, panels, doors and windows for today's open concept homes. Besides glass and acrylic, the laser can etch on granite, wood, painted aluminum and stainless steel. Innovative Laser Works has engraved everything from tabletops and donor walls to small personal items.
Last year, the company acquired a second more powerful laser that can also engrave cylindrical surfaces. The possibilities for engraving are now almost limitless. "That's all we do," notes Taylor. "We are laser engraving specialists. We've really worked hard at perfecting the process."
STYLE MANITOBA | SPRING 2007
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=6
2010-12-21ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Bringing Images to Life
Edge lighting brings the intricate details and subtle shading of these etchings to life in the showroom at Innovative Laser Works. "Wherever we've used the laser, that's where it lights up," notes Alice Taylor, co-owner with her husband Malcolm (Mac) Taylor. Built right into the framework of these interior windows, the LED light system injects both brightness and colour. Options include white, blue, red, green or a colour changer that moves gradually through approximately 600 different shades and can stop on any hue.
The image of the homeowners' son airborne during a motocross race on the acrylic was reproduced from a regular four by six inch photograph taken by Image Plus. The panels illustrate one possibility for today's open concept homes that use dividers to define a particular space. A glass or acrylic etching is a decorative solution that still allows light to flow through.
Other applications for laser etching include everything from glass tables and signage to artwork and coasters. "We can go up to four feet by eight feet to as small as you want to go," says Taylor. Etching is also possible on materials such as wood, stainless steel and granite. Innovative Laser Works recently acquired a second laser that can also etch curved surfaces, including glasses and wine bottles, empty or full.
The showroom's library has thousands of images along with the exclusive reproduction rights for the works of local artist Sandi Storen. Or clients can bring their own subject, anything from handprints to written text. "We're limited only by your imagination," says Taylor.
STYLE MANITOBA | SPRING 2006
Edge lighting brings the intricate details and subtle shading of these etchings to life in the showroom at Innovative Laser Works. "Wherever we've used the laser, that's where it lights up," notes Alice Taylor, co-owner with her husband Malcolm (Mac) Taylor. Built right into the framework of these interior windows, the LED light system injects both brightness and colour. Options include white, blue, red, green or a colour changer that moves gradually through approximately 600 different shades and can stop on any hue.
The image of the homeowners' son airborne during a motocross race on the acrylic was reproduced from a regular four by six inch photograph taken by Image Plus. The panels illustrate one possibility for today's open concept homes that use dividers to define a particular space. A glass or acrylic etching is a decorative solution that still allows light to flow through.
Other applications for laser etching include everything from glass tables and signage to artwork and coasters. "We can go up to four feet by eight feet to as small as you want to go," says Taylor. Etching is also possible on materials such as wood, stainless steel and granite. Innovative Laser Works recently acquired a second laser that can also etch curved surfaces, including glasses and wine bottles, empty or full.
The showroom's library has thousands of images along with the exclusive reproduction rights for the works of local artist Sandi Storen. Or clients can bring their own subject, anything from handprints to written text. "We're limited only by your imagination," says Taylor.
STYLE MANITOBA | SPRING 2006
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=5
2010-12-21ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Business Profiled on Home Biz TVInnovative Laser Works was one of five companies chosen from Manitoba to be featured in a television documentary produced by British Columbia based, Third Wave Communications Inc. After 12 hours of shooting, asix and a half minute video was produced and profiled on the show Homebiz TV under the "established" category. The first broadcast air date was on the Canadian Learning Television (clt) satellite network on November 19, 2005. The program was also broadcast on other satellite stations including the Saskatchewan Centennial Network (SCN), The Knowledge Network, Report on Business Television, 1 Toronto, Access, and ASN.
View Video HereInnovative Laser Works was one of five companies chosen from Manitoba to be featured in a television documentary produced by British Columbia based, Third Wave Communications Inc. After 12 hours of shooting, asix and a half minute video was produced and profiled on the show Homebiz TV under the "established" category. The first broadcast air date was on the Canadian Learning Television (clt) satellite network on November 19, 2005. The program was also broadcast on other satellite stations including the Saskatchewan Centennial Network (SCN), The Knowledge Network, Report on Business Television, 1 Toronto, Access, and ASN.
View Video Here
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=12
2011-01-12ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Endless Possibilities
Engraved on acrylic using the latest in laser technology, the eagle appears to be in flight as it hovers against the wall. The cast of a slight shadow only adds to the three-dimensional quality, "With laser engraving, you're getting the detail so you can see every little part of each feather," explains Alice Taylor, who together with her husband Malcolm (Mac) Taylor own Innovative Laser Works.
The eagle is an engraving of one of many works produced by local freelance artist Sandi Storen, exclusively for Innovative Laser Works. The company also offers a library of works from other artists, as well as several hundred thousand pieces of royalty-free clip art. In fact, Taylor used clip art to decorate the sides of the glass table after she designed the chess board, "You can bring in your own work, as long as you own the copyright," she notes. Innovative Laser Works has engraved everything from children's handprints and footprints, to personal poems, drawings and photographs.
"It doesn't have to be glass or acrylic," notes Taylor, "We can do most flat surfaces including granite, stainless steel, wood and tempered glass." Innovative Laser Works can accommodate sizes up to four by eight feet, ideal for homeowners who want to use glass or acrylic to maximize their open concept while dividing certain spaces. The company can also incorporate edge lighting in solid or changing colours to enhance panels and artwork. In their fifth year of operation, the Taylors were the first to bring original large format laser engraving to Manitoba.
STYLE MANITOBA | AUTUMN 2005
Engraved on acrylic using the latest in laser technology, the eagle appears to be in flight as it hovers against the wall. The cast of a slight shadow only adds to the three-dimensional quality, "With laser engraving, you're getting the detail so you can see every little part of each feather," explains Alice Taylor, who together with her husband Malcolm (Mac) Taylor own Innovative Laser Works.
The eagle is an engraving of one of many works produced by local freelance artist Sandi Storen, exclusively for Innovative Laser Works. The company also offers a library of works from other artists, as well as several hundred thousand pieces of royalty-free clip art. In fact, Taylor used clip art to decorate the sides of the glass table after she designed the chess board, "You can bring in your own work, as long as you own the copyright," she notes. Innovative Laser Works has engraved everything from children's handprints and footprints, to personal poems, drawings and photographs.
"It doesn't have to be glass or acrylic," notes Taylor, "We can do most flat surfaces including granite, stainless steel, wood and tempered glass." Innovative Laser Works can accommodate sizes up to four by eight feet, ideal for homeowners who want to use glass or acrylic to maximize their open concept while dividing certain spaces. The company can also incorporate edge lighting in solid or changing colours to enhance panels and artwork. In their fifth year of operation, the Taylors were the first to bring original large format laser engraving to Manitoba.
STYLE MANITOBA | AUTUMN 2005
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=4
2010-12-21ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Stylistically InnovativeBy Lee Gregg, WD Communications, Winnipeg
"My husband came home from work one day and announced that he wanted to start a laser business," recalled Alice Taylor "I thought he was crazy."
Five years later the crazy idea has made Alice and Malcolm Taylor the successful owners of Innovative Laser Works, a company that engraves highly detailed graphic images onto any flat surface, such as granite, acrylic, glass or wood.
"As I worked on the business plan, I was sure the numbers would show it wasn't a viable business," said Alice "I spoke with the memorial industry who thought it was a great idea. I went to the Women's Enterprise Centre (WEC) who thought it was a great idea and were prepared to provide financial support. I finally went to a bank who not only thought it was a great idea, but were willing to extend a business loan to see it happen."
While working with WEC on her business plan, Alice was encouraged to visit the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre (C/MBSC) "The Business Centre was very helpful," noted Alice. "I rented videos that showed me how to work out my profit margins, I researched start-up and marketing information, and I attended the Manitoba Business Start Program business seminar."
Through the C/MBSC, Alice was introduced to the Aboriginal Business Service Network (ABSN) and was invited to compete in their business plan competition. She surprised herself by winning and used the award money to open up a 2,000 square foot storefront location.
The Taylors were the first entrepreneurs to bring the large format laser to Manitoba and have recently expanded their services to include edge lighting. These decorative pieces are made out of vector-cut acrylic, then laser engraved and set into a wood base. Light emitting diodes (LED) are placed in the base and illuminate only where the laser engraved. A beautiful example of this technique can be found at the Parklands/Mixed Woods Gallery at The Manitoba Museum.
The company's services include memorial plaques, monuments, donor boards, promotional items, industrial applications, signage, and edge lighting Clients have used their services to etch photos, images and words on doors, tabletops, fireplaces, plaques, floor inlays and mirrors. In fact, the Taylors are open to any idea their customers bring to them. As Alice likes to point out, their name is "Innovative".
ACCESS WEST
By Lee Gregg, WD Communications, Winnipeg
"My husband came home from work one day and announced that he wanted to start a laser business," recalled Alice Taylor "I thought he was crazy."
Five years later the crazy idea has made Alice and Malcolm Taylor the successful owners of Innovative Laser Works, a company that engraves highly detailed graphic images onto any flat surface, such as granite, acrylic, glass or wood.
"As I worked on the business plan, I was sure the numbers would show it wasn't a viable business," said Alice "I spoke with the memorial industry who thought it was a great idea. I went to the Women's Enterprise Centre (WEC) who thought it was a great idea and were prepared to provide financial support. I finally went to a bank who not only thought it was a great idea, but were willing to extend a business loan to see it happen."
While working with WEC on her business plan, Alice was encouraged to visit the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre (C/MBSC) "The Business Centre was very helpful," noted Alice. "I rented videos that showed me how to work out my profit margins, I researched start-up and marketing information, and I attended the Manitoba Business Start Program business seminar."
Through the C/MBSC, Alice was introduced to the Aboriginal Business Service Network (ABSN) and was invited to compete in their business plan competition. She surprised herself by winning and used the award money to open up a 2,000 square foot storefront location.
The Taylors were the first entrepreneurs to bring the large format laser to Manitoba and have recently expanded their services to include edge lighting. These decorative pieces are made out of vector-cut acrylic, then laser engraved and set into a wood base. Light emitting diodes (LED) are placed in the base and illuminate only where the laser engraved. A beautiful example of this technique can be found at the Parklands/Mixed Woods Gallery at The Manitoba Museum.
The company's services include memorial plaques, monuments, donor boards, promotional items, industrial applications, signage, and edge lighting Clients have used their services to etch photos, images and words on doors, tabletops, fireplaces, plaques, floor inlays and mirrors. In fact, the Taylors are open to any idea their customers bring to them. As Alice likes to point out, their name is "Innovative".
ACCESS WEST
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=2
2010-11-29ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Imagining the Possibilities Photography: Doug Dealey By Leigh Patterson
As far as Malcolm (Mac) and Alice Taylor of Innovative Laser Works are concerned, the process of laser engraving is limited only by your imagination. And imagination doesn't have to be carved in stone.
"We can accommodate almost anything," Alice says. "We've engraved designs onto canoe paddles and even Celtic shapes onto harps,"Malcolm adds.
Innovative Laser Works provides high quality laser engraving that works on most flat surfaces. Images and script can be reproduced in photographic detail on materials ranging from granite and tempered glass to wood and stainless steel. Size is no object, as detailed laser engraving can be done on pieces up to four by eight feet. These panels can then be pieced together to form larger displays. An example can be found in Innovative Laser Works' stunning, edge-lit, glass wall installation at the Parklands/Mixed Woods Gallery at The Manitoba Museum.
Innovative Laser Works' clients include people who are looking for unique, personalized gifts, and companies that require their services for industrial applications. Bulk orders can be accommodated for corporate awards and recognition plaques, as well as promotional items.
The same versatile laser system that etches floor inlays, wall murals, glass walls and stainless steel signs can delicately and in exquisite detail capture family photos, children's artwork and other treasured memories. The laser engraving process creates lasting impressions of achievements, celebrations, events and milestones. A current trend is to have wedding photos engraved onto granite squares, which can be presented to loved ones as keepsakes.
"What you give us is exactly what you get," Alice says. The Taylors work from a client's own photos or artwork, or they can choose from an extensive library of images, layouts, clipart and fonts, along with the material or item they wish engraved. Basic pieces can be produced about a week after the client approves a proof of their artwork. "Our customers are impressed with what we do and also how quickly we do it," she adds.
Malcolm likens Innovative Laser Works' custom operated laser engraving process to a printer, but instead of utilizing ink, images are created by the reaction of the engraving material with the laser beam either by burning or vaporizing the material. He explains that additive processes can also be used to add colour to glass and ceramics and to make permanent black markings on stainless steel. "The pinpoint accuracy of the laser enables us to achieve the highest detail engraving or marking available to consumers in our industry to date," he says.
Innovative Laser Works also provides custom layouts and artwork along with photo editing and restoration. "By including photo editing and restoration as part of our services," Alice notes, "we make it convenient and economical for our clients, because we can then use the resulting image directly in our own laser engraving processes."
Vector cutting is one of the newest services offered by Innovative Laser Works. This process involves using the laser to cut shapes like, logos, text and other profiles out of wood, plastic, acrylics and paper. These precision-cut materials can then be used to create three-dimensional signage and intricate geometric patterns. The company also produces unique "edge-lit" decorative pieces, where vector-cut acrylic is laser engraved and set into a wood base. When plugged in, coloured LED lighting illuminates the artwork. The advantage is that images can be changed easily and inexpensivelv according to decor and individual taste.
The first entrepreneurs to bring the original large format laser to Manitoba four years ago, the Taylors recently moved Innovative Laser Works from Marquette to a Winnipeg showroom on Paramount Road. How will the husband and wife team keep their business on the cutting edge? According to Malcolm, they'll continue to do what they've always done -
provide exceptional customer service, keep updated on the latest technology and industry trends, and explore creative ways to use their expertise. After all, he says, "laser engraving is what we do; we love testing and trying new things and work at perfecting the process."
STYLE MANITOBA | SPRING 2005
Photography: Doug Dealey By Leigh Patterson
As far as Malcolm (Mac) and Alice Taylor of Innovative Laser Works are concerned, the process of laser engraving is limited only by your imagination. And imagination doesn't have to be carved in stone.
"We can accommodate almost anything," Alice says. "We've engraved designs onto canoe paddles and even Celtic shapes onto harps,"Malcolm adds.
Innovative Laser Works provides high quality laser engraving that works on most flat surfaces. Images and script can be reproduced in photographic detail on materials ranging from granite and tempered glass to wood and stainless steel. Size is no object, as detailed laser engraving can be done on pieces up to four by eight feet. These panels can then be pieced together to form larger displays. An example can be found in Innovative Laser Works' stunning, edge-lit, glass wall installation at the Parklands/Mixed Woods Gallery at The Manitoba Museum.
Innovative Laser Works' clients include people who are looking for unique, personalized gifts, and companies that require their services for industrial applications. Bulk orders can be accommodated for corporate awards and recognition plaques, as well as promotional items.
The same versatile laser system that etches floor inlays, wall murals, glass walls and stainless steel signs can delicately and in exquisite detail capture family photos, children's artwork and other treasured memories. The laser engraving process creates lasting impressions of achievements, celebrations, events and milestones. A current trend is to have wedding photos engraved onto granite squares, which can be presented to loved ones as keepsakes.
"What you give us is exactly what you get," Alice says. The Taylors work from a client's own photos or artwork, or they can choose from an extensive library of images, layouts, clipart and fonts, along with the material or item they wish engraved. Basic pieces can be produced about a week after the client approves a proof of their artwork. "Our customers are impressed with what we do and also how quickly we do it," she adds.
Malcolm likens Innovative Laser Works' custom operated laser engraving process to a printer, but instead of utilizing ink, images are created by the reaction of the engraving material with the laser beam either by burning or vaporizing the material. He explains that additive processes can also be used to add colour to glass and ceramics and to make permanent black markings on stainless steel. "The pinpoint accuracy of the laser enables us to achieve the highest detail engraving or marking available to consumers in our industry to date," he says.
Innovative Laser Works also provides custom layouts and artwork along with photo editing and restoration. "By including photo editing and restoration as part of our services," Alice notes, "we make it convenient and economical for our clients, because we can then use the resulting image directly in our own laser engraving processes."
Vector cutting is one of the newest services offered by Innovative Laser Works. This process involves using the laser to cut shapes like, logos, text and other profiles out of wood, plastic, acrylics and paper. These precision-cut materials can then be used to create three-dimensional signage and intricate geometric patterns. The company also produces unique "edge-lit" decorative pieces, where vector-cut acrylic is laser engraved and set into a wood base. When plugged in, coloured LED lighting illuminates the artwork. The advantage is that images can be changed easily and inexpensivelv according to decor and individual taste.
The first entrepreneurs to bring the original large format laser to Manitoba four years ago, the Taylors recently moved Innovative Laser Works from Marquette to a Winnipeg showroom on Paramount Road. How will the husband and wife team keep their business on the cutting edge? According to Malcolm, they'll continue to do what they've always done -
provide exceptional customer service, keep updated on the latest technology and industry trends, and explore creative ways to use their expertise. After all, he says, "laser engraving is what we do; we love testing and trying new things and work at perfecting the process."
STYLE MANITOBA | SPRING 2005
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=3
2010-12-21ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)Winners of Aboriginal Business Service Network Aboriginal Business Plan CompetitionMalcolm and Alice Taylor won the Aboriginal Business Service Network Aboriginal Business Plan Competition in October of 2004. Their business plan was based on an expansion of Innovative Laser Works, which included opening a new office, showroom and shop in Winnipeg. Malcolm and Alice Taylor won the Aboriginal Business Service Network Aboriginal Business Plan Competition in October of 2004. Their business plan was based on an expansion of Innovative Laser Works, which included opening a new office, showroom and shop in Winnipeg.
http://www.innovativelaserworks.com/news.asp?id=11
2010-11-29ArticlesAdmin (mailto:info@innovativelaserworks.com)